By the Sea Blog

The Origins of Cardiff

Cardiff by the Sea was a planned village, founded and created by J. Frank Cullen, a painter from Boston who moved west and became a developer in 1910. He envisioned a “seaside playground”.

Prior to Cullen’s arrival, the land on which Cardiff sits had been cultivated by a farmer: Hector MacKinnon, who had settled in the area in 1875 and was the singular farmer between Oceanside and San Diego.

When Cullen founded Cardiff by the Sea, he named it after Cardiff in Wales. He also named the town’s streets after other places in the British Isles. By 1912, he had built a hotel overlooking the bluff, an ocean pier, and a bathhouse.

Over time, Cardiff by the Sea did develop into the “seaside playground” that it is today—loved by locals and visitors alike.

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.

During March, catch Irish dancing (on Saturday, March 7) and an etegami workshop—the art of Japanese postcard painting (on Saturday, March 21). Check out the calendar for movie nights, concerts, and even toddler yoga.

And if you forgot something to read for your beach vacation, look no further than the Book Nook. Open Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm, this shop is run by the Friends of the Library and sells used books in support of the local branch. Grab a novel you’ve never heard of and settle down in the sand for a good read.

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.

On Sunday, February 15, go for an atypical Valentine’s Day weekend with the Ticitozaá Folklorico Dance Festival. Over 15 dance groups will be portraying Mexico on stage for the sake of education and representation through folklore. The youth show is at 12 pm and the adult show is at 6 pm at the California Center for the Arts in Escondido, and if you happen to be visiting in late spring you can catch another show on April 11.

When you’re ready to double down on a dish, El Pueblo is a favorite among locals for delicious carne asada fries, enchilada, and 99-cent fish tacos. They also offer more unique options you won’t see every day, like lengua (cow tongue) tacos.

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.

If you’re looking for a more secluded spot to spend time on the shore, head to the northern end of Swami’s Beach. Known as a surf spot, this natural reef also has a pristine sandy area down a series of wooden steps, where you can catch a view of the entire coastline and stroll away from the crowds.

Adjacent to this entry point, you’ll find the Self-Realization Fellowship Encinitas Temple, which has tranquil cliffside meditation gardens equipped with benches, koi ponds, exotic flora, and sweeping ocean views. Just a mile and a half up the coast from Cardiff Lodge, you can get there in a half-hour’s walk or a short jog. The gardens are free to the public at close at 5 pm daily—so this time of year, you can catch the sunset. It’s the perfect place to find a spot in the sun, or settle in the shade, and center yourself for the new year.

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.

On Sunday, December 8 from 11 am to 3:30 pm, head to Encinitas Community Park to support local artisans as you shop. The market is free to the public, so you can save your travel dollars for purchasing unique handmade gifts. From soap to furniture, there will be something for everyone. You can also expect live music and craft-making sessions. There’s nothing like meeting the artist who handcrafted your purchase, and having a story to tell when you give it as a gift.

If you’re visiting the rest of the month, San Diego County happens to be an ideal place to source sustainable holiday gifts and get a peek at incredible displays of holiday lights. Do a bit of exploring around the towns neighboring Cardiff, and you’re sure to find some treats.

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.

When it comes to retail, Encinitas is a shopper’s paradise. Head two miles north on the 101 to the aptly named Encinitas 101 shopping district. This strip of activity near the coast boasts more than 80 retail shops—from clothing and jewelry to vinyl, home furnishings, and specialty shops.

As the end of the month approaches, there are abundant opportunities to source those coveted holiday gifts. Small Business Saturday will take place on Saturday, November 30 from 11 am-3 pm, right here in Cardiff. Expect discounts, live music, surprise giveaways, and more at the North Courtyard of Cardiff Town Center. Get to know all of the artisans and purveyors that make our town special.

And if you’re lingering into December, don’t miss Cardiff’s most beloved holiday celebration: The Kringle Mingle. The very day after Small Business Saturday, return to Cardiff Town Center on December 1 for photos with Surfing Santa, live music, free Starbucks and sample açaí bites from Sambazon, and a happy hour fundraiser hosted by the Lost Abbey Confessional—bring your reusable mugs and bottles! The Kringle Mingle culminates with the tree lighting ceremony at 5 pm.

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”. Try unique brews from 23 taps that can be sampled in 4-ounce taster glasses, or dive in with a full pint or even a 64-ounce growler. The joint welcomes kids and pets—the latter only on the patio. Board games are available, and you can bring in outside food to enjoy.

Another beloved local spot is Cardiff Beach Bar across from lifeguard Tower 13. Think beach bar crossed with a sports bar, topped off with delicious fresh-made food. The only thing that tops the 27 beers on tap are the 30 TV screens, allowing you to watch your game of choice with a Pacific sunset as a backdrop. Starting October 16, test your skills at Bar Olympics and trivia every Wednesday from 7-9 pm.

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.

Just a few miles north, the Solana Beach farmer’s market is a North County favorite and runs every Sunday afternoon from 12 to 4 pm. This particular market is set apart by its offerings—some would even describe it as a unique curation of homemade delicacies and high-quality produce.

You can also head just a couple miles north to Coral Tree Farm in Encinitas for a selection of nature’s bounty. This spot has been family-owned and operated since 1958 and is dedicated to producing heirloom veggies and organically grown tropical fruits. These include avocados, cherimoyas, and guavas. You can also pick up some fresh eggs from their antibiotic-free, organically-fed chickens. The farm is open to the public from 10 am to 3pm on Saturdays, and you can make appointments to visit on Tuesdays.

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.

To really elevate your alfresco experience, opt for a chilled glass of white wine and homemade pasta at Cicciotti’s fine Italian restaurant. Catch the sky lighting up orange while you sip on your vino and eat your cioppino.

To get a little closer to that sunset, head to Pacific Coast Grill for sushi, mussels, and other fresh treats from the ocean. This airy, waterfront establishment has a chill atmosphere.

And if you simply want to bring that sunset even closer to you, stick around your ocean-view suite and order in. You can dine with a view and then slip smoothly into your jacuzzi tub at dusk.

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. But every beach vacation needs a spot of shade, so we have a few suggestions for chilling out with a healthy snack or even a craft cocktail near Cardiff by the Sea Lodge.

Can you get any more Californian than an acai bowl by the beach? This is the perfect snack to cool down midday, and we earnestly recommend Everbowl for their colorful, delicious bowls topped with fresh fruit, in addition to their other healthy offerings like kombucha and overnight oats.

If you’re fully ready to unwind, we recommend grabbing a drink at The Confessional by the Lost Abbey or Cardiff Beach Bar at Tower 13. Both offer views of the Pacific so you can catch the sunset over the ocean.

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.

Just 3 miles north of Cardiff Lodge, you’ll find the San Diego Botanic Garden in Encinitas. It contains an incredible variety of plants from around the world, including the nation’s largest bamboo collection. The 37-acres of grounds also boast an extensive network of well-marked hiking trails and benches so that you can alternate between strolling and sitting to gaze at the vistas. If you have kids in tow, don’t miss the annual Fairy Festival on June 22 from 10 am to 4 pm.

If you’re looking for an even more meditative experience in a verdant setting, check out the nearby Encinitas Ashram Center and Meditation Gardens established by Paramahansa Yogananda. Part of the Self Realization Fellowship’s Encinitas temple, these peaceful gardens have become a center of pilgrimage for thousands of people each year.

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. 

VG Donuts is a landmark of Cardiff by the Sea. This spot has a line going out the door almost every day, which is just a testament to how delectable the freshly baked donuts are. The line moves quickly, and you won’t want to miss out on artisanal donuts in unique flavors like blueberry, crème brûlée, and maple bacon.

Located just down the street from Cardiff by the Sea Lodge, Zumbar Coffee & Tea is another favorite among locals for their freshly baked pastries and expertly crafted drinks. Their roasting operation is located locally in San Diego, and the quality shows in everything from their frothy lattes to refreshing cold brews.

Beyond the Beaches

Just a mile away, our city boasts a wonderful wetland ecological reserve: the San Elijo Lagoon. The lagoon is one of San Diego’s most diverse coastal wetlands and forms part of a nearly 1,000-acre nature reserve that is home to more than 1,000 species of plants and animals, many rare and endangered. There are numerous trail options for taking in the scenery and local wildlife. You’ll also find a family-friendly Nature Center with an observation deck that provides expansive views of the lagoon.

If you want to get moving for an even more rewarding view, choose Annie’s Canyon Trail, one of the more rugged and well-loved wilderness hiking paths in this ecological reserve that leads to sweeping ocean and lagoon views.

Spring by the Sea

In spring, millions of Persian Buttercup blooms open up and share their beauty with the public. They appear like rainbow waves from afar or a neon vision from up close. The best time to witness their full bloom is from mid-March to mid-April, but the Carlsbad Flower Fields open on March 1st and remain open until May 12th.

These fields are a renowned destination and have showcased Mother Nature’s spectacle for 60 years. You’ll find this is a popular spot for Instagram tourism, as well as more traditional photo shoots of young families with their little ones.

Tickets can be purchased on site, and there is more to discover, including wagon rides and specialty gardens. With a cool coastal breeze and bright sun, a stroll among the buttercups is the perfect spring interlude.