Highlights
Families, surfers, kayakers, and body-boarders
congregate at Cardiff on summer weekends. Cardiff
lies north and west of the San Elijo Lagoon (a
naturally occurring inland waterway fed by the
ocean) and consists of Cardiff State Beach to
the south and San Elijo State Beach to the north.
Those looking for a low-key beach for swimming,
surfing, and sunbathing will enjoy Cardiff’s
casual attitude. This beach community is primarily
residential and offers great views of the Pacific
Surfliner train, which parallels the beach. The
San Elijo Lagoon is an ecological reserve administered
by the San Diego County Parks. It is an excellent
spot for bird watching and catching a glimpse
of natural coastal habitat in Southern California
before the advent of 20th century development.
Curious children and adults will want to explore
the tide pools at the south end of Cardiff State
Beach.
Logistics
Lifeguards, showers, and restrooms are available
at both state beaches. San Elijo State Beach offers
overnight camping. Paid parking is available inside
San Elijo State Park. However, ample free parking
can be found outside the park along the highway.
Getting There
To get to Cardiff, take I-5 north from San Diego
and exit at Manchester Avenue. Take Manchester
west; it will turn into San Elijo Avenue. From
San Elijo Ave. turn left on Chesterfield Dr. which
will take you to Highway 101 (Coast Highway).
Insider Tips
The south end of Cardiff State Beach ("Seaside"
parking lot) is a favorite surf break periodically
hosting surfing events and contests. For an interesting
twist to your vacation, visit the beautiful gardens
at the Self Realization Fellowship Retreat located
near "Swami's" parking lot north of
San Elijo State Beach (look for the gold domed
roof). The retreat, built by followers of Paramahansa
Yogananda in 1937, opens its gardens to the public
Tuesday through Sunday during daytime hours.
Seaside Market, located on San Elijo Ave. just
north of Chesterfield Dr, offers a wide assortment
of ready to go, healthy snacks and food items
including a full service deli. Seaside Market
is a great place to stop before spending the day
at the beach.So just book your stay at Econo Lodge
Cardiff-by-the-Sea
Hotel just 2.0m/3.2km S from Cardiff State
Beach.
