Kevin McNaughton challenges David Vaughan at Ninian Park
Two goals in the final 10 minutes moved Cardiff up to third in the league.
Both sides had their chances, Ross McCormack going closest for City and Gary Taylor-Fletcher for Blackpool.
The outstanding Jay Bothroyd created the first, controlling superbly before flicking a cross that substitute Peter Whittingham headed in from close range.
With the Tangerines reeling three minutes from time, McCormack struck his 11th goal of the season, a stunning 25-yard free kick into the top corner.
The victory extends Cardiff's unbeaten run to six and puts an end to Blackpool's seven games without defeat.
Cardiff manager Dave Jones: "We had to be patient and although we dominated for long periods it was a very tough match.
"The longer the game went on the more I felt we needed some creativity and Peter Whittingham certainly gave us that.
"The front players worked well throughout the game but the final pass never seemed to come off.
"The longer it went on, the deeper their defence went, and the chances started to appear."
Blackpool manager Simon Grayson: "We are very disappointed to get within seven minutes of a point after working so hard.
"We try to play football every game but it didn't seem to happen for us.
"We work hard, put bodies on the line and with a little bit of extra quality we can go on another unbeaten run."
Cardiff: Heaton, McNaughton, Purse, Roger Johnson, Comminges (Whittingham 55), Rae, McPhail, Parry (Eddie Johnson 79), Ledley, McCormack, Bothroyd. Subs Not Used: Enckelman, Gyepes, Blake.
E-mail this to a friend 
Printable version 
Bookmark with:
What are these?