By the Sea Blog

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. While you’ve probably noticed a change on the outside, the magic happening inside is what matters most. We’re looking forward to welcoming you back to a refreshed Cardiff-by-the-Sea Lodge this spring!

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. 

On October 16th, experience hoots and howls at the Nature Collective’s nature-themed Halloween Family Day and discover that creepy crawly creatures are not-so-scary after all! You’ll get to oooh and aaah at live animal encounters with bats, reptiles and raptors, participate in interactive nature activities and environmentally friendly craft-making, jump to your heart’s content in a bounce house, and strut your stuff at a costume contest. The contest starts at noon with prizes available for Most Eco-friendly, Best Animal Theme, and Most Creative costumes.

The Not So Scary Eco Festival takes a zero-waste approach to maximize recycling, minimize waste, and reduce consumption. So bring your own reusable cup! Coffee, lemonade, water, and Jimbo’s fresh organic fruit will be available for purchase.

All the fun takes place from 10 am to 1 pm at San Dieguito County Park, just down the coast from Cardiff by the Sea. Book your stay with us today to enjoy this not-so-scary celebration of nature.

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.

Decide your level of trail difficulty (family-friendly to advanced) with up to 8 miles of hiking, and note all the rare sightings of Pinus torreyana, as they can only be found in Torrey Pines and on Santa Rosa Island. This reserve is also popular for maintaining one of the last great salt marshes and waterfowl refuges in the Southern California region. Wildlife sightings are guaranteed, and it is highly encouraged to avoid interaction, so continue on with the trails! Golf lovers also have the opportunity to participate in a game or two on the Torrey Pines Golf Course, tucked away in the cliffs. More information on the trails can be found online, and prepare for a $10-25 per-vehicle entrance fee.

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!

Unlike other community festivals, The Cardiff Greek Festival runs late into the night, with Saturday hours from 1 pm-1 am, and on Sunday from 2 pm-12:30 am. Enjoy a delicious greek salad for lunch and stay the day to dig into a hearty gyro for dinner; some baklava for dessert is a must if you have a sweet tooth. Parking for the event is free, and admission for both days is $3 per person. While you may be busy enjoying your meals, don't forget to make it over to the Taverna stage for performances! The Olympians mix modern and traditional Greek music to create an upbeat atmosphere, and the festival’s award-winning Greek Dance Performers put on shows at 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm, and 7:00 pm. Feel free to take one of the tours throughout the church, admiring the mosaics, while the kids play for a chance to win prizes at the Game Zoner area.

As the festival gets closer, communities near and far are anxious to celebrate! Book your stay now!

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. 

Free is always fun, and this event welcomes all ages! Take your time going from one dog-related vendor to the next. Get to know local rescue groups and their fluffy friends, and any pups in attendance can enjoy the agility course. Stick around for contests, live music, food trucks, and a libation lounge. From 11 am to 3 pm, if you’re looking to change your life and bring home a forever friend, head to Rescue Row. All adoption proceeds will benefit the Rancho Coastal Humane Society, and the City of Encinitas’ “Pet Health Expo” will be providing micro-chipping, courtesy of the San Diego Humane Society. A schedule of events for the day can be found online now.

Cardiff by the Sea Lodge proudly welcomes your pet to vacation alongside you, but make sure to check out our pet policy before your beloved joins the fun.

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.

Start the day with a quick walk across the street to Zumbar Coffee & Tea for an electric caffeine boost in the form of quality handcrafted lattes. If you’re more interested in knocking out breakfast while taking in your first sip of coffee, head to Pipes Cafe, where you can take advantage of the espresso bar and dive into a filling breakfast burrito or fluffy pancakes surrounded by beach-themed bliss. You can also check out Bump Coffee, then head across the street to pair your brew with a gourmet donut from VG Donut & Bakery.

After spending your morning soaking up the sun at Cardiff State Beach, head over to Pacific Coast Grill for fresh and filling sushi. Craving that tex-mex fusion? Las Olas is waiting with flavorful fish tacos and roasted chile rellenos!

When it comes time for dinner, Cardiff is fond of Italian cuisine, with high-end options to pick from. Cicciotti’s Trattoria Italiana & Seafood is under half a mile away, popular for their mouth watering thin crust pizza, live music, and beautiful waterfront views. You can take a mini drive into Encinitas, where Vigilucci’s Trattoria Italiana is tucked in the heart of downtown, buzzing with Northern Italian authenticity. If it’s the designated vacation date night, put on your best outfit and head to Chart House for a quality steak dish.

If you’re looking to cook a meal in the comfort of your lodge, ordering groceries from the nearby Cardiff Seaside Market is a great way to eat locally. Popular for its delicious Tri-tip cuts, the Seaside Market offers fresh catch options, weekly specials, and organic produce.

Food options feel endless in Cardiff; make the most of your trip and plan your meals accordingly!

Welcoming Summer by the Sea

Luckily just a short walk from our beachside oasis, you have the option of seaside bliss on both sides; San Elijo State Beach is tucked away just under the cliffs, perfect for a romantic picnic and Cardiff State Beach’s crystal clear shore makes for the best photo backdrop. If you’re looking to stay dry, from now until the end of May, Belmont Park is in bloom! The first ever Belmont in Bloom will be hosting an array of community events featuring local artists and vendors. Take a tour through nearby restaurants indulging in the tasty treats and floral inspired cocktails. Visiting after May? Belmont Park is open daily featuring many carnival rides and attractions, like the iconic Giant Dipper Roller Coaster. If you want a full day of fun, explore the historic and buzzing Balboa Park. There, you can take photos at the Arts Building, grab a souvenir from the Spanish Village Art Center, and then finish at the San Diego Zoo. The San Diego Zoo is a must-see, as it’s one of the largest and oldest zoological parks in the world, just about a half an hour away from Cardiff; you’re going to want several hours there. Not only is this a zoo, but it’s also part of the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, a nonprofit conservation committed to saving species worldwide.

Home to Naval, Marine, and Coast Guard bases, veterans run deep in the heart of San Diego. Before relaxing and honoring our fallen ones on May 30th, preface Memorial Day with a long weekend of celebrating our heroes. Kick off the fun with Stampede Rodeo & Memorial Festival, May 27–28. Since the 1950’s, this true western heritage experience celebrates patriotism, and showcases the best of the best local rodeo riders. Continue the weekend outdoors enjoying delicious food and fun on May 29th at the Vista Strawberry Festival, Once known as the “Strawberry Capital of the World,” Vista, California is about 30 minutes away and home to many strawberry fields.

No matter how you choose to spend your time out on the West Coast, Cardiff by the Sea Lodge is waiting.

A Taste of Cardiff-By-The-Sea

Mark your calendars; Presented by Cardiff 101 Main Street, The 12th Annual Taste of Cardiff returns on May 5th to the Cardiff Town Center in the heart of downtown. What better way to connect with the locals than to taste and sip what they get to enjoy year-round! From 5:30- 8:30 pm, make your stops throughout Restaurant Row, tasting mouth-watering local cuisine and pairing everything at Sip Stops ready to pour craft beers, wines, or kombucha! While enjoying the live music, cast your vote for the next restaurant that gets to take home the 2022 Morgan Mallory Golden Fork Award.

Get your tickets now!

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.

First, beat the afternoon heat by catching up on some summer reading indoors or in the courtyard garden. Grab your favorite paperback novel, audiobook, or trade magazine, and get immersed in the story.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, indulge in some of San Diego’s finest food without ever leaving your room. Fresh, local fare is just a phone call away. Pacific Coast Grill, Union Kitchen & Tap, and Cicciotti's Trattoria are just a few of our faves.

After dinner (and maybe even dessert!), it’s time to get ready for bed. Climb into your PJs, hop into bed, and find your favorite movie channel on TV. Drifting off into a sound night’s sleep is just moments away.

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.