Encinitas is as close to coastal paradise as you will find in Southern California. Located in North San Diego County, Encinitas real estate includes beach houses, condos and town homes, many with ocean views. Known as America’s premier Surf City and the Flower Capital of America, Encinitas was incorporated in 1986 by bringing together the neighboring “towns” of Leucadia, Olivenhain, and Cardiff. (See the special separate page on our site for information on real estate and homes for sale in Cardiff by the Sea).
The Encinitas community has six miles of beaches and is bordered by San Elijo Lagoon to the south and Batiquitos Lagoon to the north. Encinitas homes have a laidback vibe. The area is filled with beautiful parks, shopping, quality schools, and a variety of home styles. Locals are down-to-earth and live here for the relaxed way of life.
The more than 10 public beaches here, and each has its own unique personality. Moonlight State Beach is popular with families because of the free parking, restrooms, on site snack bar, and lifeguard services. Don’t miss the great Summer Concerts and frequent Surf contests.
Beacon’s Beach, in Leucadia, which is part of coastal Encinitas real estate, offers a wide swath of clean sandy beach and Lifeguard protection. Swami’s Beach, immortalized in the Beach Boys Surfin USA, has some of the best surf waves anywhere. It lies just below the Self Realization Center with its tranquil meditation gardens. Just off shore is the Marine Life Refuge for some great scuba diving. Stone Steps Beach offers a great workout on the steps from the bluff to the beach.
But this is not only a surfer town, but a great place for anyone to live, work and play. The village area is known as Downtown 101 because it is on Highway 101. This shopping district has boutiques, antiques, home furnishings, and cafes. Check out the local clubs for to hear surf bands and other live local San Diego music. There has been substantial revitalization and new construction of homes in Encinitas.
Although the flower growing industry is not what is used to be and much of the agricultural land has been developed, there are a few greenhouses and flower producers still around. The Paul Ecke Flower Ranch has been in operation for over 100 years and accounts for 50% of the world’s poinsettias.
Those looking to buy San Diego luxury homes have many options in Encinitas. Whether you prefer a newer estate overlooking the golf course, a custom beachfront home, or a country Tuscan estate with acreage and room for horses, zip codes 92023 and 92024 have it all.
Golfers will enjoy the public Encinitas Ranch Golf Course with sweeping views of the Pacific. The Ranch was developed in early 2000 and housing grew up around it offering some of the newest construction in area.
Inland at the East side of Encinitas is Olivenhain, a rural area that is a favorite of horse enthusiasts. Olivenhain, which means Olive Grove, was founded by a group of German immigrants. Today, the area is characterized by green rolling hills, homes on large lots that are often zoned for horses. Equestrian estates in Olivenhain are much more affordable than similar properties in Rancho Santa Fe, directly adjacent.
Encinitas is a very special community. Call Geoff Schiering at eXp Realty to learn more about homes for sale in Encinitas and all of North County San Diego!