Lose Yourself In The Allure Of Coastal San Diego, California

San Diego North boasts an alluring blend of broad, wide-open beaches, tranquil, secluded coves, friendly locals, and stunning natural beauty. From miles of sandy turf to jagged rock and cliff formations, visitors will enjoy great views, great surf, great sunsets, and endless entertainment. There’s a special charm and aura in Coastal San Diego – and you’ll want to linger on the shore, drinking in views of the azure Pacific beyond. However, the San Diego North coast is not just for "beach goers." You'll also find vibrant retail centers, innovative theater and art, cultural centers, and museums. Learn more about our dynamic coastal communities below.

• La Jolla
• Carlsbad
• Del Mar
• Encinitas
• Oceanside
• Rancho Santa Fe
• Solana Beach

La Jolla:

Spanish for "the jewel," La Jolla is a very picturesque coastal community. Known as the Monte Carlo of California, La Jolla’s coastline curves into beautiful coves framed by lush hillsides and dramatic cliffs. The community's beaches are popular with divers and marine life enthusiasts. With fine hotels and shops, award-winning restaurants and theater, art galleries and the Birch Aquarium at Scripps, La Jolla is a town that exceeds expectations. Home to the Motor Car Classic, Torrey Pines Golf Course (which hosts the Farmers Insurance Open--formerly the Buick Invitational), the Museum of Contemporary Art La Jolla and the La Jolla Playhouse. Enjoy kayaking, snorkeling, and watching for leopard sharks and seals. Read more in the La Jolla section.

Carlsbad:

Known as "The Village by the Sea," Carlsbad has the charm of a European village and much of the architecture reflects this old-world theme. The Village, with its unique shops, superb restaurants and romantic hotels, is just a short walk from the beach. Here with the kids? They’ll love a trip to LEGOLAND. Between March and May every year, the popular Flower Fields off Palomar Airport Road and Interstate 5 are a rainbow display of ranunculus. See the well in front of Alt Karlsbad Hanse House. The mineral water discovered here matched the properties of the water found in Karlsbad, Bohemia. Or just enjoy a day of shopping at Carlsbad Premium Outlets. With its beauty and serenity, Carlsbad may be one of the most picturesque coastal communities in Southern California.

Del Mar:

Del Mar has been a favorite of visitors for many years, since the legendary stars of grand ol’ Hollywood made Del Mar a popular summer getaway to take in the Thoroughbred racing season. Since 1938 Del Mar has showcased some of America’s best racing – and it has long been a great place to spot your favorite celebrity. There are also Friday night concerts and entertainment! For more relaxed pursuits, Del Mar Plaza is full of unique shops, restaurants, inns, and hotels. There’s also the San Diego County Fair on the Fairgrounds. Hot air ballooning is a popular activity to enjoy as well. Saturday’s farmers’ market, adjacent to City Hall, is a great place to pick up the freshest locally-grown produce, flowers, and seafood the region has to offer. There are even dog beaches and pet-friendly restaurants. For more information, contact the Del Mar Village Association.

Encinitas:

Encinitas is home to Swami’s Beach, a hard-core surfing area immortalized in the Beach Boys song “Surfing’ USA”. It has also been called on of the "Ten Best Surf Towns in America" by Surfer Magazine. Visitors will also love the picturesque, kid-friendly Moonlight Beach – named for the moonlit picnics locals held in the 19th century. The beautiful grounds at the San Diego Botanic Garden, featuring one of the most extensive collection of plants, trees and shrubs, is another favorite. Known as "The Flower Capital of the World," Encinitas boasts an extensive collections of unique nurseries and gardens. The San Elijo Lagoon, a brackish shallow water wetland, is home to aquatic insects, small fish, and water birds. Situated on 175 acres of lush greens with ocean views, the Encinitas Ranch Golf Course is one of the newest golf courses in coastal San Diego North. There is also a charming downtown area, excellent restaurants to discover, beaches to explore, interesting shops, galleries, coffee houses, and first-rate hotel accommodations. For more information, contact the City of Encinitas.

Oceanside:

Oceanside's many visitor attractions include 3.5 miles of some of Southern California's widest and sandiest beaches, a small craft harbor, the longest over-water wooden pier in Southern California, the historic San Luis Rey Mission and a wide variety of cultural and recreational facilities. Water sports are highly popular here, especially surfing, sailing and fishing. Other attractions include the California Surf Museum and the historic 101 Café. Oceanside is a transportation hub, making it easily accessible to and from Los Angeles and the rest of the county. For more information, contact the California Welcome Center-Oceanside or the City of Oceanside.

Rancho Santa Fe:

At the center of Rancho Santa Fe is an historic village where a casual stroll reveals quaint courtyards, unique specialty shops, and restaurants in a charming setting. There are two "boutique resorts" in the community: Morgan Run Resort and Club and The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe. Each is impeccably maintained and upholds a commitment to quality service. A croquet field is located in the heart of the community, and on any weekend you can enjoy vigorous competitions that rival any of the NFL or NBA, from men and women dressed in traditional "whites." Rancho Santa Fe also has exclusive golf courses that are beautifully landscaped and ingeniously designed.

Solana Beach:

The exciting Cedros Design District is now home to one of San Diego North's most innovative art communities. Stroll amidst a vibrant world of eclectic galleries and quirky shops. Additionally, this small coastal community lures sun lovers, surfers, joggers, and beach walkers -- as well as art shoppers and theater- and cafe-goers. Interesting restaurants, nightclubs, and studios offer a true adventure for those looking to satisfy a culinary craving or discover a hard-to-find art treasure. For more information, contact the City of Solana Beach.

Natural Wonders And Beauty Along The San Diego North Coast

Explore the wonder and beauty of San Diego North. Discover vibrant attractions, stunning natural beauty, and fantastic outdoor recreation.