Cardiff-by-the-Sea Hotels

  • Change your mind

    Book hotels with free cancellation
  • Treat yourself

    Sign in to save 10% or more on thousands of hotels
  • Be picky

    Search almost a million properties worldwide

Check prices for these dates

This weekend
Next weekend

Filter by

Guest rating
Guest rating
Star rating

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

Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA

Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA
3.0 star property
Cardiff-by-the-Sea
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,035 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Tranquil beachside retreat offers serene pool area near Moonlight State Beach.
"Room was nice and clean, also the beds were really comfortable. "
United States
Victor
The price is P8,084
P8,892 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 8 - Feb 9
Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA

Cardiff by the Sea Lodge

Cardiff by the Sea Lodge
3.0 star property
Cardiff-by-the-Sea
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (738 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Coastal B&B near Moonlight State Beach with hiking trails and surfing spots.
"The people were great. The rooms were clean and super cute. As well as all of the rooftop outdoor space I don’t know how they keep it that clean, but they do."
United States
Buckita
The price is P12,685
P13,978 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 8 - Feb 9
Cardiff by the Sea Lodge

DoubleTree by Hilton San Diego - Del Mar

DoubleTree by Hilton San Diego - Del Mar
4.0 star property
Carmel Valley
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (2,032 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Within reach of Del Mar Racetrack, this hotel offers a resort-style pool for relaxation.
"Nice hotel, staff is great."
United States
Felipe Ramirez
The price is P7,681
P8,753 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 8 - Mar 9
DoubleTree by Hilton San Diego - Del Mar

Best Western Plus Oceanside Palms

Best Western Plus Oceanside Palms
3.0 star property
Townsite
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,314 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Coastal comfort close to the beach with a refreshing pool and free breakfast.
"The room was nice. We had a great stay. "
Canada
Debbie
The price is P5,715
P6,440 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 17 - Feb 18
Best Western Plus Oceanside Palms

Comfort Suites Oceanside Camp Pendleton Area

Comfort Suites Oceanside Camp Pendleton Area
2.5 star property
Townsite
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1,004 reviews)
"Friendly staff, easy check in, clean rooms. "
United States
Amber
The price is P5,702
P6,415 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 10 - Feb 11
Comfort Suites Oceanside Camp Pendleton Area

Hyatt Vacation Club at The Welk, San Diego Area

Hyatt Vacation Club at The Welk, San Diego Area
3.5 star property
Lawrence Welk Resort Village
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1,594 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Enjoy a mountain retreat with eight pools and a water park at this San Diego resort.
"Great location to stay and get away"
United States
Jesse
Hyatt Vacation Club at The Welk, San Diego Area

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Carlsbad - Legoland Area

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Carlsbad - Legoland Area
3.0 star property
South Beach
7.8 out of 10, Good, (1,575 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Enjoy a relaxing retreat minutes from Legoland with a beachside atmosphere.
"Great stay"
United States
Brandon
The price is P5,366
P6,021 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 8 - Feb 9
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Carlsbad - Legoland Area

Holiday Inn Oceanside Camp Pendleton Area by IHG

Holiday Inn Oceanside Camp Pendleton Area by IHG
3.0 star property
Camp Pendleton South
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,002 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Enjoy panoramic views from the rooftop terrace near LEGOLAND California.
"Staff was excellent "
United States
Alberto
The price is P7,489
P8,440 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 15 - Feb 16
Holiday Inn Oceanside Camp Pendleton Area by IHG

Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Carlsbad

Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Carlsbad
3.0 star property
City Center
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,004 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Relax by the pool near LEGOLAND® with easy access to Carlsbad beaches.
"Good service, clean room, good location. Would definitely stay here again"
United States
Maria
The price is P7,018
P7,919 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 1 - Mar 2
Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Carlsbad

Best Western Oceanside Inn

Best Western Oceanside Inn
2.5 star property
Townsite
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1,002 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Beachside hotel with fitness center, just a short drive to LEGOLAND California.
"Clean room, great service and breakfast "
United States
Nabeel
The price is P5,780
P6,503 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 22 - Feb 23
Best Western Oceanside Inn

Hampton Inn Carlsbad-North San Diego County

Hampton Inn Carlsbad-North San Diego County
2.5 star property
Aviara
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,003 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Spacious family-friendly hotel close to LEGOLAND with outdoor pool and free breakfast.
"Friendly staff, nice location, easy parking."
United States
KAREN
The price is P6,799
P7,683 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 1 - Mar 2
Hampton Inn Carlsbad-North San Diego County

Tamarack Beach Resort Hotel

Tamarack Beach Resort Hotel
3.0 star property
North Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Oceanfront retreat with pool and yoga classes steps from Carlsbad State Beach.
"Amazing view and staff were all amazing. Will stay here again. "
United States
Amy
Tamarack Beach Resort Hotel

Home2 Suites by Hilton Carlsbad

Home2 Suites by Hilton Carlsbad
3.0 star property
City Center
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Experience coastal comfort minutes from LEGOLAND® California and beach attractions.
"This hotel was an absolute delight! We picked it for the close location to Legoland and would definitely stay there again!"
United States
Christy
The price is P8,816
P9,874 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 22 - Feb 23
Home2 Suites by Hilton Carlsbad

The Encinitan Hotel & Suites

The Encinitan Hotel & Suites
3.0 star property
Downtown Encinitas
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, (1,359 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Stroll to Moonlight Beach from a Mediterranean retreat with ocean views.
"Perfect location with great value. We always like to visit this hotel."
United States
todd
The Encinitan Hotel & Suites

The Dana on Mission Bay

The Dana on Mission Bay
3.5 star property
Mission Bay
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (4,057 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Experience tranquil marina living at this San Diego waterfront retreat.
"Clean rooms, friendly staff."
United States
Eric
The price is P9,377
P12,133 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 22 - Feb 23
The Dana on Mission Bay

Crowne Plaza San Diego - Mission Valley by IHG

Crowne Plaza San Diego - Mission Valley by IHG
3.5 star property
Mission Valley
8.0 out of 10, Very Good, (1,013 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Serene riverside retreat near San Diego Zoo with outdoor pool and dining.
"Great stay"
United States
Viviann
The price is P5,956
P6,870 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 1 - Mar 2
Crowne Plaza San Diego - Mission Valley by IHG

Grand Pacific Palisades

Grand Pacific Palisades
3.5 star property
Carlsbad Ranch
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,002 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Explore beachside leisure with two pools and rooftop terrace near LEGOLAND®.
"Beautiful sunset and live music by the bar and main pool area. "
United States
ANTHONY
Grand Pacific Palisades

Holiday Inn Carlsbad by IHG

Holiday Inn Carlsbad by IHG
3.0 star property
Bressi Ranch
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,005 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Experience LEGOLAND® California convenience with a refreshing pool and terrace.
"Great stay"
United States
Chmaur
The price is P6,723
P7,543 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 8 - Mar 9
Holiday Inn Carlsbad by IHG

Days Inn by Wyndham Carlsbad

Days Inn by Wyndham Carlsbad
2.5 star property
Olde Carlsbad
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, (1,003 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Seaside leisure with easy LEGOLAND® access from this Carlsbad motel.
"Rooms were clean, spacious ,easy access to highway … very good staff .. "
United States
Suresh
The price is P4,612
P5,174 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 9 - Feb 10
Days Inn by Wyndham Carlsbad

Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego La Jolla

Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego La Jolla
4.0 star property
University City
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,851 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Enjoy scenic koi ponds in La Jolla with access to UCSD and Mission Bay.
"Great included breakfast!"
United States
Gina
The price is P10,466
P12,030 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 8 - Feb 9
Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego La Jolla
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Save an average of 15% on thousands of hotels when you're signed in

Stay near popular Cardiff-by-the-Sea attractions

Learn more about Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Surfers catch perfect waves at Cardiff Reef while locals picnic on the bluffs of San Elijo State Beach. Grab fish tacos from seaside stands before exploring the tide pools where kids discover starfish and sea anemones.

San Elijo Beach, Cardiff By The Sea - CA

Top Cardiff-by-the-Sea Hotel Reviews

More cheap stays in Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Find out more about Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Top reasons to visit Cardiff-by-the-Sea

  • Stunning Beaches: Cardiff-by-the-Sea boasts beautiful beaches like Cardiff Beach and Cardiff State Beach, perfect for relaxation and sunbathing.
  • Outdoor Activities: Enjoy a variety of outdoor pursuits, from surfing to hiking, amidst breathtaking coastal scenery.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The area is ideal for families, offering recreational parks and fairground attractions.
  • Charming Coastal Community: Experience a delightful local culture with friendly residents and stunning ocean views.
  • Varied Accommodations: Choose from a range of hotels and seaside lodges to suit every traveller’s needs.

Find great hotels near Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Discover the charm of Cardiff-by-the-Sea, California, where a selection of delightful hotels and resorts cater to families, pet owners, and adventure seekers alike. With convenient access to stunning coastal views and a variety of activities, you’ll find the perfect accommodation to suit your needs. Explore our range of options, from boutique hotels to seaside lodges, and enjoy a memorable getaway in this picturesque beachside community.

  • Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Diego North, CA: Embracing a warm and inviting atmosphere, the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson is tailored for families and business travellers alike. Located a mere 16.1km from Cardiff-by-the-Sea, this 3-star hotel prides itself on being LGBTQIA welcoming and family-friendly. With amenities such as Window Guards for children, cribs available for a fee, and a comprehensive first-aid kit, it ensures a safe and comfortable stay. Guests can unwind in well-appointed rooms that blend comfort with functionality, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a home-like experience.
  • DoubleTree by Hilton San Diego - Del Mar: Situated just 9.7km from Cardiff-by-the-Sea, the DoubleTree by Hilton offers a delightful blend of beachside relaxation and family-friendly amenities. This 4-star hotel boasts direct access to the beach, making it perfect for sun-seekers and water enthusiasts. Families will appreciate the children’s pool, designed for safe and enjoyable play. Known for its signature warm chocolate chip cookies upon arrival, the hotel’s atmosphere is both welcoming and luxurious, ensuring a memorable stay for all guests.
  • Hyatt Regency La Jolla: A mere 17.7km from Cardiff-by-the-Sea, the Hyatt Regency La Jolla stands out as an eco-certified haven for travellers who value sustainability without compromising on luxury. This 4-star property is LGBTQIA welcoming and offers a range of business amenities, making it an excellent choice for both leisure and corporate guests. With its lush surroundings and commitment to eco-friendly practices, the hotel provides a unique experience that aligns with modern values. Guests can enjoy spacious accommodations and exceptional service, making it a prime destination for those seeking an upscale retreat.

Where to stay near Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Cardiff-by-the-Sea offers a delightful beach getaway, perfect for families seeking relaxation and adventure. Immerse yourself in the charming coastal atmosphere, where friendly locals and stunning ocean views await. Explore nearby coastal towns, indulge in local cuisine, and enjoy various outdoor activities. Whether you’re lounging on the sandy shores or embarking on excursions, Cardiff-by-the-Sea is an idyllic destination for creating lasting memories with loved ones.

  • Encinitas: Encinitas is a charming coastal city located a mere mile from Cardiff-by-the-Sea. Known for its laid-back vibe and stunning beaches, this area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Visitors flock here to enjoy the numerous recreational parks and the lively fairgrounds, which host various events throughout the year. The local beaches are perfect for sunbathing, surfing, and family outings. Nature lovers will appreciate the nearby state parks that offer picturesque hiking trails and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
  • Solana Beach: Just two miles away from Cardiff-by-the-Sea, Solana Beach boasts a vibrant community atmosphere with a strong emphasis on outdoor activities. This city is renowned for its beautiful beaches, ideal for swimming and relaxing with family. The local fairgrounds provide entertainment options, while golf enthusiasts will find delightful courses nearby. Solana Beach is also home to a charming shopping district with unique boutiques and eateries, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely day out.
  • Del Mar: Situated four miles from Cardiff-by-the-Sea, Del Mar is a picturesque coastal city that offers an elegant blend of beachside relaxation and family-friendly activities. With its pristine beaches and scenic bay, visitors can engage in various water sports or simply enjoy a day in the sun. The fairgrounds here are famous for hosting events, including horse racing and seasonal festivals. Del Mar’s recreation parks provide additional space for outdoor fun, making it an excellent destination for families seeking a memorable vacation experience.

Things to do in and around Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Cardiff-by-the-Sea offers a delightful beachside retreat perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy recreational parks, fairground attractions, and memorable experiences while exploring local hotels. The vibrant nightlife and surfing opportunities add to the charm, making it an ideal destination for a refreshing getaway. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Cardiff-by-the-Sea promises a unique blend of activities for every visitor.

Shopping

In Cardiff-by-the-Sea, visit Encinitas Surfboards, a charming shop just 3.2km away, perfect for surf enthusiasts. For a broader selection, head to Carlsbad Premium Outlets, 12.9km away, featuring various brands. If you're up for a drive, the State Street Farmers Market, located 16.1km away, offers local produce and crafts.

Recreation

Experience the stunning Torrey Pines Golf Course, where you can enjoy a round of golf surrounded by breathtaking coastal views and fresh ocean air. For a more relaxed atmosphere, visit the San Diego Polo Fields, perfect for unwinding amidst the gentle sounds of nature and equestrian sports.

Don't miss Belly Up, a vibrant music venue that offers lively performances and a fantastic atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy local talent just a short distance away.

Adventure

At Eli Howard Surf School, immerse yourself in the thrilling world of surfing with expert guidance amidst the stunning coastal scenery of Cardiff-by-the-Sea. For family fun, The Wave Waterpark, located 19.3km away, offers exhilarating water slides and attractions. Meanwhile, enjoy a competitive game at Rancho Penasquitos Tennis Center, situated 16.1km away.

Nightlife

For an enchanting evening, catch a performance at the La Jolla Playhouse, just 17.7km away, offering a blend of romance and culture. Alternatively, enjoy some family fun at Boomers Vista, 19.3km away, or settle in for a film at Regal Edwards San Marcos, 14.5km distant.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Cardiff-by-the-Sea is a budget-friendly destination with plenty of free activities, such as Del Mar Beach and Moonlight State Beach. To save on travel costs, consider visiting from November to January, when accommodation prices drop, particularly on Tuesdays. Utilize public transport options like buses or bicycles for inexpensive travel around the area. When booking, use Expedia to find the best deals by sorting results from lowest to highest price and consider package deals for flights and hotels. This way, you can enjoy a delightful holiday without overspending.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Cardiff-by-the-Sea are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Cardiff-by-the-Sea is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Cardiff-by-the-Sea is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels right away. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your hotel reservation in Cardiff-by-the-Sea with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Cardiff-by-the-Sea offers a delightful setting for outdoor and family vacations, renowned for its stunning beaches and urban parks. Visitors can explore popular attractions such as Cardiff Beach, Cardiff State Beach, Cardiff Reef, and the picturesque shores of Cardiff. This charming coastal locale is perfect for those seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure amidst beautiful surroundings.

  • LEGOLAND® California: Experience a world of creativity and imagination at this family-friendly theme park. With thrilling rides, interactive exhibits, and incredible LEGO displays, it’s perfect for visitors of all ages seeking fun and entertainment within an engaging environment.
  • La Jolla Cove: Immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of this picturesque bay. Perfect for outdoor activities, enjoy swimming, kayaking, or simply relaxing on the beach while taking in breathtaking coastal views and watching sea lions bask in the sun.
  • University of California, San Diego: Explore the modern campus of this prestigious university, known for its striking architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Visit its art galleries and beautiful gardens, offering a unique blend of academic spirit and city life.

Best time to go to Cardiff-by-the-Sea

The best time to visit Cardiff-by-the-Sea is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January57.2°F (14.0°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
February56.7°F (13.7°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
March57.9°F (14.4°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April60.3°F (15.7°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
May62.1°F (16.7°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June65.5°F (18.6°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July69.8°F (21.0°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August71.4°F (21.9°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
September71.2°F (21.8°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October67.5°F (19.7°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowAverage
November62.1°F (16.7°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December57.2°F (14.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Accessing Cardiff-by-the-Sea from major airports is convenient. San Diego International Airport (SAN) is situated 33.8km away, with excellent hotel options such as the 5-star Pendry San Diego, located 4.8km from the airport, and The US Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel, only 3.2km away. Additionally, The Lodge at Torrey Pines is 13.2km from SAN. Alternatively, Orange County John Wayne Airport (SNA) is 91.7km away, with hotels such as the 5-star Resort at Pelican Hill, 9.7km from SNA, and the 4.5-star Viv Hotel, Anaheim, 14.5km from the airport. Tijuana International Airport (TIJ) is 59.5km away, with hotels like Quartz Hotel & SPA, 4.8km from TIJ.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place for a stay in Cardiff-by-the-Sea?
Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA is ranked highly by Expedia customers. This hotel offers free breakfast and an outdoor pool. Cardiff by the Sea Lodge is another favorite option for your trip based on traveler reviews. See all available top hotels, or vacation rentals in Cardiff-by-the-Sea.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, will I receive a refund?
Yes, most hotel reservations are fully refundable if cancelled before the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which is often 24 or 48 hours before check in. If you booked a non-refundable reservation, you might be able to cancel it and get a refund within 24 hours of your booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Cardiff-by-the-Sea.
What's the best LGBTQ-friendly place to stay in Cardiff-by-the-Sea?
Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA is a top LGBTQ-friendly hotel, and features free breakfast and free WiFi. See all available hotels listed as LGBTQ-friendly in Cardiff-by-the-Sea.
What's the best pet-friendly accommodation in Cardiff-by-the-Sea?
Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA is a top hotel for people traveling with their pets, and offers an outdoor pool and a 24-hour fitness center for its human guests. See more pet-friendly hotel accommodations in Cardiff-by-the-Sea.
What are some accommodations with pools in Cardiff-by-the-Sea?
Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA: Features buffet, an outdoor pool, and complimentary wireless internet access. Paradise Point Resort & Spa and The Dana on Mission Bay are two additional hotels that offer an onsite pool. View all hotels with pools in Cardiff-by-the-Sea.
What is staying in Cardiff-by-the-Sea like?
Families will find kid-friendly activities in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, and visitors give high marks for the beaches and top-notch restaurants. Tourists can also enjoy so much more including its cafes. LEGOLAND® California, Mission Bay, and Mission Beach are some of the top sights around the area. In Cardiff-by-the-Sea, there are 111 hotels and other accommodations to choose from. Find out more about Cardiff-by-the-Sea.
What should I see while I'm in Cardiff-by-the-Sea?
The beaches and sunsets highlight the natural beauty with places to discover including San Elijo State Beach, Cardiff State Beach, and Swamis Beach. Additionally, you'll find LEGOLAND® California and Mission Bay in the area. Check out what more to see and do in Expedia's Cardiff-by-the-Sea guide.
What's the seasonal weather like in Cardiff-by-the-Sea?
The hottest months are usually September and August with an average temp of 70°F, while the coldest months are February and January with an average of 57°F. Average annual precipitation for Cardiff-by-the-Sea is 13 inches.