Things to do in Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Photo by Marcel Fuentes
Photo by Marcel Fuentes
Photo by Marcel Fuentes
Photo by Marcel Fuentes
Photo by Cat James
Photo by Cat James
Photo by trenton.badillo
Photo by trenton.badillo
Photo by Svetlana Couture
Photo by Svetlana Couture

Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.

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Most popular activities in Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Tours & day trips

See all 22 activities
Beaches & Bluffs San Diego's Ultimate Coastal Driving Tour

Beaches & Bluffs San Diego's Ultimate Coastal Driving Tour

Activity duration is 6 hours
5.0 out of 10 with 2 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $12 per traveler*
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Water activities

See all 8 activities
Leucadia Beach Surf Lessons

Leucadia Beach Surf Lessons

Activity duration is 1 hour and 30 minutes
Free cancellation available
Price is $120 per adult
Leucadia Beach Surf LessonsOpens in new tab

Private & custom tours

See all 5 activities
Beaches & Bluffs San Diego's Ultimate Coastal Driving Tour

Beaches & Bluffs San Diego's Ultimate Coastal Driving Tour

Activity duration is 6 hours
5.0 out of 10 with 2 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $12 per traveler*
Beaches & Bluffs San Diego's Ultimate Coastal Driving TourOpens in new tab

What to do in Cardiff-by-the-Sea

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Cardiff-by-the-Sea? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in Cardiff-by-the-Sea

An early sunset in Cardiff makes everything alright. Best times to catch a sunset here is in fall.

Cardiff State Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Cardiff State Beach during your trip to Cardiff-by-the-Sea? Amble around this family-friendly area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Cardiff State Beach

Encinitas Community Park

Enjoy the beautiful sunsets and explore Encinitas Community Park, a lovely green space in Cardiff-by-the-Sea. Amble around this family-friendly area's beautiful beaches, or seek out the surfing spots.

Encinitas Community Park

Eli Howard Surf School

5/5(2 reviews)

Enjoy a trip to Eli Howard Surf School and popular activities like surfing in Cardiff-by-the-Sea. Wander the beautiful beaches or discover the beautiful sunsets in this family-friendly area.

Eli Howard Surf School

Maggie Houlihan Memorial Dog Park

After visiting Maggie Houlihan Memorial Dog Park, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Cardiff-by-the-Sea. Amble around this family-friendly area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Maggie Houlihan Memorial Dog Park

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Photo by Cyn Hop

Solana Beach

San Diego Botanic Garden featuring a pond and a park

Encinitas

Frequently asked questions

Is Cardiff-by-the-Sea worth visiting?
Cardiff-by-the-Sea has a unique mix of attractions, local charm and culture. Whether you're into history, the outdoors or regional cuisine, there's a lot you'll find here.
How do I spend a day in Cardiff-by-the-Sea?
LEGOLAND® California and Moonlight State Beach are two great places to kick-start your sightseeing adventures. Remember to explore the dining and retail options in Cardiff-by-the-Sea while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Cardiff-by-the-Sea?
LEGOLAND® California is one of the top tourist attractions in Cardiff-by-the-Sea and should feature high on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Cardiff-by-the-Sea?
You can easily tick off popular attractions like Moonlight State Beach, South Carlsbad State Beach and San Elijo State Beach with a three-day trip to Cardiff-by-the-Sea. On average, many travelers book three days here. There's plenty to experience nearby too, so linger longer and head to San Diego County.
Is Cardiff-by-the-Sea a walkable city?
With top attractions like Moonlight State Beach nearby, Cardiff-by-the-Sea is every bit a place to see on foot. Want to visit some exciting neighborhoods a walkable distance from the city center? Olde Solana Beach is just 2 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Cardiff-by-the-Sea with kids?
Planning what to do in Cardiff-by-the-Sea with kids has never been easier. Whether you're getting away with little ones or teenagers, there are many family-friendly attractions to keep them happy here.
What to do in Cardiff-by-the-Sea for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Round off your day with a visit to Carruth Cellars Winery or Craftsmanship Museum.
Are there free things to do in Cardiff-by-the-Sea?
One of the top ways to find free things to do in Cardiff-by-the-Sea is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on exciting neighborhoods, parks and other major attractions you can experience without getting your cash out. Moonlight State Beach is one sight that doesn't have an entrance fee.