August in Encinitas: Summer in Full Swing
Summer is still sizzling in Encinitas—and August brings the best of coastal life to you! From golden-hour beach hangs to live music, art walks, and pup-friendly parties, this is your month to soak it all in before fall arrives. Whether you’re a local or just cruising down the coast, here’s your guide to what’s happening in Encinitas this August.
August Beach Days: Soak Up the Season
This month is all about long afternoons, golden-hour swims, and breezy beach escapes. With the ocean at its warmest and summer in full swing, now’s the time to slow down, grab your towel, and enjoy that classic SoCal beach energy.
August Vibes & Beach Tips:
• Midday is made for lounging—pack an umbrella, snacks, and a good book for the ultimate chill session.
• Sunset swims are magic—the water’s still warm, the light is golden, and the crowds start to thin.
• Surf’s up! Beginners can book a lesson at Moonlight or Pipes, while more experienced surfers should head to Swami’s or D Street.
• Bring flip-flops, sunscreen and refillable water bottles—the sand and sun get hot, and hydration is key!
• Be mindful of parking—arrive early or ride bikes if you’re staying nearby.
Looking for the best beach for your vibe? Check out our blog: Beaches for Everybody to find your go-to coastal spot.
But the beach is just the beginning.
August in Encinitas is packed with events that bring our coastal community to life—from art walks and vintage car nights to live music under the stars. Whether you’re looking for family fun, date night ideas, or just something new to explore, there’s something happening every week to keep your summer vibes going strong. Mark your calendars and dive into what’s ahead!
🎨 Art Night Encinitas
Saturday, August 2 | 6:00 – 8:00 PM | FREE
Explore local art, live music, and hands-on workshops at civic and 101 partner sites all over town. Thanks to the San Diego County Library, you can hop on a free shuttle to visit all the stops—park at the Encinitas Library or Community Center and enjoy a full evening of creativity.
🐾 Dog Days of Summer – 20th Anniversary Celebration
Sunday, August 3 | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM | Encinitas Community Park | FREE
This tail-wagging tradition is back for its 20th year! Bring your pup to enjoy contests, giveaways, food, live music, pet adoptions, and more. It’s one of Encinitas’ most beloved family events—four-legged friends included.
👉 Event Info: https://www.cardiff101.com/events-calendar/dogdays24
🍻 Weekly Bingo Night at Duck Foot Brewing
Wednesdays in August | 6:00 – 8:00 PM | Duck Foot Brewing, Leucadia
Bingo, beer, and big laughs—every Wednesday night at Duck Foot Brewing Leucadia. Great prizes and “lucky ducky” vibes await at this casual locals’ favorite on North Coast Highway 101.
🎶 Moonlight Beach Concert Series
Sundays, August 10 & 24 | 1:00 – 5:00 PM | FREE
Live music with your toes in the sand? Yes, please. Catch Shane Hall on August 10 and The Styletones on August 24 at Moonlight Beach. Bring your beach chairs, blankets, and good vibes to this family-friendly summer series.
🕰️ Encinitas Historical Walking Tour
Saturday, August 16 | 10:00 AM | 1883 Schoolhouse | FREE
Take a stroll through history with this fun and informative walking tour led by the Encinitas Historical Society. Learn about local landmarks and stories, starting at the iconic one-room schoolhouse on West F Street.
Encinitas Cruise Night
Thursday, August 21 | 5:30–7:30 p.m. | Historic Highway 101
Stroll the charming streets of downtown Encinitas while admiring vintage cars, sipping craft coffee or cocktails, and catching live tunes outside storefronts. https://www.encinitas101.com/encinitas-cruise-nights
🌅 Summer Acoustic Nights at Hatch Gatherings
Thursday, August 21 | 6:00 – 9:00 PM | Fox Point Farms
Unwind with live acoustic music under the stars at Fox Point Farms. This month’s Summer Acoustic Nights Series features Francis Blume, playing an unplugged set hosted by Hatch Gatherings.
Come early to grab dinner and drinks from Harvest Market, then settle in on a blanket or bring your own chair for a cozy, laid-back night of tunes and community.
🎟️ Tickets required | 21+ only
🚗 Limited parking—rideshare or carpool recommended!
🎸 Courtyard Rhythms – Live in the Lumberyard
Fridays & Saturdays in August and September | 5:00 – 8:00 PM
Presented by the Encinitas 101 MainStreet Association and the City of Encinitas, Courtyard Rhythms brings free live music to 937 S. Coast Highway 101 every Friday and Saturday evening.
This family-friendly series features a rotating lineup of genres and local artists—something new every week! Come for the music, stay for the community vibes, and make the Lumberyard your go-to weekend spot.
🎨 LeucadiART Walk
Sunday, August 24 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | North Coast Hwy 101 | FREE
Nearly a mile of creativity awaits! This juried art walk features over 100 artists, live music, a Children’s Artwalk, and a 21+ Libations Garden. Hop on the free trolley to explore all the stops from the Leucadia Post Office to El Portal Street.
🍽️ Taste of Encinitas
Tuesday, August 26 | 5:30 – 8:30 PM
Downtown Encinitas transforms into a tasting tour of local flavor. Enjoy bites and sips from 20+ restaurants and 24+ “Sip Stops” serving wine, craft beer, and non-alcoholic drinks—plus live music throughout the evening.
🎟️ Get tickets @encinitas101.com
For even more happenings around town, be sure to check out our full Events Calendar under the “Things to Do” tab on the Visit Encinitas homepage. There’s always something going on!
Encinitas—where summer never ends.
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.
