Encinitas
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About Encinitas
Famed as one of the top five surfing towns on the planet, Encinitas is a Californian surf haven, perfect for days of hitting the waves, followed by restorative yoga classes and long beach strolls. Accommodation options are wide-ranging, including simple B&Bs and hip, surf-focused hideaways right on the beach. Our recommendations of the best places to stay in Encinitas are small, characterful properties, within close proximity to the sparkling sea.
Most travellers — couples, groups of friends or families — will undoubtedly come to Encinitas for the superb surf. Easily reached for the weekend from San Diego or as part of a wind-swept Californian road trip, the town has long been filled with free-spirited types, who bring a chilled, creative vibe. You’ll find an abundance of yoga, meditation, massage and healing opportunities, as well as surf lessons — particularly focused around popular and family-friendly Moonlight Beach. This laid-back beach town also features farmers’ markets, trendy cafés and funky eateries. There are some great craft breweries, too. Explore the surrounding region for striking hikes, cycle rides, and natural wonders aplenty. The extraordinary San Diego Botanic Garden is also a must-see.
Spend your evenings at quirky bars and eateries or strolling along Moonlight Beach. Don’t miss those gorgeous Southern Californian sunsets! Enchanting, low-key and wonderfully relaxing, the best places to stay in Encinitas promise an intimate escape in a spectacular setting, as well as the chance to discover a brilliant Californian seaside community.
The Best Places to Stay in Encinitas
For surf & wellness
- The Inn at Moonlight Beach boasts five luxurious, minimalist suites just minutes from Moonlight Beach. The focus is on harmonious eco-living, with fresh breakfasts — vegan on request — homegrown on the organic farm, and the world's first WELL Platinum certification. Expect yoga, massages and holistic healing, and surfing nearby. There are garden shears in every room for green-fingered guests to pick their own herbs. An eco-spot to soothe the soul.
- Surfhouse offers eight beachfront rooms clad in natural materials, and an appealingly laid-back vibe. Come for retro-cool decor and the world-class surfing — including onsite surf lessons — as well as yoga classes and free bike hire. Families are welcome! A Californian surf-lifestyle classic.
For a classic B&B
- Kate Stanton Inn is a cosy four-bedoom hideaway with beautiful ocean views and a home-away-from-home feel. Think pretty floral patterns, rocking chairs and calming New England-inspired decor. Family-run, the B&B is well-located for exploring Encinitas, and the welcoming hosts will happily share their extensive local knowledge. A charming and elegant choice for travellers in search of tranquility.
FOR AN APARTMENT OR VILLA
- If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.
TRAVEL INFORMATION
- Fly to San Diego International Airport and hop aboard a bus or take a taxi to Encinitas. The journey to Encinitas should take around 30 minutes from the city.
- California is brilliant for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
- A year-round destination, Encinitas is especially busy during the summer months. Time your trip for the spring (March - May) or autumn (September - November) for fewer crowds and great hotel offers.
STILL NOT SURE?
- Explore our pick of all the best places to stay in San Diego.
- Broaden your search to include the best places to stay in California.
- Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.
Best Hotels in Encinitas
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Kate Stanton Inn Encinitas (California) 4 rooms from CA$243
Local exploring - There is plenty to do in the area; amusement parks, natural wonders, golf or just soaking up the seaside charm of EncinitasBeach Life - Located along 6 miles of Pacific Ocean coastline, Encinitas brings to life historic Highway 101 California beach cultureSurfing - Encinitas was recently named one of 20 best surf towns in the world by National GeographicSights nearby - San Diego Botanic Garden, Legoland California, San Diego Zoo and Sea World are are all within 30 minutes driveFeel like a local at this B&B in the small laid-back surf city of Encinitas. With just 4 rooms - some with ocean views - and shared living spaces, this feels more like a home thanks to the friendly host. Decor is inspired by America's East Coast, including nautical colour-schemes and white shutters. See More
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Surfhouse Encinitas (California) 8 rooms from CA$255
Surfing - Everything is geared towards surfing on the famous waves. Take advantage of surf lessons and surf guiding with local expertsBeach Life - Encinitas is considered the beach town that best encapsulates the Californian surfing lifestyleSeaside - Ideal for a seaside holiday.House party feel - Be prepared to meet people.Laid-back intimate beach-front property that embodies the Californian surf lifestyle. 8 spacious and contemporary rooms are well-designed and equipped. Picnic tables, free bikes to borrow and hot outdoor showers are extra perks. There is no restaurant but brilliant options are on the doorstep. See More
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Inn at Moonlight Beach Encinitas 5 rooms from CA$375
Eco break - Drink tea with home-grown and harvested herbs or a reiki massage in rooms with the most innovative sustainable technologyBeach Life - Spend a day at the beach; there is excellent surfing, a beautiful white sand beach with volley-ball and equipment rentalBack to Nature - The staff encourage you to get your hands dirty in the vegetable garden; all rooms include a garden basket with shearsEco - The hotel was the first in the world to be certified WELL Platinum by the International Well Building InstituteOne-of-a-kind property located close to the beach in Encinitas with an emphasis on spirituality and tranquillity. Meditate or practise yoga in the water garden, urban farm or private ocean-facing balconies. 5 suites are luxuriously minimalist. Food is locally sourced, organic and vegan on request. See More
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Twelve Senses Retreat Encinitas (California) 4 rooms from CA$474
Total relaxation - Designed with sustainability and wellness in mind. Luxury minimalism makes for warm and welcoming yet uncluttered spacesRomantic Break - Hammock for two, al fresco shower, massages and intimate roof terrace — romance guaranteed!Eco break - Full solar power, organic vegan pedicures, sustainable and plant-based productsGroups - Great option for a group getaway or reunion if you book the whole propertyRecommended by - Mr & Mrs Smith, Design HotelsIntimate B&B with sustainability and wellness at its heart. The four rooms feature elements of wood, copper, cork, recycled leather and sustainable materials and all have either balcony or terrace some with hammocks and freestanding tub. A holisitic, relaxing base ideal for local exploring. See More
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Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas 130 rooms from CA$1063
Romantic Break - Rooms have been designed to bring the outdoors in; soak up views of stunning surroundings from private sea-view terracesWeddings - It's hard to imagine a better location for outdoor beachfront weddings; say 'I do' at sunset to the sound of wavesBusiness meetings - Positioned for upscale events and business meetings with ballroom, boardroom, private dining and sea-view terraceSurfing - With its combination of northwest, southwest, and combination swells, Encinitas is a surfing hotspotPlush oceanfront resort boasting panoramic views, an infinity pool & an on-trend restaurant. Dreamy rooms overlooking the ocean feel the height of luxury with floor-to-ceiling windows, fire-pits & bathtubs. Indulge with 3 dining options & a spa. Perfect for those after a luxurious outdoor lifestyle. See More