Free-spirited and ocean-kissed—Encinitas is the soul of Southern California surf and wellness culture.
Find your flow in a town where yoga meets surf culture and wellness is a way of life.
Explore Leucadia, Cardiff, and more—each with unique energy and coastal appeal.
Enjoy tranquil beaches, dramatic cliffs, and protected reserves ideal for relaxed coastal living.
Encinitas is a quintessential Southern California surf town with deep roots in yoga, organic living, and coastal creativity, embodying the laid-back yet vibrant spirit of the region. Stretching along six miles of pristine Pacific coastline in North County San Diego, Encinitas is made up of five distinct neighborhoods—Leucadia, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, Old Encinitas, New Encinitas, and Olivenhain—each offering a unique flavor of the town’s relaxed and health-conscious lifestyle.
Leucadia is known for its funky, bohemian vibe with tree-lined streets, art galleries, and the colorful Leucadia Farmers Market, while Cardiff-by-the-Sea charms with its beach cottages, surf spots like Cardiff Reef, and the iconic “Magic Carpet Ride” statue of a surfer. Old Encinitas captures the town’s historic heart with its 1920s architecture along Highway 101, New Encinitas offers suburban convenience with modern homes, and Olivenhain provides a rural escape with equestrian trails and sprawling estates. This vibrant mix of surfers, artists, and entrepreneurs shapes Encinitas’ energetic yet grounded vibe, attracting residents who value creativity, sustainability, and a deep connection to the ocean, all set against a backdrop of year-round sunshine and average temperatures of 72°F.
The city wholeheartedly embraces its connection to nature and wellness, fostering a lifestyle that prioritizes health, sustainability, and local charm. The San Diego Botanic Garden, a 37-acre oasis in Encinitas, features over 5,000 plant species, including rare bamboo groves, a tropical rainforest exhibit, and a children’s garden, making it a serene spot for families and nature enthusiasts.
The annual Wavecrest Woodie Meet, the largest gathering of classic wooden cars in the world, takes place at Moonlight State Beach, showcasing vintage surf culture with over 300 “woodies” on display. With its pristine beaches, thriving local scene, and a lifestyle that prioritizes wellness and community, Encinitas delivers the true California dream—naturally, offering residents a perfect blend of coastal beauty, creative energy, and family-oriented living in one of San Diego County’s most beloved towns.