Encinitas spans 19 square miles along Southern California's coastline, offering a perfect mix of beach town atmosphere and coastal living. From beachfront properties to inland residential communities, the area provides diverse housing options. Current rental trends show one-bedroom apartments averaging $2,536, while two-bedroom units typically command $2,988. The historic downtown district along Coast Highway 101 features independent shops, restaurants, and the restored La Paloma Theatre, while neighborhoods like Cardiff-by-the-Sea and Leucadia maintain their individual character with tree-lined streets and local art scenes.
The city is renowned for its outdoor recreation, particularly at Swami's Beach, one of California's premier surfing destinations featured in The Beach Boys' "Surfin' U.S.A." The San Diego Botanic Garden showcases the region's diverse plant life, while Moonlight Beach hosts community events including the annual Switchfoot Bro-Am surf competition.
