Moonlight State Beach: Encinitas's Coastal Gem
Enjoy swimming, surfing, bonfires, and family fun at Encinitas's Moonlight State Beach, a historic coastal destination with activities for everyone.
Moonlight State Beach, nestled in the heart of Encinitas, California, is more than just a picturesque stretch of sand; it's a vibrant hub of community, recreation, and coastal charm. Spanning 25 acres, the beach boasts soft, golden sands perfect for sunbathing, building sandcastles, or strolling along the shoreline. The beach's history dates back to the early 1900s when it became a popular spot for moonlit gatherings. Local residents would gather for midnight picnics, enjoying the cool ocean breeze and the soothing sound of the waves. This tradition inspired the name "Moonlight Beach" and established the welcoming atmosphere that continues to define the beach today. In the 1920s, land prospector J.S. Pitcher developed the area, adding amenities such as a bathhouse, playground, boardwalk, dance hall, and picnic areas. Today, Moonlight State Beach is well-equipped for recreation. Gentle, rolling waves and lifeguard patrols during peak season make it a safe and popular spot for swimmers of all levels. Surfers can enjoy the waves, especially during a southwest swell with a rising tide. Beach volleyball courts are a popular gathering spot, and fire pits are available for evening bonfires. The park areas adjacent to the beach offer picnic tables, barbecues, and grassy spaces for family gatherings. Moonlight State Beach is committed to accessibility, with paved pathways, accessible restrooms and showers, and beach wheelchairs available. The beach is open daily from 4 a.m. to 2 a.m., with the parking lot accessible from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Local tips
- Arrive before 10 a.m. during peak season (summer and weekends) to secure parking.
- Check the tide charts for the best time to explore tide pools at the north end of the beach.
- Take advantage of the beach wheelchairs available at the lifeguard tower for easy access to the sand.
- Visit the Moonlight Beach Marine Safety Center for free tide books.
A brief summary to Moonlight State Beach
- west of I-5 on, Encinitas Blvd, Encinitas, California, 92024, US
- +1760-633-2740
- Visit website
Getting There
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Driving
Moonlight State Beach is located west of I-5 at the end of Encinitas Boulevard. From I-5, exit onto Encinitas Boulevard and head west. After crossing Highway 101, Encinitas Blvd becomes B Street. The parking lot entrance is on C Street. Parking costs vary, but expect to pay around $2-3 per hour. Street parking is also available in the surrounding neighborhood, though it fills up quickly, especially during peak season.
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Public Transport
The Coaster train stops at the Encinitas Station, which is a 5-minute walk to Moonlight State Beach. Head west on E Street, turn right onto Vulcan Avenue, and then left onto D Street, which leads directly to the beach. A one-way ticket on the Coaster from San Diego to Encinitas costs between $2 and $7. Alternatively, several North County Transit District (NCTD) bus routes stop near Moonlight State Beach, including Route 101, which runs along the coast from Oceanside to Downtown San Diego. A one-way fare on the Route 101 is around $2.50.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Encinitas. A taxi ride from the Encinitas Coaster Station to Moonlight State Beach is approximately 1 mile and should cost around $7-$10. An UberX ride from downtown Encinitas to Moonlight State Beach will cost approximately $6 - $10. Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on demand and time of day.
