Moonlight State Beach

Moonlight State Beach is a local favourite and one of the more family-friendly beaches in the area with its large variety of things to do. The beach gradually slopes downward, making it a safer place for children to swim. Past the swimming area, you can watch surfers and boogie boarders while you relax in the sand.

You can also find a grassy area and playground for children to play in. The beach was named by locals in the 1900s because it was a popular spot for starlight picnics, and it's still a great place to enjoy the evening roasting marshmallows around the provided fire rings.

Moonlight State Beach - one of the highlights of 10 Best Beaches in San Diego (Read all about San Diego here)

Highlights of Moonlight State Beach

Moonlight State Beach offers a snack bar with beach rentals where you can find a wide array of equipment, including chairs and umbrellas as well as surfboards, boogie boards, and wetsuits. If you’ve come to catch some waves, there is a special surf area available just past the swimming zone.

You may also enjoy a friendly game with your group in the California sun at the tennis and volleyball courts. You'll find several picnic tables as well as lush green grass where you can spread out a blanket and enjoy your lunch.

Good to know about Moonlight State Beach

You'll find Moonlight State Beach located at the crossroads of Highway 101 and Encinitas Boulevard. This area is home to Encinitas’s prime shopping and restaurants, so be sure to allow some time to explore the area.

The beach can get quite crowded, so if you're not able to find a spot, you can head south to D Street Beach or north to Stone Steps Beach. There is free parking on the street, but you will have to walk down and back up a steep hill. In the summer, these spots fill up fast, but there is also a paid lot off of C Street.

Location: 400 B St, Encinitas, CA 92024, USA

Open: Daily from 5 am to 10 pm

Phone: +1 760-633-2740

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