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Guide to Encinitas

Spots with Nice Views and Parking

Made for those who want to enjoy a scenic vantage point without the frustration of a difficult arrival.

Based on 862 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Golden Palm Society image 1
Golden Palm Society image 2
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Salon combines comfortable luxury with light, bright and quaint design. Views from the location are incredible and add to the peaceful, chill vibe. Parking is easy and the space feels adorable and welcoming.

Ample parking spots make access simple. The lot stays open and easy to navigate.

Views here are consistently gorgeous and incredible. The salon offers a beautiful location that adds to the comfort of the environment.

People are saying

"I loved my haircut; it made me feel beautiful."

"I always got the perfect cut at this hair salon."

"The parking here is easy to access."

Good to know

1

The new location is easy to access.

2

There is ample parking available.

3

Parking is easy and convenient.

02
Moonlight Overlook image 1

Cozy beach with beautiful sunset views and peaceful atmosphere offers free parking and tables and chairs for relaxation. It attracts drone operators and stays uncrowded, making it ideal for a meditative beach day.

Plenty of free parking spots sit near the beach and Moonlight Overlook, with some offering great views of sunsets. Spaces above the playground and near the handicapped spot provide easy access.

Beautiful sunsets and peaceful views stand out here. Free parking at the beach offers great vantage points any time of day.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great view any time of day."

"The sunset here is beautiful and blissful."

"I found plenty of free parking available."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of free parking available at Moonlight Overlook.

2

Parking at the end of the cul-de-sac offers great views.

3

The upper portion has a designated handicapped parking space.

03
Moonlight Beach Motel image 1

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.

Complimentary designated parking spot comes with the stay, easing parking worries. The small north lot can be tight for bigger vehicles, so parking on the east side is better. Street parking is often difficult or impossible.

Rooms offer ocean views that guests can enjoy from their balconies. Freshly brewed coffee pairs well with the unbelievable view of the ocean.

People are saying

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

"I loved the great ocean views from my room."

"Parking available here is so convenient and included at no extra charge."

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.

04
D Street Viewpoint image 1

Park offers stunning sunset views and easy beach access via stairs and a ramp. The atmosphere stays peaceful and uncrowded, with plenty of benches for sitting and watching surfers or waves. Nearby streets provide free but limited parking, making it a quiet spot close to local activity.

Parking offers easy street spots along adjacent streets with some free options nearby. Weekday availability tends to be great, though some spots can be challenging to find.

Stunning sunset views and great ocean vistas define the spot. Benches at the top offer a place to sit and enjoy the beautiful coastline.

People are saying

"I found the beach beautiful and picturesque."

"I enjoyed the nice sunset view here."

"I found parking available close by along adjacent streets."

Good to know

1

There are no restrooms at D Street Viewpoint.

2

Weekend parking can be difficult; consider arriving early.

3

During the week, parking is generally easier at D Street Viewpoint.

05
Cardiff State Beach image 1

Sandy shoreline stretches with unobstructed water views and consistent waves that attract many surfers. The atmosphere balances calm beauty with a sense of energy and freedom, welcoming families, dogs on leashes, and pedestrians alike. Nearby lights and train noise add an urban edge to the natural setting.

Plenty of parking spots stay open even on weekends. Spaces sit close to the beach, making access easy and quick.

Miles of unobstructed water views stretch along the beach with plenty of sand. The spot offers great scenery and clear views for watching the sunset.

People are saying

"This beach has beautiful sand and amazing waves for surfing."

"There's plenty of paid parking available right near the sand."

"The beach has miles of sand and a beautiful, unobstructed view."

Good to know

1

Parking slots at Cardiff State Beach are paid, with limited free street parking available.

2

Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash; restrictions apply north of the visitor center.

3

The beach is clean, well-maintained, and welcoming for visitors.

06
Grandview Surf Beach image 1

Rocky shoreline with limited sand offers beautiful ocean views and great surfing waves. Large free parking lot and stairs access make it easy to reach despite the terrain. Dogs are not allowed, keeping the area clean and family-friendly.

A huge free parking lot sits near the beach, offering plenty of spots most times. Free street parking also exists, but finding a spot gets tough when the surf is good.

Ocean views stretch endlessly with surfers visible in the distance. The scene offers a beautiful and scenic backdrop that feels vast and calming.

People are saying

"I found the beach to be beautiful and clean."

"It's a fun surf spot with great waves and lots of breaks."

"I found the ocean view to be beautiful and scenic."

Good to know

1

Dogs are not allowed on the beach.

2

Parking can be difficult to find when the surf is good.

3

There is plenty of free parking available at the beach.

07
Swami's Beach image 1
Public beach

Cliffs topped with greenery overlook a rocky beach with tide pools and surfing waves. The atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful, with sunset views and benches for relaxing. Limited parking and steep stairs lead down to the shore, making it a hidden gem for walking and beachcombing.

Parking includes a lot with clean facilities like restrooms, showers, and picnic benches. The area offers a great sunset view and maintains a pleasant vibe throughout.

Cliffside views offer breathtaking ocean scenes and distant city sights. Benches near the parking area provide spots to relax and enjoy sunset views over the beach.

People are saying

"You can see tide pools full of sea creatures at this beach."

"The ocean views from the bluff are amazing and gorgeous."

"You'll find plenty of street parking available nearby."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so arrive early or consider alternative options.

2

Access to the beach is only possible via stairs, which may be challenging.

3

The parking lot is free but tends to fill up quickly.

08
Stonesteps image 1
Public beach

Huge beach with soft sand and great surf offers a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful ocean views. Stairs provide access but can be slippery and deter crowds, keeping the beach quiet. Families enjoy calm waves and a small spillway suitable for children.

Free street parking exists nearby, including some spots at the top of the stairs. Parking can be limited and difficult when the area is busy, sometimes requiring a walk from a residential area farther away.

Breathtaking ocean views greet visitors at the top of the stairs. The beach offers a peaceful setting with good views of surfers, making it a nice spot to bring dogs and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

People are saying

"I found the beach peaceful and beautiful with great views."

"The ocean view from the stairs is breathtaking."

"There's free street parking available nearby."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult when the area is busy.

2

There are almost 100 steps to reach the beach.

3

Dogs are not allowed on the beach.

09
Leucadia State Beach (Beacon's) image 1

Cliffs lead down to a small, secluded beach with soft sand and tide pools to explore. The area stays uncrowded due to switchback access and offers scenic ocean views popular with surfers. Parking is easy, but the beach is not accessible for elderly or handicapped people.

Parking sits above the beach, creating a secluded vibe below. The lot offers free parking with some upgraded seating and plants, but spaces are limited and street parking is scarce.

Stunning ocean view stretches across the beach with clear sights of the Pacific Ocean and surfers riding waves. The vista offers a beautiful beachscape that feels open and refreshing.

People are saying

"I found the parking slots available and easy to access."

"I watched a beautiful sunset here; it's the best around."

"I loved the nice view of the ocean and easy parking."

Good to know

1

The beach access is currently closed due to unsafe conditions.

2

Bring shoes for the rocky areas at the bottom of the steps.

3

There are no bathroom facilities available at the beach.

10
The Shanty image 1

Ocean-view patio with fire pits and picnic tables creates a vibrant, relaxed vibe. Indoor space features pool tables and a full wrap-around bar, evoking a classic dive bar feel. Atmosphere blends southern California beach town energy with a laid-back, local hangout scene.

Street parking is usually easy to find. Even when busy, spots close by are available.

Outdoor seating expands into an ocean-view parking lot. The balcony offers a fantastic view with a relaxing vibe. Partial ocean views create a happy atmosphere for drinks.

People are saying

"I loved the outdoor seating with fire pits and picnic tables."

"I enjoyed the ocean views and the happy atmosphere."

"Parking available, and it's usually not difficult to find."

Good to know

1

Dogs are welcome here, making it a fun spot for pet owners.

2

Street parking is usually available and not difficult to find.

3

They have a bomb sushi event once or twice a month.

11
Cardiff by the Sea Lodge image 1

Ocean views dominate the setting with a spacious rooftop deck offering stunning sunsets and a peaceful vibe. Rooms blend cozy beach-style decor with thoughtful amenities like vinyl records and complimentary beverages. The atmosphere stays quiet and relaxing, ideal for romantic or restful stays.

A parking garage charges $20 and offers a stress-free option compared to tough street parking. The fee is reasonable for the convenience near the beach.

Outstanding views come from the rooftop patio and the Ocean View suite. The room, view, and location all feel absolutely lovely with a comfortable memory foam bed enhancing the stay.

People are saying

"The hotel staff are so friendly and accommodating."

"The rooftop deck has an amazing ocean view."

"Parking available in the garage was worth the $20 charge."

Good to know

1

The Shanty Bar is open until 2am.

2

They host Mat Pilates classes and events.

3

You have to pay to park at the hotel.

12
H Street Viewpoint image 1

Small park offers beautiful ocean views with a U-shaped bench and a few picnic tables for seating. The atmosphere is serene and fresh, making it suitable for relaxation and meditation. Located in a residential area, it has limited street parking and remains quiet during off-peak times.

Street parking varies from plentiful to limited depending on the day and time. The viewpoint sits in a residential area, which can make parking challenging at times.

Ocean views stand out with gorgeous blooms nearby. Seating at the viewpoint lets you enjoy the beautiful all-around scenery comfortably.

People are saying

"The ocean views from this spot are beautiful."

"The ocean views from here are beautiful, especially with flowers."

"Street parking was available, but sometimes it was limited."

Good to know

1

Street parking is available, but can be difficult depending on the day and time.

2

The space and parking at H Street Viewpoint are limited.

3

The benches at H Street Viewpoint are clean and well-maintained.

13
Las Olas image 1
Mexican restaurant

Open-air Mexican restaurant offers beachfront views and casual patio seating with an open salsa bar. Atmosphere ranges from lively and loud to relaxed depending on seating and time. Popular for margarita flights and standout dishes like carne asada nachos and fish tacos.

A large free parking lot makes it easy to find a spot. Plenty of parking exists even when nearby areas charge high fees.

Outdoor seating offers beautiful ocean views and a casual ambiance with sunset views near the beach.

People are saying

"The nachos here are crispy, generously loaded, and packed with flavor."

"I loved the potato tacos; they were so yummy."

"I loved the beautiful ocean views from the outdoor seating."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with great drink specials.

2

Table service is now available during happy hour.

3

Parking can be challenging on weekends due to beachgoers.

14
Haven Farm + Table image 1

Large, thoughtfully designed space blends farm-to-table concept with natural light and outdoor lounging spots. Atmosphere mixes lively music with scenic views and a cool, San Diego farm-style vibe. Full bar features on-site brewed beer and cozy fireplaces, creating a unique dining experience.

Parking availability varies with some visits offering easy spots while others face difficulty, especially around early evening. An overflow lot exists but may require advance planning to access.

Outdoor seating offers lovely views with a pleasant breeze. The building itself provides a unique atmosphere and gorgeous scenery.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic, clean, and fresh."

"I loved the gorgeous, unique views from the spectacular building."

"I enjoyed the easy parking available."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as walk-in tables are not common.

2

Parking can be challenging around 5:15 PM; consider arriving earlier.

3

The restaurant offers a farm-to-table menu, but options may be limited.

15
Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas image 1

Floor-to-ceiling windows offer unobstructed ocean views and create a quiet, luxurious atmosphere ideal for relaxation. Heated pool, jacuzzi, and fire pit patio enhance the serene setting while complimentary e-bikes add convenience. The vibe balances romantic elegance with a welcoming, peaceful energy.

Valet parking offers effortless convenience with professional attendants handling vehicles. The entire process feels smooth and welcoming from arrival to check-in.

Floor to ceiling windows offer stunning ocean views from the rooms. Private patios with fire pits provide a magical setting to enjoy the beach scenery.

People are saying

"The staff made our babymoon so special with thoughtful touches."

"The ocean views from the pool and rooftop bar are stunning."

"Valet parking is available and makes everything feel effortless."

Good to know

1

Valet parking costs $60 a day; no self-parking is available.

2

The hotel has a strict 2-person-per-room policy, requiring additional bookings for more guests.

3

Complimentary cocktails are served at Pocket from 7:15 pm to 8:15 pm.

16
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.

Free indoor parking offers quick and easy access. The parking is fast, accessible, and comes at no cost.

Rooms offer partial ocean views and balconies that showcase beautiful sunsets. The hotel sits on a hill with incredible night views and lush grounds that feel like a tropical island without humidity.

People are saying

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

"This hotel's location is great for the beach and shops."

"The parking available here is free and plentiful."

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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