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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Cardiff

Nice views

A clear view of the water is the only thing that will settle the nerves.

Based on 481 Opinions
+478
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Updated April 2026
01
Swami's Beach image 1
Swami's Beach image 2
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Public beach

Cliffs with breathtaking ocean views rise above a rocky beach perfect for beachcombing and spotting tide pools. Quiet paths and sunset benches create a peaceful spot for relaxing. Limited parking and steep stairs keep it a hidden gem for walkers.

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."

"I loved the beautiful, romantic sunsets here."

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

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.

02
Rose Hill Purveyors image 1

Cafe shines with grand ocean views and a gentle breeze that refreshes outdoor seating. Friendly staff create a welcoming atmosphere that feels like a true neighborhood spot. Strong community vibes make it perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Outdoor seating offers a grand view of the ocean and the Pacific. The spot provides a beautiful ocean view that makes it easy to sit and hang out while enjoying the weather.

People are saying

"I had the best coffee Iโ€™ve ever had."

"I thought the spot was really cool and appreciated the same beans."

"The coffee here is delicious and bold."

Good to know

1

Parking is tricky; consider using the Glen Park parking lot, a four-minute walk away.

2

The cappuccino costs $4.50, which is below the country average.

3

They have gluten and vegan bakery options available.

03
San Elijo State Beach Campground image 1

Campground offers spectacular oceanfront views and easy beach access. Campsites are tight and surrounded by trees, creating a relaxed, nostalgic vibe despite nearby train and highway noise. Lively groups gather at night, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

Spectacular oceanfront views and a beautiful sunset over the beach and bluff define the scene. The campground sits right on the beach side, offering great views of the Pacific that make the stay worthwhile.

People are saying

"I loved camping at this cozy beach campground."

"The bathrooms here are really clean."

"The beach view from the site was the best in the world."

Good to know

1

Quiet time starts at 10:00 PM to maintain a peaceful environment.

2

The restrooms and showers are very clean and well maintained.

3

Showers require tokens; $1 provides two tokens for 2.5 minutes of shower time.

04
Shoreline Skin Clinic image 1

Office space boasts a beautiful ocean view that creates a comfortable, inviting atmosphere. Expertise in natural cosmetic enhancements ensures subtle, effective results. The setting feels cute and cozy, perfect for a relaxed, professional experience.

Office space offers a beautiful view of the ocean. It stands out with the best view in town.

People are saying

"Anna made the whole experience so comfortable and worry-free."

"Anna's artistic skill and confidence made the experience amazing."

"Anna's artistic skill and confidence made the experience amazing."

Good to know

1

Appointments are recommended to ensure availability for services.

2

Consultations are typically free and can help determine the best treatment.

3

Payment plans may be available for more extensive procedures.

05
The Smart Fit Method image 1
Fitness center

Cutting-edge machines deliver science-based workouts in just 20 minutes, focusing on strength and injury prevention. Sessions adapt to all ages with tech that tracks progress. Workouts happen in a spa-like atmosphere with a wonderful ocean view that boosts motivation.

Cutting edge machines sit alongside a wonderful ocean view. The gym offers a beautiful view that enhances the workout experience.

People are saying

"This gym's quick, science-based workouts are so effective."

"This weight lifting gym is incredibly efficient and effective for building strength."

"I loved the nice view of the ocean while working out."

Good to know

1

The gym offers efficient workouts that can be completed in under 30 minutes.

2

All machines adapt to individual users for a personalized experience.

3

Flexible scheduling and easy cancellations are available through the app.

06
Cardiff State Beach image 1

Sandy shoreline offers unobstructed water views perfect for sunsets and surfing. Calm beauty blends with urban energy from nearby lights and train noise. Families, dogs, and pedestrians enjoy the welcoming, lively atmosphere.

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.

07
The Shanty image 1

Ocean-view patio with fire pits and picnic tables offers a relaxed vibe. Indoor space has pool tables and a full wrap-around bar for a classic dive bar feel. Balcony provides fantastic views that enhance the laid-back beach town energy.

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."

"It's a laid-back, low-key spot that feels like Cheers."

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

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.

08
Fish 101 image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small seafood spot boasts large ocean windows with views from downtown Cardiff. Menu highlights fresh fish dishes with a Mexican twist. Bright, lively space offers family-style dining near the water.

Large windows offer ocean views to the west and north. Dishes come with a literal ocean-to-table vibe. The setting overlooks the water from downtown Cardiff.

People are saying

"The seafood portions here are massive and filling."

"This massive burrito is packed with classic Baja flavors."

"You'll love the great ocean views from the restaurant."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during peak times to ensure a seat.

2

Oysters cost $3.00 at the restaurant, not $1.25 as listed online.

3

Expect limited seating; arrive early to avoid long waits.

09
Cardiff by the Sea Lodge image 1

Ocean views shine from the rooftop patio and Ocean View suite. Cozy rooms feature memory foam beds and vinyl records for a relaxing vibe. Quiet atmosphere suits romantic stays perfectly.

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 breathtaking ocean views."

"The rooftop deck has an amazing ocean view."

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.

10
Las Olas image 1
Mexican restaurant

Open-air Mexican spot shines with beachfront views and a lively patio vibe. Enjoy margarita flights and carne asada nachos while watching the sunset. Atmosphere shifts from loud to relaxed, perfect for casual dining by the ocean.

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.

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Cardiff, Encinitas

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