Encinitas Beaches : Top 3 that are kid friendly
With 6 miles of coastline, Encinitas has plenty of beaches. But…not all of them are kid friendly. Some have stairs, some have cliffs, some are hard to access. With 2 kids of my own, I know there are a few important factors to consider when heading down to the ocean. Here’s what’s important when cruising to the coast : Parking, layout (aka geography), bathrooms, and showers. All of the beaches below check those boxes. Take a peek!
Here’s some more info for ya!
South Cardiff State Beach (aka Seaside)
Located at the furthest point south in Cardiff just off Hwy 101. I know that I said ‘Encinitas’ beaches, but Cardiff is in the City of Encinitas, so just roll with it. The #1 reason this is kid friendly is the amount of parking. More than ample and rarely, if ever, filled. Just park, unload, and head to the beach. Not ideal for swimming as there is a popular surf break directly in front of the beach area, but the kids can still splash around, play in the sand, and enjoy that beach life.
Cardiff State Beach (aka Cardiff Reef)
This spot is only about a 1-2 minute drive north of Seaside. Once again located in Cardiff, just south of the Kook. Cardiff Reef has a parking lot, but it's a lot smaller than Seaside. If you have your heart set on this beach, go check it out and if the parking lot is full (which it tends to be on weekends, holidays, or when a good swell rolls through), just head to Seaside. This beach is wide open for the kids to roam. There is a river heading out from the San Elijo Lagoon to splash around in, a bridge to explore, and plenty of sand to dig and get dirty.
Moonlight State Beach
Probably the most well known beach in Encinitas. Follow Encinitas Blvd. to the end and you’re there. Ample parking and plenty of beach to play. This beach checks all the boxes if you’re looking for something kid friendly. Park in the free lot located above Moonlight. There are bathrooms, showers, a playground, a lifeguard station, and a concession stand. Since this is a popular beach, you’ll also have to hang with everyone else enjoying the sun’s rays. But it’s hard to complain when you’re at the beach.
South Carlsbad State Beach (aka Ponto)
How about a bonus beach? Not in Encinitas, but you can hit itwith a beach ball (i.e. super close). Ponto, once again, checks all the boxes. It is slightly more difficult to get to as you can only enter going south on Hwy 101. Going north, you’ll have to pass the hidden lot entrance, go a few lights up, make a u-turn and head back south. All that being said, once you park you’ll have easy access to a beautiful beach. Post up, throw your towel down, drop all the beach toys, and relax. Or at least have fun chasing the little ones around!