Things to do in Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Activities, attractions and tours

Travel background of the gorgeous California coast, sea salt and spray, beach wash, and wet sand of the Pacific Ocean
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San Elijo Beach, Cardiff By The Sea - CA
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Things to do

LEGOLAND® California Resort

LEGOLAND® California Resort

S$111
per adult
84% of travellers recommend
LEGOLAND® California Resort
Beaches & Bluffs San Diego's Ultimate Coastal Driving Tour

Beaches & Bluffs San Diego's Ultimate Coastal Driving Tour

S$19
per traveller
Beaches & Bluffs San Diego's Ultimate Coastal Driving Tour
Solana Beach: Surfboard Rentals

Solana Beach: Surfboard Rentals

S$32
per adult
Solana Beach: Surfboard Rentals
Solana Beach: Beach Cruiser Full-Day Bike Rental

Solana Beach: Beach Cruiser Full-Day Bike Rental

S$52
per adult
Solana Beach: Beach Cruiser Full-Day Bike Rental
Paranormal Investigation History & Ghost Tour Old Town San Diego

Paranormal Investigation History & Ghost Tour Old Town San Diego

S$71
per adult
Paranormal Investigation History & Ghost Tour Old Town San Diego
Private Surf Lesson Solana Beach Ride the Waves Fletcher Cove 2hr

Private Surf Lesson Solana Beach Ride the Waves Fletcher Cove 2hr

S$142
per adult
Private Surf Lesson Solana Beach Ride the Waves Fletcher Cove 2hr
Beachside Moped Rentals

Beachside Moped Rentals

S$192
per adult
Beachside Moped Rentals
Incredible Slot Canyons to the Pacific

Incredible Slot Canyons to the Pacific

S$76
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Incredible Slot Canyons to the Pacific
Private North County San Diego Electric Bike and Hike Tour

Private North County San Diego Electric Bike and Hike Tour

S$136
per adult
Private North County San Diego Electric Bike and Hike Tour
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Most popular experiences in Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Tours & day trips

See all 33 activities
Beaches & Bluffs San Diego's Ultimate Coastal Driving Tour

Beaches & Bluffs San Diego's Ultimate Coastal Driving Tour

Activity duration is 6 hours
9.0 out of 10 with 9 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is S$19 per traveller*
Beaches & Bluffs San Diego's Ultimate Coastal Driving TourOpens in new tab

Private & custom tours

See all 18 activities
Beaches & Bluffs San Diego's Ultimate Coastal Driving Tour

Beaches & Bluffs San Diego's Ultimate Coastal Driving Tour

Activity duration is 6 hours
9.0 out of 10 with 9 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is S$19 per traveller*
Beaches & Bluffs San Diego's Ultimate Coastal Driving TourOpens in new tab

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 11 activities
Carlsbad Food Tour

Carlsbad Food Tour

Activity duration is 3 hours
9.8 out of 10 with 132 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is S$124 per adult
Carlsbad Food TourOpens in new tab

Water activities

See all 4 activities
Solana Beach: Surfboard Rentals

Solana Beach: Surfboard Rentals

Free cancellation available
Price is S$32 per adult
Solana Beach: Surfboard RentalsOpens in new tab

What to do in Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Popular places to visit

Cardiff State Beach

Cardiff State Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Cardiff State Beach during your trip to Cardiff-by-the-Sea? Amble around this family-friendly area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Cardiff State Beach

Encinitas Community Park

Enjoy the beautiful sunsets and explore Encinitas Community Park, a lovely green space in Cardiff-by-the-Sea. Amble around this family-friendly area's beautiful beaches or seek out the surfing spots.

Encinitas Community Park

Maggie Houlihan Memorial Dog Park

After visiting Maggie Houlihan Memorial Dog Park, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Cardiff-by-the-Sea. Amble around this family-friendly area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Maggie Houlihan Memorial Dog Park

Eli Howard Surf School

Enjoy a trip to Eli Howard Surf School and popular activities such as surfing in Cardiff-by-the-Sea. Wander the beautiful beaches or discover the beautiful sunsets in this family-friendly area.

Eli Howard Surf School

Elks Lodge

Elks Lodge is just one of the places to see in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Amble around this family-friendly area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Elks Lodge

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Solana Beach Sunset

Solana Beach

Frequently asked questions

Is Cardiff-by-the-Sea worth visiting?
Cardiff-by-the-Sea has a unique blend of attractions, local charm and culture. Whether you're into history, nature or local cuisine, there's plenty here to enjoy.
How do I spend a day in Cardiff-by-the-Sea?
Once you've checked off top attractions like LEGOLAND® California and Moonlight State Beach, spend the rest of your day exploring the retail and food options in Cardiff-by-the-Sea.
What is the top tourist attraction in Cardiff-by-the-Sea?
LEGOLAND® California is one of the top tourist attractions in Cardiff-by-the-Sea and should be high on every must-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Cardiff-by-the-Sea?
Three days in Cardiff-by-the-Sea is plenty of time to visit the city's main highlights. Many guests stay for three days on average. Moonlight State Beach, South Carlsbad State Beach and San Elijo State Beach are top-rated sights. Want to experience more? Hang around a little longer to check off nearby hotspots like San Diego County.
Is Cardiff-by-the-Sea a walkable city?
With top attractions like Moonlight State Beach in the area, Cardiff-by-the-Sea is every bit a destination to explore on foot. Up for visiting some hip neighbourhoods a walkable distance from the city centre? Olde Solana Beach is only 3 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Cardiff-by-the-Sea with kids?
Planning what to do in Cardiff-by-the-Sea with kids is easier than ever. Whether you have toddlers or teenagers, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to keep them busy here.

What to do in Cardiff-by-the-Sea for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to Carruth Cellars Winery or Craftsmanship Museum.
Are there free things to do in Cardiff-by-the-Sea?
In Cardiff-by-the-Sea, Moonlight State Beach is a popular spot for anyone wanting to see the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, wander around the other neighbourhoods and green spaces, and ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. It's a good way to find out about the best free things to do in Cardiff-by-the-Sea.