These Moonlight State Beach insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: .
Find hotels near Moonlight State Beach, Encinitas
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Aug 18 - Aug 19Tomorrow
Aug 19 - Aug 20This weekend
Aug 21 - Aug 23Next weekend
Aug 28 - Aug 30 Our top choices for Moonlight State Beach hotels
1. Moonlight Beach Motel
Moonlight Beach MotelDowntown Encinitas, 0.2 mi from Moonlight State Beach
melissa
$228 nightly
$251 total
Aug 23 - Aug 24
Total with taxes and fees
2. The Encinitan Hotel & Suites
The Encinitan Hotel & SuitesDowntown Encinitas, 0.5 mi from Moonlight State Beach
Marie
$160 nightly
$175 total
Aug 24 - Aug 25
Total with taxes and fees
3. Inn at Moonlight Beach
Inn at Moonlight BeachDowntown Encinitas, 0.3 mi from Moonlight State Beach
Cesar
$355 nightly
$387 total
Aug 31 - Sep 1
Total with taxes and fees
4. Days Inn by Wyndham Encinitas Moonlight Beach
Days Inn by Wyndham Encinitas Moonlight BeachDowntown Encinitas, 0.5 mi from Moonlight State Beach
Yuri
$94 nightly
$103 total
Sep 7 - Sep 8
Total with taxes and fees
5. Brisa Pacific Hotel Encinitas
Brisa Pacific Hotel EncinitasDowntown Encinitas, 0.6 mi from Moonlight State Beach
curt
$109 nightly
$120 total
Sep 1 - Sep 2
Total with taxes and fees
6. Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas, a Hyatt Luxury Resort
Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas, a Hyatt Luxury Resort2.5 mi from Moonlight State Beach
Jose Oscar Armando Angulo
$526 nightly
$578 total
Sep 8 - Sep 9
Total with taxes and fees
7. Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA Near Del Mar
Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA Near Del Mar2 mi from Moonlight State Beach
Paul
$155 nightly
$170 total
Aug 30 - Aug 31
Total with taxes and fees
8. Cardiff by the Sea Lodge
Cardiff by the Sea Lodge2.2 mi from Moonlight State Beach
Joey
$289 nightly
$318 total
Sep 1 - Sep 2
Total with taxes and fees
9. Leucadia Beach Inn
Leucadia Beach InnLeucadia, 1.6 mi from Moonlight State Beach
Kay
$129 nightly
$142 total
Sep 8 - Sep 9
Total with taxes and fees
10. Rodeway Inn Encinitas North
Rodeway Inn Encinitas NorthLeucadia, 1.8 mi from Moonlight State Beach
Jesse
$75 nightly
$82 total
Aug 19 - Aug 20
Total with taxes and fees
11. Wyndham San Diego Bayside
Wyndham San Diego Bayside23.9 mi from Moonlight State Beach
Hanaa
$167 nightly
$194 total
Aug 24 - Aug 25
Total with taxes and fees
12. The Sofia Hotel
The Sofia Hotel24.2 mi from Moonlight State Beach
Yessenia
$175 nightly
$202 total
Aug 27 - Aug 28
Total with taxes and fees
13. Twelve Senses Retreat
Twelve Senses Retreat1.3 mi from Moonlight State Beach
Felipe
$412 nightly
$453 total
Sep 8 - Sep 9
Total with taxes and fees
14. Hard Rock Hotel San Diego
Hard Rock Hotel San Diego24.8 mi from Moonlight State Beach
Anthony
$227 nightly
$262 total
Aug 26 - Aug 27
Total with taxes and fees
15. Comfort Inn Encinitas Near Legoland
Comfort Inn Encinitas Near LegolandLeucadia, 1.3 mi from Moonlight State Beach
Brenda
$93 nightly
$102 total
Sep 7 - Sep 8
Total with taxes and fees
16. Omni La Costa Resort & Spa Carlsbad
Omni La Costa Resort & Spa Carlsbad3.6 mi from Moonlight State Beach
Carrie
$345 nightly
$386 total
Sep 6 - Sep 7
Total with taxes and fees
17. Paradise Point Resort & Spa
Paradise Point Resort & Spa19.2 mi from Moonlight State Beach
Jared
$269 nightly
$309 total
Sep 7 - Sep 8
Total with taxes and fees
18. The Dana on Mission Bay
The Dana on Mission Bay19.7 mi from Moonlight State Beach
Loretta
$214 nightly
$246 total
Aug 30 - Aug 31
Total with taxes and fees
19. Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, a Hilton Resort & Spa
Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, a Hilton Resort & Spa3.6 mi from Moonlight State Beach
Gina
$183 nightly
$205 total
Sep 7 - Sep 8
Total with taxes and fees
Compare popular hotels close to Moonlight State Beach
Property | Star rating | Guest rating | Breakfast included | Pool | Spa | Pet friendly | WiFi included |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Inn at Moonlight Beach | 9.8 Exceptional 143 reviews | View | |||||
 Twelve Senses Retreat | 9.8 Exceptional 41 reviews | View | |||||
 Leucadia Beach Inn | 9.4 Exceptional 1,006 reviews | View | |||||
 Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA Near Del Mar | 9.2 Wonderful 1,058 reviews | View | |||||
 Brisa Pacific Hotel Encinitas | 8.8 Excellent 1,004 reviews | View |
Top Moonlight State Beach Hotel Reviews
Rodeway Inn Encinitas North
8/10 Good
"Very helpful staff"
Moonlight Beach Motel
10/10 Excellent
"Jennifer was great as well as the woman at the desk on Monday. The cleaning staff also went out of their way to help me."
Comfort Inn Encinitas Near Legoland
10/10 Excellent
"I liked the breakfast that was included."
Brisa Pacific Hotel Encinitas
10/10 Excellent
"Room was very clean, beds were comfortable, A/c worked great! Breakfast was fairly standard but nice. Location is very convenient and nice to have free parking on site."
Leucadia Beach Inn
8/10 Good
"Wonderful staff and experience at this classic spot, we will be back for sure!"
Oceanfront 4Br House, Indoor Heated Pool, Sleeps 8-10
10/10 Excellent
"Great location and very nice hist!"
Gorgeous Eight Bedroom Oceanfront Home E396-0
8/10 Good
"The location of this place is great really close to moonlight Beach and the stairs to walk down to the front beach of the house. Their lifeguards, which is really great. The house has no beach stuff though. It’s pretty minimal on amenities. Also, there’s only three king beds not four. The air-conditioning is not great. They have fans for every room rooms, but it definitely gets pretty warm. We went during a bit of a heat wave so if you get a breeze, normally it should be fine. The freezer doesn’t make ice so they do have a little icemaker, but it’s not much for a big group. The attack gets pretty sunny and hot and the umbrellas don’t provide that much shade to sit out there during the day. But sunset is beautiful."
Impeccable Cape Cod Oceanfront Home Overlooking Swami's Beach.
10/10 Excellent
"Three generations of our family enjoyed a wonderful beach vacation together. We loved the quiet location of the home, the energy of Encinitas, the close access to the beach, the feeling of safety in the area, and the excellent beach frontage that afforded miles of beach walking as well as bluff walking. Our dinners together on the deck watching the sunset were a delight. The rooms were spacious, all with ocean views. It felt like a well-loved home instead of a beach rental. We have already reserved for next year."
50' Ocean Front + 5 Outdoor Spaces + Dogs OK + AC
10/10 Excellent
"The location is awesome! Walking distance (or a super short drive, but parking is not great) to fun and relaxed places to eat. The ocean views and the deck are awesome. The stair case to the beach is a serious workout unless you are in 4 to 5 star shape. I wouldn't recommend it for anyone with knee pain or not used to walking stairs with no options. Kids and young adults, zero issue with stairs. The house is excellent, not modern, but beach house style. Overall, I highly recommend, and would stay there again. It can get warm, so it was nice the place had lots of box fans and an A/C. Moonlight beach is a 3/4 mile walk from the location and Beacon's (surfer gem) is 1/4 mile walk on beach from house. It was awesome overall and I highly recommend."
Other attractions near Moonlight State Beach
Self Realization Fellowship
8.8/10 (75 reviews)
You can find out about the history of Encinitas with a visit to Self Realization Fellowship. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in this family-friendly area.
Photo by L. R.
Beacon Beach
9.2/10 (41 reviews)
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Beacon Beach during your trip to Encinitas? Stroll along the beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area, or check out its top-notch restaurants.
D Street Viewpoint
You can learn about the history of Encinitas with a stop at D Street Viewpoint.
Encinitas Surfboards
You can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Encinitas Surfboards during your visit to Encinitas.
I Street Viewpoint
You can find out about the history of Encinitas when you stop by I Street Viewpoint.
J Street Viewpoint
Learn about the local history of Encinitas with a stop at J Street Viewpoint.
Self Realization Fellowship Hermitage & Meditation Gardens
9.0/10 (96 reviews)
Take the family on an outing to Self Realization Fellowship Hermitage & Meditation Gardens during your trip to Encinitas. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.
Scripps Memorial Hospital Encinitas
Scripps Memorial Hospital Encinitas is just one of the places to see in Encinitas, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels?
Find out more about Moonlight State Beach
Top reasons to visit Moonlight State Beach
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Moonlight State Beach features a playground and recreational areas, making it perfect for families.
- Stunning Sunsets: The beach offers breathtaking sunset views, ideal for relaxation and memorable moments.
- Variety of Activities: Visitors can enjoy surfing, live music, and theater performances, catering to diverse interests.
- Charming Neighborhoods: Explore nearby areas with friendly locals, enhancing your beach vacation experience.
- Comfortable Accommodations: A range of hotels and resorts provide amenities for a convenient and enjoyable stay.
Find great hotels near Moonlight State Beach
Discover ideal hotel accommodations near Moonlight State Beach, Encinitas, California, offering a blend of comfort and adventure. Whether you're traveling with family, bringing your pet along, or seeking a memorable beach getaway, you'll find various resorts and hotels equipped with numerous amenities. Enjoy convenient picnic facilities, on-site parking, beach access, and refreshing outdoor showers to enhance your vacation experience.
- DoubleTree by Hilton San Diego - Del Mar: Experience a blend of luxury and adventure at this 4-star hotel, rated 8.4, located 9 miles from Moonlight State Beach. Perfect for families and beach lovers, the DoubleTree offers direct beach access and a range of thrilling activities nearby, including hiking, sailing, and snorkeling. Kids will enjoy dedicated amenities such as a children's pool and breakfast options, ensuring a fun-filled stay for the whole family.
- Motel 6 Carlsbad, CA Beach: This budget-friendly motel is a mere 4 miles from Moonlight State Beach and is ideal for pet owners looking for an affordable getaway. Motel 6 Carlsbad is pet-friendly, accommodating dogs and cats with a straightforward policy. It’s a great choice for travelers seeking a cost-effective option without compromising on comfort, allowing you to enjoy the beach while bringing your furry friend along.
- Days Inn by Wyndham Encinitas Moonlight Beach: Located just 0.5 miles from the beach, this budget-friendly motel is perfect for those eager to enjoy the sun and surf. With direct beach access and a variety of nearby adventure activities like horse riding, snorkeling, and hiking, Days Inn provides a fantastic base for beachgoers. Guests appreciate the convenient location and the comfortable accommodations, making it a great choice for an exciting beach vacation.
Where to stay near Moonlight State Beach
Moonlight State Beach in Encinitas, California, is a perfect getaway for families and couples alike, offering sandy shores and a friendly atmosphere. As you explore the beachfront, you'll find opportunities for relaxation and exciting excursions. Don't miss the chance to experience the charm of nearby neighborhoods, where friendly locals and romantic settings enhance your vacation. Enjoy the sun, surf, and the vibrant Encinitas community as you create lasting memories on this beautiful California coast.
- Encinitas: Encinitas is a vibrant coastal city where Moonlight State Beach is located. It offers a laid-back atmosphere perfect for beach lovers and families seeking outdoor adventures. The city showcases stunning beaches, local parks, and recreational areas that cater to various interests. Popular attractions include the iconic beach, family-friendly areas, and the nearby national state park, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and exploration. With peak visitor seasons from April to June and July, Encinitas provides a lively beach experience year-round.
- Leucadia: Just a mile away from Moonlight State Beach, Leucadia is a charming neighborhood renowned for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities. It attracts visitors seeking a mix of beach vibes and picturesque landscapes. The area features beautiful parks and renowned golf courses, perfect for both relaxation and recreation. Similar to its neighboring areas, Leucadia sees peak visitor numbers from April to June and July, ensuring a lively atmosphere with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the beach and local attractions.
- Cardiff-by-the-Sea: Located 2 miles from Moonlight State Beach, Cardiff-by-the-Sea is a delightful city that offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities and family-friendly experiences. This coastal gem is known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant community events. Visitors can enjoy recreational parks, shopping centers, and various attractions, including the fairground showground. Like Encinitas and Leucadia, Cardiff-by-the-Sea sees its peak visitor numbers in the spring and summer months, making it a lively destination for those looking to soak up the sun and local culture.
Things to do near Moonlight State Beach
At Moonlight State Beach in Encinitas, California, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as surfing, live music, and theater performances. Families will appreciate the Moonlight Beach playground and the fun recreational areas available. Don't miss the stunning beach sunsets, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoyment at this beautiful beach destination.
Shopping
At Moonlight State Beach, you can find local shops offering beachwear and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the Westfield Plaza Camino Real, about 10 miles away, for a wider selection of brand-name stores and dining options.
Recreation
Experience the luxury of The Salvation Army Kroc Center, a private club 25 miles from Moonlight State Beach. Enjoy top-notch wellness facilities, including fitness classes, a relaxing spa, and a serene environment perfect for rejuvenation. Unwind and recharge in this exclusive retreat.
Adventure
Explore the sandy shores of Moonlight State Beach for sunbathing and beach volleyball. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to enjoy the ocean, and don’t miss the scenic coastal trails for hiking. The beach’s vibrant sunset makes for a perfect end to your adventurous day.
Nightlife
At Moonlight State Beach in Encinitas, the nightlife is vibrant and inviting. Enjoy beach bonfires and live music at local bars, or dine at cozy waterfront restaurants. Just a short walk away, you can explore charming shops and laid-back lounges that add to the lively atmosphere.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Moonlight State Beach
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Moonlight State Beach are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Moonlight State Beach is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Moonlight State Beach is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to customize your travel preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will show you available sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels. To find the best prices and deals, sort the price filter from low to high.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by bundling your hotel stay at Moonlight State Beach with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Moonlight State Beach
Moonlight State Beach offers a delightful mix of outdoor experiences perfect for families and beach lovers. Visitors can enjoy the sun and surf at the beach, explore nearby urban parks for a leisurely stroll, or take a trip to local theme parks for some family-friendly fun. With its beautiful coastal scenery and various attractions, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this charming Encinitas destination.
- LEGOLAND® California: Experience a world of creativity and fun at LEGOLAND® California, located 6 miles from Moonlight State Beach. This family-friendly theme park features exciting rides, interactive attractions, and incredible LEGO displays that will delight visitors of all ages. Perfect for families, it's a great way to spend a day filled with laughter and adventure.
- Del Mar Beach: Enjoy the sun and surf at Del Mar Beach, also 6 miles away. This beautiful stretch of sand offers a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or beachcombing. The scenic views and gentle waves create the ideal spot for a laid-back day by the ocean.
- Flower Fields of Carlsbad: Just 5 miles from Moonlight State Beach, the Flower Fields of Carlsbad is a vibrant floral display that blooms each spring. Stroll through the colorful rows of flowers, enjoy the fresh air, and take in the stunning landscapes—an outdoor oasis perfect for families and nature lovers alike.
Best time to go to Moonlight State Beach
The best time to visit Moonlight State Beach is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are high and weather is sunny with no rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with light rain.
 Calendar Month |  Temperature |  Precipitation |  Cloudiness |  Occupancy |  Pricing |
| January | 57.2°F (14.0°C) | Light Rain | Sunny | Low | Slightly Low |
| February | 56.7°F (13.7°C) | Light Rain | Sunny | Average | Average |
| March | 57.9°F (14.4°C) | No Rain | Mostly Sunny | Average | Average |
| April | 60.3°F (15.7°C) | No Rain | Sunny | Average | Average |
| May | 62.1°F (16.7°C) | No Rain | Sunny | Average | Average |
| June | 65.5°F (18.6°C) | No Rain | Sunny | High | Slightly High |
| July | 69.8°F (21.0°C) | No Rain | Sunny | High | Slightly High |
| August | 71.4°F (21.9°C) | No Rain | Sunny | High | Slightly High |
| September | 71.2°F (21.8°C) | No Rain | Sunny | Average | Average |
| October | 67.5°F (19.7°C) | No Rain | Sunny | Average | Average |
| November | 62.1°F (16.7°C) | No Rain | Sunny | Low | Slightly Low |
| December | 57.2°F (14.0°C) | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny | Low | Slightly Low |
The nearest major airports for your trip to Moonlight State Beach
To visit Moonlight State Beach in Encinitas, California, you have several airport options. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is 89 miles away, with nearby luxury hotels like The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey and Regent SANta Monica Beach. San Diego International Airport (SAN), located 23 miles from the beach, offers convenient access to upscale accommodations such as Pendry San Diego and The US Grant. Additionally, John Wayne Airport (SNA) is 54 miles away, with hotels like The Resort at Pelican Hill and Balboa Bay Resort nearby. Each airport provides various transportation options to these hotels, making your travel experience smooth and enjoyable.
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