An Encinitas Weekend on a Budget

Encinitas is the place we stay when we go to attractions in the San Diego area. It's north of the city, and far away enough to be a little bit less expensive. Plus, it's right on the ocean, with plenty of free entertainment like swimming, tidepool exploring, and watching the surfers.

Best Western Encinitas Inn & Suites at Moonlight Beach

We have stayed at this hotel twice because it is a really nice spot and the service is good. If you are there with kids, you can put them to bed and then sit outside on your balcony and enjoy a glass of wine and the cool breezes off the ocean. There is a lovely gated pool and hot tub, and the complimentary breakfast bar serves delicious burritos. The price is a still for the proximity to the beach.

Moonlight Beach

Leave the car at the hotel and walk down to the beach. You won't have to worry about finding parking, and you can rent beach equipment. There are tennis and volleyball courts, and fishing is permitted.

This lovely authentic Mexican restaurant is also right down the street from the hotel above.

Legoland California

Legoland is right near Encinitas, and while it is not a budget activity, I included it because it is a great value for families. There is an aquarium and a water park in addition to the amusement park, which you can get into for a deal when you buy park hopper tickets. Because the whole park is geared toward young children, you don't... More >

El Callejon

This lovely authentic Mexican restaurant is also right down the street from the hotel above. Which is good because the parking here sucks. No joke. However, it's worth a visit because the food is delicious, the margaritas come by the pitcher, and most of the seating is outdoors. Plus, mariachis!

Quail Botanical Gardens

A walk through this garden will make you feel like you are in another world. Everything here is exquisitely crafted and nurtured. Admission is only $12 and parking is $2.

We have stayed at this hotel twice because it is a really nice spot and the service is good.

Surf Brothers Teriyaki

Teriyaki chicken, beef, combos and sliders are the main attraction at this casual local chain restaurant. The prices are reasonable and locals love this spot. More

Teriyaki chicken, beef, combos and sliders are the main attraction at this casual local chain restaurant. The prices are reasonable and locals love this spot.

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