Cardiff by the Sea California Accommodations

Find the perfect hotel in Cardiff by the Sea using our hotel guide provided below. Search for cheap and discounted hotel and motel rates in or close to Cardiff by the Sea, CA for your upcoming individual or group travel. We provide the best Cardiff by the Sea California hotel/motel rooms. Review the Cardiff by the Sea hotel list below to find the perfect lodging. We also have a map of the Cardiff by the Sea hotels. Coordinating a group? Get Cardiff by the Sea Group Hotel Discounts

The Cardiff by the Sea center point is around the area of Scripps Memorial Hospital and 1 mile southeast of San Dieguito Heritage Museum.

Cardiff-by-the-Sea, often simply referred to as Cardiff, is a delightful beach community within the city of Encinitas in San Diego County, California. Cardiff is surrounded by the magnificent Pacific Ocean to the west and a picturesque beach and lagoon to the south. Cardiff is also a treasure trove of fascinating sights and attractions. This destination offers an irresistible blend of sun, sea, and culture, making it a must-visit location. The area is steeped in a rich history that dates back to its first inhabitants, the Indigenous Kumeyaay. Today, Cardiff captivates visitors with its local culture, epitomized by the lively Cardiff Seaside Market, where you can savor gourmet foods and fresh produce. Cardiff-by-the-Sea is also famed for its stunning beaches, which are perfect for surfing, sunbathing, and enjoying breathtaking sunsets. Outdoor enthusiasts will find joy in the nearby San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve, a haven for birdwatching and hiking. With its laid-back vibe, welcoming community, and an array of activities to explore, Cardiff-by-the-Sea is truly a coastal gem that promises an unforgettable experience. Located just 25 miles north of San Diego, Cardiff-by-the-Sea offers easy access to this bustling metropolitan city while maintaining its serene atmosphere. Also, its proximity to other destination-worthy towns such as Carlsbad, known for its flower fields, and Del Mar, renowned for its racing season, puts you within arms' reach of a broad spectrum of SoCal attractions. Accommodations in the Cardiff area are plentiful, catering to a range of preferences and budgets. From a cozy inn to a convenient motel to a family-friendly hotel and a luxurious oceanfront suite, you'll find it all here. However, it's always worth booking in advance to secure your ideal lodging, particularly during the peak tourist season. More from this guide...

Cardiff by the Sea Hotels/Motels & Accommodations

Hampton Inn Encinitas Cardiff Beach in Encinitas 1661 Villa Cardiff Dr., Encinitas, CA 92007 Call ~0.17 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Affordable Beach hotel
  • Check in: 3:00 PM
From£59
Average 3.0 /5 Recent Reviews Call BookMore Details
Cardiff by The Sea Lodge in San Diego 142 Chesterfield Dr., San Diego, CA 92007 Call ~0.49 miles southwest of Cardiff by the Sea
  • 3 star property
  • Check-in time: 15:00
From£66
Very good 4.0 /5 Latest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Twelve Senses Retreat : 1004 Nardo Rd. 1004 Nardo Rd., Encinitas, CA 92024 Call ~1.01 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Three Star property
  • 4 sleeping rooms in hotel
From£66
Average 3.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
Days Inn Encinitas 133 Encinitas Blvd., Encinitas, CA 92024 Call ~1.78 miles northwest of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Mid-scale Beach property
  • Hotel has 122 rooms
From£59
Average 3.0 /5 Reviews Call BookMore Details
The Encinitan Hotel & Suites in Encinitas 85 Encinitas Blvd., Encinitas, CA 92024 Call ~1.88 miles northwest of Cardiff by the Sea
  • 3 star Beach property
  • Check in time: 4PM
From£59
Average 3.0 /5 Guest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Brisa Pacific Hotel Encinitas - Encinitas 410 North Coast Highway 101, Encinitas, CA 92024 Call ~2.59 miles northwest of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Two star hotel
  • Check in time: 11:00
From£36
Very good 4.0 /5 Guest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Holiday Inn Express Solana Beach Del Mar by Ihg in Solana Beach 621 South Highway 101, Solana Beach, CA 92075 Call ~2.86 miles south of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Inexpensive Beach property
  • Hotel has 3 floors
From£65
Very good 4.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
Comfort Inn Encinitas Near Legoland 607 Leucadia Blv, Encinitas, CA 92024 Website Call ~2.88 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Two-star Beach property
  • 2 meeting rooms in property
From£42
Average 3.0 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Del Mar / Solana Beach in Solana Beach 717 South Highway 101, Solana Beach, CA 92075 Call ~2.93 miles south of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Mid-scale Suburban property
  • Has environment-friendly policy See policy
From£110
Very good 4.0 /5 Recent Reviews Call BookMore Details
Winners Circle Resort by VRI Americas - Solana Beach 550 Via De La Valle, Solana Beach, CA 92075 Call ~3.25 miles south of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Affordable Suburban property
  • 94 rooms in hotel
From£118
Very good 4.0 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Hilton San Diego/Del Mar - Del Mar 15575 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar, CA 92014 Call ~3.45 miles south of Cardiff by the Sea
  • 4-star Beach property
  • 3 suites in hotel
From£57
Very good 4.0 /5 Latest Reviews Call BookMore Details
The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe Linea Del Cielo Rancho Santa Fe, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067 Call ~3.49 miles east of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Four star Resort hotel
  • Fitness / Gym is on-site
From£92
Average 3.0 /5 Reviews Call BookMore Details
Rodeway Inn Encinitas North 1444 North Coast Highway 101, Encinitas, CA 92024 Call ~3.73 miles northwest of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Inexpensive Beach hotel
  • 51 rooms in hotel
From£44
Average 3.5 /5 Recent Reviews Call BookMore Details
Inn at Rancho Santa Fe : 5951 Linea Del Cielo 5951 Linea Del Cielo, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067 Call ~4.03 miles east of Cardiff by the Sea
  • 4-star Resort hotel
  • Hotel has 80 rooms
From£115
Very good 4.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
Del Mar Beach Hotel - Del Mar 1702 Coast Blvd., Del Mar, CA 92014 Call ~4.34 miles south of Cardiff by the Sea
  • 2 star Beach property
  • Hotel has 2 floors
From£102
Average 3.5 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas : 2100 North Coast Highway 101 2100 North Coast Highway 101, Encinitas, CA 92024 Call ~4.43 miles northwest of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Three Star property
  • Check in time: 16:00
From£66
Very good 4.0 /5 Reviews Call BookMore Details
Guesthouse Hotel at La Valle 5690 Cancha De Golf, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92091 Call ~4.46 miles southeast of Cardiff by the Sea
  • 3-star Resort property
  • 6 suites in property
From£48
Average 3.5 /5 Recent Reviews Call BookMore Details
L'auberge Del Mar in Del Mar 1540 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014 Call ~4.46 miles south of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Luxurious 5 Star Beach hotel
  • Check in: 4:00 PM
From£198
Very good 4.0 /5 Guest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Omni La Costa Resort & Spa Carlsbad : 2100 Costa Del Mar Rd. 2100 Costa Del Mar Rd., Carlsbad, CA 92009 Call ~4.65 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • 4 star Resort hotel
  • Hotel has 610 rooms
From£129
Very good 4.0 /5 Latest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara, North San Diego - Carlsbad 7210 Blue Heron Place, Carlsbad, CA 92011 Call ~4.98 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Luxurious 5 Star property
From£158
Very good 4.0 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Best Western Premier Hotel Del Mar : 720 Camino Del Mar 720 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014 Call ~5.16 miles south of Cardiff by the Sea
  • 3-star Resort property
  • 80 rooms in property
From£73
Very good 4.0 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Hotel Indigo San Diego Del Mar by IHG 710 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014 Call ~5.22 miles south of Cardiff by the Sea
  • 4-star Beach property
  • Hotel has 94 rooms
From£147
Very good 4.0 /5 Guest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa : 7100 Aviara Resort Dr. 7100 Aviara Resort Dr., Carlsbad, CA 92011 Call ~5.24 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Luxurious 5 Star Resort hotel
  • Access to gym on-site
From£176
Very good 4.0 /5 Hotel Reviews Call BookMore Details
Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach a Hilton Resort & Spa 1 Ponto Rd., Carlsbad, CA 92011 Call ~5.52 miles northwest of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Luxury 5-star Beach hotel
  • 7 conference rooms in property
From£95
Very good 4.5 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa 5921 Valencia Circle, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067 Call ~5.62 miles east of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Luxury 5-star hotel
  • Gym is available on property
From£184
Very good 4.0 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Carlsbad Beach An Ihg Hotel : 751 Raintree Dr. 751 Raintree Dr., Carlsbad, CA 92011 Website Call ~5.84 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • 3-star Beach hotel
  • Check-in time: 4:00PM
From£59
Average 3.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
Motel 6 Carlsbad, CA Beach 750 Raintree Dr., Carlsbad, CA 92011 Call ~5.92 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Low-priced hotel
  • Check-in: 15:00
From£44
Average 3.0 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Best Western Carlsbad by the Sea 751 Macadamia Dr., Carlsbad, CA 92011 Call ~6.02 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • 3 star Beach property
  • Fitness + Health Center
From£63
Average 3.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Carlsbad Legoland Area in Carlsbad 760 Macadamia Dr., Carlsbad, CA 92009 Call ~6.04 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Mid-scale Beach property
  • Hotel has 3 floors
From£54
Very good 4.0 /5 Reviews Call BookMore Details
San Diego Marriott Del Mar in San Diego 11966 El Camino Real, San Diego, CA 92130 Call ~6.51 miles south of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Expensive Highway property
  • 14 meeting rooms in property
From£73
Average 3.0 /5 Latest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Residence Inn San Diego Del Mar 3525 Valley Centre Dr., San Diego, CA 92130 Call ~6.54 miles south of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Affordable property
  • Fitness / Gym is on-site
From£66
Very good 4.0 /5 Recent Reviews Call BookMore Details
Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego Carlsbad 1929 Palomar Oaks Way, Carlsbad, CA 92011 Call ~6.55 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Three Star Suburban hotel
  • 3 floors in hotel
From£95
Very good 4.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
Doubletree by Hilton San Diego Del Mar 11915 El Camino Real, San Diego, CA 92130 Call ~6.56 miles south of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Three Star Beach hotel
  • 10 meeting rooms in hotel
From£95
Average 3.0 /5 Reviews Call BookMore Details
Hampton Inn San Diego Del Mar in San Diego 11920 El Camino Real, San Diego, CA 92130 Call ~6.57 miles south of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Two star Suburban hotel
  • Access to gym on-site
From£93
Very good 4.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
Home2 Suites Carlsbad : 1901 Wright Place 1901 Wright Place, Carlsbad, CA 92008 Call ~6.65 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • 3-star property
  • Hotel has an eco-friendly policy Read more
From£102
Average 3.0 /5 Hotel Reviews Call BookMore Details
Hampton Inn Carlsbad-North San Diego County in Carlsbad 2229 Palomar Airport Rd., Carlsbad, CA 92011 Call ~6.93 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Affordable Beach hotel
  • Fitness center on property
From£59
Average 3.0 /5 Reviews Call BookMore Details
Homewood Suites by Hilton Carlsbad-North San Diego County - Carlsbad 2223 Palomar Airport Rd., Carlsbad, CA 92011 Call ~6.94 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Midscale Suburban hotel
  • Fitness center on property
From£85
Average 3.0 /5 Guest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Motel 6 Carlsbad, CA - East : 6117 Paseo Del Norte 6117 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, CA 92011 Call ~6.96 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Low priced hotel
  • 2 floors in property
From£44
Average 3.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
Cassara Carlsbad 5805 Armada Dr., Carlsbad, CA 92008 Call ~7.25 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • High end Beach hotel
  • 6 meeting rooms in property
From£73
Average 3.0 /5 Reviews Call BookMore Details
Holiday Inn Carlsbad by IHG : 2725 Palomar Airport Rd. 2725 Palomar Airport Rd., Carlsbad, CA 92009 Call ~7.25 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • 3 star Beach property
  • Gym / Fitness Center Available
From£76
Very good 4.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach : 6450 Carlsbad Blvd. 6450 Carlsbad Blvd., Carlsbad, CA 92011 Call ~7.26 miles northwest of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Affordable Resort hotel
  • 3 floors in property
From£99
Average 3.0 /5 Hotel Reviews Call BookMore Details
Legoland California Resort : 1 Legoland Dr. 1 Legoland Dr., Carlsbad, CA 92008 Call ~7.29 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Four-star Beach hotel
  • Fitness / Gym is on-site
From£117
Very good 4.0 /5 Reviews Call BookMore Details
Staybridge Suites Carlsbad by Ihg in Carlsbad 2735 Palomar Airport Rd., Carlsbad, CA 92009 Call ~7.30 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • 3 star Airport property
  • Fitness + Health Center
From£117
Very good 4.0 /5 Recent Reviews Call BookMore Details
Carlsbad by The Sea Hotel 850 Palomar Airport Rd., Carlsbad, CA 92011 Call ~7.31 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Three Star Beach hotel
  • Fitness / Gym is on-site
From£57
Average 3.0 /5 Guest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Fairmont Grand Del Mar in San Diego 5300 Grand Del Mar Court, San Diego, CA 92130 Call ~7.38 miles southeast of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Luxury 5 star Resort property
  • Shuttle to airport available
From£203
Very good 4.0 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa : 5480 Grand Pacific Dr. 5480 Grand Pacific Dr., Carlsbad, CA 92008 Call ~7.44 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • High-end Beach property
  • Fitness center on property
From£103
Very good 4.0 /5 Latest Reviews Call BookMore Details
The Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa 5480 Grand Pacific Dr., Carlsbad, CA 92008 Call ~7.50 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • High-end Beach property
  • 3 floors in hotel
From£117
Very good 4.0 /5 Recent Reviews Call BookMore Details
Residence Inn Carlsbad 2000 Faraday Ave., Carlsbad, CA 92008 Call ~7.61 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Three Star Beach hotel
  • Hotel has 121 suites
From£59
Average 3.0 /5 Hotel Reviews Call BookMore Details
Lakehouse Resort 1025 La Bonita Dr., San Marcos, CA 92078 Call ~7.88 miles northeast of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Four star Lake hotel
  • Check in time: 4:00 PM
From£80
Very good 4.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Del Mar 3939 Ocean Bluff Ave., San Diego, CA 92130 Call ~7.91 miles south of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Mid-scale Beach property
  • Access to gym on-site
From£110
Very good 4.5 /5 Guest Reviews Call BookMore Details

Next: See My Cardiff by the Sea Hotels with Pricing

When Cardiff Shines the Brightest: Your Guide to Timing Your Visit

Cardiff by the Sea, CA features a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it an attractive destination year-round. In spring, the area bursts with colorful blooms, creating perfect conditions for hiking the trails at San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve and enjoying the pristine beaches. Summer is ideal for surfing, swimming, and attending the renowned Cardiff Dog Days of Summer festival in July, which celebrates canine companions with contests, activities, and vendors. Fall maintains warm temperatures, perfect for beach days and exploring the vibrant local dining scene, while the Cardiff Greek Festival in September offers a cultural experience with authentic cuisine, music, and dance. Winter is mild, allowing for outdoor activities like strolling along the scenic coastline and visiting the nearby San Diego Botanic Garden. On average, Cardiff sees 263 sunny days per year. When it comes to the most pleasant months to visit, September, August, and July take the crown. These months offer the best combination of favorable weather conditions and a lively atmosphere, making them the most popular among tourists. However, those who prefer a quieter and more relaxed experience may find the cooler months, particularly January and February, equally enjoyable. Whenever you visit, Cardiff-by-the-Sea promises an unforgettable Californian adventure.

Discount Digs: Savings on Cardiff Hotels

Travelers heading to Cardiff-by-the-Sea can take advantage of an array of special offers and discounts provided by HotelPlanner. The platform often features seasonal promotions, early booking discounts, and last-minute deals that cater to different travel needs. Seniors and veterans can often benefit from discounted rates that acknowledge and appreciate their service and experience. Solo travelers can enjoy last-minute deals and promotions for single occupancy, allowing for a more budget-friendly adventure. Moreover, HotelPlanner frequently collaborates with various properties in the area to offer exclusive promotions and group rates. This is an ideal choice for family gatherings, corporate retreats, or special events. By leveraging these discounts, travelers can maximize their budget while still enjoying all that Cardiff-by-the-Sea offers.

Unforgettable Experiences: Fun Things to Do in Cardiff

Cardiff-by-the-Sea is a gem of a destination that offers a wealth of fun and exciting activities. This beach community is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with a wide array of stunning beaches, parks, and nature reserves to explore. The renowned Cardiff State Beach and the adjacent San Elijo State Beach are perfect spots for surfing, swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking, while the San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve offers miles of hiking trails through one of San Diego County's most extensive coastal wetlands. For a unique hiking experience, the Annie's Canyon Trail takes you through sandstone cliffs and narrow slot canyons, offering panoramic views of the lagoon and ocean at the summit. For those seeking tranquility, the nearby Self-Realization Fellowship Meditation Gardens provide a serene retreat with beautifully landscaped grounds and stunning ocean vistas. Adding to the charm of Cardiff is its local art scene, with numerous small galleries and art installations scattered throughout the area. Meanwhile, the Seaside Market serves as the epicenter of Cardiff, offering gourmet foods. From its stunning natural beauty to its culture and community, Cardiff-by-the-Sea promises a wealth of experiences that make it an unforgettable destination.

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