Salty Logo

WHAT'S NEW?

Subscribe to get our latest features, gear, and content delivered right to your inbox.

By subscribing, you accept our Privacy Policy

Follow us!

Salty

WHAT'S NEW?

Subscribe to get our latest features, gear, and content delivered right to your inbox.

By subscribing, you accept our Privacy Policy

Follow us!

Cardiff State Beach beach in Encinitas, California - Real-time ocean conditions and beach information on Salty

Cardiff State Beach

Google Maps760-753-5091
Local Time: Loading...
VIEW PRODUCTS
Cardiff State Beach, located in the charming coastal town of Encinitas, California, is a must-visit destination for beach lovers. What makes this beach unique is its picturesque setting, with rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and a tranquil lagoon that's perfect for swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding. The beach is also surrounded by beautiful coastal trails, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding landscape. With its warm sand and gentle waves, Cardiff State Beach is an ideal spot for families, surfers, and sun-seekers alike.

Visitors to Cardiff State Beach can enjoy a range of activities, including surfing, swimming, beach volleyball, and tide pooling. The beach also offers amenities such as picnic tables, restrooms, and showers, making it an ideal spot for a day trip or a longer vacation. The nearby town of Encinitas offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and cafes, providing plenty of options for dining and entertainment. During the summer months, the beach can get crowded, but the mild winter weather makes it an excellent spot for off-season visits. If you're looking for a more secluded experience, consider visiting during the week or early in the morning.

The best time to visit Cardiff State Beach is from September to November or from March to May, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the crowds are smaller. During the winter months, the beach can be prone to strong currents and rip tides, so it's essential to check the surf forecast and follow safety guidelines. Additionally, be aware of the beach's protected areas, including the San Elijo Lagoon, which is a sensitive habitat for local wildlife. With its stunning natural beauty, range of activities, and amenities, Cardiff State Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of California's coastline.

Quick Answers

Tap or hover over a card to see the answer

What is Cardiff State Beach most known for?

Cardiff State Beach is most known for excellent surfing conditions, and great fishing opportunities.

Is Cardiff State Beach kid-friendly?

Yes! Cardiff State Beach is great for families with lifeguards on duty.

Is Cardiff State Beach good for surfing?

Cardiff State Beach is a surf spot, but waves are small today at 1.8ft.

What is the best time of year to visit Cardiff State Beach?

Late spring through early fall (May-September) offers the warmest weather and water temperatures. Summer can be crowded. Fall provides pleasant conditions with fewer visitors.

How are the crowds at Cardiff State Beach?

Cardiff State Beach is a well-equipped beach with parking, restrooms, and lifeguards, which can attract more visitors especially on weekends and holidays. Arrive early for best parking and space.

Is today a good day to swim at Cardiff State Beach?

Swimming is possible with proper precautions. Current conditions: moderate water temperature (64°F, wetsuit recommended), calm waves ideal for swimming, lifeguards on duty.

Real-Time Beach Data

Salty delivers real-time intelligence across land amenities, air quality and weather, ocean conditions, and sun exposure.

🏖 LAND

Facilities & Restrooms

Restrooms: Yes
Showers: Yes

Parking & Access

Parking: Yes

Safety & Services

Lifeguard: Yes

Recreation & Sports

Surfing: Yes
Picnic tables: Yes
Fishing: Yes

Policies & Access

Wheelchair: Accessible

💨 AIR

Air temp: 58°F
Wind: 6 mph
Air pressure: 1013 hPa
Feels like: 57°F
Wind direction: W
PM 2.5: 34 µg/m³
Humidity: 89%
AQI: 70
PM 10: 34 µg/m³
Rainfall: 0 mm
Visibility: 8 mi
Dew point: 54°F
Conditions: Partly cloudy

💧 SEA

Water temp: 64°F
Wave height: 1.8 ft
Swell direction: W
Wave period: 9 sec
Current velocity: 0.4 mph
Swell wave direction: W

☀️ SUN

UV index: 3.15
Sunrise: 6:49 AM
Cloud cover: 100%
Sunset: 4:47 PM
Total daylight hours: 10 hrs

Nearby Beaches

Beach placeholder

Tide Beach Park

Solana Beach

La Jolla Shores Beach Park

La Jolla Shores Beach Park

San Diego

La Jolla Cove

La Jolla Cove

San Diego

La Jolla Hermosa Park

La Jolla Hermosa Park

San Diego

Beach placeholder

Vacation Isle

San Diego

Ocean Beach City Beaches

Ocean Beach City Beaches

San Diego

Beach placeholder

Walkway to Beach (La Jolla)

San Diego

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

San Diego

Beach placeholder

Cabrillo National Monument Ocean Access

San Diego

Beach placeholder

Border Field State Park

Imperial Beach

Crown Point Shores

Crown Point Shores

San Diego

South Oceanside Beach

South Oceanside Beach

Oceanside

Salty

STAY IN THE LOOP

By subscribing, you consent to our Privacy Policy and receive updates.

ABOUT SALTY

Salty is your definitive source for real-time ocean conditions, beach information, and marine safety data worldwide. Access comprehensive beach intelligence including weather forecasts, water temperatures, wave conditions, and surf reports. Discover ocean education resources, conservation events, and beachside promotions all in one place. Whether you're planning a beach day, tracking marine conditions, or exploring coastal destinations, Salty provides trusted, up-to-date ocean and beach data for every shore around the globe.

© 2025 Salty. All rights reserved.

Visit California