Leucadia Beaches

With exceptional surf schools and the chance to experience the history of San Diego surfing culture first-hand, Leucadia beaches are well worth a day’s visit.
Todd Sarouhan
Leucadia Beaches
Overview
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The Neighborhood
Known For
Surfing
Stay Nearby

Catch Some Waves at the Leucadia Beaches

Whether you’re a San Diego local or you’re a visitor in search of something more off the beaten path, the crowds at some beaches can be daunting. If you’re looking for a quieter experience where you can enjoy a day away from noisy tourists, the Leucadia beaches are a great option.

These beaches are typically smaller than their more well-known counterparts. The rockier terrain and steep cliffs surrounding the beaches make them more difficult to access. You may need to make a somewhat steep climb down stairs to get to these beaches, so pack light and prepare for a nice hike before you cool off in the water or soak up the sun.

The reward you earn for your troubles is well worth the initial effort. When you arrive, you’ll see fantastic views of the waterfront and plenty of crashing waves. It’s the perfect way to slow down in the middle of a fast-paced vacation, or to enjoy your time at the beach unbothered if you’re a local.

Leucadia beaches are a perfect spot for surfing for many residents and in-the-know visitors. You’re not going to find the kind of challenging waves that leave experienced surfers wiping out. Instead, you’ll typically see calm and consistent waves that provide a great starting point for beginners while still entertaining surfing veterans.

Kayak Ride with Go Pass!

La Jolla - 90-Minute Kayak Rental
La Jolla 90-Minute Kayak Rental
When visiting La Jolla, use your Go Pass and hop on a tandem kayak ride! This 90-minute ride from La Jolla Beach takes you on an adventure to see all the area has to offer. Check out the famous seven caves and sea lions while enjoying the SoCal sun!
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Local Tips
What activities does the Go City San Diego pass include?

There’s a variety of activities included with the Go City San Diego pass such as: The San Diego Zoo, Safari Park, LEGOLAND, SeaWorld, Hiking Tours, Whale Watching, Museum Tours, Speed Boat Adventures & more!

For the most popular attractions and water-sport rentals as well as the biggest discounts, consider the All-Inclusive Pass.

Use our exclusive discount code GVSD5OFF to save an extra 5%!

The Leucadia Neighborhood

Leucadia is a small beach community. It stretches along the coast of Encinitas, California. It has a calmer, more peaceful ambiance than bustling Ocean Beach, which many say helps give the area its charm.

Leucadia is about a half hour’s drive north from Downtown San Diego, which nestles it just far enough away from many of the main tourist attractions that draw the biggest crowds. However, there’s still plenty to do and see in the area while still allowing for quick trips into the more touristy areas of San Diego.

The temperate climate of Leucadia makes it well-suited to supporting many kinds of local flora, including the varieties showcased at the Japanese Friendship Garden. You can also check out nearby Batiquitos Lagoon State Marine Conservation Area, and of course, the beaches.

Don’t forget to enjoy some of the fun local flavor of Encinitas too! As the “surfing mecca” of California, catching waves runs in the city’s blood. There are dozens of surf shops, landmarks, and themed restaurants that showcase just how beloved the sport is to residents of Encinitas and Southern California alike.

Leucadia isn’t far from many of the most popular attractions in San Diego. It’s less than a 30 drive to Balboa Park where you will find the world-famous San Diego Zoo. While you’re there, consider The Natural History Museum (theNat), San Diego Museum of Art and The San Diego History Center.

Educational and fun for all ages, these attractions, as well as gear rentals for surfboards, paddle boards, kayaks and more are all included with the Go San Diego Pass. With this pass, you can save when you bundle tickets to different attractions together. Take advantage of our additional discount by purchasing a pass before your trip.

If you’re looking for a hotel to stay in the area, consider the Kate Stanton Inn. Located just steps from the beach, this 4-star hotel includes free breakfast and WiFi and is a great choice for couples looking for a boutique hotel experience in San Diego.

Surfing at Leucadia Beaches

Paddle Boarding
Paddle Boarding
Running
Running
Sunbathing
Sunbathing
Surfing
Surfing
Swimming
Swimming

The Leucadia beaches are a great option for travelers and locals looking for a more secluded beach experience. White sands and steady waves make the beaches in this area popular with surfers. Whether you are an experienced surfer looking for a day in the water or new to the sport and looking for a surf lesson, the Leucadia beaches are worth the trip.

Surfing

Looking Down at Beacons Beach from the Top of the Trail
Accessible by a goat trail, South Leucadia State Beach, colloquially known as Beacon’s Beach, is less populated, making it great for a relaxing ocean side stroll. A great choice for surfers, the waves are gentle enough for all skill levels, even beginners.
Beautiful Day at Grandview Surf Beach
Grandview Surf Beach is an ideal surfing and longboarding location in Leucadia. It features consistent left and right waves and an offshore reef break. You can even take a surfing lesson. There are lifeguards and convenient outdoor showers. Note that it must be accessed by a large flight of stairs.

Featured Activity

San Diego Harbor Cruise on San Diego Bay at Sunset
San Diego Harbor Cruise
Enjoy this ‘San Diego Top Pick Award’ winner as you set sail on a three level luxury ship providing 360-degree views of San Diego’s scenic beauty. Relax for a 1-2 hour narrated tour, learn about the city from the bay.
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Leucadia Beaches
are Known For:
Paddle Boarding
Paddle Boarding
Surfing
Surfing
This Month's Forecast
56°F / 73°F
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51°F / 68°F
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51°F / 67°F
Sunny in January
Feb
53°F / 68°F
Sunny in February

Stay Nearby

Quality Inn Encinitas
Near Legoland
2 Star Rating2 Star Rating
Quality Inn Encinitas
from $76 / night
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Rodeway Inn Encinitas North
Near San Diego Zoo
2 Star Rating2 Star Rating
Rodeway Inn Encinitas North
from $55 / night
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Kate Stanton Inn
Boutique Hotel
4 Star Rating4 Star Rating4 Star Rating4 Star Rating
Kate Stanton Inn
from $199 / night
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Leucadia Beach Inn
Family Friendly
2 Star Rating2 Star Rating
Leucadia Beach Inn
from $74 / night
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