Best things to do in Encinitas
The Mediation Gardens at the Self-Realization Fellowship
Located within the local Self Realization Fellowship Temple, the internationally renowned Meditation Gardens are best known for their wide variety of flora and is one of the best places to visit in Encinitas. Visitors are free to take a stroll amongst their numerous meditation nooks, koi ponds, and waterfalls, and enjoy the breathtaking view of the coastline.
Address: 215 W K St, Encinitas, CA 92024
Website: The Mediation Gardens at the Self-Realization Fellowship
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Lux Art Institute
The Lux Art Institute is quite unlike the stiff, uptight museums that people often associate with contemporary art. Rather, the Lux Art Institute resonates the relaxed vibe that Encinitas is well known for.
At the Lux Art Institute, viewers can see the art as it unfolds – it is not at all uncommon for visitors to be able to watch the artists as they work. Visitors may also unleash their creative sides by participating in the art camps and various education courses that the museum regularly offers.
Address: 1550 S El Camino Real, Encinitas, CA 92024
Website: Lux Art Institute
Image Source: Lux Art Institute
La Paloma Theatre
The La Paloma theatre is one of the oldest and most memorable structures in Encinitas. Built in the late 1920s, this architectural gem maintains its Spanish Colonial Revival Style structures to this day, and is a testament to the history of Encinitas and of California, as a whole. Nowadays, one can readily enjoy the various movies that the La Paloma regularly schedules, as well as concerts and other performances that the theater sometimes hosts.
Address: 471 S Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024
Website: La Paloma Theatre
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The San Elijo Ecological Reserve
Another top Encinitas tourist attraction is situated just between Encinitas and Solana Beach. San Elijo Ecological Reserve is a 1,000 acre (404.6 hectare) reserve that has over seven miles (11.2 km) of easy to moderate hiking trails. These trails cut through numerous ecological habitats including one of the largest remaining open wetlands in California. Countless species of animals also take refuge at this ecological reserve – from beetles to birds. Guests are free to go on a hike and enjoy the natural beauty that the reserve has to offer, or take a visit to the Nature Center to learn more about the rich biodiversity of the reserve.
Address: Encinitas, CA 92024
Website: The San Elijo Ecological Reserve
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Moonlight Beach
Conveniently located close to the local stores and eateries, Moonlight beach is best known for its warm, family-friendly vibe. With amenities such as beach rentals, a volleyball court, shower rooms, and children’s play areas, there is something for every member of the family at Moonlight Beach.
Address: 400 B St, Encinitas, CA 92024
Image Source: Marcel Fuentes / shutterstock
Swami's Beach
Of course, a trip to Encinitas wouldn’t be complete without hitting the waves. Located south of the Self Realization Fellowship Retreat (where one will find the Meditation Gardens), Swami’s beach is a sort of haven for surfers, drawing in hundreds of them, every year. In addition, Swami’s Beach is also a great spot for diving, with beds of kelp located about a quarter of a mile (0.4 km) from the shore. Swami’s beach is also connected with other beaches, stretching from the San Elijo Lagoon to the South Carlsbad Beach jetty, making it the perfect place to go jogging or even to go on a long, romantic walk.
Address: 1298 S Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024
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San Diego Botanic Garden
The San Diego Botanic garden is a place where couples, families and even solo visitors can enjoy nature. There’s a fascinating display of diversity in the garden, from native California plants through to succulents, Mediterranean landscapes, and even a tropical rainforest. Paths and walkways take you through different regions of the world’s vegetation.
For the kids, there’s a treehouse with climbing ropes, The children’s garden is home to many birds and butterflies in season. With plenty of shade, you can avoid the heat of summer. The gift shop is worth stopping in as well if you enjoy gardening. Additionally, there’s restrooms, drinking fountains and a snack bar. As you enjoy your walk, you will find some sculptures dotted around.
Address: 230 Quail Gardens Dr, Encinitas, CA
Website: San Diego Botanic Garden
Image Source: San Diego Magazine
Leucadia Farmers Market
Located at 185 Union Street in Encinitas, California, Leucadia Farmers Market has some of the choicest and freshest produce in the entire area. Open every Sunday, this market is popular far and wide for the quality of its organic fruit and vegetables as well as its assortment of over 75 vendors and stalls – including bakeries, meat and seafood stalls, pasta, and a food court specializing in lunch and breakfast. Stop by if you have the chance because you won’t regret it.
Address: 185 Union St, Encinitas, CA 92024, United States
Website: Leucadia Farmers Market
Opening hours: Sun: 10am - 2pm (closed from Mon - Sat)
Image Source: Best Farmers Markets
Encinitas Ranch Golf Course
With beautiful greenery like this, how could you not want to play a round of golf at Encinitas Ranch Golf Course? This 18-hole course has a variety of easy and challenging sections, perfect for the amateur golfer or the seasoned pro. The Clubhouse and the Ranch Grill Restaurant offer incredible food and comfy seats to relax in, while the driving range is just the place to work on your shot. Encinitas Ranch Golf Course is unique in that it is one of the rare courses in California that has a constant view of the gorgeous Pacific Ocean, no matter where you are on the greenway.
Address: 1275 Quail Gardens Dr, Encinitas, CA 92024, United States
Website: Encinitas Ranch Golf Course
Opening hours: 6:30am - 7:30pm (daily)
Image Source: https://www.scga.org/
