CARDIFF & SOLANA BEACH, CA

Cardiff-by-the-Sea, usually referred to as Cardiff, is a beach community in the incorporated city of Encinitas in San Diego County, California. The Pacific Ocean is to the west of Cardiff-by-the-Sea, the rest of Encinitas is to the east and north.

Cardiff is home to a few well-known surf spots, such as Swami's and Cardiff Reef. Be sure to check out the “Magic Carpet Ride” Sculpture or as locals call it, the “Cardiff Kook”. It has become controversial since it’s installation due to its feminine pose. If you’re lucky... you’ll get to see one of its numerous costumes locals love to dress it in. This sculpture marks the entrance to San Elijo Campgrounds.

Continuing south- you will find a long strand of beach that separates Cardiff from Solana Beach. The drive is a favorite of many! The Cedros Design District is located in Solana Beach, and consists of more than 85 art galleries, import and antique stores, boutiques and cafes. The Design District is also home to the Solana Beach Farmers Market, which operates every Sunday and offers locally grown fresh cut flowers, organic produce and veggies. Another prominent venue on Cedros Avenue is the Belly Up, a live music space operating since 1974.

Both of these popular coastal cities offer a wide variety of small beach homes to luxurious lavish homes. But one thing is in common… Everyone loves the warm beach weather and cool breezes coming off the pacific ocean. Cardiff/Solana Beach are just about 20 minutes north of San Diego and are just a hop-skip-and-a-jump from the San Diego County Fair Grounds that have held County Fairs, Music Venues and of course, the world renowned Del Mar Horse Racing.