Encinitas is a small beach town in the north
end of San Diego County in Southern California. The town has a main street
that looks to be right out of a George Lucas 1950's movie scene, including a
city name sign spanning the Coast Highway that welcomes visitors arriving
into the north end of town. Visitor info can be found at 138 Encinitas Blvd.
Attractions
• The beach. Main entrance to the seemingly endless stretch of
sandy beach is at C street. A scenic outlook and stair access can also be
found at the end of D street. Swimming is allowed only in designated areas.
• Quail Botanical Garden Specializing in tropical rainforest plants
with the largest display of bamboo in the world.
• San Elijo Lagoon Reserve Coastal wetlands.
Activities
• Surfing is a favorite activity in Encinitas. Swami's is one of the
most famous in Southern California, which is accessed via steep stairs down
the bluff from the small city park by the same name at the south end of
town. Several surf shops along Coast Highway can provide gear for the
visitor.
• Cardiff State
Park. Oceanfront camping with beautiful views. Surfing and swimming
beaches within short walking distance. Reservations can be made in advance,
but the park books up for the peak summer season very early in the year.
• Moonlight Beach. Beautiful white sand beach at the north end of
town. West end of 'B' Street. Lifeguards on duty in season.
Dining
Encinitas is a small town with a long restaurant list. Along Coast
Highway 101's downtown district are a wide range of options from upscale
Italian to cozy cafes and diners. Small cafes can be found in the more
residential streets heading towards the beach.
• Honey's Bistro & Bakery. 632 S. Coast Highway 101. Popular breakfast
and lunch cafe with plenty of California and Mexican favorites.
• E Street Cafe. 130 W. E St., Encinitas. Baked goods and lunch specials.
Live music, internet and wireless (with purchase).
• Siamese Basil. 527 S. Coast Highway 101. (753-3940) Meat, seafood and
vegetarian dishes in a casual atmosphere. Don't miss the specials listed on
the table.
• Oggi's Pizza & Brewing Co. 305 Encinitas Blvd. Just off Highway 5.
Drink
• D Street Bar & Grill. 485 S Coast Highway. Upscale pub lined with
televisions tuned into sports and news. |
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Quail Botanical Gardens, Encinitas
Get in
By car
Encinitas is located just off Interstate Highway 5. Take the Encinitas
Blvd exit.
By train
The Encinitas Amtrak station is located downtown between C and D
streets.
By plane
The closest international airport is in San Diego. Los Angeles
International Airport (LAX) is 2-3 hours by bus or car depending on traffic.
Get around
Almost everything can be reached by foot, including the beach and most
restaurants and shopping. Bikes can be rented as well.
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