San Elijo State Beach is located one mile
south of Cardiff on Highway 101. It offers a lightly sloping sandy beach,
with plenty of room for any size group. There are several picnic tables
and benches available with limited but easy access parking.
This is mainly a surf beach and somewhat crowded during the morning
hours. The south end of the beach is a favorite surf break occasionally
holding surfing events and contests. The most famous, being the Hansen/Machado
Surf Classic and Cardiff Beach Fair held every September at Cardiff
Reef. The contest is named after pro surfer and Cardiff local, Rob Machado.
The narrow stretch of sand has a nearby reef, which is also popular
with snorkelers and divers. The south end of the beach is a fantastic
place to come for tide pool exploration.
San Elijo campgrounds, just north of Cardiff Reef is a prime camping
location for those looking for a low-key beach with a laid back attitude.
Many locals reserve campsites during the summer and spend their days
surfing and soaking up the sun. So make the reservations early because
the sites fill up fast. The campground does not close in the winter
and is just as popular as the summer months. There are coastal sites,
located on the cliff as well as sites closer to the highway. The sites
are small and only allow two cars per site. The cost of each site is
ranges from $20-$45 dollars, depending on location and season.
One of the unique things about this beach is that is one of the only
beaches in San Diego that allows dogs. There are leash laws but most
people just allow their dogs run free. The locals nick-name this beach,
“Doggie Beach”.
The San Elijo Lagoon is an ecological reserve located across the highway.
It is an excellent spot for bird watching and exploring the coastal
habitat of San Diego. There are trails that take you around the lagoon
which can offer a fun and tranquil hike or run. Watch out for snakes,
which are said to have been spotted around the lagoon during the summer
months.
There is a great market across the street, just north of Chesterfield
Dr. It is called the Seaside market and offers healthy food and snacks
including a deli, with amazing salads. This is a great place to pick
up last minute picnic items before spending the day at the beach.
Paid parking is available inside San Elijo State Park. However, plenty
of free parking can be found outside the park, in the small lot south
of the campground and along the highway.
Open 5am-10pm
No vehicles on the beach
No alcohol/glass containers
Fires allowed in rings and BBQs only
Camping is available
Dogs allowed in designated area
Restrooms/showers/lifeguards available
