Cardiff State Beach Walk

This sandy beach never gets old and is the perfect spot to enjoy an afternoon surfing, swimming or whale watching. It is run by the California State Park system so there is a small parking lot with restrooms and, in rainy years, showers are also available. It is no big secret that Cardiff State Beach is one of the best beaches in our nation. Surfer Magazine named Encinitas the #3 best surf town in the world and cited Cardiff Reef as one of it's premier surf spots. The beach closes at sunset. Gates are closed from 10pm to 7am so if you leave your car in you will be locked in for the night and with a ticket. By the way, failure to pay parking costs you $71.00.