Cardiff By The Sea

Cardiff-by-the-Sea: A Coastal Gem with Small-Town Charm

Located along the scenic San Diego coastline, Cardiff-by-the-Sea (often just called Cardiff) is a charming beach town in Encinitas, CA, known for its stunning ocean views, surf culture, and tight-knit community. With its laid-back vibe, walkable streets, and unique local businesses, Cardiff is a top destination for homebuyers looking for coastal living with a small-town feel.

Homes & Real Estate

Cardiff offers a diverse range of homes, from classic beach bungalows and mid-century modern homes to contemporary oceanfront estates. Popular neighborhoods include The Composer District (known for its quiet, tree-lined streets) and The Walking District, where homes are just steps from the beach, shops, and restaurants. Many homes feature panoramic ocean views, rooftop decks, and open-concept designs that embrace the coastal lifestyle.

Top-Ranked Schools

Cardiff is served by highly rated schools in the Cardiff and San Dieguito Union High School Districts, including:

Cardiff Elementary School
Ada Harris Elementary School
Oak Crest Middle School
San Dieguito Academy & La Costa Canyon High School

These schools are known for their strong academics, community involvement, and well-rounded programs.

Things to Do

Cardiff is packed with outdoor activities, local dining, and vibrant community events:

Cardiff State Beach & San Elijo State Beach – Popular for surfing, swimming, and sunset strolls.
Swami’s Surf Spot – One of the most famous breaks in Southern California, attracting surfers from around the world.
Seaside Market – A must-visit for the Cardiff Crack tri-tip, gourmet foods, and local produce.
Encinitas Coastal Rail Trail – A scenic bike and walking path with ocean views.
Local Dining – Enjoy top spots like VG Donut & Bakery, Waverly, and Pacific Coast Grill, offering fresh seafood and unbeatable beachside views.

Why Choose Cardiff-by-the-Sea?

With its stunning coastline, surf-town culture, top-rated schools, and welcoming community, Cardiff is perfect for surfers, families, and those looking for a relaxed, beachside lifestyle. Whether you’re enjoying the local farmers market, catching a wave, or watching the sunset from your deck, Cardiff delivers the best of coastal living in North County San Diego.

Overview for Cardiff By The Sea, CA

11,271 people live in Cardiff By The Sea, where the median age is 44 and the average individual income is $69,977. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

11,271

Total Population

44 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density
This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$69,977

Average individual Income

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Search Homes in the Area

Schools in Cardiff By The Sea, CA

All ()

Primary Schools ()

Middle Schools ()

High Schools ()

Mixed Schools ()

The following schools are within or nearby Cardiff By The Sea. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

Type

Name

Around Cardiff By The Sea, CA

There's plenty to do around Cardiff By The Sea, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

57

Somewhat Walkable

Walking Score

29

Somewhat Bikeable

Bike Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Coaching, Yoga, & Events with Jenn Perell, Hyun Kang Taekwondo, and Hegewisch Stables.

Name	Category	Distance	Reviews	Ratings by Yelp
Visit the Coaching, Yoga, & Events with Jenn Perell page on Yelp	Active	0.49 miles	7 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Hyun Kang Taekwondo page on Yelp Search 981 Lomas Santa Fe Dr on Google Maps	Active	2.24 miles	8 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Hegewisch Stables page on Yelp Search 16220 Via De Santa Fe on Google Maps	Active	4.34 miles	21 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Mindful Movement & Manual Therapy page on Yelp Search 1139 Camino Del Mar on Google Maps	Active	4.53 miles	5 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Hall Swim Academy page on Yelp	Active	2.59 miles	7 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Body By Darby page on Yelp Search 731 S Highway 101 on Google Maps	Active	2.72 miles	20 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the beachWAX page on Yelp Search 2910 Jefferson St on Google Maps	Beauty	1.55 miles	10 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Skincare by Dela page on Yelp Search 710 Camino Del Mar on Google Maps	Beauty	4.97 miles	10 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Salon West page on Yelp Search 166 Solana Hills Dr on Google Maps	Beauty	2.06 miles	7 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Zen Zone Spa page on Yelp Search 710 Camino Del Mar on Google Maps	Beauty	4.97 miles	12 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Hair by Evelyn page on Yelp Search 687 S Coast Hwy 101 on Google Maps	Beauty	1.91 miles	6 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the Lotus Lash Studio page on Yelp	Beauty	2.15 miles	38 reviews	5/5 stars
Visit the The SD Facialist page on Yelp Search 265 Santa Helena on Google Maps	Beauty	1.96 miles	8 reviews	5/5 stars

Explore Our

Neighborhood Guides

Carmel Valley
Central Carmel Valley
Torrey Hills
Del Mar Mesa
Carmel Country Highlands
Pacific Highlands Ranch
Del Mar
Solana Beach
Encinitas
Leucadia
Cardiff By The Sea
Carlsbad
Del Sur
Rancho Penasquitos
Torrey Highlands
4S Ranch
Rancho Santa Fe
Fairbanks Ranch
Santaluz
Morgan Run

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