Running parallel to historic Highway 101, the beaches in Encinitas are some of the best hidden gems in San Diego’s North County. From white sand beaches to rocky bluffs, legendary surf spots, an eclectic mix of ‘60s-inspired beach culture combined with boutique shopping, contemporary restaurants, new age meditation gardens and yoga studios, Encinitas is a vibrant and authentic beach town.
The perfect way to explore and experience all Encinitas has to offer is to beach bike tour your way down the coast and discover your favorite spots along the way!
WHERE TO GO
- Moonlight State Beach at the end of Encinitas Boulevard is where the shore drops down nearer to sea level, and is the easiest of Encinitas’ beaches to find and use. With a large sandy area, a recreational playground, snack bar and rentals, bathrooms, showers, fire pits, volleyball courts and ample parking, this is a popular beach for families and vacationers looking to spend the whole day at the beach.
- D Street is the access point to the mile-long beach also known as Boneyards that runs below the bluffs from Moonlight Beach south to Swami’s point. D Street access point has a great view of the ocean and stairs leading down to the sand.
- Swami’s is a famous surfing mecca at the southernmost end of Encinitas, set below bluffs where the golden-spired Self-Realization Center is located—an enduring symbol of Encinitas’ positive and spiritual vibe. A great surf break, this spot is highly coveted by local surfers.
- San Elijo State Beach offers camping, swimming, surfing, showers and picnicking. You can easily cruise the 1.4 miles South to Cardiff State Beach where the roomy bike lane along the bluffs offers unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean.
- Cardiff State Beach is a gently sloping sandy beach with warm water, and offers swimming, surfing and beach combing. It is the only Encinitas beach that allows dogs, and is home to the Cardiff Kook, a famous statue named for its depiction of a surfer with strange surfing form that is frequently dressed up in outfits to fit holidays and other special occasions.
Author: Laura Charlton
Laura is the owner of Laura Charlton PR, a boutique public relations firm based in the San Diego area. With extensive experience working within the music, travel, entertainment, non-profit, education and consumer lifestyle industries, and for companies such as Disney, Make-A-Wish and the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center, Laura brings more than 25 years of experience in corporate and consumer public relations, media relations and public affairs to her clients.
