Nestled between Solana Beach and Carlsbad, Encinitas is a coastal California town with lots to offer locals and visitors. There are many things to check out and ways to pass the time in the San Diego suburb, from expansive beaches and open-air markets to must-see art and outdoor adventures.
Whether you’re stopping by, recently moved to Encinitas and want to explore your city, or are just looking for things to do this weekend, we’ve got you covered. Here’s what to do in Encinitas if you have a few hours to kill, a date night to plan, or all day to spend exploring the city.
Encinitas attractions and sites to see
Encinitas has tons of attractions and sites to see, with something for all ages and interests. Not too touristy or overrun with crowds, each spot is rich in history and character.
Here are a few of our favorites.
Moonlight State Beach
Moonlight State Beach is one of California’s state parks. At the notably wide, sandy shore, you can play volleyball, swim, fish, scuba-dive, or surf. It got the name “Moonlight” because locals used to have after-dark picnics there—many still do.
If you’re in Encinitas in July, head to Moonlight State Beach for Switchfoot Bro-AM, an annual music festival and surf competition open to the public for free.
Self-Realization Fellowship Gardens and Hermitage
The Self-Realization Fellowship features gardens, koi ponds, benches, and ocean views, plus a hermitage-turned-shrine where the founder, Paramahansa Yogananda, once lived. Open to the public, visitors and locals come by to meditate, contemplate, and enjoy a peaceful escape.
Encinitas Cruise Nights
There’s also Encinitas Cruise Nights on the third Thursday of the month from May through September. People bring their old-fashioned automobiles to the downtown strip of Highway 101, transforming it into an outdoor classic-car museum.
“Surfing Madonna” mosaic
This mural-size mosaic was installed under a train bridge by two artists, without permission from the city, in 2011. They put it up in broad daylight while wearing neon construction vests, making it seem like they were doing official work. Dubbed the “Surfing Madonna” by the public, the artwork was eventually moved to an exterior wall of Leucadia Pizzeria. So consider grabbing a slice when you go to check out the mosaic.
Street fairs and outdoor shopping
With an average daily temperature of about 71 °F, the mild, sunny climate in Encinitas makes it a lively hub for outdoor shopping. There are multiple annual street fairs, including a two-day event in April, a fall festival, and a holiday fair in November.
You can also mosey over to the open-air Seaside Bazaar, the Leucadia Farmers Market, and Encinitas 101, a downtown strip lined with shops.
Wellness-focused things to do in Encinitas
The city is particularly appealing for folks who prioritize health and fitness. If you’re drawn to an easygoing yet active lifestyle, here’s what to do in Encinitas.
Encinitas surfing
Surfing is a big part of the city’s cultural identity. Lots of people come to Encinitas to ride the waves, especially at Moonlight State Beach and Swami’s Reef. The latter was actually mentioned in The Beach Boys song, “Surfin’ U.S.A.”
Coastal hiking
Encinitas has lots of excellent places to walk and hike. There’s Annie’s Canyon Trail, San Elijo Lagoon, and the Leucadia coastal loop, to name just a few.
Yoga on the beach
You can also do yoga on the beach in Encinitas, whether with a professionally led meet-up group or your own flow on a mat or towel.
Bike ride through town
The sunny (but not too hot) weather makes the city a perfect place for a bike ride. If you don’t own a bicycle, there are several places to rent bikes, including e-bikes.
Assisted stretching recharge
If you really want to relax and unwind, consider stopping by Stretch*d Encinitas. After an assisted stretching session with a trained bodywork professional, you can bet on feeling more limber, less stiff, and all-around refreshed. It’s just the thing after a long hike, bike ride, or day of exploring downtown.
Local favorites in Encinitas
We highly recommend checking out some local favorites. The best eateries, shops, and cafés can round out a fun, enriching day in Encinitas.
For a latte or pastry, head over to Lofty Coffee off the 101. Sip-n-Sea also has delicious açai bowls, smoothies, and coffee. Grab tacos for lunch or dinner at a restaurant, stand, or food truck.
There are also lots of good seafood restaurants, including more upscale options and the popular casual spot, Encinitas Fish Shop. For a sweet treat, swing by Cali Cream for an ice cream cone.
If you’re planning out your day, book an assisted stretching session at Stretch*d Encinitas to relax, recover, and keep your body feeling great while enjoying the best coastal California has to offer.
Sources:
The New York Times. Encinitas, Calif.: A Beach Town Where Prices Rise With the Tide. https://www.nytimes.com/2020/02/18/realestate/encinitas-calif-a-beach-town-where-prices-rise-with-the-tide.html
San Diego State University, KPBS. The Encinitas ‘Surfing Madonna’ artist died, but the legacy of his art lives on. https://www.kpbs.org/news/arts-culture/2023/10/06/the-encinitas-surfing-madonna-artist-died-but-the-legacy-of-his-art-lives-on
Encinitas 101. Explore Downtown Encinitas. https://www.encinitas101.com/events/wellness-week/
California State Parks. Moonlight State Beach. https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=659
Switchfoot Bro-Am Foundation. An Annual Celebration that gives back
to the San Diego Community. https://www.broam.org/
Encinitas Temple. Visiting Self-Realization Fellowship. https://encinitastemple.org/visiting/
Encinitas 101. Encinitas Cruise Nights. https://www.encinitas101.com/encinitas-cruise-nights
Weather Spark. Climate and Average Weather Year Round in Encinitas. https://weatherspark.com/y/1841/Average-Weather-in-Encinitas-California-United-States-Year-Round
City of Encinitas. Recreation Programs: City Special Events. https://www.encinitasca.gov/government/departments/parks-recreation-cultural-arts/recreation-programs/special-events
Encinitas 101. Encinitas Event Calendar. https://www.encinitas101.com/events
City of Encinitas. Recommended Walks/Hikes. https://www.encinitasca.gov/government/departments/parks-recreation-cultural-arts/parks-beaches-trails/trails-open-space/recommended-walks-hikes
