Customer service is excellent and they have many different, creative options. I love this store!

BUYER BEWARE! My husband and I vacation at least once a year in Carlsbad. While there last September 23, 2025, we visited Ocean Sky Beads & Gems as I had 5 custom handmade necklaces that needed a larger ring for my clasp to hook on to. I had recent shoulder surgery on both shoulders and being elderly it had become increasingly hard to clasp my necklaces. We spent $35.62 to have the small rings replaced with larger ones. The store did NOT offer friendly customer service, but I left my necklaces and was told they would be ready in a couple of days. When we picked up the necklaces, I took a quick look at their work but unfortunately didn't do a thorough investigation. When we got home from vacation (we live an hour away), I took a thorough look and saw one ring was not replaced and the other was replaced with a size smaller than I had requested. I held on to the receipts and when we were back in Carlsbad, I took the necklaces in with the receipts and showed the manager the issues. We had to wait for the owner who was outside on the phone. When she walked back into her store, she was very unfriendly. I explained the issue. She said the employee who had done the work was no longer with them! I replied, "What difference does that make?" She refused to honor the work we had paid for and said it was from last year! I challenged her. She told me to lower my voice --she was very condescending! She told us, "With what's going on in the world what difference does it make?"!!! I commented that most companies value customer service. She replied those companies could afford it, but she is a small business and can't afford it! She refused to make good on her work because it was from last year...even though our first encounter was the end of September and we were back at her store on April 1, 2026 (actually SEVEN months!). Since she wouldn't fix the problem, I asked if I could at least have the two rings I needed? She handed us over to her store manager and walked away. The two rings I needed were 25 cents each and the manager provided them. The work for the 2 necklaces to repair amounted to $7.27 each! This lack of customer service will not grow her business! You would think a small business would offer willingly to correct a job done incorrectly! I have shopped at this store on prior occasions but will Never GO BACK AGAIN!!! read more

I love coming here for beads, jewelry supplies, and inspiration! I hadn't been in until recently with the new ownership and honestly it's the same to me. Everyone I interacted with was kind and helpful. Very welcoming overall! I was looking for specific SS head pins the day I went in and I was so happy to see they had exactly what I was looking for. I was quickly assisted and had a great checkout experience while getting to sign up for their newsletter. I will definitely be back once I have new projects started. Happy to support and shop local! read more

Reposting as this business had my review removed: This used to be a great shop before the owner's retired. Not a great start with the new owners. My last experience consisted of straight dishonesty at the register. The beads were clearly marked $3 on the tag and they were rung up at $15. I inquired of the price discrepancy (especially since the other strands were also marked $3) and her remark was "they should've been more clearly marked". At this point, that felt off and i chose not to purchase them. Found the same beads elsewhere on sale for $1 (retail $3.30/strand). Buyers beware. New owners dishonest, clear price gouging, and service lacking. Not the same friendly atmosphere as before. Response: I DID NOT purchase the shells. I had you remove them from my purchase. The continued blatant lies are ridiculous at this point. How can i return something that I'm not in possession of? Baffling. Secondary Response: I DO NOT have the shells! You did not honor the price or sell them to me. You rang them up at $15 and i asked you to remove them after i brought up the $3 tag and you responded saying they were mismarked. Do you even remember what was sold??? They were like triangle type shells. I do not have them in my possession. I DID NOT PURCHASE THEM. Third Response: Unfortunately, i cannot return what wasn't purchased. What's interesting is that you offer a return on something that you claim i purchased at $3. Reasonably, how could there be an issue in the first place then? My issue was and still is that you bait-and-switched pricing at the counter so i refused to purchase that particular strand of shells. Your false account of the incident doesn't really add up. I wish you guys the best, in all sincerity. read more

i come to Carlsbad every year and this shop is one of my favorite stops. Was a little worried at first when I learned there were new owners but Shona was fabulous! She helped me by creating magnet clasps for my necklaces. But the best part was finding these fabulous sapphires. She was happy to make the necklace for me. Got it in plenty of time so I can wear while I'm here. Will definitely be back when I visit. Bottom line: you don't have to be a jewelry designer to find your perfect piece. The selection is varied and the quality good. The prices are fair compared to the gem shows I attend. These ladies will go above and beyond to make you happy. read more

Ocean Sky Beads - This photo doesn't do these sapphires justice. Beautiful sparkly stones. - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Carlsbad, California

I love this place because of its inventory and give it more business than I should because I love making jewelry... but wow the employees are so rude. I don't know why you would get a job where people ask you questions all the time and request your help all day if you hate people?! Usually my experience in here is fine... I find what I want and the prices are fair. But today me and my friend got blatantly ignored while we were trying to get string- which you have to get help in order to get. Every question from us and every other person in there seemed like such a burden. This lady walked in and was asking for help with how to make a bracelet and the worker made her feel so bad that she apologized for asking for help and left. This lady felt so sad, you could see it on her face, that she walked out! I felt so bad for her, she just wanted to learn how to make a bracelet :( read more

Really lovely shop and a very nice owner. I made a bracelet in one of her classes and it was a lot of fun. The inventory is terrific quality, and the attention that was given to us was excellent. A great experience and location! read more

They don't carry brands it's more like a thrift store for assorted beads. More suited for beaded necklaces and not bead embroidery. Lots of stones and cool beads! I went looking for size 11 czech beads to bead a graduation cap but didn't find much. They definitely had unique colors though. read more

Lots and lots of stuff.... Everything you can think of.... I bought 3 bottles for my granddaughters to put beach sand in ......plus different sizes of rope to make necklaces.....the Gentleman was very friendly & helpful... Returned a couple days later to buy beads to add to the necklace... Nice folks... read more

Ocean Sky Beads - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Carlsbad, California

Firstly, they had a pretty good selection, but their pricing is outrageously high (see photos). Insane mark up. Unfortunately I made the mistake of not checking online before purchasing. Secondly, when I came back to return the softflex wire because I didn't need it for my project, I was told they don't do returns or refunds. It does say so in small print on the back wall of the check out area, but it was conveniently blocked by the individuals checking me out the day I bought it. The person I talked to was combative when I explain this was not fair or recommended they either tell people at check out or put a sign closer to the check out counter. Surely the staff is very knowledgeable about beads and crafts, but not great with customer service. I will not be returning and you're better off buying what you need online or at Michael's. read more

Ocean Sky Beads - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Carlsbad, California

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How did I live in village and miss this place??? Finally went today and was there at 11 when they opened after doing a crystal project at a friends house. The owners were helpful and you could find a variety of beads for very little. When I cashed out I told him what I wanted to make and he and wife told me what to do and said they'd keep a record there of what I spent and would eventually earn a 25$ coupon. I was inspired and so happy they were there as bad store in encinitas was pushed out with raising rents to such extremes. read more

If you sell defective merchandise, you should stand by your product and offer at least a credit for a return. Very disappointing experience with the new owner. read more

The real deal with beads here! Somebody's always working on a project at their craft table! About a bazillion beads of all sorts. Gem stone beads, and many unique items. Beading supplies galore, too! Super fun little shop. read more

I came in for perido and the lady showed me rose quarts and knew my gf would love it. The ladies were very nice and helpful. I will be back!

I had an amazing time at Ocean sky beads. They had such a wide selection of not just beads, but a locket and charms... we're all I was searching for. I ended up taking a lesson from them and how to make a bracelet for a family project I was working on what a delight it was spending the day with them. everything was so reasonably priced.I walked in there thinking I was popping in for just a few minutes to grab something,, and I found myself in awe was such delight with their service and the energy that just surrounded me with so many beautiful beads to choose from. You'll definitely find what you're looking for here. read more

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Great service! Great customer service!! Great product and selection and value!! I you get great value for your money !!!

this shop is under new management absolutely terrible. I cannot imagine that they will last very long. I have been a long time shopper of the store and unfortunately, with the new management, the quality of the beads is down significantly, the inventory is down, and then is extremely argumentative and unpleasant. read more

A group of my friends and I decided to come in for a relaxing afternoon and the owners were so sweet and helpful! All charms, chains, classes, etc. are affordable and there is so much to choose from. My friends and I will definitely be back! read more

Ocean Sky Beads - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Carlsbad, California

A group of five of us went to Ocean Sky for a charm necklace class and it was so much fun! Giant selection and very helpful owners. They set us up and helped us learned to attach all the charms. We had a wonderful time, can't wait to go back again. Highly recommend! read more

Ocean Sky Beads - Necklace that I made in class! - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Carlsbad, California

Rod is always super kind and helpful, he will constantly take time to show his work and give you advice

Wonderful place to be inspired to make something beautiful. The owners are super helpful and friendly and willing to answer any questions I've had. I love supporting small businesses like this instead of going to the big box stores. They are so knowledgeable and the quality of their materials is so much better than so many places and very affordable. this is such a hidden gem - pun intended-- in the heart of the Village! read more

I never write reviews, but this place is SO MAGICAL! I came here with my boyfriend, and we made bracelets, necklaces, and earrings (there are so many options for EVERYONE)! Dee was so sweet and amazing! She was so patient as we made our beautiful jewelry! We had such a fun time just talking, and making beautiful things together. Would make any drive just to come back here again :) Thank you for having us!! read more

Ocean Sky Beads - The cutest things ever!! - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Carlsbad, California

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I have been a customer of this unique bead store for many years. The owners are very humble and put a lot of skill into their work. There is a huge selection of ready made jewelry pieces and those beads and supplies for the customer to make themselves! I recently made bracelets from a bead necklace that I purchased for my mom at Ocean Sky Beads. Since my mom has now reached heaven, these bracelets that I created with extra beads, are now worn by others who have lost a loved one. Yes, I kept one for myself! I continue to support local businesses, and they deserve it! The location of this store has plenty of parking and just a few blocks from the beach! Stop in and be ready to be amazed by their inventory! Gail K Oceanside read more

They were amazing helping my wife make this beautiful Rosary as a gift for my confirmation. Blessing to have them in our community. read more

Ocean Sky Beads - They were amazing helping my wife make this beautiful Rosary as a gift for my confirmation. Truly blessed to have them in our community. - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Carlsbad, California

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Not a fan. Came in today and the owner barked two times at me "what do you want." The gentleman that eventually checked me out was very kind. It didn't seem like she liked my kids in the shop who were picking out beads for themselves. It was really uncomfortable so I forced my kids to just grab one thing so we could get out of there fast. Won't be going back here for sure. read more

I took a class with my 6 & 8 year old daughters. We had a wonderful time, Dee was so patient and great at demonstrating and making sure we all understood how to use the tools, put on clasps, use crimp beads, etc. I would highly recommend visiting the store and making some jewelry to remember your beach vacation. I would much rather spend money on quality jewelry than souvenirs from a gift shop that my kids will lose interest in as soon as we get back to AZ. We visit Carlsbad every summer and I'm so glad I found this shop, we will definitely be making this a must-see every year. Thanks Dee for making this a memorable experience! read more

Ocean Sky Beads - Dee and my girls wearing the birthstone necklaces they made. - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Carlsbad, California

I had a few stones wrapped for a necklace/chain, and the guy did an amazing job. Thanks!

Sadly, they lack customer service skills at the moment. They won't help you make anything right now. You have to do it yourself. Apparently they are too busy with other stuff going on but it could have been communicated nicer. I won't go in there again. It doesn't seem like my business is needed or wanted. read more

We live in Wisconsin. My son lives in Carlsbad. I first brought my granddaughter to Ocean Sky Beads years ago and we made some jewelry. Ever since then, I have been stopping in there when I am in Carlsbad, to make new jewelry or repair jewelry I already have. Last year, I brought my young adult grandchildren and my daughter. They made leather bracelets and had a great time. This year, I had another necklace to restring and needed a magnetic closure for a bracelet. It's also fun to visit with the owners while working on jewelry. I would recommend Ocean Sky beads for repairing or making jewelry and also a fun activity with greandchildren. read more

I love beads. I love that they sell singular charms at reasonable prices. This is my favorite bead store ever. The owners are so nice and helpful. The atmosphere is pleasant. Make sure you don't get coffee before going, as you will have to leave it outside. I would recommend to anyone looking for a good time. read more

This store & the entire staff are gems......pun intended! I stumbled in about 2 years ago with a few questions & two years later I'm making all of my own necklaces & bracelets. I took several classes from Lana but everyone is equally expert. I have become a loyal customer. If you spend a certain amount of money there you become eligible for a $25.00 coupon! You could have knocked me over with a feather if a fortune teller had said I would be making jewelry but under Ocean Sky Beads expert guidance: well the rest is history. When you have 3 or 4 hours to spare stop by & get lost in this jewel of a shop. Cheryl read more

I absolutely love this bead store! I live in La Mesa and I drive all the way up to Carlsbad just to visit here. Prices are awesome and the variety and products they have are amazing. Can't say enough good things about this store, really nice people that work there too! read more

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This is a very nice bead shop with very nice and helpful employees. After a few minutes with the people working here, it was like visiting relatives that you haven't seen in a while. read more

Ocean Sky Beads is the most beautiful store in Southern California. If you are visiting Carlsbad, this is a Must visit that nobody tells you about, even if you're not a beader. For all you other locals who have not visited ocean sky beads, come see what you're missing out on. read more

Ocean Sky Beads - Bought this. Even better in person - Arts & Crafts Near Me - Carlsbad, California

I have shopped at Oceansky beads for years. I love this store. The owners are wonderful, kind and helpful. I tool a wiring class there from the owner & learned a lot. I LOVE THIS STORE! read more

Owners are awesome! They always have a great selection of charms and chains for affordable prices. One of my charms was broken and they let me replace it when I returned :) 10/10 read more

We have been to this shop twice now over the past couple months, but bith times the service was amazing. I found exactly what I was looking for and Rod did some very unique custom, and very affordable, work on my gemstone pendants that I brought into him. I am definitely a regular customer now and plan to take some classes at the shop. read more

Love this shop, the owners and especially Lana the instructor who helped me make some beautiful pieces! They offer all kinds of jewelry making class and sell their own handmade jewelry. They have everything you will ever need to fancy your heart. Can't wait til my next trip! read more

After my oldest and dearest friend suffered a miscarriage I wanted to make her something special to know that I am there for her. I chose to do that by making the two of us "adult friendship bracelets". I prefer to support small businesses so I stopped by this small bead shop to get what I needed. Everything started out fine, I chose to make bracelets with the message "best friends, partners in crime, sisters at heart". It was a personal message that I knew she would appreciate. I took the tray they handed me and started making my message using tiny letter beads. I asked the woman in the store if they had more of a certain letter because they didn't have enough to make my message twice, for each bracelet. The store owner looked for more letters but said she was out, thats fine I understand. The problem was she came over and read the message allowed and said "Well you sound like you have an interesting family". Understanding she did not know the situation I thought her comment was very rude regardless. It was personal, and even if she didn't get it the comment was unnecessary. I thought you know what, I can go to micheals and pay half the price and not have someone judging me based on my personal situation. I quietly put all 40 beads back in their corresponding letter containers and walked out. Won't be back just based on the judgment that came from the owner. This is a if you don't have something nice to say, don't say anything at all moment. Oh well. read more

Stopped in here because my friend makes a lot of jewelry and recommended them. I was looking for a certain clasp so she could re-work a bracelet for me. Since I don't know much about the different metals and fasteners I had a few questions. Also, I live close to downtown and it was very convenient and I like to shop local. When I went in, one sales person or owner was helping a customer and another was making jewelry with a different customer. I looked around the store for a good 10 minutes and was never acknowledged, even when one of the customers had left. When I finally walked out, both sales people were then making jewelry. I never spoke up because it wasn't urgent and they're not the only game in north county. I'll just take my business somewhere else or order on-line. read more