Encinitas, CA is a quintessential coastal surf town in North County San Diego, and is one of my favorite spots to visit (and to take visitors!) when I head back to my hometown. The hub of activity is along Highway 101 (basically the main street of the city of Encinitas), with plenty of shops, cafes, restaurants, and more to check out. Of course, there’s also the gorgeous beaches to explore, as well.
If you want to plan the perfect trip to this Southern California town, I’ve created the ultimate guide to the best things to do in Encinitas, CA. I’ve also included a few key details you should know before visiting.
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The 15 Top Things to Do in Encinitas, California
Here are the activities and attractions you won’t want to miss as you explore beautiful Encinitas.
1. Visit Moonlight State Beach
Obviously, we can’t talk about Encinitas without mentioning the beach. Moonlight Beach is (in my opinion) one of the best beaches in San Diego, mainly because of the gorgeous cliffs along the coast. There’s also a good stretch of unobstructed coastline both north and south, so there’s lots of space to walk – and it’s easy to get away from the bulk of the crowds. Just be sure to keep your eyes on the tides, as the waves can reach the cliffs during high tide!
The main entrance areas are at the Moonlight Beach Parking Lot and at the end of B Street, but you can also access the beach from the stairs at D Street Viewpoint (more on that below). The parking lot gets crowded (especially during the busy season and weekends), so you may need to park on the street. Some streets in the area do have parking restrictions, so make sure you’re keeping an eye out for street signs. If you’re coming from a bit further north, you can also access the beach at Stonesteps (another public beach that is just north of Moonlight).
2. Watch the Surf at Swami’s Beach
I’d say join the surf, but if you’re a surfer, you’re probably already well aware of this spot! Swami’s is a famous surf spot that is just south of the main downtown Encinitas area and Moonlight Beach. It’s a picturesque beach, and a fun place to watch talented surfers do their thing. There’s a park right above the beach on the cliff, and during low tide you can take the stairs down to the beach. There’s a small parking lot, but you can also just park on the street.
3. Take in the Beach Views from a Viewpoint
If you’re not looking to actually go down to the beach, there are a few different viewpoints where you can get pretty views from above: D Street, H Street, I Street, and J Street. They offer beautiful views of the beach from atop the cliffs, and they’re easy to access if you are spending a day walking around the 101. The D Street Viewpoint has stairs down to the beach, so you can head down if you change your mind!
4. Find a Quiet Moment at the Self-Realization Temple Meditation Garden
Besides going to the beach, this is one of the best free things to do in Encinitas. The Meditation Garden at the Self-Realization Temple is one of the most relaxing and picturesque places to visit in town. I always make it a priority to stop by when I’m in the area!
The property is situated on a cliff, so it’s another nice place to get incredible views of the beach – and it’s also the place to be for killer sunsets! The garden itself is beautiful, and a great place to get some peace and quiet. Take some time to walk through and enjoy the huge variety of plants and pretty koi ponds.
Note: you’ll see monks and other people meditating in the area, so it may not be an ideal spot if you have young children or a large group. You can talk, but keep your voice down and try to limit chatter while around others who are meditating.
If you happen to be in Encinitas around Halloween, the monks create incredible pumpkin carvings and paintings and put them on display – be sure to check it out! It’s right across K Street at the meditation center.
5. Explore the Shops on the 101
There’s plenty of fun shops and galleries to explore along the 101. Flashbacks – a recycled fashion resale store that specializes in fun and funky clothing – is one of my favorites. I think of the 70s when I think of Flashbacks, but they have clothing from (or inspired by) every decade in the past century. If you need a Halloween costume, fun gear for a themed party, or just a unique statement piece, this is the place to hit up.
If you’re building up your crystal collection, you’ll definitely want to stop by Earth’s Elements. Need some new activewear? The flagship Vuori store is also located on Highway 101.
There are also tons of amazing restaurants, coffee shops, and bars on the 101. I’ll touch on some of my favorites later in this guide.
6. Check Out the Boat Houses
This is one of the quirkier Encinitas spots. The Encinitas Boat Houses are two homes that are – you guessed it – shaped like boats! These houses are just a few blocks off of the 101, so it’s easy to stop by when you’re in the area. They are private residences, so you can’t go in, but it’s fun to walk or drive by.
7. Explore the San Elijo Lagoon
The San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve and Nature Center is located in Cardiff, just south of Encinitas. There are seven miles of trails throughout the reserve, with plenty of opportunities to explore the wetlands and see birds, reptiles, and other wildlife.
There are lots of different trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels, so you can easily find one that fits your needs. For a quick and easy trail, I suggest doing the San Elijo Lagoon Nature Center Loop, which is just over half a mile.
For a more challenging hike with a bit more of a varied landscape, I recommend the La Orilla Trail Trail through Annie’s Canyon, which is 4.6-miles long and moderately rated. This out-and-back hike takes you through a narrow slot canyon, and by the marshy area of the reserve. You can find even more trails in and around the reserve on AllTrails.
8. Walk the Cardiff Rail Trail
If you want to get your steps in (but aren’t necessarily looking for a full-fledged hike), check out the Rail Trail. This 1.3-mile running, walking, and biking trail starts at the corner of Chesterfield Drive and San Elijo Avenue in Cardiff (just south of Encinitas). The paved path parallels the railroad tracks and Highway 101, and you get incredible sweeping views of the coast. Follow the path to the end (where it intercepts Santa Fe Drive), where you’ll find a pedestrian path that takes you under the railroad. This drops you off at the southern end of Downtown Encinitas, and right across the street from the Meditation Gardens.
9. Visit the San Diego Botanic Garden
The San Diego Botanic Garden is about an eight-minute drive northwest of the main hub of shops along the 101. There are 29 beautiful themed gardens, and four miles of trails to explore. Make your reservation online in advance to ensure you are able to get a ticket! If you happen to be visiting around the holidays, I highly recommend grabbing a ticket for Lightscape. During this evening event, you get to explore a one-mile walking trail and see the colorful light and art installations throughout the gardens.
10. Have a Spa Day at Four Moons Spa
Those looking for some R&R should spend some time at Four Moons Spa, located in Leucadia (a neighborhood on the northern border of Encinitas). This tranquil, earthy spa has a gorgeous space, complete with lush landscaping in the relaxing outdoor areas. Services include massages, facials, acupuncture, sauna sessions, tarot readings, and so much more. They also offer regular yoga, breathwork, and reiki classes.
11. Shop at the Farmers Market
If you’re like me and love a good farmers market, you’ll enjoy strolling through the Leucadia Farmers Market. On Sundays from 10am to 2pm, local vendors line up to sell fruits, veggies, mushrooms, desserts, plants, handmade goods, and so much more.
12. Indulge in the San Diego Beer Culture at a Local Brewery
Encinitas is home to two of my favorite breweries in San Diego County. The first is the Modern Times Far West Lounge, a restaurant and taproom that has a fun and quirky 1970s-inspired design, as pictured below. They have an extensive draft menu, so there’s options for everyone. I especially love their IPAs and sours (if you’re a gose fan, get Fruitlands!). The full-service restaurant has a 100% plant-based menu – the buffalo chicken sandwich is the perfect meal to enjoy alongside a crisp beer.
Right down the street is Culture Brewing Co., which has a bit more of a traditional industrial brewery feel. The small craft brewery has a great selection of beers on tap, and has a chill space that looks out to the 101.
13. Caffeinate at a Local Coffee Shop
There’s no shortage of places to grab a great cup of coffee in Encinitas. One super popular spot in the heart of town is Better Buzz, a picture-perfect cafe with excellent drinks and light bites (including pastries, avocado toast, and acai bowls). I also love Ironsmith Coffee Roasters, which is located right by the iconic Encinitas sign. This is the place to go for high-quality coffee and tea drinks, and/or a small bite to eat.
If you find yourself exploring Leucadia, I also highly recommend making a visit to Pannikin Coffee & Tea. It’s inside a converted railroad station, so it’s a really fun and unique environment. In addition to delicious drinks, they have great pastries.
14. Get Your Taco Fix at The Taco Stand
San Diego is known for its great Mexican food. In Encinitas, you can get some amazing tacos at this casual eatery, which is located right on the 101. The Taco Stand offers everything you’d want from a taqueria, including amazing guacamole and options for vegans and vegetarians. It’s very popular, so be ready to wait for a bit (especially on weekends!).
15. Check Out Other Local Eateries and Bars
Beyond the eateries mentioned above, there are tons of amazing restaurants and bars worth checking out when you’re exploring Encinitas. Here are my favorite options in the downtown area:
- Honey’s Bistro and Bakery: Honey’s (interior pictured below on the left and center) has been serving breakfast and lunch to Encinitas locals and visitors since the early 90s. They have everything you could want, including delicious smoothies, pancakes, omelets, acai bowls, sandwiches, and more. Note: the acai bowl is massive – you might want to share with a friend!
- Potato Shack Cafe: Potato Shack is famous for their giant pancakes, but they also have other great breakfast food, as well as a lunch menu.
- Lotus Cafe and Juice Bar: This is a predominantly vegetarian/vegan spot with lots of delicious, healthy options, including plenty of choices for those that follow a gluten-free diet. The extensive menu includes dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Q’ero: This Peruvian restaurant is one of my absolute favorites. The vegetarian empanadas are super good, and if you’re drinking, you can’t skip out on the red wine sangria – truly the best I’ve had!
- Encinitas Fish Shop: This is a fun and casual spot where you pick your fish, how you want it marinated, and what style you want (tacos, salad, plate, etc.). They also have great sides, including insanely good onion rings.
- The Bier Garden of Encinitas: The Bier Garden has a fun atmosphere that is great for both food and drinks. There are 25 beers on tap, and they also serve other great cocktails. There’s also brunch on weekends, as well as daily lunch and dinner.
- Death by Tequila: If you’re looking for a great tequila or mezcal drink, you have to stop by Death by Tequila. The Los Muertos (pictured below on the right) is my favorite! The restaurant also serves amazing tacos, chips and salsa, seafood dishes, and more.
Willing to explore beyond downtown? Here are a few other options worth checking out in the greater Encinitas area:
- Solterra Winery and Kitchen: Head a little further north up the 101 to Leucadia, and you’ll find Solterra. This restaurant and bar is the place to go for great Mediterranean tapas and, obviously, great wine.
- Jorge’s Mexicatessen: Jorge’s is a low-key, super casual spot with some of the best Mexican food in the area. Their chicken soup is seriously incredible, and the fish tacos are also excellent. There are two different locations in Encinitas – one off Santa Fe Drive, and another off El Camino Real.
- The Crack Shack: If you’re craving fried chicken, you’ll want to head over to The Crack Shack. They offer unique sandwiches and plates, as well as some bowls and salads for those wanting something a bit lighter.
- Kaito Sushi: Don’t let the unassuming shopping center location throw you off – this is the place to go for fresh, high-quality sushi.
Where to Stay in Encinitas
If you’re planning an overnight trip, I recommend staying within walking distance of the downtown area. That way you can minimize your time in the car and explore this beautiful coastal town on foot! There are plenty of highly-rated Encinitas vacation rentals on Vrbo, including the following:
- Private Cottage (sleeps 3 guests)
- Vintage Bungalow (sleeps 6 guests)
- Nice Home Just Steps to Beach & Downtown (sleeps 7 guests)
As far as hotels go, two great options that are within walking distance of the beach and downtown are Moonlight Beach Motel and Inn at Moonlight Beach.
If you don’t mind being a bit further from the action (and are seeking a luxury accommodation), take a look at Alila Marea Beach Resort. It’s about a 10-minute drive north of Downtown Encinitas, and is also about 15-minutes south of the heart of Carlsbad, another popular coastal city. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking to explore both towns.
What to Bring to Encinitas
Even if you aren’t visiting in the summer, you’re likely going to be spending plenty of time in the sun. With this in mind, bringing proper sun protection should be your top priority.
I’d be remiss not to mention Sun Bum, which is based in Encinitas. In fact, you’ll probably see the headquarters as you’re walking down the 101! For swimming, I’m a big fan of the Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Lotion and the Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion (both of which are water resistant for up to 80 minutes).
Not planning on swimming? Two sunscreens that I wear on a daily basis are the EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 (on my face) and the Supergoop Play SPF 50 (on my body). Beyond that, bring layers if you plan on exploring all day, as the early mornings and evenings can get a bit chilly by the coast. Also be sure to bring your favorite pair of sunglasses (these are my personal favorite).
When is the Best Time to Visit Encinitas?
It’s coastal Southern California, so there’s really no bad time to visit. That said, there are some key characteristics to know about the different seasons.
As you can probably already guess, summer (particularly mid to late summer) is the best for getting that great weather – but of course, this is when you can expect the biggest crowds. If you want to spend some time in the water and have some flexibility in your schedule, I recommend going in the late summer or early fall, when school is back in session. You’ll still get to experience warm temperatures, but it won’t be quite as crowded.
Keep in mind that the greater San Diego area is prone to “June gloom” (which usually happens in May, as well), where there are more cloudy days than usual. However, the weather is still typically pleasant during the late spring and early summer, with average temperatures during the day being around the high 60s and low 70s. Throughout the summer, you may also notice some coastal fog in the mornings, but this typically clears up by the late morning or early afternoon.
If jumping in the ocean isn’t a top priority, you really can’t go wrong visiting any other time of the year. Even in the winter, Encinitas weather is pleasant. During the day, average temperatures tend to be around the mid-60s, and you won’t typically see daytime temps drop below the mid-50s.
Whether you’re just passing through for a day trip or spending a bit more time in Encinitas, I hope you have a wonderful time! Here are a few other articles you may find helpful as you explore the San Diego area:
- The Best Things to do in Carlsbad, CA
- Carlsbad vs. Encinitas: Which is Best to Visit?
- The Best Day Trips from San Diego by Train
