From pristine beaches and picturesque hiking trails to delightful local eateries and unique cultural sites, you can find a wide variety of things to do in Encinitas, CA. Here are some of my favorite local activities.
EXPLORE THE BEACHES
Obviously the largest attraction of Encinitas is its proximity to beaches. There are quite a few accessible to the public with different features depending on what you seek. Moonlight State Beach is family-friendly and good for beach sports and water recreation. For those who love to surf, Swami’s Beach is legendary with its long, peeling waves. Cardiff State Beach is also an excellent surfing spot as well as a favorite among local divers. In general, however, it’s a more relaxed area and within a short walking distance to San Elijo Lagoon if you want a change of scenery.
TREK THE SAN ELIJO LAGOON ECOLOGICAL RESERVE
Speaking of, it would be a missed opportunity if you didn’t check out the San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve and Nature Center. Covering nearly 980 acres, it is the largest remaining coastal wetlands in San Diego County and ideal for hikers and bird watching. The reserve is one of the most beautiful of natural Encinitas attractions and offers several miles of trail that lets people observe all kinds of wildlife.
TOUR DOWNTOWN ENCINITAS
Another no-brainer for things to do in Encinitas is surveying their downtown area. Here you’ll find a number of farm-to-table restaurants and cozy cafes. There are also eclectic boutiques selling unique items and other local businesses.
ENJOY A SHOW AT THE LA PALOMA THEATER
La Paloma Theater is one of the most iconic attractions in Encinitas. The Spanish Colonial Revival theater has been around since 1928 and usually hosts a variety of shows like independent films, live performances, and community events. Easily accessible because of its downtown location, try to catch something here.
VISIT SAN DIEGO BOTANIC GARDEN
For those who love plants and nature, the San Diego Botanic Garden is one of the things to do in Encinitas, CA, that you just can’t miss. The 37-acre oasis is full of natural splendor and organized into different themes with flora from all over the world. Check out the zen Japanese Garden or the colorful Mediterranean Garden while you’re there.
EXPERIENCE THE SAN LEUCADIA FARMERS MARKET
If you want to get an authentic feel of the community, try to visit the Leucadia Farmers Market on a Sunday. The market, accompanied by live music from local bands, showcases some of the best local cuisine and produce which would be great to bring home. Leucadia Farmers Market is usually located at the parking lot of Paul Ecke Central Elementary School and is open on Sundays, from 10:00 AM till 2:00 PM.
STAY LONGER
A lot of people who visit Encinitas end up loving it so much that they want to stay there permanently. Just think– if you live here, all of these wonderful Encinitas attractions will be within your reach.
Let Jacobo Realty Group make this happen for you. I’m Michael Jacobo, a local real estate agent with over 20 years of experience in San Diego County real estate. Allow me to assist you in finding your dream home in Encinitas by calling 760.632.8900 or sending an email here.