Moonlight Beach is the main public beach of Encinitas, a coastal city in northern San Diego County, California, found at the foot of B Street within Moonlight State Beach park. The beach is a wide, sandy cove with medium-grain tan sand framed by low bluffs and a small stream outlet, and the water is typically cool, green-blue and moderately clear. It faces west, but the cove shape and gentle gradient produce manageable surf, making it popular with families, beginner surfers and swimmers. Volleyball courts, a playground, a snack bar, restrooms, showers, lifeguard stations and fire rings give it more facilities than many beaches in the area, and the grassy park above has picnic areas. The atmosphere is relaxed, community-oriented and family-friendly, with a typical Southern California mix of locals, surf-school groups and weekend visitors. Evening bonfires at the fire rings are a local tradition. Access is straightforward. Visitors can take the NCTD Coaster train to the Encinitas station and complete the trip by a short ride or walk, or drive and use the beach lot, which fills early on summer weekends and charges a fee. Free street parking exists in nearby residential areas but is limited. Stairs and a ramp lead from the bluff to the sand. The beach is a short distance from Encinitas's downtown along Highway 101, where cafes, restaurants and surf shops line the street, and the Self-Realization Fellowship gardens lie a short distance north. Rip currents occur occasionally, so swimmers should remain near lifeguard towers. The cove is also a popular place to watch sunsets, and the broad sand offers room to spread out even on busy days. Visitors travelling from downtown San Diego should allow around 40 minutes by car.
| Distance | About 25 miles (40 km) north of downtown San Diego |
|---|---|
| Getting there | NCTD Coaster to Encinitas station, then a short ride; lot parking. |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Best season | June-October |
| Address | 400 B St, Encinitas, CA 92024 |
Amenities
- Lifeguard stations
- Restrooms and showers
- Volleyball courts
- Fire rings
- Snack bar
- Playground
Good to know
- Best for
- families, swimmers, surfers, sunbathers, couples
Location
400 B St, Encinitas, CA 92024
33.0480, -117.3010 View on map
Highlights
- Family-friendly cove with a playground and snack bar
- Volleyball courts and evening fire rings
- Beginner-friendly surf and swimming near lifeguard stations
- Short trip to Encinitas's Highway 101 cafes and surf shops
Tips for visiting
- Arrive early on summer weekends, as the beach lot fills quickly
- Take the NCTD Coaster to Encinitas to avoid parking altogether
- Claim a fire ring early for evening bonfires
- Swim near lifeguard towers, as rip currents can occur
- The snack bar and downtown Encinitas provide the nearest food
When to visit
June to October offers the warmest water and weather. Mornings are quieter, and evenings suit bonfires.
Accessibility
A ramp and stairs lead from the bluff to the sand, and restrooms and paths are generally accessible. Soft sand limits wheelchair use on the beach itself.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Moonlight Beach good for families?
Yes. It has lifeguards, restrooms, showers, a playground and a snack bar, and the cove produces manageable surf.
How does one reach Moonlight Beach without a car?
Take the NCTD Coaster train to Encinitas station, then a short ride or walk to the beach at the foot of B Street.
Are there fire rings at Moonlight Beach?
Yes. Fire rings are available on the sand and are popular in the evenings.