A Laid-Back California City Between San Diego & Carlsbad Boasts Beaches And Coastal Charm

If there's one thing California could never be short on, it's cute beach towns. Wedged between sunny San Diego and the quaint seaside town of Carlsbad sits a place that captures the spirit of mid-century surf culture. You'll pass by surfers making their way back to their trucks barefoot and in wetsuits, waves crashing against the shoreline, and people driving down Pacific Coast Highway with the top down. This is Encinitas, California, a laid-back surf town that will forever be immortalized by The Beach Boys in their song "Surfin' USA." It's a city that has continued to evolve without ever fully letting go of its authentic surf-town soul. 

The city consists of five distinct communities — Old Encinitas, New Encinitas, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, Leucadia, and Olivenhain — each with its own history and character. From the quiet, tree-lined streets of Olivenhain to the funky, surf-inspired vibe of Leucadia, Encinitas offers diverse experiences within its relatively compact borders.

Whether you're walking the gardens perched above Swami's Beach, biking the Coastal Rail Trail, browsing local art galleries, or popping in to watch a film at an old-time movie theater, a visit to Encinitas reveals a city that values its heritage and environment just as much as its popularity and growth. It's not a resort town manufactured for tourism, but a living, working community with a strong sense of identity —and that's exactly what sets it apart. As a result, Encinitas continues to attract not only surfers and sunseekers but also professionals, families, artists, and environmentalists looking for a high quality of life with strong community vibes.

No visit to a beach town would be complete without spending the day at the beach. Start off at Swami's Beach, one of Southern California's most iconic surf spots. Even if you're not being pummeled by waves (aka me anytime I try to surf), it's worth arriving early to watch seasoned locals ride the waves while the morning fog lifts. Atop the bluffs, visitors will find a cute park with panoramic views of the ocean and a great spot to enjoy a morning coffee. Next door to the beach is a beautiful temple (also known as the Self-Realization Temple) with sprawling meditation gardens, open to visitors for free daily. Just across the street is a great place to snag a bite, Swami's Cafe, which has been a long-running staple in Encinitas, serving up delicious acai bowls and smoothies.

After breakfast, walk or drive north along Coast Highway 101 to explore the funky and free-spirited neighborhood of Leucadia. This stretch is lined with independent shops, roadside art galleries, vintage record stores, and low-key taco stands. The Leucadia Farmers Market (on Sundays) is a must for locally grown produce, handmade goods, and people-watching. If you're interested in local art, make time for The Leucadia Art Walk (in late summer) or drop into Lux Art Institute, where you can watch artists in residence work on-site.

In the afternoon, take a quiet detour to the San Diego Botanic Garden, a 37-acre oasis of themed gardens including a tropical rainforest, California native plants, bamboo groves, and a sprawling children's garden. Later, unwind at Moonlight State Beach, a long, family-friendly shoreline with volleyball courts, fire pits, and easy restroom and concession access. It's ideal for swimming, beachcombing, or spreading out a towel and watching the sun begin its descent.

For a deeper dive into local flavor, spend some time exploring downtown Encinitas, particularly along South Coast Highway 101. This walkable stretch is the city's historic core, dotted with a vintage theater, quirky boutiques, independent bookstores, and surf shops that have been staples for decades. Catch a film or live performance at the landmark La Paloma Theatre, which has been operating since 1928 and still retains its original Spanish Colonial charm. Next, check out one of the many coffee shops or breweries, or Pannikin Coffee & Tea, which is housed in a converted train station, all perfect pit stops to refuel and relax. If visiting in spring or summer check out the Encinitas Street Fair or Classic Car Nights, which draw the community together with live music, artisan vendors, and a laid-back energy that defines the city. 

For something more active, rent a cruiser bike and follow the Coastal Rail Trail, a scenic multi-use path that runs parallel to the train tracks and offers easy access to the town's neighborhoods, shops, and coastline — at your own pace. The closest airport to Encinitas is San Diego International, about a 30-minute drive depending on traffic. You can also arrive in Encinitas from San Diego or Oceanside via public transportation on the Coaster, which drops visitors off in downtown Encinitas, or from the Los Angeles area via Amtrak, which takes visitors to Solana Beach, a town about 10 minutes from Encinitas.

Those looking to stay longer have different options to choose from (though it'll definitely be pricier than your vacation in Kansas). If you're not looking to splurge but still want those coveted ocean views, consider booking a stay at the San Elijo Campgrounds, which is located between Encinitas and Cardiff, and allows tents and RVs.