Exploring Encinitas With Kids

San Diego Guide

Encinitas is a super fun, beach city located in North County San Diego. This laidback town is actually where I was lucky to grow up! I can’t think of a better place to be raised in. Nothing beats summer days at the beach from the moment I woke up all the way until sunset. I loved all the fun hiking trails and parks as a kid. Outside time was definitely not something I lacked. Encinitas is a total gem! Whether you live in Encinitas or you’re just planning a visit – here are a list of must see/things to do! Exploring Encinitas With Kids is bound to bring about some incredible memories!

Annie’s Trail

If you’re ready for a super fun adventure with the whole family, Annies Trail is what I recommend for you! This hike starts out flat and easy to walk, but once you get to the caves it turns into more of a climbing adventure! If the thought of tight spaces and kids makes you a little nervous, don’t worry! You can also start this hike from the back of the mountain and walk straight to the top from a easy groomed trail. You’ll love the view of the lagoon and the beach from here! An amazing place for a sunset watch! This is such a great spot when exploring Encinitas with kids.

San Dieguito County Park

San Dieguito County Park has it all! There are two entrances to this park. The upper lot off Highland Drive is a more traditional park with a playground and ball field. The lower lot off El Camino Real has two small ponds, a butterfly garden, lots of open grass, wooded areas, and dried creek to explore in. Between the two entrances in the middle of the park has many different dirt trails, look out areas, and a few very fun rope bridges! You could easily spend the whole day at this fun park.

Legoland

I’ve done a whole post with all my tips on visiting Legoland with kids, so be sure to check that out. If you’re in Encinitas taking the 5 minute drive up North to Carlsbad is especially well worth it. Kids of all ages will absolutely love hanging out here and I bet you’ll have a ton of fun too! If you’re a local I think the pass that includes parking is well worth it. Yes, you come to Legolands for the rides but the shows, playgrounds and other activities throughout the park make this such a fun activity!

Moonlight Beach

Moonlight Beach in Encinitas is one of the best beaches in all of San Diego to go to. There is an especially huge playground right on the sand for kids to play in. Obviously so much fun! They have surfboard and other rentals, a snack shop with delicious food and plenty of fire pits. There are also several volleyball nets set up if you’d like to start a game! The beach is divided by a surfing and swimming zone and the lifeguard station is right there.

San Diego Botanic Garden

I always loved visiting the botanic garden as a kid. As a kid I truly learned so much visiting and learning about plants and other nature related subjects. This is a big park. You’ll find climbing structures, model trains, educational exhibits and so much more! If you are looking to get outside and enjoy the good weather in Encinitas with your kids, this is the place to be!

I hope you have an especially great time exploring Encinitas with Kids.

Since you’re here, I would love to talk to you about photographing your family! You can see some of my work here, and you can send me a message here. I look forward to hearing from you!