Properties are selected based on real traveller reviews and popularity among guests who’ve booked a night in Encinitas on Hotels.com. These Encinitas hotels consistently deliver on quality, location and traveller experience. Last updated on 13 November 2026.
Price: £95 (Soak up California sun at this peaceful Cardiff Beach hotel with private pool and hot tub. Just minutes from Moonlight State Beach and LEGOLAND®, you'll appreciate the free breakfast, fitness centre, and comfy beds after a day of coastal adventures.), includes taxes & fees, 13 Dec - 14 Dec
Price: £109 (Steps from Del Mar's beaches, this hotel offers a resort-style pool, hot tub, and poolside bar for complete relaxation. The American restaurant serves all meals, while nearby attractions include Torrey Pines Golf Course and UCSD.), includes taxes & fees, 13 Dec - 14 Dec
Price: £213 (Discover a serene paradise with lush tropical gardens and easy beach access. Rent boats right from the marina, dine at the Californian cuisine restaurant, or unwind with deep-tissue massages at the spa. Mission Bay's treasures and Port of San Diego are just minutes away.), includes taxes & fees, 13 Dec - 14 Dec
Price: £280, includes taxes & fees, 16 Nov - 17 Nov
This boutique B&B offers a peaceful retreat near Encinitas shores with complimentary continental breakfast and parking. Gardens and a terrace create a relaxing atmosphere, while LEGOLAND California and Del Mar Racetrack are just a short drive away.
Price: £110, includes taxes & fees, 15 Nov - 16 Nov
Wake up to breathtaking sunset panoramas at this Mediterranean getaway just minutes from Moonlight State Beach. Enjoy the outdoor pool, relaxing hot tub, and peaceful atmosphere while staying within easy reach of LEGOLAND® California and local shopping.
Price: £250 (Lush gardens and 8 outdoor pools create a relaxing atmosphere at this Tuscan-style resort. Just a 10-minute drive from LEGOLAND California, enjoy 4 restaurants, a golf course, water park, and rejuvenating spa treatments.), includes taxes & fees, 29 Nov - 30 Nov
Price: £115 (Explore Del Mar's scenic coastline from this welcoming hotel near Del Mar Beach and Racetrack. Unwind in the outdoor pool, enjoy coastal cuisine at the restaurant, or maintain routines at the 24-hour fitness centre.), includes taxes & fees, 13 Dec - 14 Dec
Price: £78, includes taxes & fees, 15 Nov - 16 Nov
Sun-soaked simplicity awaits at this motel just a short drive from Moonlight State Beach. Enjoy the peaceful garden and terrace after exploring nearby LEGOLAND California. Clean rooms, helpful staff, and complimentary WiFi make this coastal retreat memorable.
Price: £149 (Wake to stunning bay views at this waterfront hotel near Port of San Diego. Hop on the trolley at America Plaza Station, just 7 minutes away, or enjoy lunch at Hazelwoods Bayside Deli. The outdoor pool offers a refreshing retreat after exploring nearby Petco Park.), includes taxes & fees, 22 Nov - 23 Nov
This Cardiff-by-the-Sea lodge offers free WiFi and easy access to Moonlight State Beach and Del Mar Racetrack. Explore nearby hiking trails and premier surfing spots, or drive to Torrey Pines Golf Course for a round with ocean views.
Price: £569 (Bask in a peaceful sanctuary near San Diego's attractions. This Carlsbad hotel offers 2 outdoor pools and Californian cuisine at Seasons Restaurant. After exploring LEGOLAND® California, rejuvenate with deep-tissue massages at the spa.), includes taxes & fees, 14 Dec - 15 Dec
Price: £89, includes taxes & fees, 22 Nov - 23 Nov
Wake up to free breakfast at this Carlsbad hotel just minutes from LEGOLAND® and Moonlight State Beach. Relax in the outdoor pool after exploring, or unwind in the hot tub as day turns to night. Poinsettia Station is a 9-minute walk away.
Price: £86 (This quiet Carlsbad hotel offers free breakfast and parking just a 10-minute drive from LEGOLAND California. Enjoy the outdoor pool, 24-hour fitness centre, and easy access to Carlsbad State Beach, with Poinsettia Station only a short walk away.), includes taxes & fees, 1 Dec - 2 Dec
Price: £309, includes taxes & fees, 15 Nov - 16 Nov
Experience tranquility at this Encinitas hideaway offering facials and deep-tissue massages. Just minutes from Moonlight State Beach with free WiFi and parking, this Design Hotels member provides easy access to LEGOLAND and Del Mar attractions.
Price: £388, includes taxes & fees, 14 Dec - 15 Dec
Perched along Encinitas Beach, this luxury resort offers indulgent spa services featuring aromatherapy and deep-tissue massages. Cool off at the poolside bar before enjoying fusion cuisine at Vaga restaurant, just minutes from LEGOLAND.
Tucked into Encinitas, this charming inn offers free WiFi and parking just minutes from Moonlight State Beach. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the nearby hiking trails, kayaking, and mountain biking opportunities, all within reach of LEGOLAND California.
Price: £158 (Immerse yourself in coastal serenity at this Mission Bay hotel with stunning sunset vistas. Just minutes from Mission Beach, this haven offers 2 outdoor pools with poolside bars, plus a restaurant serving California cuisine. The marina location and garden landscapes create perfect holiday vibes.), includes taxes & fees, 11 Dec - 12 Dec
Escape to this quiet retreat with a refreshing outdoor pool, minutes from Moonlight Beach. Enjoy complimentary breakfast and parking while exploring nearby shops, restaurants, and cafes. Clean rooms and helpful staff create an ideal coastal getaway.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Price: £120, includes taxes & fees, 22 Nov - 23 Nov, for You can also stay at hotels with a hot tub in Encinitas
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Encinitas's Leucadia neighbourhood is known for its beaches and restaurants, and entices visitors with attractions, including Leucadia State Beach and Grandview Surf Beach.
If want to top up your tan, you might want to head out to Moonlight State Beach, located 0.8 mi (1.3 km) from central Encinitas. If you want to continue walking by the waves, head to Beacon Beach located nearby.
San Diego Botanic Garden is worth a visit, located 1.3 mi (2.1 km) from central Encinitas. Hotels.com travellers also say the area is full of friendly people and that it has lots of nice beaches.
If you can't wait to get to the beach, you might enjoy a trip to Leucadia State Beach, located 2.1 mi (3.3 km) from central Encinitas. If you want to continue walking by the waves, head to Grandview Surf Beach and Beacon Beach, both within a short walk.
When the beach is calling your name, you might want to head down to Swamis Beach, located 0.4 mi (0.6 km) from central Encinitas. Catch the sunset by the shore at San Elijo State Beach, just a short walk away.
Whether you want to hunt for sand dollars or smell the fresh air, South Ponto Beach is a spot you might want to check out, located 3.5 mi (5.6 km) from central Encinitas. If you want to continue walking by the waves, head to Grandview Surf Beach located nearby.
Why not give yourself a treat with a trip to Self Realization Fellowship Hermitage & Meditation Gardens, just one of the family attractions in central Encinitas? Hotels.com travellers also say the area is full of friendly people and that it has lots of nice beaches. If you have fun at Self Realization Fellowship Hermitage & Meditation Gardens, you'll love Del Mar Fairgrounds and Pelly's Mini Golf at Del Mar Golf Center, both located nearby.
You might want to practise your swing at Encinitas Ranch Golf Course, a golf course located 2.4 mi (3.8 km) from central Encinitas. Hotels.com travellers also say the area is family-friendly and that it has lots of nice beaches. If Encinitas Ranch Golf Course doesn't quite scratch your golfing itch, La Costa Golf Courses - North and South, and The Crossings at Carlsbad are also nearby.
If want to top up your tan, you might want to head out to Grandview Surf Beach, located 2.5 mi (4.1 km) from central Encinitas. Catch the sunset by the shore at Leucadia State Beach, just a short walk away.
Hang ten at Swami's Beach, immortalised by the Beach Boys in 'Surfin' USA.' The Self-Realization Fellowship Gardens offer peaceful meditation spaces on coastal bluffs overlooking the Pacific. City centre feels like a 1950s film set with a classic welcome sign spanning Coast Highway. Moonlight State Beach provides perfect swimming when Swami's waves prove too challenging. San Elijo State Beach attracts campers who wake to oceanfront views without the premium price. After sunset, explore main street's surf shops and seafood spots where locals debate wave conditions with scholarly precision. Families can venture to nearby LEGOLAND for a theme park experience that complements beach days.
Review: Really cool space! Just a few small things would make it perfect, like the shower being overhead only (I didn’t want to wash my hair), by Rachel, 16 November 2025, rated 8/10 Very good
Address: 7100 Aviara Resort Drive, Carlsbad, CA, 92011, US
Location: Aviara
Star rating: 5/5
Guest rating: 9.4/10 (1000 reviews)
Review: Beautiful hotel with large pool areas. Completely separate pool for children meaning the pool area for adults was calm and peaceful. Definitely need a car as the hotel is not near Carlsbad itself or the beach and is a good 30 miles down the I5 from San Diego. Bear in mind that the price does NOT include a $30 dollar per day valet charge for car parking plus a $35 dollar per day service charge. This adds quite an amount to the price shown. However, for a relaxing, grown up experience I..., by sue, 21 April 2015, rated 10/10 Exceptional
Review: The hotel is clean and well maintained and provides a good, central base for travelling around locally and also further afield, such as down to San Diego or up the coast to Los Angeles. The staff are welcoming, friendly and receptive to anything that is asked of them and they are empowered to deliver. The General Manager, Carl Holmes, has many years of hospitality experience and is well known as a go to person in the hotel industry. The team he has hand picked to carry out his ethos at The Ayres..., by Ian, 4 September 2026, rated 10/10 Exceptional
Address: 142 Chesterfield Drive, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA, 92007, US
Location: Cardiff-by-the-Sea
Star rating: 3/5
Guest rating: 8.6/10 (838 reviews)
Review: Welcoming friendly staff introduced us to the amenities, room and rooftop garden. Sea view even from ground floor. Off-street parking if desired. Rooftop garden a real bonus: a) to see sunsets over the Pacific, b) able to take own picnic there, c) hot water Jacuzzi. Local shops. enormous beach and good restaurants in walking distance., by Tim & Barbara, 14 August 2015, rated 10/10 Exceptional
Review: Great property. Large living area. Ample facilities for children and adults alike - warm swimming pools, mini golf, play area, tennis courts etc. Free hire of sports and beach equipment etc. Staff very friendly. Definitely recommend this property and will return., by David, 24 September 2018, rated 10/10 Exceptional
Review: Beautiful hotel, delicious evening meal and breakfast. We had a small issue in that our bathroom door kept locking from the outside which was a little frustrating however maintenance responded to this quickly on each occasion. Great location and gorgeous view of the sunset from across the road., by Rebecca, 28 August 2025, rated 10/10 Exceptional
Review: We stayed here for 5 nights so we could go to Legoland with our toddler. What a lovely place. Front desk staff, bar staff, housekeeping - all lovely. The pool area is relaxing, and spacious. The whole hotel is immaculate and has nice decor throughout. If you have kids, there is a great playground and kids splash park away from the adult pool that will keep them busy. Happy hour starts at 3:30pm so make sure you try one of their awesome margaritas next to the pool. Legoland is about a 10min walk..., by Ian, 27 June 2024, rated 10/10 Exceptional
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a hotel room cost in Encinitas?
You can find top hotels in Encinitas from £58 with options to suit your budget and needs. Leucadia Beach Inn and Brisa Pacific Hotel Encinitas are a couple of low-cost options that are popular with our travellers. To find an affordable hotel in Encinitas that meets all of your requirements, just apply filters on Hotels.com and sort hotels by "Price: low to high".
How can I find deals and earn rewards at Encinitas hotels?
Discover great deals on Encinitas hotel stays with Hotels.com. It's also a good idea to look at hotel prices mid-week or during the low season as you're likely to find off-peak deals. If it's a spontaneous trip, check out our last-minute deals on Encinitas hotels.
Can I book Encinitas hotels with free cancellation?
To book a refundable Encinitas hotel on Hotels.com, just filter hotels by "Property cancellation options" and select "Fully refundable property". The majority of hotels offer free cancellation, so you can receive a refund if you need to cancel. Some hotels do require cancelling more than 24 hours before check-in, so double-check your booking beforehand.
What are the top-rated luxury hotels in Encinitas?
For a beachy holiday in Encinitas, Moonlight State Beach, Leucadia State Beach, and Swamis Beach are some of the best places to visit. Pick a well-reviewed Encinitas beach hotel to maximise your holiday. Check out Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas, a Hyatt Luxury Resort if you're after a resort that's near the water. With a beach and guestrooms offering streaming services, our travellers rate it highly at 8.8 out of 10.
What are some top pet-friendly hotels in Encinitas?
Our travellers' top pet-friendly hotels in Encinitas include:
You can also use the "Amenities" filter in your search on Hotels.com and check "Pet friendly" to discover more pet-friendly hotels in Encinitas.
What are some of the best hotels in Encinitas for couples?
Choose a top-rated Encinitas romantic hotel and enjoy your couple's getaway. Our travellers love Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas, a Hyatt Luxury Resort , a resort with a beach. Another romantic hotel with top reviews is Twelve Senses Retreat. This bed & breakfast offers in-room massages for a perfect stay. Discover more hotels in Encinitas on Hotels.com for couples by using the "Traveller experience" filter in your search and selecting "Adults only" or "Romantic".
What are the top Encinitas hotels with a pool?
Discover some of the best Encinitas hotels with a pool for a little extra luxury on your trip. The Encinitan Hotel & Suites is a great hotel in Downtown Encinitas with an outdoor pool and a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10. You can select "Pool" in the "Amenities" filter of your search on Hotels.com to find even more places to stay in Encinitas with a pool.
What are some of the best Encinitas hotels with free parking?
If you're exploring by car, finding a great Encinitas hotel with free parking is a win. Our travellers' favourites include:
Twelve Senses Retreat: A bed & breakfast with an average guest rating of 9.8 out of 10
Moonlight Beach Motel: A motel in Downtown Encinitas with an average guest rating of 9.6
Inn at Moonlight Beach: A bed & breakfast in Downtown Encinitas with an average guest rating of 9.6
What are some popular hotels in central Encinitas?
For hotels in central Encinitas, check out Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, a Hilton Resort & Spa and Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach. Travellers love Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, a Hilton Resort & Spa for its location, as well as the beach (direct access), outdoor pool and full-service spa this resort offers. Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach is another popular central hotel with an outdoor pool, a hot tub and an ocean-view restaurant. Stay at one of these hotels for easy access to top sights like Del Mar Beach, Del Mar Racetrack, and Moonlight State Beach. Carmel Valley and Leucadia are some of the most central areas for your Encinitas holiday.
Find out more about Encinitas
Encinitas: Where Coastal Serenity Meets Vibrant Adventure
Nestled along California's stunning coastline, Encinitas is a charming beach town that beckons sun-seekers and nature lovers alike. Renowned for its beautiful beaches and vibrant surf culture, visitors can explore the picturesque coastline or relax at the family-friendly Moonlight Beach. The enchanting gardens of the San Diego Botanic Garden and the breathtaking views from the cliffs at Swami's Beach offer a perfect blend of tranquillity and adventure. With its laid-back vibe, delightful cafés, and eclectic shops, Encinitas is an irresistible destination for those seeking both relaxation and a taste of California's coastal charm.
Discover great hotels near Encinitas
Encinitas offers a diverse range of hotel accommodations, from boutique inns to larger resorts. You can find charming beachfront properties for a laid-back vibe, as well as more upscale options featuring modern amenities and stunning ocean views, making it a delightful destination for any traveller. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travellers near Encinitas:
Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas: This budget-friendly hotel boasts a remarkable guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, making it an excellent choice for leisure travellers. With spacious rooms equipped with modern amenities like microwaves and refrigerators, comfort is assured. Guests appreciate the complimentary breakfast and ample parking, as well as the welcoming atmosphere. The hotel’s commitment to being LGBTQIA-friendly and pet-friendly adds to its charm, making it a desirable destination for those seeking a relaxed and inclusive environment.
Cardiff by the Sea Lodge: With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, this 3.0-star hotel is a fantastic option for adventure seekers looking to immerse themselves in beach life. Featuring direct beach access, the property offers a variety of recreational activities, including surfing and hiking. The rooftop seating areas provide a stunning setting to enjoy sunsets with a glass of wine, while local restaurants are just a stroll away. Guests rave about the beautiful views, comfortable accommodations, and delightful healthy breakfast options that enhance their overall experience.
Holiday Inn Express Solana Beach-Del Mar by IHG: Rated at 8.0 out of 10, this budget-friendly hotel is perfect for leisure travellers craving a beach getaway. With direct access to the beach and nearby adventure sports, it invites guests to explore the great outdoors. The friendly staff and ongoing property enhancements create a welcoming atmosphere, while the convenient location just a block from the beach ensures a delightful stay. The clean accommodations and focus on guest comfort make it an appealing choice for those seeking a vibrant, active holiday.
Where to stay near Encinitas
Some of the best areas to stay in Encinitas are Carlsbad, Oceanside, and Del Mar. Carlsbad is perfect for families with its beaches and LEGOLAND®. Oceanside offers vibrant beachfront activities and a charming pier, while Del Mar boasts delightful dining and horse racing. For first-time visitors, Carlsbad is particularly well-suited for a memorable stay.
Carlsbad: Carlsbad is a fantastic spot for families and beach lovers alike, boasting stunning coastlines and a friendly atmosphere. Known for its beautiful beaches, you can enjoy surfing, relaxing on the sand, or catching breathtaking sunsets. Don’t miss LEGOLAND® California, an exciting theme park perfect for kids and the young at heart. For a more serene experience, visit the Flower Fields, showcasing vibrant blooms in the spring. With a variety of shopping options and scenic running paths along the coast, Carlsbad offers a well-rounded experience for every traveller.
Oceanside: Oceanside is a charming beach town that draws in visitors with its laid-back vibe and beautiful coastal scenery. The iconic Oceanside Pier is perfect for leisurely strolls and catching the sunset, while the sandy beaches invite you for a day of surf and sun. Enjoy the local flora at the nearby parks or explore the vibrant atmosphere of the Oceanside Sunset Market. With friendly people and a range of outdoor activities, Oceanside is a delightful place to stay for those looking to soak up the sun and enjoy a relaxed beach lifestyle.
Del Mar: Del Mar is an upscale coastal gem known for its beautiful beaches and elegant dining options. Ideal for those who appreciate horse racing and local festivals, this area exudes a charming small-town feel with vibrant shopping and cafes. The beaches here are perfect for sunbathing and leisurely strolls, making it an excellent choice for couples or anyone looking for a peaceful retreat. Don’t forget to explore the scenic coastal trails and enjoy the stunning sea views that Del Mar has to offer.
Things to do in Encinitas
Encinitas enchants visitors with its stunning coastline, where golden beaches meet the azure sea, perfect for surfing and sunset strolls. Lush gardens and vibrant blooms create a serene backdrop for leisurely walks, while nearby hills invite hiking enthusiasts to explore. It’s a delightful escape into nature’s embrace.
Flower Fields of Carlsbad – Experience a stunning display of vibrant blooms at the Flower Fields of Carlsbad. This expansive garden showcases a breathtaking array of flowers that transform the landscape into a colourful masterpiece. Take a leisurely stroll through the paths, breathe in the fragrant air, and capture the beauty of nature with your camera.
Oceanside Beach – Spend a sunny day at Oceanside Beach, where you can soak up the sun, build sandcastles, or take a refreshing dip in the Pacific Ocean. The sandy shores are perfect for a picnic or simply relaxing while listening to the soothing sounds of the waves crashing.
Oceanside Pier – Venture out to the Oceanside Pier for picturesque views of the coastline. This iconic jetty is an ideal spot for a leisurely walk, fishing, or enjoying the sunset. Don’t forget to grab a bite at one of the nearby eateries while you’re there!
LEGOLAND® California – Dive into a world of creativity and fun at LEGOLAND® California. This theme park is packed with exciting rides, interactive exhibits, and imaginative LEGO displays that will delight visitors of all ages. Whether you’re zooming down a roller coaster or exploring Miniland, the adventure is endless.
Del Mar Beach – Discover the beauty of Del Mar Beach, where golden sands meet the sparkling sea. It’s a fantastic spot for swimming, sunbathing, or taking a scenic walk along the shore. The laid-back atmosphere makes it a perfect getaway for families and friends to enjoy a relaxing day by the ocean.
4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Encinitas
Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Encinitas is during January, November, and December when hotel prices tend to be lower. To truly appreciate the rich landmarks, cultural sites, and natural beauty of the area, it is advisable to stay for at least 3 to 4 days. This duration allows visitors to explore its stunning beaches, engage in surfing, admire the coastal gardens, enjoy fresh seafood, and witness breathtaking sunsets. With plenty of cafes and scenic walking paths, a trip to Encinitas offers great value for money, especially for those planning on a budget.
Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover last-minute deals for hotels in Encinitas, visit the Deals or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted rates as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay updated on flash sales and special promotions, helping you avoid missing any savings opportunities. Additionally, the Smart Shopping tool available in the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you’re informed about the best options. This way, if prices drop or rooms become available, you could be among the first to book your spontaneous getaway.
Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate due to various factors, including the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you find a more affordable option for your stay in an Encinitas hotel. For those in search of unique accommodations, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised experience and can sometimes offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we will inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price appears to be on the higher side, we may suggest alternative dates that could help you find a more favourable rate.
Consider your location: Hotels located near the city centre generally tend to be more expensive; however, with Encinitas's superb public transport links, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel situated further out that remains well-connected. For those keen to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.
Best time to go to Encinitas
Encinitas experiences its lowest average temperature in February, at 56.7°F (13.7°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 71.4°F (21.9°C). December is usually the wettest month. April, June, and July are the peak travel months in Encinitas, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by no rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by no to light rainfall and sunny to mostly sunny conditions.
