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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Encinitas

Kid-friendly with outdoor space

Made for those who need their children to have room to move while they enjoy a meal.

Based on 764 Opinions
+761
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Updated May 2026
01
Moonlight Beach Motel image 1
Moonlight Beach Motel image 2
Moonlight Beach Motel image 3
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Older motel with spacious rooms and balconies offering ocean views sits just steps from the beach. It maintains a quiet, safe atmosphere with easy access to nearby shops and dining. Guests can borrow beach equipment like chairs, umbrellas, and boogie boards for convenience.

Families with kids find the location great due to its proximity to the beach and a nearby playground. Space feels comfortable for a family of five with two kids, avoiding any sense of being cramped.

A small patio with a grill overlooks the best part of the beach. The room offers a lovely view of Moonlight Beach from both inside and the patio.

People are saying

"It's a short walk to the beach and downtown."

"It's so Kid Friendly, you can walk to the beach in under two blocks."

"It's a short walk to the beach and town from this peaceful outdoor space."

Good to know

1

The motel is just a short walk from Moonlight Beach.

2

Parking is included at no extra charge for guests.

3

Rooms feature kitchenettes with essential appliances for convenience.

02
Necessity Coffee image 1

Cafe blends seamlessly with an adjacent pottery studio, creating a unique community connection and authentic vibe. Space offers quiet, tucked-away seating with both indoor tables and shaded outdoor picnic areas. Atmosphere feels unpretentious and neighborhood-friendly, welcoming dogs and children to play.

Outdoor seating offers a kid friendly space with room to move. The spot welcomes both kids and dogs, making it easy to bring the whole family.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was superb and flavorful."

"I loved their unique coffee and tea drinks."

"It's really kid friendly here."

Good to know

1

They do not accept cash payments.

2

The parking space is very limited.

3

There are only a few indoor seatings available.

03
Atelier Manna image 1

Outdoor seating surrounds a small, design-forward space with wood burning fire pit and custom-built tables. Atmosphere feels calm and intentionally curated, blending farm-to-table freshness with a beach vacation vibe. Shared tables and an open kitchen create a transparent, welcoming environment.

A kid menu offers a simple classic French omelet with toast and a fruit cup featuring star-shaped apples. The plate arrives quickly and kids consistently enjoy and finish it.

A beautiful patio offers a sunny spot with a long table perfect for groups to sit together outdoors.

People are saying

"The Turkish eggs here are unbelievable and so flavorful."

"The outdoor space is covered and feels nice."

"The kid friendly omelet was a simple, satisfying classic."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation ahead of time is recommended to ensure seating.

2

Getting in the waitlist early is advised due to high demand.

3

Parking is available on the street and across the street.

04
Encinitas Library image 1
Public library

Building showcases stunning ocean views and modern art installations that create a bright, peaceful atmosphere. Quiet spaces and comfortable reading nooks invite focused work or relaxation, while children's areas offer engaging activities and toys. Outdoor patios provide a calm spot to enjoy the scenery and fresh air.

Many kids toys and a variety of books keep children engaged. Activities like monthly scavenger hunts and classes in yoga, painting, and crafts offer fun options for all ages.

Back patios offer ocean views and partial shade with palm trees nearby. Outdoor spaces provide a relaxing spot to read or work with a beautiful view.

People are saying

"The library has a fantastic ocean view."

"The outdoor space has an incredible ocean view."

"The views here are beautiful and incredible."

Good to know

1

The library offers free wifi for all visitors.

2

There is plenty of parking available out front, making it convenient.

3

The library hosts a fun scavenger hunt every month for kids.

05
Puntamar image 1
Mexican restaurant

Indoor-outdoor space with vibrant decor creates a fun, beachy atmosphere that feels like a little Mexico paradise. Live DJ and mariachi performances add to the lively energy, while a separate patio offers a quieter option. The setting suits family-friendly celebrations and special events.

A kids menu offers choices like tacos with toasted cheese toppers, and a churro cart with sparklers adds fun to dessert. Kids enjoy their meals and often discover new favorites like tuna and kampachi.

Outdoor space feels like a little Mexico paradise with a cute setup. Heaters keep the ambiance comfortable and inviting.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican seafood food here to be authentic and top-notch."

"The food here is delicious and has great flavor."

"The outdoor space feels like a charming, authentic little paradise."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for special events.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of menu options, including prefixed menus and ร  la carte.

06
Cocina De Barrio image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious Mexican restaurant with padded seating and a huge bar offers a family-friendly atmosphere with good music at a comfortable volume. Outdoor patio provides dog-friendly seating and a relaxed vibe. The space combines impeccable decor with a casual, inviting energy.

Kids get huge chocolate chip pancakes and a churro pancake option. Staff show patience with children during service.

Outdoor space features a dog friendly patio with comfortable seating that lets guests enjoy the weather. Both indoor and patio options create a balanced atmosphere.

People are saying

"The Oaxacan Mexican food here is authentic and tasty."

"The French toast and pancakes are great, with a huge churro pancake for kids."

"The patio seating is comfortable and dog-friendly."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 5 pm with great deals on food and drinks.

2

The happy hour food menu includes items priced around $10 to $12.

3

There are plenty of vegan options available on the menu.

07
City Tacos image 1
Taco restaurant

Small taco shop offers outdoor seating with gas fireplaces and a dog-friendly patio. Atmosphere stays laid back and fun, featuring a DJ and fire pits that create a lively yet relaxed vibe. Salsa bar adds a fresh, generous touch to the experience.

A good kids menu offers options like quesadillas, taquitos, and bean quesatacos that kids enjoy. Staff are friendly with children, creating a welcoming and fun atmosphere for families.

Outdoor seating includes a dog friendly patio along PCH with a laid-back, coastal atmosphere. The space features a lounge area with a fire pit, foosball table, and hosts events with a DJ, creating a fun vibe.

People are saying

"The Mexicali taco here is amazing and super fresh."

"You can bring your dog to the outdoor space here."

"It's really Kid Friendly with a great kids menu."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday at City Tacos includes $2.50 Mexican beer and 10% off food.

2

City Tacos offers vegan options alongside a variety of tacos.

3

Parking is convenient and generally available near City Tacos.

08
Breakers image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Indoor/outdoor space blends tropical decor with historic booths from a local staple, creating a beachy-surf vibe. Live ukulele music and a Hawaiian backyard atmosphere add to the relaxed, festive energy. Dog-friendly outdoor seating and multiple TVs support a casual, community feel.

Wide open grass yard offers plenty of space for kids to run and play. The casual surf/Hawaii vibe creates a relaxed atmosphere that kids enjoy. Friendly staff greet families warmly, adding to the welcoming feel.

An outdoor space with a Hawaiian backyard vibe offers ample seating and a grassy area where kids run freely. Adults enjoy a lanai and an indoor/outdoor bar with ukulele music on weekends.

People are saying

"The food here is incredible, with flavors that hit the mark."

"The food here is incredible, especially the teriyaki chicken."

"The outdoor space feels like a slice of Hawaii."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with deals like 3 pork sliders for $8.

2

The Saturday brunch offers a fun atmosphere and unique menu items.

3

Breakers is dog friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

09
Agave Birrieria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican takeout spot with no dine-in option and fresh ingredients. Atmosphere is casual with good music volume and formerly had nice outdoor bench seating. Known for excellent birria tacos and flavorful dishes.

Kids enjoy the food, especially the burrito tacos and hash browns made just for them. Staff sometimes customize orders and even send kids to fetch sauces, though the sauce portions can be small.

Outdoor seating features nice bench seating that stands out among taco shops. The area includes a small turf space in the parking lot, but takeout is common to avoid eating in the car or outside.

People are saying

"You have to try their Birria; it's some of the best Mexican food I've had."

"The food here is delicious and my kids loved it."

"The outdoor space has really nice bench seating."

Good to know

1

Agave Birrieria is now just a takeout restaurant.

2

Parking is difficult due to the nearby gas station.

3

The burrito costs $7 for half and is filling.

10
The Encinitan Hotel & Suites image 1

Older hotel with ocean and city views offers spacious suites with kitchenettes and a laid-back atmosphere. Amenities include a pool, jacuzzi, and free breakfast with a variety of options. Lobby design is unconventional, blending into the parking garage area.

Large heated pool sits close to rooms for easy access with kids. Staff offer thoughtful touches like extra blankets. Kids enjoy free breakfast and a short walk to the beach.

A balcony and patio doors open to bring in fresh air. Outdoor dining happens by the pool, and an outside venue is planned for weddings and conferences once finished.

People are saying

"The ocean and city views from up high are incredible."

"The outdoor space offers spectacular city or beach views."

"The large heated pool is great for families and totally kid friendly."

Good to know

1

The hotel charges an extra $15 per day for internet access.

2

The hotel is close to the beach and several restaurants.

3

Expect the hotel to be in a poor state of cleanliness and maintenance.

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Encinitas, California

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