Marbrisa vs GPP

[Dean_G]

I'm looking to purchase a summer week in Carlsbad and trying to decide between these 2 locations. Can anyone that has stayed or owners provide any insight to help my decision. Thanks!

 

[Chris-ATX]

IMO, MarBrisa is the better property. Stayed at both, but def prefer MarBrisa, this is also our original retail purchase. It has a private entrance to Legoland (if that is something for you) and, to us, we think the facilities are just generally higher quality across pretty much all aspects.

I also suspect, but this is opinion not fact, that MarBrisa will be easier to unload in the future.

 

[mjm1]

We have stayed at MarBrisa several times and seen a unit and the grounds at GPP. We definitely prefer MarBrisa based on the units and the pools. Within MarBrisa we also prefer the Cove area over the Pointe. You should research both areas and decide which one would fit your needs better.

 

[Chris-ATX]

Within MarBrisa we also prefer the Cove area over the Pointe. You should research both areas and decide which one would fit your needs better.

Good observation here. The Cove tends to be busier, larger pool, snack bar, activities and such, plus generally more people.

The Pointe is a little more removed and (generally) quieter.

 

[Zenichiro]

Doesn’t GPP have access to Dex and GPX? If so may be worth consideration. I usually see availability at MarBrisa so wouldn’t think you would need to purchase for the 12 month priority.

 

[JohnnyO]

We love them both. This spring we are staying in a GPP 3 BR which are all in Villa C with ocean view and flower field views. The flower fields are amazing when in bloom. This summer we will do the same for the ocean view and extra space. We have also booked MarBrisa for this summer as well. We own both at Marbrisa and GPP and both have HGVC points values. Honestly the last decade we have spent more time at Marbrisa. The decade before that mostly at GPP. Now it’s more of a mix depending on the season and availability. Enjoy

 

[mountainboy]

Excellent advice from everyone esp @JohnnyO !
We have stayed numerous times at GPP & MarBrisa via HGVC; do not own either.

Love GPP for flower fields (until Mother's Day although they did extend by 1-2 weeks last year but best blooms were in mid/late April; more sad looking in May).
Lovely Lap pool; beautiful views of the Pacific. Underground parking. They did have some elevator problems for some time late last year but hopefully all fixed by the time we go later this year.

MarBrisa is on the other side of LegoLand from GPP; so more resorty feel; lovely hammocks; much larger property. spread around parking but out in the sun fwiw. After Memorial Day we usually stay at MB but wouldn't hesitate to stay at either or at SeaPointe next to Carlsbad State Beach.

We love them all & love to go there to escape our brutal PHX summer heat... Much cheaper to stay than getting a second home in San Diego/Carlsbad !

 

[RX8]

Have stayed at both but I own GPP so I am partial to that. GPP is more family friendly with a dedicated kids pool, splash pad and small playground. There is an adult only pool. Marbrisa has the “super pool” with slide.

Other things to be aware of is that summer weeks at GPP are all fixed weeks. GPP gets you day use, Marbrisa does not (unless you find an original resale Marbrisa Grand Pacific deed that includes day use). GPP has a more small and personal resort feel than Marbrisa. If you are looking for HGVC points then Marbrisa is your only option unless you want to pony up for a retail GPP purchase.