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

Cardiff by the Sea Lodge

Cardiff by the Sea Lodge
3.0 star property
Cardiff-by-the-Sea
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (786 reviews)
"Clean spacious room! Close to the beach and nearby restaurants! Helpful and courteous staff!"
United States
PAMELA
The price is €246
includes taxes & fees
8 Jul - 9 Jul
Cardiff by the Sea Lodge

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, (1,050 reviews)
"Great location and comfortable beds!"
United States
Michael
The price is €186
includes taxes & fees
12 Jul - 13 Jul
Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA Near Del Mar

Lakehouse Resort

Lakehouse Resort
4.0 star property
Lake San Marcos
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,678 reviews)
"Beautiful resort, nice views great staff"
United States
Marco
The price is €181
includes taxes & fees
9 Jul - 10 Jul
Lakehouse Resort

Lafayette Hotel & Club

Lafayette Hotel & Club
4.0 star property
University Heights
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,782 reviews)
"Beautiful hotel"
United States
Cuauhtemoc
The price is €289
includes taxes & fees
8 Jul - 9 Jul
Lafayette Hotel & Club

Crowne Plaza San Diego - Mission Valley by IHG

Crowne Plaza San Diego - Mission Valley by IHG
3.5 star property
Mission Valley
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,035 reviews)
"great stay"
United States
David
The price is €123
includes taxes & fees
27 Jul - 28 Jul
Crowne Plaza San Diego - Mission Valley by IHG

Best Western Escondido Hotel

Best Western Escondido Hotel
2.5 star property
North Broadway
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1,008 reviews)
"Clean room, friendly staff and excellent customer service."
United States
Thelma
The price is €145
includes taxes & fees
7 Jul - 8 Jul
Best Western Escondido Hotel

WoodSpring Suites Santee - San Diego Northeast

WoodSpring Suites Santee - San Diego Northeast
2.5 star property
Santee
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (143 reviews)
"This property has all amenities travelers would need; including clean room, accessible laundry facility, complimentary parking and wonderful friendly staff."
United States
Lorenzo Gregorio
The price is €114
includes taxes & fees
8 Jul - 9 Jul
WoodSpring Suites Santee - San Diego Northeast

La Jolla Shores Hotel

La Jolla Shores Hotel
3.0 star property
La Jolla Shores
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,340 reviews)
"Nice beach view, helpful staff, clean property."
United States
Edgardo
The price is €355
includes taxes & fees
12 Jul - 13 Jul
La Jolla Shores Hotel

West Inn & Suites

West Inn & Suites
3.5 star property
City Center
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,076 reviews)
"It's an attractive, clean property situated in a quiet location. Very nice breakfast."
United States
Russell
The price is €180
includes taxes & fees
7 Jul - 8 Jul
West Inn & Suites

Comfort Inn Escondido San Diego North County

Comfort Inn Escondido San Diego North County
3.5 star property
Escondido
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,005 reviews)
"very clean hotel"
United States
gerardo
The price is €144
includes taxes & fees
7 Jul - 8 Jul
Comfort Inn Escondido San Diego North County

Leucadia Beach Inn

Leucadia Beach Inn
2.5 star property
Leucadia
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,005 reviews)
"Loved my stay!"
United States
Stacy
The price is €112
includes taxes & fees
3 Aug - 4 Aug
Leucadia Beach Inn

Holiday Inn Carlsbad by IHG

Holiday Inn Carlsbad by IHG
3.0 star property
Bressi Ranch
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,003 reviews)
"Loved it there"
United States
Maria Cristina
The price is €198
includes taxes & fees
9 Jul - 10 Jul
Holiday Inn Carlsbad by IHG

The Alcala Hotel Mission Valley/Seaworld

The Alcala Hotel Mission Valley/Seaworld
2.5 star property
Mission Valley
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (337 reviews)
"Staff was great and rooms were nice."
United States
Brittney
The price is €90
includes taxes & fees
7 Jul - 8 Jul
The Alcala Hotel Mission Valley/Seaworld

Ocean Beach Hotel

Ocean Beach Hotel
3.0 star property
Ocean Beach
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,393 reviews)
"Great view of the beach and pier from our room and balcony."
United States
Donovan
The price is €230
includes taxes & fees
2 Aug - 3 Aug
Ocean Beach Hotel

Ocean Villa Inn

Ocean Villa Inn
2.5 star property
Ocean Beach
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (1,309 reviews)
"This is very pet friendly and staff is great"
United States
Arturo
The price is €118
includes taxes & fees
7 Jul - 8 Jul
Ocean Villa Inn

Old Town Western Inn & Suites

Old Town Western Inn & Suites
2.5 star property
Old Town San Diego
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (1,002 reviews)
"Very good area for visiting the area"
United States
Carla
The price is €110
includes taxes & fees
8 Jul - 9 Jul
Old Town Western Inn & Suites

The Encinitan Hotel & Suites

The Encinitan Hotel & Suites
3.0 star property
Downtown Encinitas
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1,596 reviews)
"Great place to stay"
United States
joshua
The price is €161
includes taxes & fees
8 Jul - 9 Jul
The Encinitan Hotel & Suites

Kings Inn San Diego

Kings Inn San Diego
2.5 star property
Mission Valley
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (3,735 reviews)
"Such an amazing place to stay at! hotel is so close to literally everything and the staff was amazing. Hotel was super clean and quiet definitely recommend!"
United States
Jasmyne
The price is €117
includes taxes & fees
8 Jul - 9 Jul
Kings Inn San Diego

Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego Carlsbad

Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego Carlsbad
3.0 star property
City Center
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,002 reviews)
"clean room and great staff."
United States
Abraham
The price is €165
includes taxes & fees
19 Jul - 20 Jul
Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego Carlsbad

Pleasant Inn

Pleasant Inn
2.5 star property
Clairemont
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,479 reviews)
"Staff were very accommodating & friendly the room was clean i would stay there again!"
United States
Scott
The price is €121
includes taxes & fees
20 Jul - 21 Jul
Pleasant Inn
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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 boasts beautiful sandy beaches like Cardiff State Beach, perfect for sunbathing and seaside activities.
  • Outdoor Family Fun: The area features charming parks and recreational spaces ideal for family outings and outdoor adventures.
  • Vibrant Shopping and Dining: Explore a lively shopping centre with unique boutiques and delightful eateries showcasing local flavours.
  • Engaging Surf Culture: Cardiff is known for excellent surf spots, offering opportunities for both novice and experienced surfers.
  • Welcoming Atmosphere: Enjoy the friendly community vibe, making it an inviting destination for all visitors.

Find great hotels near Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Discover the charm of Cardiff-by-the-Sea, where a variety of accommodation options await to suit every traveller's needs. Whether you're seeking family-friendly resorts or pet-friendly hotels, Cardiff-by-the-Sea offers a delightful blend of adventure and relaxation. Enjoy the coastal beauty while indulging in comfortable stays that cater to your every desire, making your visit to this enchanting seaside locale truly memorable.

  • Hyatt Regency La Jolla: Situated approximately 17.7km from Cardiff-by-the-Sea, the 4-star Hyatt Regency La Jolla offers a family-friendly retreat that combines adventure with comfort. With a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, the hotel is an excellent choice for those seeking outdoor activities, featuring amenities for hiking, sailing, surfing, and kayaking nearby. Families will appreciate the child-friendly services, including complimentary cribs and safety measures like window guards. The hotel’s spacious accommodations and recreational facilities make it a great option for both business travellers and holidaymakers looking for a balanced stay.
  • Sonesta ES Suites San Diego - Sorrento Mesa: Located around 16.1km from Cardiff-by-the-Sea, the 3-star Sonesta ES Suites San Diego boasts a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10 and is ideal for city-themed getaways. This pet-friendly hotel welcomes dogs and cats, making it a suitable option for travellers who wish to bring their furry companions along. With business amenities and a prime location in the city centre, it caters well to those on business trips while providing the comforts of home with spacious suites and modern conveniences. Its combination of urban accessibility and pet-friendly policies makes it a distinctive choice.
  • Comfort Inn Encinitas Near Legoland: Just 4.8km from Cardiff-by-the-Sea, Comfort Inn Encinitas offers budget-friendly accommodation with a family-oriented atmosphere. This hotel is particularly appealing for families and business travellers, featuring child-friendly amenities such as complimentary cribs and safety window guards. While maintaining affordability, the hotel ensures a comfortable stay with essential facilities and a location near popular attractions like Legoland, making it a practical choice for those seeking convenience and value during their visit.

Where to stay near Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Cardiff-by-the-Sea, a charming coastal city in California, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities. Visitors can explore the stunning Cardiff coastline and relax at Cardiff State Beach, perfect for sunbathing and beachside excursions. With its welcoming atmosphere and scenic views, Cardiff serves as an excellent base for discovering the beauty of the surrounding region. Uncover the best of Cardiff and immerse yourself in this friendly seaside community.

  • Del Mar: Located a mere 6.4km from Cardiff-by-the-Sea, Del Mar is a charming coastal city known for its stunning beaches and vibrant outdoor activities. Visitors flock here for a family-friendly experience, especially during the peak months of June to August. Del Mar offers an array of attractions, including its picturesque fairground and recreational parks, perfect for enjoying a sunny day. The local beaches and family beach areas are ideal for relaxation and fun in the sun, making Del Mar a delightful destination for all ages.
  • La Costa Oaks South: Situated approximately 8.0km from Cardiff-by-the-Sea, La Costa Oaks South is a serene neighbourhood that captivates nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. The area is particularly popular between March and August, offering an abundance of outdoor experiences amidst beautiful scenery. With access to golf courses and resorts, visitors can enjoy leisurely rounds of golf or unwind in luxurious surroundings. Nearby attractions, including the national state park and family beaches, provide ample opportunities for exploration and recreation, making La Costa Oaks South a perfect getaway.
  • Carlsbad: About 16.1km from Cardiff-by-the-Sea, Carlsbad is a vibrant city that promises an exciting blend of family entertainment and outdoor adventures. The peak travel seasons in Carlsbad are March to April and July, drawing families eager to experience its renowned theme parks and beautiful beaches. Whether it’s a day of shopping at local centres or enjoying time at the recreation park, Carlsbad offers a wealth of activities for visitors of all ages. With its inviting atmosphere and diverse attractions, Carlsbad is a must-visit for any holidaymaker.

Things to do near Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Shopping

In Cardiff-by-the-Sea, explore local boutiques and surf shops along the charming streets, perfect for unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, visit Westfield UTC, around 22.5km away, featuring a mix of high-end retail and dining options.

Recreation

Explore the tranquil setting of the Cardiff-by-the-Sea Yoga Studio, where you can engage in rejuvenating yoga sessions amidst a serene atmosphere. Afterwards, take a peaceful stroll along Cardiff State Beach, enjoying the ocean breeze and picturesque views as you unwind and connect with nature.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at Barona Speedway, located 41.8km from Cardiff-by-the-Sea. Feel the adrenaline as you watch exciting races and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere filled with sports and adventure vibes, perfect for motorsport enthusiasts seeking an exhilarating day out.

Nightlife

Explore the lively atmosphere at The Cardiff Lounge, where you can enjoy cocktails and tasty bites. For a more relaxed evening, visit the Seaside Market Wine Bar, offering a selection of local wines and cheeses, perfect for unwinding after a day 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

To save money during your visit to Cardiff-by-the-Sea, travel from November to January when accommodation prices are lower. Opt for free activities like Moonlight State Beach and Del Mar Beach. For transport, consider walking or cycling to keep costs down. Book your stay on a Tuesday for the best rates, and avoid Saturdays when prices peak. Use Expedia to find the best hotel deals by adjusting the price filter and consider package deals that combine flights and activities for further savings.

  • 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you favour. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You could potentially save money by combining your hotel stay in Cardiff-by-the-Sea with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around 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 top attractions such as sandy beaches and local parks, making it an ideal destination for those seeking memorable beach experiences. With various activities available, Cardiff-by-the-Sea offers something for everyone, ensuring a delightful getaway filled with sun and leisure.

  • Cardiff State Beach: Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of Cardiff State Beach, where golden sands meet the Pacific Ocean. Ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing, this beach offers stunning views and a relaxing environment, perfect for unwinding by the sea.
  • LEGOLAND® California: Located 12.9km away, LEGOLAND® California is a vibrant theme park filled with imaginative rides and attractions based on the beloved LEGO® brand. Families can delight in interactive experiences, entertaining shows, and themed areas that spark creativity and fun for younger visitors.
  • Del Mar Fairgrounds: Just 4.8km from Cardiff-by-the-Sea, the Del Mar Fairgrounds hosts a variety of events throughout the year. With its outdoor setting, it is a great place to enjoy fairs, concerts, and exhibitions, offering a lively atmosphere for families and friends.

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.

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 easy with three major airports nearby. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is situated 146.4km away, with luxurious hotels like The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey and The Huntley Hotel, both offering convenient access to the airport. San Diego International Airport (SAN) is closer at 33.8km, with excellent options such as the Hard Rock Hotel San Diego and Hotel del Coronado, both just a short drive from the airport. Lastly, Orange County's John Wayne Airport (SNA) is 91.7km away, featuring the Renaissance Newport Beach Hotel and Hotel Zessa, both within 1.6km of the airport, ensuring a seamless travel experience.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place for a stay in Cardiff-by-the-Sea?
Located 16.6 mi (26.7 km) from the heart of Cardiff-by-the-Sea, Hyatt Vacation Club at The Welk, San Diego Area is a top choice for your stay, based on our traveller data. Other good choices for your stay in the area are Paradise Point Resort & Spa and California Suites Hotel. See all available top hotels, or vacation rentals in Cardiff-by-the-Sea.
What are some of the best holiday rentals that Cardiff-by-the-Sea has to offer?
O'Side Playa Beach Bungalow home Vacation Studio 1 mile east of Oceanside Pier: This holiday home rental outside of Cardiff-by-the-Sea is located in the city centre, and has a balcony, a BBQ and air conditioning to put you at ease in your new surroundings. Kitchen amenities include a dishwasher, a fridge and a stovetop. See all 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 room reservations are refundable provided that you cancel before the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which often is within 24-48 hours of your check-in date. If you booked a non-refundable reservation, you might be able to still cancel and be given a refund within a 24-hour period of booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Cardiff-by-the-Sea.
What's the best LGBTQ-friendly accommodation 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 dog-friendly hotel in Cardiff-by-the-Sea?
Hampton Inn Cardiff Beach Encinitas, CA Near Del Mar is a top hotel for people travelling with their pets, and offers an outdoor pool and a 24-hour fitness centre for its human guests. See more pet-friendly hotel accommodations in Cardiff-by-the-Sea.
What are some accommodation options with pools in Cardiff-by-the-Sea?
Hyatt Vacation Club at The Welk, San Diego Area: Features 8 outdoor swimming pools, a children's pool and free water park access. Paradise Point Resort & Spa and California Suites Hotel are two additional hotels that offer an on-site pool. View all hotels with pools in Cardiff-by-the-Sea.
What is staying in Cardiff-by-the-Sea like?
Families will find child-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 cafés. LEGOLAND® 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 accommodation options to choose from. Find out more about Cardiff-by-the-Sea.
What is there to see 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 Encinitas Community Park. Additionally, you'll find LEGOLAND® California and Mission Bay in the area. Take a look at what more there is to see and do in Expedia's Cardiff-by-the-Sea guide.
What's the seasonal weather in Cardiff-by-the-Sea?
The hottest months are usually September and August, with an average temperature of 21°C, while the coldest months are February and January, with an average of 14°C. Average annual precipitation for Cardiff-by-the-Sea is 335 mm.

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