Coastal Rail Trail, Encinitas: A Scenic Coastal Pathway
Hike, bike, and explore the scenic Coastal Rail Trail in Encinitas, offering breathtaking ocean views and a connection to Southern California's coastal communities.
The Coastal Rail Trail in Encinitas is a multi-use trail perfect for hiking, biking, and enjoying the Pacific Ocean views. This scenic pathway runs alongside the Coaster commuter rail, offering both recreation and a practical transportation route through Southern California.
A brief summary to Coastal Rail Trail
- 1298 S Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, California, 92024, US
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities along the trail.
- Check the local tide schedules if you plan to explore the beach access points.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking or biking to fully enjoy the trail.
Getting There
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Walking
If you're already in Encinitas, you can walk to the Coastal Rail Trail. From the Encinitas Library at 540 Cornish Dr, walk south on Cornish Dr towards S Coast Hwy 101. Turn left onto S Coast Hwy 101, and continue walking for about 0.4 miles until you reach the Coastal Rail Trail at 1298 S Coast Hwy 101.
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Public Transport
From downtown San Diego, take the North County Transit District's COASTER train north to the Encinitas station. The train ride takes about 40 minutes. Once you arrive at the Encinitas station, walk north on S Coast Hwy 101 for approximately 0.5 miles. The Coastal Rail Trail will be on your left at 1298 S Coast Hwy 101. A one-way fare on the Coaster is typically around $5.50.
Discover more about Coastal Rail Trail
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
San Dieguito Heritage Museum at the Heritage Ranch
2.7 km
Discover local history and cultural heritage at the San Dieguito Heritage Museum in Encinitas, California, a treasure trove for history buffs and curious travelers.
Pacific Coast Hwy (US 101)
12.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Pacific Coast Highway, an iconic route filled with stunning views, charming towns, and rich history.
Carlsbad Sign
14.8 km
Experience the charm of the Carlsbad Sign, a historical landmark that embodies the spirit of Southern California's coastal lifestyle.
Buena Vista Audubon Society
16.1 km
Explore the biodiversity of Oceanside at the Buena Vista Audubon Society, where nature meets conservation in a stunning coastal setting.
Torrey Pines Gliderport
16.6 km
Experience the thrill of hang gliding at Torrey Pines Gliderport, a historic landmark in La Jolla, California, with stunning coastal views.
Fletcher Point
16.9 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich history at Fletcher Point, San Diego's premier hiking area that invites nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Salk Institute for Biological Studies
17.0 km
Explore the Salk Institute for Biological Studies, where cutting-edge research meets stunning architecture amidst the breathtaking coastal landscape of La Jolla.
Ken Wakabayashi Bench
17.0 km
Experience tranquility at the Ken Wakabayashi Bench, a historic landmark on the scenic Miner's Ridge Loop Trail in San Diego, surrounded by nature's beauty.
La Jolla Trail
17.1 km
Discover the breathtaking views and serene landscapes of La Jolla Trail, a perfect hiking destination for nature enthusiasts in California.
Surf Bowl - Oceanside
17.8 km
Experience the excitement of bowling, delicious food, and vibrant atmosphere at Surf Bowl in Oceanside, California - a must-visit for fun seekers.
Geisel Library
17.8 km
Discover the architectural wonder of Geisel Library at UCSD, a serene haven for knowledge seekers and a cultural landmark in La Jolla, California.
Torrey Pines City Beach
17.9 km
Discover the stunning beauty of Torrey Pines City Beach in San Diego, where golden sands meet breathtaking cliffs and the perfect waves await.
Sun God
18.1 km
Discover the 'Sun God' sculpture in La Jolla, California—an iconic artwork that embodies creativity and cultural vibrancy amidst stunning surroundings.
Epstein Family Amphitheater
18.2 km
Discover the Epstein Family Amphitheater in La Jolla, where nature meets live music for an unforgettable cultural experience.
Stuart Collection
18.2 km
Discover the Stuart Collection, an enchanting outdoor sculpture museum in La Jolla, where art and nature harmoniously collide.
Unmissable attractions to see
Swami's Beach
0.2 km
Discover Swami's Beach in Encinitas, CA - a serene coastal escape known for its surf, stunning sunsets, and beautiful tide pools.
Self-Realization Fellowship Meditation Gardens
0.4 km
Explore the tranquil Self-Realization Fellowship Meditation Gardens, a peaceful retreat in Encinitas with stunning landscapes and ocean views.
Culture Brewing Co | Encinitas
1.0 km
Discover the heart of Encinitas at Culture Brewing Co, where exceptional craft beers and a vibrant atmosphere await your visit.
Moonlight State Beach
1.5 km
Experience the beauty of Moonlight State Beach in Encinitas, CA, where relaxation meets adventure along the stunning Pacific coastline.
San Diego Botanic Garden
2.4 km
Discover the beauty of diverse plant species at San Diego Botanic Garden, a tranquil escape in Encinitas, perfect for families and nature lovers.
Harbaugh Seaside Trails
4.2 km
Explore the stunning Harbaugh Seaside Trails in Solana Beach, California – a breathtaking destination for hiking and coastal views.
Annie's Canyon Trail
4.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Annie's Canyon Trail in Cardiff, California, a picturesque hiking area perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Fletcher Cove Beach Park
5.1 km
Explore Fletcher Cove Beach Park in Solana Beach, California, a serene coastal retreat with beautiful views, picnic spots, and recreational activities for all.
Solana Beach
5.2 km
Experience the serene beauty and vibrant culture of Solana Beach, California, where stunning beaches and artistic charm await you.
Belly Up Tavern
5.3 km
Discover live music magic at Belly Up Tavern in Solana Beach, a vibrant hub for unforgettable performances and delightful cocktails.
Dog Beach
6.7 km
Experience the freedom of Dog Beach in Del Mar, a picturesque coastal retreat where dogs can roam and play freely in the surf and sand.
Powerhouse Park
8.5 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Powerhouse Park in Del Mar, California—a perfect coastal retreat for relaxation and recreation.
Del Mar
8.7 km
Experience the stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and charming atmosphere of Del Mar, California's coastal paradise.
LEGOLAND California Hotel
10.2 km
Discover the enchanting LEGOLAND California Hotel, where family fun meets creative accommodations just steps from the adventure of the LEGOLAND theme park.
LEGOLAND California
10.3 km
Experience brick-built adventures at LEGOLAND California: rides, shows, a water park, and aquarium create the ultimate family LEGO experience.
Essential places to dine
The Grill at Torrey Pines
15.2 km
Experience culinary artistry at The Grill at Torrey Pines in La Jolla - where fine dining meets breathtaking views.
A.R. Valentien
15.2 km
Discover A.R. Valentien in La Jolla – where Californian cuisine meets fine dining excellence amidst breathtaking coastal views.
Chilly Bears Oceanside
16.5 km
Experience vibrant Asian Fusion flavors at Chilly Bears Oceanside – your ultimate dining destination by the beach.
Don's Country Kitchen
16.6 km
Experience the heart of American cuisine at Don's Country Kitchen in Oceanside - where every meal feels like home!
Hunter Steakhouse - Oceanside
16.6 km
Indulge in premium steaks at Hunter Steakhouse - Oceanside, where quality meets comfort on California's stunning coast.
Wrench and Rodent Seabasstropub
16.8 km
Experience innovative sushi creations at Wrench and Rodent Seabasstropub in Oceanside - where fresh ingredients meet artistic culinary expression.
The Plot - Oceanside
17.0 km
Experience California's culinary brilliance at The Plot - Oceanside with fresh local ingredients and innovative dishes in a vibrant coastal setting.
The Privateer Coal Fire Pizza
17.1 km
Discover delicious coal-fired pizzas paired with exquisite wines at The Privateer Coal Fire Pizza in Oceanside - a perfect culinary getaway.
Best Pizza & Brew Oceanside
17.2 km
Discover delicious pizzas and craft brews at Best Pizza & Brew in Oceanside - where flavor meets coastal charm.
Start Fresh Cafe
18.3 km
Experience delicious American breakfast at Start Fresh Cafe in Oceanside – where fresh ingredients meet seaside charm.
101 Cafe
18.7 km
Experience delicious breakfasts at Oceanside's beloved diner, where local flavors meet coastal charm in every bite.
Matsu
18.7 km
Experience the fusion of traditional Japanese cuisine with fresh Californian flavors at Matsu in Oceanside.
Fat Joe’s O’side
19.0 km
Discover coastal dining at Fat Joe’s O’side: where fresh flavors meet ocean views in Oceanside, CA.
Humphreys La Jolla Grill
19.2 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine with stunning ocean views at Humphreys La Jolla Grill – a culinary gem in Southern California.
Local Tap House
19.2 km
Experience Oceanside's vibrant culinary scene at Local Tap House – where delicious food meets local craft beers in a welcoming atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gift Shop
16.0 km
Explore a delightful gift shop in La Jolla, featuring unique treasures and local crafts that capture the spirit of California's coastal beauty.
Mar Y Lana
16.8 km
Explore Mar Y Lana in Oceanside, California for unique gifts, local crafts, and souvenirs that embody the coastal lifestyle.
Captain's Helm
16.8 km
Discover unique fashion pieces and vintage treasures at Captain's Helm, the ultimate vintage clothing store in Oceanside, California.
El Camino North
16.8 km
Discover the vibrant shopping and dining experience at El Camino North, your go-to destination in Oceanside, California.
American Cancer Society Discovery Shop- Oceanside
17.0 km
Unearth unique treasures at the American Cancer Society Discovery Shop in Oceanside, where every purchase supports cancer research.
Estate Sale Warehouse
17.1 km
Uncover unique antique finds and vintage treasures at the Estate Sale Warehouse in South Oceanside, California.
RANSACK
17.2 km
Explore RANSACK in Oceanside for unique vintage clothing and antique treasures that celebrate fashion and history in one delightful shopping experience.
Elam's Hallmark Shop
17.2 km
Discover Elam's Hallmark Shop in Oceanside, CA, your go-to destination for unique gifts, greeting cards, and festive decorations for all occasions.
The Treasure Box Gift Store
17.4 km
Explore The Treasure Box Gift Store in Oceanside for unique gifts and local crafts that capture the essence of California's coastal culture.
Sea Hive Marketplace
17.4 km
Explore Sea Hive Marketplace in Oceanside, CA – a treasure trove of antiques, vintage clothing, and unique home goods await!
Kit N Caboodle Thrift Store
18.2 km
Explore unique finds and sustainable treasures at Kit N Caboodle Thrift Store in Oceanside, California.
Sonora Refillery
18.4 km
Explore sustainable beauty at Sonora Refillery, an eco-friendly boutique in Oceanside, California, dedicated to reducing waste with refillable products.
Oceanside Town & Country
18.4 km
Explore Oceanside Town & Country, a vibrant shopping haven in California filled with diverse shops and delicious dining options.
Oceanside Antiques & Collectibles
18.7 km
Explore Oceanside Antiques & Collectibles for a unique shopping experience filled with vintage treasures and timeless stories from the past.
Oceanside Village Square
18.7 km
Discover the vibrant Oceanside Village Square, a shopping haven filled with unique boutiques, delightful eateries, and coastal charm in sunny California.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pour House
16.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of fine dining and beachfront charm at Pour House, Oceanside's premier grill and bar offering fresh, flavorful cuisine.
PCH Sports Bar
16.8 km
Experience the perfect blend of American cuisine and sports entertainment at PCH Sports Bar in Oceanside, California.
The Privateer Marketplace & Wine Bar
17.1 km
Enjoy exquisite grilled cuisine and a fine selection of wines at The Privateer Marketplace & Wine Bar in Oceanside, California, a true culinary delight.
Rookies Sports Bar
17.1 km
Experience the thrill of the game at Rookies Sports Bar, Oceanside’s favorite spot for food, drinks, and live sports action.
Larry's Beach Club
18.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and laid-back atmosphere of Larry's Beach Club, the perfect grill for your Oceanside adventure.
West Bar
18.5 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of West Bar in La Jolla, where exquisite cocktails meet the coastal charm of Southern California.
1910 Tap House
18.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of 1910 Tap House in Oceanside, CA, where delicious grill fare meets a lively, laid-back vibe.
Shooters
19.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of La Jolla at Shooters, where crafted cocktails and a lively atmosphere await you in this coastal gem.
Drift La Jolla
19.3 km
Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and gourmet dining at Drift La Jolla, where coastal charm meets culinary excellence.
O'Side Sports Bar & Grill
19.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of O'Side Sports Bar & Grill, where delicious food and thrilling sports come together in Oceanside's coastal charm.
The Wine Bar
19.5 km
Experience the essence of La Jolla at The Wine Bar, where exquisite wines and delicious bites await in a charming atmosphere.
Junkyard Sports Bar & Grill
19.5 km
Experience the ultimate sports bar atmosphere at Junkyard Sports Bar & Grill, where delicious food and exciting games come together in Oceanside.
Raised by Wolves
19.5 km
Discover San Diego's hidden gem - Raised by Wolves, a speakeasy cocktail bar with innovative drinks and a captivating atmosphere.
The Lounge Oceanside
19.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning ocean views at The Lounge Oceanside, your go-to cocktail bar in California.
The Rooftop Bar
19.7 km
Experience breathtaking ocean views and vibrant atmosphere at The Rooftop Bar, the perfect spot for cocktails and small bites in Oceanside.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Ladies Love Outlaws
16.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Ladies Love Outlaws, Oceanside’s premier cocktail bar, known for unique drinks and lively ambiance.
Middle Earth Lounge
17.3 km
Discover the lively Middle Earth Lounge in La Jolla, CA; a perfect blend of delicious food, crafted drinks, and vibrant nightlife for all visitors.
Sun God Lounge
18.0 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Sun God Lounge in La Jolla, where relaxation meets social engagement in a stunning coastal setting.
Woo Karaoke
19.1 km
Unleash your inner star at Woo Karaoke, La Jolla's premier karaoke bar with live music, vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable performances.
The Jazzy Wishbone
19.3 km
Experience the vibrant melodies and lively atmosphere at The Jazzy Wishbone, Oceanside's premier live music bar for an unforgettable night out.
The Comedy Store - La Jolla
21.7 km
Experience an unforgettable night of laughter at The Comedy Store in La Jolla, California - where humor and entertainment meet stunning coastal charm.
Nite Owl Cocktail Lounge
26.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Nite Owl Cocktail Lounge in Pacific Beach, San Diego, where great cocktails and a lively atmosphere await.
PB Avenue
26.6 km
Discover PB Avenue, a vibrant night club in San Diego's Pacific Beach, offering lively music, delicious drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
The Collective
26.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Collective, Pacific Beach's premier venue for live music and handcrafted cocktails.
Bert's Bar West
27.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Bert's Bar West in Pacific Beach, San Diego—where great drinks, music, and fun await every night.
Winstons Beach Club
32.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of San Diego at Winstons Beach Club, where live music, comedy, and karaoke create unforgettable moments.
Blue Agave Night Club
32.3 km
Discover the energetic nightlife at Blue Agave Night Club in San Diego, where vibrant music and affordable drinks create unforgettable nighttime experiences.
Pacific Shores Cocktail Lounge
32.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Pacific Shores Cocktail Lounge in Point Loma, San Diego, where delicious cocktails meet stunning coastal views.
Old Town Saloon
32.7 km
Discover Old Town Saloon, a lively bar in San Diego's historic district, blending vibrant nightlife with rich California history.
The Hole in the Wall
33.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at The Hole in the Wall, a historical bar in San Diego offering delicious food, cocktails, and entertaining karaoke nights.
