Resting comfortably along the Pacific Ocean, laid-back Cardiff is known for its wide sandy beaches and some of the most renowned surfing in the world. Part of the city of Encinitas, the seaside community reportedly got its unexpected name from the founder's Welsh wife (homesick, perhaps?). That famous San Diego vibe meets small town life in this picturesque seaside community on historic Highway 101, where the surf culture hasn't changed since the 1950s. With a Cardiff vacation rental, the Pacific is your playground. Life doesn't get much better than this.
A Cardiff vacation rental is the perfect place for soaking up the local culture. Swing by the Cardiff Kook bronze surfer statue and see how the locals have dressed him up today. The San Dieguito Heritage Museum serves up local history, and the Lux Art Institute offers plenty of visual stimulation. For some fresh air, head to the San Diego Botanic Garden or the Sal Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve. Find your Zen in the meditation gardens at the Self-Realization Fellowship Encinitas Temple, or catch a flick at the 1920s La Paloma Theatre. Midnight picnics and bonfires at Moonlight Beach are a must.
The town is also called Cardiff-by-the-Sea, and you'll quickly see why. Life undeniably revolves around the ocean. Catch a wave with some of surfing's best in the world, particularly at The Reef, Pipes, and Swami's (good enough to merit mention in the Beach Boys Classic "Surfin' USA"). Try your hand at paddleboarding, snorkeling, or spearfishing, or just work on that tan, whale watch, and catch an amazing sunset. When the tide goes out, join the locals in exploring the fascinating tidal pools. Cardiff is also a prime spot for oceanfront camping, local festivals, and farmer's markets.
Leave the winter blues behind. Highs will be in the 60s and 70s all year long at your Cardiff vacation rental. The moderate temps are perfect for experiencing those famous ocean waves (water temps range from 60 to 70 degrees, too). In the coldest months of January and February, you might see overnight lows in the mid-40s, but you don't need to worry about seeing any snow. Ocean storms can bring rains from December to April. The rest of the year is generally dry, though May and June can see those famous Pacific fogs.
Maybe it's the cliffs that inspired the name. While they might not be as big as the ones in Wales, they still make for a great place to look out over the broad sandy beach, crashing waves, and spectacular sunsets over the Pacific Ocean. The consistent shape of the waves is what makes the area so popular with surfers. You have to pass a handful of lagoons before you can get inland from the beaches. Low tide exposes a flat, rocky reef and fascinating tidal pools.
The nearest airport is in San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN), located 21.8 mi (35 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that works for your travel itinerary, you could book a flight to Carlsbad, CA (CLD-McClellan-Palomar), which is 6.2 mi (10 km) away.
Whether you're looking for a cozy escape for you and your love or someplace roomy to fit all your friends, you'll find some top vacation rentals in and around Encinitas. Here are a couple to get you thinking:
For even more great options, use the search bar at the top of the page to find the perfect Encinitas vacation rental for you.
You need only set foot into one of our tiny house vacation rentals in Encinitas to recognize that amazing things really do come in small packages. Smartly designed to maximize every square inch of space, these fun-sized digs promise a big vacation experience:
Select a charming log cabin from the many in or around Encinitas and you'll soon be inside your wooden hideaway, wine in hand, lounging in front of a glowing fire. But adventure is right outside your door too. These cabins promise the perfect blend of comfort and fun:
At Vrbo, we think weekends were made for having fun. Get cozy at one of these weekend getaways in and around Encinitas and enjoy all the wonderful things to do close by:
Studio apartments are difficult to beat when it comes to location, convenience and affordability. Check out these studio apartments for rent in or near Encinitas and immerse yourself in the local vibe and culture:
When you're ready to step outside your studio apartment and do some sightseeing, there's loads to entertain you around Encinitas. Enjoy cultural attractions? Don't miss San Diego Museum of Art and Diversionary Theatre.
Just because you only have a few days off work doesn't mean you need to spend it in a dull hotel. Head off on vacation but still have the comforts of home at one of these short-term rentals in or around Encinitas:
Forget roses and chocolates. Sometimes all you need is to get away for the weekend, just you and your sweetie. At Vrbo, we've got romantic getaways in and around Encinitas that would make Cupid swoon. Here are some we think you'll love:
Nothing screams "best vacation evvv-er" like staying in a mansion. Treat the family to a truly unforgettable getaway at one of these mansions for rent in or near Encinitas:
Check out these large group vacation rentals in or near Encinitas and don't worry about leaving anyone off your guest list:
Nothing spells fun like a pool. Pull out your inflatable swan and browse these rental houses in or near Encinitas that come with this vacation essential:
Not sure what the weather is like in Encinitas? It has a mediterranean climate, with average temperatures in summer ranging from 65 ºF to 75 ºF. If you're seeking more inspiration on where to stay in this popular destination, use the search bar at the top of the page and adjust the filters to look through our entire range of Encinitas vacation rentals.