yellow hibiscus flower with red center

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.

exterior of cardiff by the sea lodge
December 19, 2022

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.

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girl looking at owl
September 15, 2022

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. 

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trees during dusk
August 31, 2022

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.

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gyro with french fries
August 01, 2022

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!

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dog laying down on its back in the san with red sunglasses on
July 06, 2022

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. 

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group of friends at a restaurant eating laughing
June 03, 2022

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.

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Woman at the beach holding the American flag behind her head
May 17, 2022

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!

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group of people in festive clothes and smiling girl receiving boxed food
March 30, 2022

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!


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in bed with coffee and laptop
August 10, 2020

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.

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beach stairs in cardiff
April 06, 2020

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.

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woman reading on the beach
March 02, 2020

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.

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tacos2
February 03, 2020

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.

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birdonsereneshore
January 06, 2020

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.

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holiday gift package
December 02, 2019

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.

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encinitas
November 01, 2019

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.

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istock 1172963651
October 07, 2019

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”. 

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girlatfarmersmarket
September 03, 2019

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.

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cardiffsunset
August 01, 2019

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.

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swamisbeachfromabove
July 01, 2019

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. 

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botanicgardenencinitas
June 03, 2019

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.

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womancoffeeatbeach
May 01, 2019

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.

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a view of open land and a highway with a stream of lights
April 01, 2019

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.

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colorful flowers in a field
March 01, 2019

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.

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