Welcome to Cardiff
A charming, laid-back, unpretentious Pacific paradise.
Just 25 miles north of San Diego, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, often referred to as Cardiff, is a coastal haven known for its picture-perfect sunsets, beach parks, lagoons, and crisp climate. Located adjacent to the Pacific Ocean, several homes enjoy breathtaking ocean views. These lucky residents also enjoy frequent surf sessions, time spent in the town’s many relaxing parks, and evenings enjoying oceanfront dinners.
Though the area was originally inhabited by the native Kumeyaay tribe, Spanish colonization began with the construction of some of the first Spanish missions in 1769. Later, the area became a farming community, and official settlement occurred in 1875. Further development began when a Boston builder purchased land from the town’s first inhabitants. In modern times, Cardiff-by-the Sea is a bustling destination with relaxing beaches, resorts, and a plethora of outdoor amenities.
What to Love
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Residents benefit from Cardiff’s seaside location and the plethora of outdoor activities
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Cardiff is well-known for its coffee and pastry shops, a favorite way among locals to refuel after morning surf sessions
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Many other eateries are located on the sea, providing guests with amazing views
- Cardiff is one of Southern California’s best surfing destinations
Local Lifestyle
The lucky residents of Cardiff-by-the-Sea enjoy the good life day in and day out. On the weekends, locals rise early to catch waves and reward themselves with a hot cup of coffee and breakfast, often from Bump Coffee or VG Donuts. The miles of sandy beaches have made Cardiff one of the most popular spots to hang ten in Southern California. On shore, locals enjoy panoramic Pacific views from top-rated seafood restaurants, parks, and trails, and even from their own homes.
Dining, Entertainment, and Shopping
With close proximity to the Pacific Ocean, Cardiff’s many shops and eateries benefit from the coastal location, and patrons can dine on fresh California cuisine made from the freshest ingredients while enjoying this laid-back, yet luxurious state of mind.
Early morning surfers can be seen posting up their boards and drying wetsuits at Bump Coffee or VG Donuts, both located adjacent to one another. Bump coffee is famous for its savory empanadas stuffed with bacon, eggs, and cheese.
For something a bit sweeter, VG Donuts is another equally delicious option for a post-surf bite. This popular bakery offers much more than just donuts, though they are the top seller on the menu. Danishes, croissants, cookies, and other confections are baked fresh around the clock.
Another one of Cardiff’s favorite local hotspots is Fish 101. Overlooking Moonlight Beach, this unpretentious hangout excels in fish and shellfish, prepared in a number of ways. Some of their top-rated dishes include fish and chips, fresh poke, and tacos.
Centrally located in town, Sea + Wander is a popular boutique carrying women’s and children’s clothing, body care, and home accents. Sea + Wander believes in selling a wide array of high-quality, sustainable products, with a much larger selection than what is normally found at most other boutiques.
An adventurous and exciting way to experience the scenic beauty of the San Diego coastline is from above. Compass Balloons offers hot air balloon rides conducted by professional pilots to take you and your guests to new heights and experience views of the ocean from unique angles.
Things To Do
With sunshine and mild temperatures year-round, citizens of Cardiff thoroughly enjoy sunny days spent surfing, skating, and relaxing at the park. Cardiff State Beach is a 507-acre site next to San Elijo State Beach. In addition to the gorgeous scenery, visitors can book a campground to actually spend the night on San Elijo Beach. Just minutes north, the Encinitas Community Park is an equally exciting 44-acre park featuring multi-use sports fields, wide-open green spaces, and Poods, a 33,000-square-foot skate park often referred to as the best skate park in all of California.
Schools
Cardiff-by-the-Sea is another Southern California town with highly-rated educational opportunities for children. A few of these are:
