San Dieguito Academy Newspaper

The Mustang

San Dieguito Academy Newspaper

The Mustang

San Dieguito Academy Newspaper

The Mustang

A How-To Guide to Encinitas

Advice from locals to maximize your visit

 Encinitas is the typical beach town, with a shoreline stretching about 3 miles, it rests peacefully on the coast of southern California. People from all over the world travel to this miniature paradise, but very few know the right places to go for good food and fun.

One of the incredible ways to experience Encinitas is through all the beautiful places there are to visit and fun things to do. When in Encinitas it is necessary that you spend time at the beach at least once during your visit. All the beaches in Encinitas are wonderful, but some favorites have to be Moonlight, Cardiff State Beach, Beacons, Swami’s, and Ponto. 

The La Paloma theater takes you back to old Encinitas while you enjoy movies surrounded by historic Spanish architecture. Just a little south of La Paloma Theater you will find the Silver Lake Flea Encinitas every Saturday and Sunday. 

Biking in Encinitas is extremely accessible with tons of beachfront, protected, bike lanes. Everywhere around the area, there are public rental bikes, or stop by one of the many local bike shops where you can rent cruisers, E-bikes, or street bikes for the day. This is the best mode of transportation to maximize your time and explore more neighborhoods in Encinitas. 

If you are in Encinitas on a Sunday don’t miss the weekly Farmers market. Local shops are set up from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Paul Ecke Elementary School. Here you can find tons of fresh produce, handmade goods, restaurants, and an upbeat vibe. out.

Along the 101, there is a large selection of consignment stores and little boutiques you can visit. If you are into music, go to Lou’s Records or Moonlight Music. If you are looking for something a little more affordable try some thrift shops like the Humane Society Thrift Store where all the proceeds go to the actual animal rescue.  

To fuel you for a  good day in the sun, you will need a satisfying breakfast meal. For breakfast, Pannikin, in Leucadia, used to be an old train station built in 1888 and was turned into a Coffee and Tea House in 1968 serves coffee roasted on the lower level, a wide variety of pastries made right in their kitchen, and delicious breakfast meals. For people who just want something quick: Better Buzz, Sip-N-Sea Cafe, or Lofty Coffee are 

A view of the self-relaxation center from the Cardiff trail.

all swift and yummy choices.

There are so many options for lunch. Some standouts include Gelati & Peccatti, a made-from-scratch pizza restaurant, and “Rooted in Italian technique,” Alongside their large variety of mouthwatering flatbread pizza they serve many refreshing gelato flavors. Another option is Lourdes Mexican Food located in Cardiff, it has a menu full of California-style Mexican food. Burritos and tacos make the list, as well as tostadas, with flavors for everyone.

At the end of the day, you will be parched and ready for a quality meal to finish it off. Hamburger Hut is a new All-American smash burger joint in Leucadia. The menu is filled with different burger styles and has seating inside and two more levels outside. 

On the nicer side, a relaxing outside seated dining experience with tasty Italian food is just what you need. Buona Forchetta is a homey family-owned business with lots of Italian dishes on its menu. Dessert is arguably the best part of any night. There are multiple places that will guarantee your satisfaction. Some of the best places you’ll ever eat are on the 101 in Encinitas. These places include Baked Bear, Jo Jo’s Ice Cream, Cali Cream Homemade Ice Cream, and Gelato 101. They offer some of the most appealing ice cream and desserts you will find.

Encinitas is full of life. From restaurants to shops, and beautiful beaches. Spend a day in the sun exploring the wonders that make this town special.

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  • J

    Jude and Cliff KellerSep 22, 2023 at 2:25 pm

    Great write up on one of California’s most beautiful and interesting places.

    Reply