Cardiff State Beach is a great spot for swimming with its gradually descending beach and pleasant water temperature, and it also boasts magnificent waves great for surfing. Cardiff Reef and Suck-Outs just north of it are favorites among local professional surfers, but it is quite rocky, so beginners are encouraged to surf elsewhere.
You'll find 2 beaches here, Seaside Beach at the south end and North Beach in the other direction. Families will enjoy the beautiful view, relaxing in the sun, playing in the white sand, searching for seashells, and exploring tide pools.
Cardiff State Beach - one of the highlights of 10 Best Beaches in San Diego (Read all about San Diego here)
Highlights of Cardiff State Beach
A short stroll to the south of Cardiff State Beach will bring you to Seaside Beach, which has fantastic tide pools where you can find starfish, mussels, sea cucumbers, and other diverse marine life during low tide. This beach runs along the side of the San Elijo Lagoon, which features an ecological reserve and marsh area with diverse bird species.
North Beach is often referred to as "Restaurant Row" because of the many eateries nearby, and it's often less crowded than Seaside Beach. This is also a great place for those who would like to give stand-up paddleboarding a try.
Good to know about Cardiff State Beach
You can find Cardiff State Beach located in Encinitas on Old Highway 101, just south of the Cardiff community. Parking is available for a small fee, but arrive early because this is a popular surf spot and spaces fill up quickly.
If you're traveling with dogs, they are allowed on the beach as long as they're leashed. Beach wheelchairs are available for beachgoers to use. They are free of charge, but supplies are limited, so be sure to arrive early if you would like to snag one. Rip currents do exist here, so be sure to swim with caution.
Cardiff State Beach
Location: Encinitas, CA 92007, USA
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