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Scenic views in Cardiff

You want to eat with a view that actually earns its name. If the scenery isn't worth looking at, youโ€™d rather be somewhere else.

Based on 505 Opinions
+502
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Updated May 2026
01
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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.

Cliffside spots offer breathtaking ocean views with La Jolla visible in the distance. Benches near the parking area provide a place to enjoy sunset views over the beaches.

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."

"The ocean views from the bluff-top park are 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 offers outdoor seating with a large ocean view and a gentle breeze. Atmosphere stays relaxed and welcoming with friendly staff and good background music. It feels like a neighborhood spot where community vibes are strong and consistent.

Outdoor seating offers a grand view of the ocean and the Pacific. The spot provides fantastic ocean views that make it easy to sit and hang out.

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."

"The coffee here is incredible and expertly made."

"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 sits on a bluff with spectacular ocean views and easy beach access. The atmosphere blends a relaxed, nostalgic vibe with close proximity to trains and highway noise. Campsites are tight, surrounded by trees, and attract lively groups, especially at night.

Oceanfront sites offer spectacular views of the beach, bluff, and sunset. Campground locations provide great access to the Pacific and a nice town and beach view.

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 beach and ocean views from the campground are spectacular."

"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 offers a beautiful ocean view that sets a comfortable, inviting atmosphere. The environment feels cute and cozy, supporting subtle, natural cosmetic enhancements. Expertise in cosmetic procedures creates results that enhance features without heavy makeup.

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

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 that last about 20 minutes, focusing on strength, mobility, and injury prevention. The environment combines high-tech wellness features with a positive, spa-like atmosphere and offers an ocean view. Technology tracks progress and adapts exercises, making sessions efficient and suitable for all ages.

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

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 beautiful ocean view 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 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.

Miles of beach offer unobstructed views of the water and plenty of sand. The spot is known for its amazing sunsets.

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."

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

"I loved the amazing, unobstructed views of the beautiful beach."

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 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.

Outdoor seating expands into an ocean-view parking lot, offering partial but clear ocean views. A balcony adds a relaxing vibe with fantastic views.

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 restaurant with large ocean-facing windows offers a fast casual vibe and bright, tight seating that creates a lively, somewhat noisy atmosphere. The menu emphasizes fresh fish dishes with a slight Mexican influence, attracting those seeking casual, family-style dining near the water.

Large windows offer ocean views to the west and north. The setting provides a clear sightline from downtown to the water, enhancing the dining experience with literal ocean-to-table scenery.

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 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.

Outstanding views come from the rooftop patio and the Ocean View suite. The rooftop offers some of the most stunning views, while the suite features a comfortable memory foam bed with a lovely view.

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 amazing 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 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.

Outdoor seating offers beautiful ocean views and a casual ambiance. The spot overlooks the coast and provides sunset views near the beach.

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."

"You'll love the beautiful coastal views from here."

"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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