Downtown Encinitas

The Historic heart of Encinitas lies on the 101 Hwy just West of the 5 freeway, where the main why is lined with shops, local Encinitas Businesses, and of course beautiful beaches with coastal homes. Downtown Encinitas is truly unique, full of vibrant community life and culture no matter what time of day or time of year.

 

Living in Downtown Encinitas gives you access to one of the most beautiful beaches known as Swami’s Beach, where the best sunsets are soaked in by residents every evening paired with the point break’s waves crashing along the coastal beach. Life in Downtown Encinitas offers residents community centered living, with dining, shopping, and entertainment all within walking distance in the main part of downtown.

 

The homes in the downtown area of Encinitas are located around the area North of Santa Fe Dr., and circle around Encinitas Blvd. Most homes in the proper “downtown” section are also located West of the 5 freeway and offer “beach style homes”. homes in encinitas encinitas coast lifeHomes that run along 4th street in Encinitas offer oceanfront, blufftop views of the ocean and access to some of the most beautiful sunsets over the ocean. These homes are mostly detached, four-bedroom plus layouts on smaller lots. 2nd and 3rd street also run parallel with the ocean and is comprised of neighborhood businesses mixed with custom beach cottages and homes with tons of Encinitas beach living character. There are some mixed use condos and apartments popping up along the Hwy 101 which offer a more “downtown” living feel, check out The Lofts Encinitas right above Moonlight Beach. From Cardiff, San Elijo Ave turns into Vulcan Ave. which sits behind the Coaster and Amtrak train tracks East of Hwy 101.

 

Vulcan and the neighborhood on the East side of Downtown offers multi-family rental properties, quirky historic homes, and new builds. Cornish Dr. sits high up on the hills that overlook downtown and offers incredible views of the city. The eclectic homes in Downtown attract residents from all walks of life and living her is well worth the money it takes to live so close to everything! Check out homes for sale West of I-5 on our site and browse your future beach style dream home!

 

Where do we begin with things to do in downtown Encinitas? You won’t be bored when exploring the coastal blocks of downtown. From amazing food curated from all around the world, whole foods market, farmer’s markets, nightlife, street fairs, and shopping to fill your plastic free shopping bags. Explore Encinitas and all it has to offer for residents and visitors.

 

Where to eat in Encinitas? Pick from a number of options! Perhaps the best thing that Downtown Encinitas is known are the dozens of restaurants and breweries that dot Hwy 101. From gourmet Italian food to local breweries with local beers on tap, you can eat and drink to your heart’s delight.

 

A popular and enjoyable place to grab some delicious food is our personal favorite, BierGarden, which offers indoor/outdoor seating, large flatscreen tvs to catch the latest surf contest or sports game, and a great spot to catch up with an old friend. Try their infamous bloody mary’s with a beer chaser and you won’t be disappointed.

 

Lofty Coffee Encinitas is by far the best growing local coffee spot in North County San Diego. Coffee snobs and addicts in Encinitas agree that the coffee from Lofty is by far superior than your average coffee – it may even be converting those diehard Starbucks fans too. With two locations right in downtown Encinitas and more popping up in places like Solana Beach, this super local coffee spot will fill your caffeine cravings and even give you some great pastry options with gluten free muffins. Living locally in Encinitas offers great coffee for all who find it the best of morning routines.

 

Lotus Cafe is also one of Encinitas Coast Life’s favorite restaurants to pop into for lunch or maybe a wholesome dinner. With a large menu, prices that won’t break the bank, and a great location downtown, Lotus Cafe makes eating healthy and eat downtown a great option. Try their artichoke grilled chicken sandwich or their soup of the day! They also have tons of vegan and gluten free options for those that have dietary restrictions.

 

Shopping in Downtown Encinitas

 

Small ones, large ones, bargain or luxury, food and fun – if you haven’t guessed it yet, I am of course describing the variety of shopping that you can find in Downtown Encinitas. The shops on the 101 in Encinitas provides everything to fill your shopping needs and plastic-free bags. Indulge in a little shopping spree, grab some gourmet food, then hit the shops again. You can make an entire days just wondering the blocks in downtown Encinitas.

 

Here are a few highlights of the stores we frequent and love. For a complete list and more info on downtown 101 visit the Mainstreet Association here.

 

If you are looking to get outfitted for the next costume party or you just dig vintage threads, then the quirky Flashbacks vintage shop will help outfit you. Choose from thousands of unique and vintages pieces in men’s and women’s apparel and accessories. Step back in time once you step into this colorful shop.

 

If you are searching for the perfect home decor then look no further than Gardenology or Grounded. Both shops are located a few blocks from each other right on the 101. Gardenology offers a fresh look and organic, rustic, and lived in design and Grounded offers a cleaner, modern take on home decor offering Swedish and Danish Design. Both stores will help you outfit your home to look beautiful. If you are looking to fix you home, Ace Hardware is conveniently located and offers all your home care gear.