
By the Sea Blog
Make the most of your time in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, California, with our insider's guide to navigating the neighborhood. Relax by the beach, discover local restaurants and bars, and catch live bands. We’ll let you in on our favorite places to drink, dine, shop, and explore.

California’s Original Beach Retreat Returns this Spring
This winter, you may have noticed we closed our doors for the first time since opening in 1991.

Not So Scary Nature Festival
‘Tis the season for a good scare! Or is it? Maybe you’d like to soften the edges of the grim and gory take on Halloween and shed a little light on the October holiday instead. If that feels right, then come celebrate nature’s natural wonders at Del Mar’s Not So Scary Eco Festival.

A Rare San Diego Sighting
Between the breathtaking sunsets, mountainous vegetation, and buzzing beaches, San Diego offers beauty everywhere you go. During your stay at Cardiff, put on your best hiking shoes and take a quick 15-min drive to Torrey Pines State Beach, for a walk amongst 3,000 of the nation’s rarest pine trees sprinkled throughout Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.

A Taste of the Mediterranean in Cardiff
If you’re looking for an authentic and flavorful meal paired with live entertainment this September, The Cardiff Greek Festival is getting ready to return to the west coast after a two-year hiatus. All ages are welcome to celebrate Greece’s vibrant culture on September 10 and 11 at the Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, just under 10 minutes from Cardiff by the Sea Lodge!

The Dog Days of Summer
While on your stay by the sea, honor the friendly dogs of Cardiff at the town’s favorite furry event of the year. Presented by Pupologie and Cardiff 101 Main Street, Cardiff Dog Days of Summer returns to Encinitas Community Park on August 14 from 10 am to 5 pm.

Tasty Tour Through San Diego
A summer vacation to Cardiff by the Sea Lodge is filled with sunsets, warm air, and relaxation at its finest. Near and around Cardiff, vacationers can indulge in a variety of delectable eats ranging from bakers to fine dining. Here’s our idea for a tasty tour through San Diego.

Welcoming Summer by the Sea
As the summer air rolls in and spring slips away, Cardiff by the Sea Lodge is your home away from home, waiting with the best nearby attractions and events to explore this summer, especially during Memorial Day Weekend!

A Taste of Cardiff-By-The-Sea
Being able to explore a city while on vacation is a great way of expanding your knowledge; however, being lucky enough to attend a local event during vacation, one that is crafted and run by the community, is the best way as a vacationer to truly connect to wherever you are both socially and culturally. This Spring, plan your vacation to Cardiff around the popular Taste of Cardiff!

A Cozy Evening In
Who doesn’t love spending a cozy evening indoors after a long day of work or play? Here at Cardiff by the Sea Lodge, we make it easy to unwind.

The Origins of Cardiff
We all know that Cardiff by the Sea is a charming beach town in San Diego County. But not all visitors are familiar with its interesting history.

Bookworms on the Beach
The Cardiff-by-the-Sea branch of the San Diego County library happens to be a very happening place. Aside from perusing the book selection, there are frequent family-friendly events taking place throughout the month.

Mexican Food and Folklore
Is any visit to California complete without an authentic dish of delicious Mexican food? While you’re at it, you can also have a taste of Mexican culture, thanks to San Diego county’s proximity to our southerly neighbors.

Get Centered by the Sea
Start the new decade fresh with a foray into your own mind, in a stunning oceanside setting. In Cardiff-by-the-Sea, it’s easy to meditate or simply reflect on the beauty of life thanks to swaths of serene beaches, where you can space out to the soothing crash of the waves.

Encinitas Gets Festive
This weekend brings a couple of beloved holiday events to nearby Encinitas. On December 7, enjoy the annual Holiday Parade, which kicks off at 5:30 pm along the 101. Dip into a coffee shop for a warming beverage and then enjoy the festivities.

The Season to Shop & Mingle
If you’re visiting Cardiff’s lovely coastline in November, take advantage of your SoCal getaway with some holiday shopping. The sun may set earlier, but the boutiques keep the same hours.

Cheers to Cardiff
Cardiff by the Sea is replete with options for a good drink—from craft beer to cool cocktails. When you need to take a load off, head to The Confessional to “repent by the sea”.

Harvest Moon
September marks the start of the harvest season in California, and while San Diego County’s year-round good weather may be deceiving, there is still a seasonal shift around town. One of the most pleasant ways to experience the fall spirit in Cardiff-by-the-Sea is to check out the cornucopia of produce that becomes available at local farmer’s markets.

Dining at Dusk
One of the most alluring aspects of visiting the coast of California during the month of August is the ability to enjoy warm, balmy evenings by the ocean. The days still bring long stretches of light, with twilight lingering past 8 pm. There’s nothing quite like a refreshing beverage or seafood dish combined with a West Coast sunset.

Chilling Out in Midsummer
High summer in San Diego County is a vibrant time of year: the days are longer, the water is warmer, and the beaches are bustling with activity from surfing to sunbathing.

Botanical Bliss
After the much-needed spring rains, San Diego County is looking bright and green. We can’t help but suggest some lush spots to soak up the floral eye candy.

Breakfast Before the Beach
Spring in San Diego County is spectacular, and you can regularly expect perfect temperatures and sunny days. There’s nothing like starting the day with hot coffee and a warm pastry before hitting the beach. These two locally-loved breakfast spots are sure to guide your good morning.

Beyond the Beaches
One of the perks of visiting southern California is that you’re almost guaranteed to enjoy mild, sunny temperatures. But when you’ve had your fill of sun, sand, and salt water, there is more to explore within the vicinity of Cardiff By the Sea Lodge.

Spring by the Sea
While San Diego County has ideal temperatures year-round, spring does bring seasonal specials. Coast less than 10 miles up 1-5, and you’ll be transported to a landscape so colorful it’s almost surreal.