Nominated as one of the top 20 best surf towns of the world by National Geographic recently, Encinitas California is a spectacular beach city with a unique vibe of its own, situated in Southern California and near to both Los Angeles and San Diego city.
The Top Secret Places to Visit
San Elijo Lagoon in the south and Batiquitos Lagoon in the north are the two lagoons that divide Encinitas. The beaches of Encinitas, which run adjacent to historic Highway 101, are among the best-kept secrets in San Diego’s North County Coastal area. The coast is lined with famous surf locations, which range from white sand beaches to rocky cliffs.
Encinitas beach town tries to preserve the beach culture that was so popular in the mid-90s and does a great job at it. Whenever the hustle and bustle of the city get to you, relax in this beautiful coastal city to rejuvenate yourself.
With its distinctive and dynamic combination of San Diego’s finest surf stores, coffeehouses, restaurants, pubs, and grills, the city’s colorful downtown has long lured travelers and hippies from all around the world.
How to get to Encinitas, California?
You can either get to Encinitas from Carlsbad (CLD) Airport, which is the nearest – 6.3 miles away. Or you can get there from Los Angeles Airport or San Diego Airport, which are also close by.
Looking to travel to Encinitas from outside of the United States? You will need an ESTA and not a visa if you’re from a country with the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) with the U.S.
You can learn more about the official ESTA application website here.
Cities near Encinitas CA
Encinitas is one of the most accessible getaways as there are several prominent cities like San Diego, Carlsbad, Solana Beach, and La Mesa near it.
Encinitas Garden Tour
Because of its large array of distinctive nurseries and gardens, Encinitas is also known as the “Flower Capital of the World.”
The Encinitas Garden Festival and Tour is a popular, annually held self-guided botanical tour that has one of the best displays of flower arrangements. The assortment of colors that you will see in this tour will definitely bring you a sense of tranquility.
You can book yourself a slot to witness this beautiful tradition.
Another one of the must-visit places while in Encinitas is Moonlight State Beach. This place is known for some great sunsets with ocean views – something you don’t want to miss for sure.
Encinitas Beach Restaurants
Encinitas has the best options for good food by the beach, from breakfast places to coffee shops to fine-dining restaurants for a romantic dinner. Enjoy fresh seafood, oysters, and best-selling lobster tacos, as well as world-class margaritas at the Pacific Coast Grill or some Mexican delicacies at Le Papagayo.
For a casual hangout with friends for some coffee and sandwiches, you can visit the Pannikin Coffee and Tea Stand. If you want a place that has extensive options, you can choose the Moonlight Beach Concession Stand.
Ocean Time Encinitas
Want professional help for fixing your watches? Head out to Ocean Time Encinitas. The retail district in downtown Encinitas is almost a century old. The ancient structures now contain boutique stores and sidewalk cafés where customers may find both old and new items. Apart from restaurants and garden tours, Encinitas also has some lucrative stores to shop from.
You can shop for beachwear, surfing gear, or even some essential gadgets like watches or jewelry.
Spending Time in Encinitas
There are lots to do if you’re looking to have some fun here. You could head off to the San Diego Botanic Garden or make your way to Moonlight State Beach. If you’re into hiking and trails, try out the Annie’s Canyon Trail – a slot canyon with a nice climb that is sure to make you feel like a kid again.
Plan Early to Get the Best Out of Your Stay in Encinitas
Now, you could plan your trip before you head out – or you could plan it ahead so that you have a proper itinerary with you. No matter what you decide to do, don’t forget to check status of esta and get ESTA authorization before you start your trip.
Want to head to the pubs and explore the nightlife? Weekends are more popular than weekdays, so try to head there on weekdays during the summers.
Although the place has developed a lot over the years concerning markets and shopping centers, the locals still prefer to go to their favorite pubs and restaurants. This is what keeps the age-old culture of the place alive and restores its charm for you to keep coming back.
Now that you have all the information about the various things to do in Encinitas pack your bags to have a jolly good time here.