Nestled along the picturesque Californian coast, Encinitas stands out as a charming family-friendly city renowned for its iconic beaches, notably Swami’s, Moonlight, and Stonesteps. These locations not only provide stunning ocean views but are also popular among surfers chasing waves that could ignite their lifelong passion for the sport.
However, Encinitas offers more than just sun-soaked shores. This laidback coastal town was once recognized as the global capital of poinsettias, largely due to the prominent Ecke Ranch, which thrived from the 1920s until the 2010s. At one point, it competed with the Netherlands for the title of the “Flower Capital of the World.”
The city stretches from the tranquil Leucadia to the surf-friendly Cardiff, extending inland to the rustic charm of Olivenhain. Central to Encinitas is its walkable downtown, located on historic Highway 101. This family-oriented area is filled with quirky shops, vibrant taco eateries, and bluff-top cafés that attract visitors and locals alike.
Encinitas is steeped in history, with narratives that trace back to the Santa Fe Railroad arrival in 1881. A perfect example of this history is the Pannikin Coffee, which operates out of an old Victorian train depot, serving delightful brews to passersby. For film aficionados, the La Paloma Theatre has been a cornerstone of entertainment since 1928, while the iconic white-domed towers of the Self-Realization Fellowship have graced the coast since 1920, serving as a spiritual haven for both yogis and surfers.
In 1961, Don Hansen opened his surf shop, which is now carried on by his son Josh. Hansen Surfboards continues to embody the spirit of surfing culture while adapting to modern values of sustainability and wellness. The surf culture here is experiencing a renaissance, with a new generation blending creativity and environmental mindfulness. Local artists, musicians, and creators thrive in Encinitas, contributing to a vibrant atmosphere filled with galleries, public art, and various arts festivals that add to the city’s unique charm.
Not too far from the coast, the legacy of Encinitas’s floral history lives on. The San Diego Botanic Garden, Coastal Roots Farm, and Fox Point Farms continue to promote blooming landscapes, alongside nurseries offering a wide range of plants from cymbidiums to drought-resistant succulents.
It’s this mix of activities—surfboards alongside sun hats, yoga sessions mingled with espresso stops, and public art interspersed with farmers markets—that gives Encinitas its quirky yet beloved identity.
On a typical day, Josh Hansen begins with a surfing session at his go-to spot, Swami’s. His breakfast ritual often includes a visit to Swami’s Café, where his favorite dish is the chilaquiles. For a healthy and delicious meal, he also recommends Goodonya Organic Eatery, located within walking distance from the beach, where he enjoys their bone broth and fried egg plate. When he’s in the mood for classic comfort food, Besta Wan Pizza House in Cardiff has been serving North County locals since 1965, featuring a satisfying menu of salads, pizzas, and a rotating selection of beers on tap. The Besta Wan special, which includes ground beef, pepperoni, sausage, green peppers, onions, mushrooms, and surprisingly, anchovies, is a must-try.
When Hansen’s daughter visits, they indulge in a family outing to Birdseye Kitchen for fresh organic flavors infused with Thai, Lao, and Vietnamese inspiration. Afterward, they often unwind at Union Kitchen & Tap, located just across from Hansen Surfboards, where Hansen appreciates the friendly atmosphere and local ownership.
As a strong supporter of the Visit Encinitas initiative, Hansen advocates for the community’s accessibility. The walkability of Encinitas allows residents and visitors to manage errands easily while enjoying breathtaking coastal views on scenic routes like the Swami’s Pedestrian Under-passageway.
Hansen also highlights the variety of family-friendly activities in Encinitas. Free Sunday afternoon concerts at Moonlight Beach during July and August welcome locals to bring their own chairs and snacks. Additionally, the summer camps and year-round recreational classes held at the Pacific View Arts Center and Encinitas Community Center cater to all ages. Families can explore the children’s area at the San Diego Botanical Garden or enjoy engaging experiences such as farm tours and animal encounters at Fox Point Farms. “Encinitas feels like a family-oriented surf town. The blend of community and beach lifestyle is truly what makes it special,” Hansen remarks.
Encinitas boasts remarkable community engagement as well. The city is recognized for hosting San Diego County’s largest single-day coastal clean-up, a tradition that has been ongoing for an impressive 40 years. The Self-Realization Fellowship stands proud as one of California’s foundational establishments for yoga practice.
Real estate in Encinitas reflects its desirability, with the median home price sitting at a staggering $1.8 million. Among the notable residents is skateboard legend Tony Hawk, who found his home in Encinitas after honing his skills in Carlsbad. Additionally, the oldest building in the city, a one-room schoolhouse, dates back to 1883, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich past.
Looking toward the future, Encinitas, like many regions in San Diego County, is under pressure to expand housing developments. While construction continues with three new projects along Quail Gardens Drive, a strong resistance against rapid growth is also evident in the community. Newly elected mayor Bruce Ehlers is leading a statewide ballot initiative to challenge California’s housing mandates. Whether this effort will slow development or exacerbate the ongoing debate between growth and preservation remains to be seen.
Despite these challenges, the culinary landscape of Encinitas is thriving. New restaurant openings consistently refresh the city’s dining scene. Ernie’s Craft Deli & Wine Bar has joined the Encinitas Marketplace, while Claudette Zepeda has introduced Leu Leu in Leucadia. In tandem, Tony Hawk and chef Andrew Bachelier recently co-launched Chick & Hawk, and pro surfer Benji Weatherly is set to bring a taste of Hawaii to Breakers Cafe Bar & Grill. The recently opened Dumpling Bar in Encinitas Village further enriches the local food offerings alongside new plans for a Craft Coast Brewery & Taco Stand at Highway 101 and West D Street.
“Over the past decade, there’s been a notable increase in bars, restaurants, and new shops,” Hansen observes. “The vibe is still positive, but there’s certainly more happening around town.”
The former Cap’n Keno’s site, a long-standing Encinitas landmark that closed in 2024 after over 50 years of operation on Coast Highway, is undergoing transformation with plans for the “Moonlight Mixed-Use Property.” This development is expected to pay tribute to the beloved institution, potentially incorporating a new bar using the nostalgic name, alongside affordable housing and storefronts.
Encinitas continues to flourish as a vibrant coastal community, rich in history and culture, while navigating the complexities of growth and development.
image source from：sandiegomagazine
