A sandy beach with scattered rocks and seaweed, a calm sea, and a cliff with vegetation and palm trees.

Find Beach Resorts in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA

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Check availability on Cardiff-by-the-Sea Beach Resorts & Hotels

Tonight
7 Sept - 8 Sept
Tomorrow
8 Sept - 9 Sept
This weekend
11 Sept - 13 Sept
Next weekend
18 Sept - 20 Sept

Our top choices for Cardiff-by-the-Sea beach hotels

1. Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA Near Del Mar

Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA Near Del Mar
Cardiff-by-the-Sea
  • Escape to pristine shores with beach towels provided, just a 15-minute walk to San Elijo State Beach and minutes from Moonlight Beach.
£120
includes taxes & fees
27 Sept - 28 Sept
Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA Near Del Mar

2. Cardiff by the Sea Lodge

Cardiff by the Sea Lodge
Cardiff-by-the-Sea
  • Bask in San Diego sunshine with easy beach access, where ocean adventures begin just steps from a charming bed & breakfast.
£201
includes taxes & fees
8 Sept - 9 Sept
Cardiff by the Sea Lodge

3. Cozy, Charming, Ocean View studio / Work desk, internet, sanitized cleaning

Cozy, Charming, Ocean View studio / Work desk, internet, sanitized cleaning
Cardiff
  • Relax on a private balcony with ocean views, minutes from Moonlight Beach and scenic trails.
£230
includes taxes & fees
15 Sept - 16 Sept
Cozy, Charming, Ocean View studio / Work desk, internet, sanitized cleaning

4. Newly Remodeled House Less than a Mile From the Beach

Newly Remodeled House Less than a Mile From the Beach
Cardiff
£438
includes taxes & fees
8 Sept - 9 Sept
Newly Remodeled House Less than a Mile From the Beach

5. Cardiff Modern Beauty

Cardiff Modern Beauty
Cardiff By The Sea
£834
includes taxes & fees
8 Oct - 9 Oct
Cardiff Modern Beauty

6. Moonlight Beach Motel

Moonlight Beach Motel
Downtown Encinitas
  • Sun-kissed escape just steps from Moonlight State Beach, where seaside tranquility meets convenient coastal comforts.
£123
includes taxes & fees
8 Sept - 9 Sept
Moonlight Beach Motel

7. Leucadia Beach Inn

Leucadia Beach Inn
Leucadia
  • Stroll from Leucadia Beach Inn to pristine shores, surf the sun-soaked waves, and unwind with ocean breezes just minutes from LEGOLAND.
£81
includes taxes & fees
5 Oct - 6 Oct
Leucadia Beach Inn

8. The Encinitan Hotel & Suites

The Encinitan Hotel & Suites
Downtown Encinitas
  • Serene retreat just steps from Moonlight State Beach with heated pool and ocean vistas for the ultimate coastal getaway.
£111
includes taxes & fees
13 Sept - 14 Sept
The Encinitan Hotel & Suites

9. Best Western Premier Hotel Del Mar

Best Western Premier Hotel Del Mar
Del Mar
£125
includes taxes & fees
8 Sept - 9 Sept
Best Western Premier Hotel Del Mar

10. Brisa Pacific Hotel Encinitas

Brisa Pacific Hotel Encinitas
Downtown Encinitas
£87
includes taxes & fees
9 Sept - 10 Sept
Brisa Pacific Hotel Encinitas
View all properties

Choose what matters most at beach hotels in Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Pool
Breakfast included
4 stars
Family-friendly
5 stars

Find out more about Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Cardiff-by-the-Sea and its attractions for beach lovers

For those seeking a beachside escape in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, California, you'll find a stunning blend of sun, surf, and local charm. Start your day at Cardiff State Beach, where the gentle waves and sandy shores offer a perfect setting for families to build sandcastles or enjoy a leisurely swim. Just a short stroll away, the picturesque San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve invites nature lovers to explore its diverse wildlife through scenic trails, making it a great spot for birdwatching and photography. For a taste of local culture, the Cardiff Farmers Market, held weekly, showcases fresh produce and artisan treats, perfect for a picnic by the sea. If you're in the mood for adventure, surfing lessons at Cardiff Reef cater to all skill levels, ensuring that even beginners can ride the waves. After a day of exploration, unwind at one of the charming beachfront hotels in the area, where you’re just steps away from the ocean. Enjoy amenities like oceanfront dining and heated pools, providing a relaxing retreat for the whole family after a day of fun. With attentive service and a laid-back atmosphere, Cardiff-by-the-Sea offers a refreshing experience that caters to your desire for quality and convenience.

Find the best beach hotels and resorts in Cardiff-by-the-Sea

For those seeking a sun-soaked getaway in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, these top hotels offer easy access to beautiful beaches and all the seaside activities you could desire.Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA

  • Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: Nestled close to the coast, the Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas is a fantastic choice for beach lovers, rated highly with a guest review of 9.2. Guests can easily access nearby surfing and bodyboarding spots, and enjoy the convenience of beach towels provided by the hotel, making it easy to soak up the sun and surf the waves.
  • Other amenities: In addition to its beachfront charm, the hotel features an outdoor pool for relaxation, a 24-hour fitness centre for keeping active, and a complimentary buffet breakfast to start your day right. With free internet access and daily housekeeping, guests can enjoy a comfortable and convenient stay. The hotel also offers accessible parking options and premium bedding for a restful night after a day by the sea.
  • Nearby attractions: Cardiff State Beach - 2.4 km, San Elijo State Beach - 2.5 km, Swamis Beach - 3.8 km

Cardiff by the Sea Lodge

  • Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: With a solid review rating of 8.4, Cardiff by the Sea Lodge is a perfect spot for beach enthusiasts. This charming lodge provides essential beach amenities, including beach towels and umbrellas, ensuring guests are well-prepared for a day of sun and surf just steps away from their door.
  • Other amenities: The lodge features an ocean-view restaurant where guests can savour delightful meals with stunning vistas. Additional offerings include daily housekeeping, free toiletries, and premium bedding for added comfort. Guests can also enjoy self-parking facilities, a serene garden to unwind in, and easy access to nearby shopping districts, making it a convenient base for exploring the area.
  • Nearby attractions: Cardiff State Beach - 0.9 km, San Elijo State Beach - 0.9 km, Swamis Beach - 1.3 km

Top Cardiff-by-the-Sea Hotel Reviews

San Diego Marriott La Jolla

San Diego Marriott La Jolla

10/10 Excellent
"just feel kind of old, and outdated for nowadays expectation"
Zong Jian 2-night trip
Posted 1 hour ago
San Diego Marriott La Jolla
Best Western Seven Seas

Best Western Seven Seas

8/10 Good
"Quality hotel for the price."
Brandon 3-night trip
Posted 1 hour ago
Best Western Seven Seas
Hyatt Vacation Club at The Welk, San Diego Area

Hyatt Vacation Club at The Welk, San Diego Area

10/10 Excellent
"Na"
Tom 3-night trip
Posted 2 hours ago
Hyatt Vacation Club at The Welk, San Diego Area
Best Western Inn & Suites San Diego – Zoo/SeaWorld Area

Best Western Inn & Suites San Diego – Zoo/SeaWorld Area

10/10 Excellent
"Nice hotel with clean pool and convenient location"
Julia 6-night trip
Posted 2 hours ago
Best Western Inn & Suites San Diego – Zoo/SeaWorld Area
The Dana on Mission Bay

The Dana on Mission Bay

8/10 Good
"The property was nice , it could use some upgrades in the rooms . I didn’t like having to pay for parking"
Jeannette 1-night trip
Posted 2 hours ago
The Dana on Mission Bay
GreenTree Inn San Diego Mission Bay

GreenTree Inn San Diego Mission Bay

10/10 Excellent
"Great location"
Moises 2-night trip
Posted 2 hours ago
GreenTree Inn San Diego Mission Bay
Handlery Hotel

Handlery Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Fabulous customer service!!!! Pool restaurant was very good! Thanks for the fun weekend!"
Anne 2-night trip
Posted 4 hours ago
Handlery Hotel
California Suites Hotel

California Suites Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Clean room and Staff"
Daniel 1-night trip
Posted 14 hours ago
California Suites Hotel

Frequently asked questions

What are the best beach hotels in Cardiff-By-The-Sea?
For a stay near the beach in Cardiff-By-The-Sea, consider the Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA, and the Cardiff by the Sea Lodge.The 3-star Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA, with a 9.2 rating, is located very close to the ocean and the beach. Guests frequently mention the great and friendly staff, as well as the comfortable and clean rooms. A complimentary buffet breakfast is also provided.The 3-star Cardiff by the Sea Lodge, rated 8.6, offers ocean views and is also conveniently located near the beach. Reviewers often highlight the helpful staff and the good size of the rooms. Complimentary internet access and toiletries are also available.
How much does a beach hotel in Cardiff-by-the-Sea cost?
Prices for beach hotels in Cardiff-by-the-Sea vary, but you can find a great deal from £65 on Expedia. You're likely to find lower rates if you're travelling during the off-peak season or mid-week. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for our cheapest rates.
Which Cardiff-By-The-Sea hotels are near the best beaches?
For hotels near the best beaches in Cardiff-By-The-Sea, consider the Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA, or the Cardiff by the Sea Lodge.The 3-star Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA, with a 9.2 rating, is conveniently located near the ocean and the beach. Guests frequently highlight the excellent and complimentary breakfast, which includes buffet and to-go options.The Cardiff by the Sea Lodge, also a 3-star property with an 8.6 rating, offers ocean views from some of its rooms and is situated near the beach. Reviewers often praise the friendly and helpful staff, as well as the good room sizes.
Which beach hotels in Cardiff-By-The-Sea are good for families?
For families looking for a beach hotel in Cardiff-By-The-Sea, the Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA, and the Cardiff by the Sea Lodge are good options.The 3-star Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA, with a 9.2 rating, is located near the ocean and beach. It offers free breakfast, including a buffet and a to-go option, which can be convenient for families.The 3-star Cardiff by the Sea Lodge, rated 8.6, provides ocean views and is also located near the beach. Guests often mention the friendly and helpful staff.
What are the best Cardiff-By-The-Sea hotels with ocean views?
For hotels with ocean views in Cardiff-By-The-Sea, the Cardiff by the Sea Lodge is a top option.The 3-star Cardiff by the Sea Lodge, with an 8.6 rating, is located near the ocean and offers ocean views from its rooms. Guests frequently comment on the friendly and helpful staff, the great location, and the nice continental breakfast.
What are the top-rated beach hotels in Cardiff-By-The-Sea with a pool?
For top-rated beach hotels in Cardiff-By-The-Sea with a pool, consider the Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA.The 3-star Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA, with a 9.2 rating, offers an outdoor pool and is located near the beach. Guests frequently comment on the excellent and comfortable rooms and the convenient location.
Which area of Cardiff-By-The-Sea is best to stay in for beaches?
The best area to stay in Cardiff-By-The-Sea for beaches is along South Coast Highway 101, particularly near Cardiff State Beach and Swami's State Beach.This central stretch of Cardiff-By-The-Sea is where the town meets the Pacific Ocean. You'll find a relaxed, coastal vibe here, with many properties offering direct or very easy access to the sand. The area around San Elijo Avenue and Chesterfield Drive is particularly well-situated for beachgoers. It's a key spot for surfing and enjoying the ocean views.Couples looking for a romantic beach getaway will find this area perfect. You can enjoy strolls along the coastline, watch the sunset over the Pacific, and have easy access to beachfront dining options. Many of the accommodations here are designed to maximise ocean views and outdoor living.For solo travellers who enjoy surfing or spending their days by the sea, staying along this coastal strip is ideal. You're right where the action is, with surf breaks like Swami's just a short walk away.
Which top beach hotels in Cardiff-By-The-Sea offer water sport activities?
For top beach hotels in Cardiff-By-The-Sea offering water sport activities, consider the Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA or the Cardiff by the Sea Lodge.The 3-star Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA, with a 9.2 rating, is located near the ocean and beach, making it convenient for activities such as windsurfing and surfing or bodyboarding. Guests often comment positively on the friendly staff and the great breakfast.The 3-star Cardiff by the Sea Lodge, rated 8.6, provides ocean views and is also situated near the beach and ocean, offering access to windsurfing and surfing or bodyboarding. Reviewers frequently highlight the friendly and helpful staff and the great location.
What is the best time of year to stay in a beach hotel in Cardiff-By-The-Sea?
The most popular time to stay in a beach hotel in Cardiff-By-The-Sea is during the summer months, particularly July and August. At this time, the weather is consistently warm and sunny, with average temperatures hovering around 24°C, creating ideal conditions for beach activities and ocean dips.This period sees the beaches bustling with families, couples, and solo travellers soaking up the sun and enjoying the Pacific waves. It's a fantastic time for surfing, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing on the sand, and the longer daylight hours allow for extended enjoyment of the coastal scenery. All water sports rental shops and beachfront dining establishments are operating at full capacity, ensuring a lively option.For those seeking a slightly more tranquil experience with excellent conditions, May presents a superb alternative. The weather remains wonderfully pleasant, with temperatures often reaching the low 20s, great for leisurely beach strolls and enjoying the vibrant sunsets.
What beach activities should we do in Cardiff-By-The-Sea?
The best beach activities in Cardiff-By-The-Sea include surfing at Swami's, exploring the tide pools at Cardiff State Beach, and enjoying bonfires at the designated fire pits.Swami's State Marine Conservation Area, located at the south end of Cardiff-By-The-Sea, is a renowned surf spot. It's particularly popular with experienced surfers due to its consistent waves. Even if you're not surfing, it's a great place to watch the pros and enjoy the coastal views from the bluff-top park.Families will particularly enjoy Cardiff State Beach. At low tide, the beach reveals extensive tide pools, offering a chance to discover marine life like starfish and anemones. The wide sandy areas are also superb for building sandcastles or simply relaxing by the ocean.For those looking for an evening activity, several public fire pits are available along Cardiff State Beach. These are superb for a classic beach bonfire experience, allowing you to roast marshmallows and enjoy the sunset with friends or family.
Can I cancel my beach hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right beach hotel in Cardiff-by-the-Sea for you.
How can I save on a beach hotel in Cardiff-by-the-Sea with Expedia?
There are plenty of ways to save on a beach hotel in Cardiff-by-the-Sea. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards programme, to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on your hotel. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.
Is it cheaper to book flights and a beach hotel in Cardiff-by-the-Sea as a package?
Booking a beach hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it's wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package. *Savings vary and are not available on all flight and hotel bookings.

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