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

Cardiff-by-the-Sea Hotels

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

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

Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA Near Del Mar
3.0 star property
Cardiff-by-the-Sea
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,043 reviews)
"Great stay! Nice location."
United States
Nicole
The price is P9,482
P10,431 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 2 - Sep 3
Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA Near Del Mar

2. Cardiff by the Sea Lodge

Cardiff by the Sea Lodge
3.0 star property
Cardiff-by-the-Sea
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (804 reviews)
"Beautiful, relaxing, and everything you need for a beach getaway!"
United States
VALERIE
The price is P15,914
P17,537 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 1 - Sep 2
Cardiff by the Sea Lodge

3. The Encinitan Hotel & Suites

The Encinitan Hotel & Suites
3.0 star property
Downtown Encinitas
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, (1,645 reviews)
"Great hotel, great staff, great laid-back vibe. This hotel is clean & spacious."
United States
Joseph
The price is P7,960
P9,689 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 12 - Aug 13
The Encinitan Hotel & Suites

4. Ayres Hotel Vista Carlsbad

Ayres Hotel Vista Carlsbad
3.5 star property
Vista
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (2,130 reviews)
"Staff was friendly and the property was clean and safe."
United States
Miranda
The price is P8,480
P9,345 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 31 - Sep 1
Ayres Hotel Vista Carlsbad

5. Winners Circle Solana Beach Del Mar Resort

Winners Circle Solana Beach Del Mar Resort
2.5 star property
Solana Beach
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (323 reviews)
"Easy parking and close to the race track, beach and restaurants"
United States
Chris
The price is P10,520
P11,888 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 9 - Aug 10
Winners Circle Solana Beach Del Mar Resort

6. Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego Carlsbad

Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego Carlsbad
3.0 star property
City Center
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,005 reviews)
"Enjoyed my stay so did my family"
United States
Oscar
The price is P9,099
P10,300 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 16 - Aug 17
Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego Carlsbad

7. 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, (1,006 reviews)
"Hotel was very clean. Quiet, and had great breakfast options . Would gladly stay here again"
United States
Sara
The price is P8,446
P9,561 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 30 - Aug 31
Hampton Inn Carlsbad-North San Diego County

8. Best Western Premier Hotel Del Mar

Best Western Premier Hotel Del Mar
3.5 star property
Del Mar
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,136 reviews)
"Good location that’s close to the beach and restaurants."
United States
Daniel
The price is P13,377
P15,142 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 19 - Aug 20
Best Western Premier Hotel Del Mar

9. Home2 Suites by Hilton Carlsbad

Home2 Suites by Hilton Carlsbad
3.0 star property
City Center
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,004 reviews)
"It was a nice room with a kitchen."
United States
Wendy
The price is P10,386
P11,632 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 30 - Aug 31
Home2 Suites by Hilton Carlsbad

10. Leucadia Beach Inn

Leucadia Beach Inn
2.5 star property
Leucadia
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,004 reviews)
"This was a great stay in every way!"
United States
Kay
The price is P7,054
P7,760 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 30 - Aug 31
Leucadia Beach Inn

11. Rodeway Inn Encinitas North

Rodeway Inn Encinitas North
2.0 star property
Leucadia
7.6 out of 10, Good, (1,007 reviews)
"Great place to stay, will stay here every time I visit Encinitas."
United States
Jessica
The price is P5,522
P6,380 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 12 - Aug 13
Rodeway Inn Encinitas North

12. Residence Inn by Marriott Carlsbad

Residence Inn by Marriott Carlsbad
3.0 star property
City Center
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,004 reviews)
"Great stay for the whole family. Pool and amenities were well kept and very enjoyable"
United States
Trevor
The price is P11,926
P13,380 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 30 - Aug 31
Residence Inn by Marriott Carlsbad

13. Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Diego North, CA

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Diego North, CA
3.0 star property
Sorrento Valley
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,594 reviews)
"Very nice - clean, quiet, good breakfast and very helpful staff."
United States
Kimberly
The price is P9,829
P11,298 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 23 - Aug 24
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Diego North, CA

14. 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, (2,003 reviews)
"Clean room, good breakfast and friendly staff"
United States
Tamisha
The price is P11,489
P14,950 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 27 - Aug 28
Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego La Jolla

15. West Inn & Suites

West Inn & Suites
3.5 star property
City Center
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,076 reviews)
"Room was very clean and comfortable. Great variety for breakfast. Perfect location for Legoland. Would definitely stay here again."
United States
Melanie
The price is P9,047
P11,524 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 30 - Aug 31
West Inn & Suites

16. Hyatt Place San Diego/Vista-Carlsbad

Hyatt Place San Diego/Vista-Carlsbad
3.0 star property
Vista
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,138 reviews)
"Great place to stay in Vista, very convenient location. Staff was very friendly."
Mexico
ROLANDO
The price is P7,771
P8,563 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 17 - Aug 18
Hyatt Place San Diego/Vista-Carlsbad

17. Hampton Inn San Diego Del Mar

Hampton Inn San Diego Del Mar
2.5 star property
Carmel Valley
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,011 reviews)
"Enjoyed our stay. Clean room, breakfast delicious, and helpful staff."
United States
Nora
The price is P8,269
P9,422 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 2 - Sep 3
Hampton Inn San Diego Del Mar

18. Holiday Inn Carlsbad by IHG

Holiday Inn Carlsbad by IHG
3.0 star property
Bressi Ranch
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,001 reviews)
"Great stay!"
United States
Lizette
The price is P8,811
P9,885 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 30 - Aug 31
Holiday Inn Carlsbad by IHG

19. 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, (1,701 reviews)
"This hotel is our favorite place to stay when traveling to Legoland. Great value, great location, excellent free breakfast. We like the family suite, which has two spacious rooms with separate bathrooms and sinks for kids vs. adults."
United States
Stephen
The price is P5,653
P6,343 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 27 - Aug 28
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Carlsbad - Legoland Area

20. HYATT house San Diego/Sorrento Mesa

HYATT house San Diego/Sorrento Mesa
3.0 star property
Sorrento Valley
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,006 reviews)
"Very clean hotel, breakfast options were great, bar prices reasonable. Would stay here again."
United States
Malia
The price is P9,851
P11,323 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 23 - Aug 24
HYATT house San Diego/Sorrento Mesa
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.
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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.

A rocky beach with palm trees and cliffs.

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 features beautiful coastline and picturesque Cardiff State Beach, perfect for sunbathing and surfing.
  • Outdoor Activities: Enjoy various outdoor pursuits, including surfing, golfing, and exploring urban parks tailored for family fun.
  • Charming Village Atmosphere: Experience the friendly seaside village vibe, with local shops and live music events enhancing your visit.
  • Recreation Parks: Discover local parks and fairground attractions, providing entertainment for visitors of all ages.
  • Diverse Accommodation: Choose from cosy lodges to family-friendly hotels, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveller.

Find great hotels near Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Discover the charm of Cardiff-by-the-Sea with a variety of accommodation options tailored for every traveller. Whether you prefer a cosy sea lodge with a welcoming front porch or a family-friendly hotel in the heart of Cardiff, you’ll find the perfect spot to unwind. With pet-friendly options and thrilling adventure experiences nearby, your Californian getaway promises to be both memorable and enjoyable.

  • Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Diego North, CA: Nestled a mere 16km from Cardiff-by-the-Sea, the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere ideal for adventurous families and pet lovers. Rated 9.0 out of 10, this 3-star hotel provides various onsite and nearby recreational activities, including sailing, biking, and surfing. The property is particularly accommodating for children, featuring amenities such as cribs and first aid kits. Pet owners will also appreciate the pet-friendly policy, allowing dogs with certain restrictions.
  • DoubleTree by Hilton San Diego - Del Mar: Located 10km from Cardiff-by-the-Sea, the DoubleTree by Hilton San Diego - Del Mar boasts a prime beachfront location, making it an enticing choice for families seeking sun-soaked adventures. With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, this 4-star hotel offers various water sports, including kayaking and snorkeling. The property ensures a family-friendly environment with facilities for children, including a special breakfast rate and a designated children's pool, making it an excellent base for beach outings and family fun.
  • Motel 6 Carlsbad, CA Beach: Just 10km away from Cardiff-by-the-Sea, Motel 6 Carlsbad offers budget-conscious travellers a pet-friendly lodging option. With a straightforward approach to comfort, this motel allows both dogs and cats, catering to those who wish to travel with their furry companions without incurring extra fees. The no-frills environment ensures you can focus on enjoying your beach holiday without breaking the bank, making it a sensible choice for pet owners looking to explore the area.

Where to stay near Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Cardiff-by-the-Sea offers a delightful coastal escape with its stunning Cardiff coastline and picturesque Cardiff State Beach. Ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts, this charming locale invites visitors to uncover the best of Cardiff while enjoying a friendly atmosphere. Explore nearby attractions and indulge in relaxing excursions that highlight the region's natural beauty and vibrant community spirit. Experience the perfect blend of fun and relaxation during your stay in this enchanting Californian gem.

  • Encinitas: Situated a mere mile from Cardiff-by-the-Sea, Encinitas is a vibrant coastal city that attracts visitors year-round with its laid-back beach culture. Ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts, it offers a variety of recreational parks and shopping centres. Encinitas boasts stunning local landmarks such as beautiful beaches and the nearby state park, perfect for hiking and nature walks. Be sure to explore the local surf culture and enjoy the sun-kissed shores that make this destination a favourite for beachgoers.
  • Solana Beach: Located 3km from Cardiff-by-the-Sea, Solana Beach is another gem along California's coastline, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and outdoor activities. Travellers flock here for its picturesque beaches and vibrant fairground, where community events and concerts are often held. The scenic bay and recreational parks provide ample opportunities for relaxation and exploration. Solana Beach is perfect for a leisurely day out, combining sun, surf, and a welcoming community vibe.
  • Downtown Encinitas: Just 3km away from Cardiff-by-the-Sea, Downtown Encinitas is a charming neighbourhood that captivates visitors with its unique blend of outdoor experiences and stunning scenery. Famous for its lively atmosphere, this area is home to numerous parks, music concerts, and theatres, making it a cultural hub. The proximity to family-friendly beaches and the national state park adds to its allure, offering a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure for tourists seeking the quintessential Californian experience.

Things to do near Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Shopping

In Cardiff-by-the-Sea, explore unique boutiques like Aloha Beach Club for surf-inspired gifts. If you're up for a drive, head to nearby shopping centres such as Westfield Plaza Bonita for a wider selection of stores or the Encinitas Farmers Market for local artisanal treasures on Sundays.

Recreation

Yoga on the Beach offers invigorating sessions with ocean views, allowing you to connect with nature while enhancing your flexibility and mindfulness. For a holistic approach, visit The Healing Centre, where therapies like massage and aromatherapy provide relaxation and rejuvenation, tailored to your individual needs.

Adventure

At Barona Speedway, located 42km from Cardiff-by-the-Sea, immerse yourself in the thrilling atmosphere of motor racing. Feel the adrenaline rush as you watch high-speed races and experience the vibrant sports culture that surrounds this exciting venue.

Nightlife

In Cardiff-by-the-Sea, you can enjoy a relaxed evening at the Chart House, known for its stunning ocean views and laid-back vibe. For a lively atmosphere, head to The Kraken, where craft cocktails and live music create an engaging nightlife experience by the beach.

*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 is perfect for outdoor and family vacations, boasting stunning beaches and a charming seaside village atmosphere. Visitors can explore exciting points of interest such as urban parks and local theme parks. Enjoy the coastal living experience, discover the seaside reef, and immerse yourself in the beauty of this delightful destination that caters to beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

  • LEGOLANDĀ® California: A delightful theme park located 13km from Cardiff-by-the-Sea, LEGOLANDĀ® California offers a world of imagination and creativity. Families will enjoy the interactive rides, attractions, and themed areas, all designed for younger visitors, making it a charming destination for a fun-filled day.
  • Carlsbad State Beach: Situated 14km away, Carlsbad State Beach boasts stunning coastal views and inviting sands. It’s an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying the beach vibes, providing a perfect retreat for relaxation and seaside activities.
  • Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve: Located 11km from Cardiff-by-the-Sea, this serene reserve offers breathtaking coastal cliffs and diverse wildlife. Ideal for leisurely hikes, visitors can immerse themselves in nature and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while taking in spectacular ocean views.

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

The best time to visit Cardiff-by-the-Sea can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Cardiff-by-the-Sea falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Cardiff-by-the-Sea falls in February, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
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

Reaching Cardiff-by-the-Sea is convenient with three major airports nearby. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is approximately 146km away, with luxurious hotels like the FairmONT Miramar Hotel and The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey located nearby. SAN Diego International Airport (SAN), situated 34km from Cardiff, offers elegant options such as Pendry San Diego and The US Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel. Orange County's John Wayne Airport (SNA) is around 92km away, with fine accommodations like The Resort at Pelican Hill and Balboa Bay Resort. Each airport provides accessible transport options to these hotels, ensuring a smooth journey to your destination.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place for a stay in Cardiff-by-the-Sea?
Located 17.2 mi (27.6 km) from the heart of Cardiff-by-the-Sea, Paradise Point Resort & Spa is a top choice for your stay based on our traveler data. Two other options for your trip to the area are California Suites Hotel and The Dana on Mission Bay. 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 Near Del Mar 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?
Paradise Point Resort & Spa: Resort, 1-minute walk from Mission Bay. Features 3 restaurants, 5 outdoor pools, and a full-service spa. California Suites Hotel 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. LEGOLANDĀ® California, Mission Bay, and Mission Beach are some of the top sights around the area. In Cardiff-by-the-Sea, there are 105 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 LEGOLANDĀ® 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.