When you have only a weekend to relax and recharge your batteries you need to select carefully the place for your getaway and have the perfect spot for you: Cardiff-by-the-Sea, the quaint SoCal gem located right next to Encinitas and Carlsbad.
There are so many things that make this place the perfect spot for a getaway, starting with the warm weather, wonderful beaches and the overall welcoming atmosphere surrounding this community. The best months to come and see it are the summer ones when the place vibrates with music and that special summer sensation is in the air. But no matter what time of the year you visit Cardiff, there is always something to see or do in this charming beach town, including annual events and various outdoor activities.
Weekend Activities Near Cardiff-by-the-Sea
In Cardiff, you will find programs and activities for all ages, including year-round whale, and dolphin watching, water sports, visiting the local eateries, having a picnic at the Hollywood Bowl or relaxing on wide sandy beaches. But if you're staying for just a couple of days, we know it might be difficult to choose how to better spend your time and get that whole San Diego experience. For that specific reason, we've come up with a list of the best things you can do in and around Cardiff-by-the-Sea on a weekend:
- Start your day shopping at the Cardiff Seaside Market
This gourmet grocery store is very popular for its prepared foods, especially the Burgundy Pepper Tri-tip which is also nicknamed "Cardiff Crack". So if you want to enjoy some early lunch, you definitely need to add that next to your coffee. Either way, you can stock up on snacks and other essentials for the day, as you head on to explore!
- Head on to the beach for some sunbathing or surfing
Cardiff-by-the-Sea is renowned for its pristine beaches and it has some pretty great surfing spots as well. So if you want to try out your balance in riding the waves, we recommend Swami Beach or Cardiff Reef. For some sunbathing and refreshing dive in the ocean, there are a lot of options for cool beaches such as the Cardiff State Beach, San Elijo State Beach or Torrey Pines State Beach.
- Taste the local craft beers
San Diego's craft beer scene has gained quite some fame in the last few years, with award-winning breweries that offer some amazing unique tastes and all the types of beer you can think of. You can even do a brewery tour if you want to taste test more flavors.
- Explore some of the amazing hiking trails
Hiking can be a relaxing and very enjoyable activity if you choose the right trail. Most of them are easy to medium difficulty and they are totally worth the walk, as you get to enjoy some pretty amazing landscapes and even do some bird watching.
- Experience San Diego's nightlife
Being only to a 25-minutes drive from San Diego, you can opt for a night out to explore the trendy clubs, pubs and rooftop bars of the Gaslamp District. After a fun day at the beach, a night in the heart of the city seems like the perfect ending. Head out to the ever-fascinating Gaslamp Quarter, where 16 city blocks are filled with top-notch nightclubs, moody jazz clubs, rock clubs, and select restaurants. You'll definitely find here the perfect location that fits your mood and spirit to have fun all night.
Upscale Retreat for Your Weekend in Cardiff-by-the-Sea
If you wish to spend your weekend far from crowded places, enjoying tranquil moments in a stylish, upscale retreat close to the ocean, you will definitely find that in Cardiff-by-the-Sea. Rent our completely redesigned condos, showcased in the San Diego Home and Garden Magazine.
Our goal is to offer maximum comfort and satisfaction for our guests. Rent our condos separately or book the Penthouse-Parkhouse duplex for larger events. Come, visit us and enjoy your weekend getaway in Cardiff-by-the-Sea.