Discover Moonlight State Beach: A Coastal Gem in Encinitas
Experience the beauty and excitement of Moonlight State Beach, a prime destination for sunbathing, surfing, and soaking in Californian coastal charm.
Moonlight State Beach is a stunning coastal destination in Encinitas, California. With its golden sands, surf-friendly waves, and vibrant atmosphere, it's a must-visit for tourists looking to enjoy the beauty of the Pacific Ocean. This beach offers a perfect blend of relaxation, recreation, and local charm, making it a favorite spot for both families and surfers alike.
A brief summary to Moonlight State Beach
- west of I-5 on, Encinitas Blvd, Encinitas, California, 92024, US
- +1760-633-2740
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a prime parking spot, especially on weekends.
- Bring your own beach gear, as rentals may be limited and prices can vary.
- Check the surf conditions before heading out; it's a popular spot for surfers!
- Don't miss the sunset; it's a stunning experience that many locals cherish.
- Explore nearby shops and restaurants for a taste of local cuisine after your beach day.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in downtown Carlsbad, start by heading northwest on Carlsbad Village Drive toward Oak Ave. Continue walking straight for about 0.5 miles until you reach the intersection with Encinitas Blvd. Turn left onto Encinitas Blvd, and head west for about 2 miles. You will pass through some residential areas and may see local shops. Keep walking until you reach I-5. Moonlight State Beach will be on your left, just west of the freeway.
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Bicycling
From downtown Carlsbad, rent a bike from a local rental shop. Head northwest on Carlsbad Village Drive and continue for about 0.5 miles. When you reach Encinitas Blvd, turn left and bike west for about 2 miles. You will pass local eateries and shops. Once you reach I-5, look for the signs leading to Moonlight State Beach, which will be just west of the freeway. There are bike racks available at the beach.
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Public Transit
To reach Moonlight State Beach using public transport, locate the nearest bus stop in Carlsbad. Take the Breeze Bus Route 101 heading south. Ride for about 5 stops and get off at the Encinitas Blvd & I-5 stop. From there, walk west across the freeway overpass, and continue straight on Encinitas Blvd for a short distance. You will see Moonlight State Beach on your left.
Discover more about Moonlight State Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
San Dieguito Heritage Museum at the Heritage Ranch
1.9 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.
Carlsbad Sign
13.3 km
Experience the charm of the Carlsbad Sign, a historical landmark that embodies the spirit of Southern California's coastal lifestyle.
Pacific Coast Hwy (US 101)
13.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Pacific Coast Highway, an iconic route filled with stunning views, charming towns, and rich history.
Buena Vista Audubon Society
14.6 km
Explore the biodiversity of Oceanside at the Buena Vista Audubon Society, where nature meets conservation in a stunning coastal setting.
Surf Bowl - Oceanside
16.3 km
Experience the excitement of bowling, delicious food, and vibrant atmosphere at Surf Bowl in Oceanside, California - a must-visit for fun seekers.
Fletcher Point
17.3 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich history at Fletcher Point, San Diego's premier hiking area that invites nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Seaborne Coffee
17.6 km
Discover Seaborne Coffee, a cozy Oceanside café offering expertly brewed beverages and a warm atmosphere for the perfect coastal experience.
Tyson Street Park
17.8 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Tyson Street Park in Oceanside, California, a perfect haven for relaxation and fun by the Pacific coast.
Oceanside Transportation Center
17.9 km
Experience the heart of Oceanside at the Transportation Center, your gateway to stunning beaches and vibrant local culture in Southern California.
The Fin Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
17.9 km
Experience coastal luxury at The Fin Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, your gateway to Oceanside's stunning beaches and vibrant culture.
Ken Wakabayashi Bench
18.0 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.
Camp Coffee Company
18.0 km
Discover the charm of Camp Coffee Company in Oceanside, where every cup of coffee is a celebration of flavor and community.
Torrey Pines Gliderport
18.1 km
Experience the thrill of hang gliding at Torrey Pines Gliderport, a historic landmark in La Jolla, California, with stunning coastal views.
Mission Pacific Beach Resort - JDV by Hyatt
18.1 km
Discover the perfect blend of luxury and adventure at Mission Pacific Beach Resort, your gateway to Oceanside's stunning coastline.
Oceanside Pier (Boardwalk)
18.1 km
Discover the beauty and excitement of Oceanside Pier, a scenic fishing pier in California, perfect for relaxation, dining, and ocean views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Culture Brewing Co | Encinitas
0.5 km
Discover the heart of Encinitas at Culture Brewing Co, where exceptional craft beers and a vibrant atmosphere await your visit.
Self-Realization Fellowship Meditation Gardens
1.3 km
Explore the tranquil Self-Realization Fellowship Meditation Gardens, a peaceful retreat in Encinitas with stunning landscapes and ocean views.
Coastal Rail Trail
1.5 km
Discover the Coastal Rail Trail in Encinitas: A picturesque hiking area offering stunning ocean views and a unique California experience.
Swami's Beach
1.5 km
Discover Swami's Beach in Encinitas, CA - a serene coastal escape known for its surf, stunning sunsets, and beautiful tide pools.
San Diego Botanic Garden
1.8 km
Discover the beauty of diverse plant species at San Diego Botanic Garden, a tranquil escape in Encinitas, perfect for families and nature lovers.
Annie's Canyon Trail
5.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Annie's Canyon Trail in Cardiff, California, a picturesque hiking area perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Harbaugh Seaside Trails
5.7 km
Explore the stunning Harbaugh Seaside Trails in Solana Beach, California – a breathtaking destination for hiking and coastal views.
Fletcher Cove Beach Park
6.7 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
6.8 km
Experience the serene beauty and vibrant culture of Solana Beach, California, where stunning beaches and artistic charm await you.
Belly Up Tavern
6.8 km
Discover live music magic at Belly Up Tavern in Solana Beach, a vibrant hub for unforgettable performances and delightful cocktails.
Dog Beach
8.2 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.
LEGOLAND California Hotel
8.7 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
8.8 km
Experience brick-built adventures at LEGOLAND California: rides, shows, a water park, and aquarium create the ultimate family LEGO experience.
Pirate Shores
9.1 km
Dive into a world of swashbuckling fun at Pirate Shores in LEGOLAND California: water cannons, thrilling rides, and unforgettable pirate adventures await!
Leo Carrillo Historic Park
9.7 km
Explore the historic ranch of Hollywood's Leo Carrillo in Carlsbad, CA. Discover adobe buildings, gardens, and California history in a peaceful setting.
Essential places to dine
Chilly Bears Oceanside
15.0 km
Experience vibrant Asian Fusion flavors at Chilly Bears Oceanside – your ultimate dining destination by the beach.
Don's Country Kitchen
15.0 km
Experience the heart of American cuisine at Don's Country Kitchen in Oceanside - where every meal feels like home!
Hunter Steakhouse - Oceanside
15.1 km
Indulge in premium steaks at Hunter Steakhouse - Oceanside, where quality meets comfort on California's stunning coast.
Wrench and Rodent Seabasstropub
15.3 km
Experience innovative sushi creations at Wrench and Rodent Seabasstropub in Oceanside - where fresh ingredients meet artistic culinary expression.
The Plot - Oceanside
15.5 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
15.6 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
15.6 km
Discover delicious pizzas and craft brews at Best Pizza & Brew in Oceanside - where flavor meets coastal charm.
The Grill at Torrey Pines
16.7 km
Experience culinary artistry at The Grill at Torrey Pines in La Jolla - where fine dining meets breathtaking views.
A.R. Valentien
16.7 km
Discover A.R. Valentien in La Jolla – where Californian cuisine meets fine dining excellence amidst breathtaking coastal views.
Start Fresh Cafe
16.8 km
Experience delicious American breakfast at Start Fresh Cafe in Oceanside – where fresh ingredients meet seaside charm.
101 Cafe
17.2 km
Experience delicious breakfasts at Oceanside's beloved diner, where local flavors meet coastal charm in every bite.
Matsu
17.2 km
Experience the fusion of traditional Japanese cuisine with fresh Californian flavors at Matsu in Oceanside.
Fat Joe’s O’side
17.5 km
Discover coastal dining at Fat Joe’s O’side: where fresh flavors meet ocean views in Oceanside, CA.
Local Tap House
17.7 km
Experience Oceanside's vibrant culinary scene at Local Tap House – where delicious food meets local craft beers in a welcoming atmosphere.
Ryes and Grind
17.8 km
Experience authentic Jewish cuisine at Ryes and Grind in Oceanside - where tradition meets flavor in every bite.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mar Y Lana
15.3 km
Explore Mar Y Lana in Oceanside, California for unique gifts, local crafts, and souvenirs that embody the coastal lifestyle.
Captain's Helm
15.3 km
Discover unique fashion pieces and vintage treasures at Captain's Helm, the ultimate vintage clothing store in Oceanside, California.
El Camino North
15.3 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
15.5 km
Unearth unique treasures at the American Cancer Society Discovery Shop in Oceanside, where every purchase supports cancer research.
Estate Sale Warehouse
15.5 km
Uncover unique antique finds and vintage treasures at the Estate Sale Warehouse in South Oceanside, California.
RANSACK
15.6 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
15.6 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
15.9 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
15.9 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
16.7 km
Explore unique finds and sustainable treasures at Kit N Caboodle Thrift Store in Oceanside, California.
Sonora Refillery
16.9 km
Explore sustainable beauty at Sonora Refillery, an eco-friendly boutique in Oceanside, California, dedicated to reducing waste with refillable products.
Oceanside Town & Country
16.9 km
Explore Oceanside Town & Country, a vibrant shopping haven in California filled with diverse shops and delicious dining options.
Oceanside Antiques & Collectibles
17.1 km
Explore Oceanside Antiques & Collectibles for a unique shopping experience filled with vintage treasures and timeless stories from the past.
Oceanside Village Square
17.2 km
Discover the vibrant Oceanside Village Square, a shopping haven filled with unique boutiques, delightful eateries, and coastal charm in sunny California.
Jett Rock Vintage+
17.2 km
Explore unique vintage fashion treasures at Jett Rock Vintage+ in Oceanside, California, where every piece tells a story.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pour House
15.2 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
15.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of American cuisine and sports entertainment at PCH Sports Bar in Oceanside, California.
The Privateer Marketplace & Wine Bar
15.6 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
15.6 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
16.5 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and laid-back atmosphere of Larry's Beach Club, the perfect grill for your Oceanside adventure.
1910 Tap House
17.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of 1910 Tap House in Oceanside, CA, where delicious grill fare meets a lively, laid-back vibe.
O'Side Sports Bar & Grill
18.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of O'Side Sports Bar & Grill, where delicious food and thrilling sports come together in Oceanside's coastal charm.
Junkyard Sports Bar & Grill
18.1 km
Experience the ultimate sports bar atmosphere at Junkyard Sports Bar & Grill, where delicious food and exciting games come together in Oceanside.
The Lounge Oceanside
18.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning ocean views at The Lounge Oceanside, your go-to cocktail bar in California.
The Rooftop Bar
18.2 km
Experience breathtaking ocean views and vibrant atmosphere at The Rooftop Bar, the perfect spot for cocktails and small bites in Oceanside.
Secco
18.2 km
Discover Secco, a vibrant bar and lounge in Oceanside, California, offering refreshing drinks and a lively coastal atmosphere.
Frankie's
18.3 km
Discover Frankie's in Oceanside, a vibrant bar with stunning ocean views and creative cocktails, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
One More Thats It Pub
19.1 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of One More Thats It Pub in Oceanside, California, where great drinks and good times meet.
Tony's Sports Bar and Grill
19.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious flavors at Tony's Sports Bar and Grill in Oceanside, California, a perfect spot for food lovers and sports fans.
West Bar
20.0 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of West Bar in La Jolla, where exquisite cocktails meet the coastal charm of Southern California.
