What to do in Encinitas, CA

Activities, attractions and tours

A coastal cityscape with a beach, ocean waves, and a clear sky.
A sunset with silhouettes of palm trees and a building.
A coastal promenade with palm trees, a railing, and a street lamp.
A calm beach with a reflective water surface, a sandy shore, and a steep cliff with houses on top.
A group of people standing on a beach with the ocean in the background.

Things to do

Oceanside Whale and Dolphin Watching Adventures

Oceanside Whale and Dolphin Watching Adventures

Rp1.024.062
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Oceanside Whale and Dolphin Watching Adventures
Carlsbad Taco Tuesday Walking Food Tour with Margarita or Beer

Carlsbad Taco Tuesday Walking Food Tour with Margarita or Beer

Rp1.509.144
per adult
Carlsbad Taco Tuesday Walking Food Tour with Margarita or Beer
Carlsbad: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of the Village by the Sea

Carlsbad: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of the Village by the Sea

Rp269.310
per adult
Carlsbad: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of the Village by the Sea
Private Surf Lesson Solana Beach Ride the Waves Fletcher Cove 2hr

Private Surf Lesson Solana Beach Ride the Waves Fletcher Cove 2hr

Rp1.976.260
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Private Surf Lesson Solana Beach Ride the Waves Fletcher Cove 2hr
Solana Beach: Beach Cruiser Full-Day Bike Rental

Solana Beach: Beach Cruiser Full-Day Bike Rental

Rp718.640
per adult
Solana Beach: Beach Cruiser Full-Day Bike Rental
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What to do in Encinitas

Stay near popular Encinitas attractions

A sandy beach with gentle waves lapping at the shore, a clear sky, and a rocky cliff with buildings on top.
Photo by Wendy Montroy
Open Photo by Wendy Montroy

Moonlight State Beach

9.2/10 (544 reviews)
This family-friendly shoreline offers pristine sands and excellent swimming conditions just steps from city centre Encinitas. Enjoy beach volleyball courts and picnic areas while lifeguards ensure a safe experience.
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Where to stay in Encinitas

Find the best Encinitas areas for the activities you enjoy most.
A sunset over a calm sea with surfers in the water.

Leucadia

The beaches and abundant dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Leucadia. A stop by Leucadia State Beach or Grandview Surf Beach might round out your trip.

A beach with a lifeguard tower, palm trees, and a sunset.

Downtown Encinitas

If you're spending some time in Downtown Encinitas, Moonlight State Beach and San Elijo State Beach are top sights worth seeing.

A coastal landscape with cliffs and a sunset over the ocean.

Olivenhain

Olivenhain might not have many top sights, but La Costa Golf Courses - North and South and San Elijo State Beach are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Day trip destinations from Encinitas

A residential area with houses, a swimming pool, and a mountainous backdrop.

Escondido

A residential area with houses, roads, and surrounding greenery.

Rancho Santa Fe

Frequently asked questions

Is Encinitas worth visiting?
From retail therapy to outdoor pursuits and history, there are loads of fun things to do in Encinitas. Be sure to experience the area's blend of cool sights, culture and local charm.
How do I spend a day in Encinitas?
LEGOLAND® California and Carlsbad State Beach are two excellent places to start your adventures. Be sure to explore the shopping and dining options in Encinitas while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Encinitas?
Don't go home without visiting LEGOLAND® California, ranked the top tourist attraction in Encinitas.
Is three days enough to stay in Encinitas?
You can easily visit top sights like Moonlight State Beach, South Carlsbad State Beach and San Elijo State Beach with a three-day stay in Encinitas. On average, many travellers book three days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so stay a little longer and venture to San Diego County.
What are some activities to do in Encinitas with kids?
If you are after sights and activities for all the family, have a look at these awesome ideas for what to do in Encinitas with kids.

What to do in Encinitas for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in Encinitas, with activities for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to Carruth Cellars Winery or Craftsmanship Museum.
Are there free things to do in Encinitas?
One of the top ways to find free things to do in Encinitas is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on cool neighbourhoods, parks and other highlights you can visit without reaching for your wallet. Moonlight State Beach is one place that doesn't have an admission fee.