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
+1-888-389-4121
1661 Villa Cardiff Dr., Encinitas, CA 92007 +1-888-389-4121 ~0.17 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • 3-star Beach property
  • 101 sleeping rooms in hotel
From£63
Average 3.0 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Cardiff by The Sea Lodge - San Diego
+1-888-675-2083
142 Chesterfield Dr., San Diego, CA 92007 +1-888-675-2083 ~0.49 miles southwest of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Mid-scale hotel
  • Check in time: 15:00
From£71
Very good 4.0 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Twelve Senses Retreat in Encinitas
+1-800-716-8490
1004 Nardo Rd., Encinitas, CA 92024 +1-800-716-8490 ~1.01 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • 3-star hotel
  • Check-in time: 15:00
From£71
Average 3.0 /5 Reviews Call BookMore Details
Days Inn by Wyndham Encinitas Moonlight Beach - Encinitas
+1-800-805-5223
133 Encinitas Blvd., Encinitas, CA 92024 +1-800-805-5223 ~1.78 miles northwest of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Two-star Beach hotel
  • 124 sleeping rooms in hotel
From£47
Average 3.0 /5 Guest Reviews Call BookMore Details
The Encinitan Hotel & Suites : 85 Encinitas Blvd.
+1-888-965-1860
85 Encinitas Blvd., Encinitas, CA 92024 +1-888-965-1860 ~1.88 miles northwest of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Mid-scale Beach property
  • Check-in time: 4PM
From£63
Average 3.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
Brisa Pacifica Hotel Encinitas - Encinitas
+1-888-788-5576
410 North Coast Highway 101, Encinitas, CA 92024 +1-888-788-5576 ~2.60 miles northwest of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Low-priced hotel
  • Complimentary breakfast is offered
From£39
Very good 4.0 /5 Reviews Call BookMore Details
Holiday Inn Express Solana Beach-Del Mar, an IHG Hotel
+1-888-897-9207
621 South Highway 101, Solana Beach, CA 92075 +1-888-897-9207 ~2.86 miles south of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Economical Beach hotel
  • 3 floors in property
From£69
Very good 4.0 /5 Reviews Call BookMore Details
Comfort Inn Encinitas Near Legoland
+1-888-311-4278
607 Leucadia Blv, Encinitas, CA 92024 Website +1-888-311-4278 ~2.89 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Two-star Beach hotel
  • Hotel has 2 meeting rooms
From£46
Average 3.0 /5 Reviews Call BookMore Details
Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Del Mar/Solana Beach
+1-888-469-4795
717 South Highway 101, Solana Beach, CA 92075 +1-888-469-4795 ~2.94 miles south of Cardiff by the Sea
  • 3 star Suburban hotel
  • 4 suites in property
From£118
Very good 4.0 /5 Guest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Winners Circle Resort by VRI Americas
+1-888-734-9421
550 Via De La Valle, Solana Beach, CA 92075 +1-888-734-9421 ~3.26 miles south of Cardiff by the Sea
  • 3 star Suburban property
  • Check-in time: 4:00pm
From£127
Very good 4.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
Hilton San Diego/Del Mar
+1-888-841-5292
15575 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar, CA 92014 +1-888-841-5292 ~3.46 miles south of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Expensive Beach property
  • Hotel has 7 meeting rooms
From£61
Very good 4.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe - Rancho Santa Fe
+1-888-455-5160
Linea Del Cielo Rancho Santa Fe, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067 +1-888-455-5160 ~3.49 miles east of Cardiff by the Sea
  • High-end Resort hotel
  • Fitness center on property
From£99
Average 3.0 /5 Latest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Rodeway Inn Encinitas North in Encinitas
+1-888-965-8297
1444 North Coast Highway 101, Encinitas, CA 92024 +1-888-965-8297 ~3.74 miles northwest of Cardiff by the Sea
  • 2-star Beach hotel
  • Check in time: 11:00
From£47
Average 3.5 /5 Reviews Call BookMore Details
Inn at Rancho Santa Fe
+1-888-906-6358
5951 Linea Del Cielo, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067 +1-888-906-6358 ~4.03 miles east of Cardiff by the Sea
  • High end Resort property
  • Access to gym on-site
From£123
Very good 4.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
Del Mar Beach Hotel : 1702 Coast Blvd.
+1-888-749-6785
1702 Coast Blvd., Del Mar, CA 92014 +1-888-749-6785 ~4.35 miles south of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Cheap Beach hotel
  • 2 floors in property
From£110
Average 3.5 /5 Latest Reviews Call BookMore Details
The Hotel at La Valle in Rancho Santa Fe
+1-888-878-9982
5690 Cancha De Golf, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92091 +1-888-878-9982 ~4.42 miles southeast of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Affordable Resort property
  • 69 rooms in property
From£43
Average 3.0 /5 Guest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas : 2100 North Coast Highway 101
+1-888-389-4485
2100 North Coast Highway 101, Encinitas, CA 92024 +1-888-389-4485 ~4.44 miles northwest of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Mid-scale hotel
  • Gym is available on property
From£71
Very good 4.0 /5 Guest Reviews Call BookMore Details
L'Auberge Del Mar - Del Mar
+1-888-389-4121
1540 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014 +1-888-389-4121 ~4.47 miles south of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Luxury Five Star Beach hotel
  • 8 suites in hotel
From£213
Very good 4.0 /5 Hotel Reviews Call BookMore Details
Omni La Costa Resort & Spa Carlsbad - Carlsbad
+1-888-675-2083
2100 Costa Del Mar Rd., Carlsbad, CA 92009 +1-888-675-2083 ~4.66 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Four-star Resort hotel
  • Access to gym on-site
From£139
Very good 4.0 /5 Recent Reviews Call BookMore Details
Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara, North San Diego
+1-800-716-8490
7210 Blue Heron Place, Carlsbad, CA 92011 +1-800-716-8490 ~4.99 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Luxurious 5 Star hotel
From£170
Very good 4.0 /5 Recent Reviews Call BookMore Details
Best Western Premier Hotel Del Mar
+1-800-805-5223
720 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014 +1-800-805-5223 ~5.16 miles south of Cardiff by the Sea
  • 3-star Resort hotel
  • Access to gym on-site
From£78
Very good 4.0 /5 Hotel Reviews Call BookMore Details
Hotel Indigo San Diego Del Mar, an IHG Hotel
+1-888-965-1860
710 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014 +1-888-965-1860 ~5.23 miles south of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Expensive Beach hotel
  • 3 suites in property
From£158
Very good 4.0 /5 Guest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Spa & Golf Club : 7100 Aviara Resort Dr.
+1-888-788-5576
7100 Aviara Resort Dr., Carlsbad, CA 92011 +1-888-788-5576 ~5.25 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Luxury 5-star Resort property
  • Check in: 4:00 PM
From£189
Very good 4.0 /5 Recent Reviews Call BookMore Details
Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, a Hilton Resort & Spa - Carlsbad
+1-888-897-9207
1 Ponto Rd., Carlsbad, CA 92011 +1-888-897-9207 ~5.52 miles northwest of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Luxurious 5-star Beach hotel
  • Hotel has 215 rooms
From£118
Very good 4.0 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa
+1-888-311-4278
5921 Valencia Circle, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067 +1-888-311-4278 ~5.63 miles east of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Luxurious Five Star hotel
  • Fitness / Gym is on-site
From£198
Very good 4.0 /5 Reviews Call BookMore Details
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Carlsbad Beach, an IHG Hotel in Carlsbad
+1-888-469-4795
751 Raintree Dr., Carlsbad, CA 92011 +1-888-469-4795 ~5.85 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Mid-scale Beach property
  • Check-in time: 4:00PM
From£73
Very good 4.0 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Motel 6 Carlsbad, CA Beach : 750 Raintree Dr.
+1-888-734-9421
750 Raintree Dr., Carlsbad, CA 92011 +1-888-734-9421 ~5.92 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Cheap hotel
  • 2 floors in hotel
From£47
Average 3.0 /5 Guest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Best Western Carlsbad by the Sea
+1-888-841-5292
751 Macadamia Dr., Carlsbad, CA 92011 +1-888-841-5292 ~6.03 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • 3 star Beach property
  • Check in time: 03:00
From£68
Average 3.0 /5 Recent Reviews Call BookMore Details
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Carlsbad - Legoland Area - Carlsbad
+1-888-455-5160
760 Macadamia Dr., Carlsbad, CA 92009 +1-888-455-5160 ~6.05 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • 3-star Beach hotel
  • 112 sleeping rooms in hotel
From£63
Very good 4.0 /5 Latest Reviews Call BookMore Details
San Diego Marriott Del Mar - San Diego
+1-888-965-8297
11966 El Camino Real, San Diego, CA 92130 +1-888-965-8297 ~6.52 miles south of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Four-star Highway hotel
  • 284 rooms in hotel
From£118
Very good 4.0 /5 Latest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Residence Inn San Diego Del Mar
+1-888-906-6358
3525 Valley Centre Dr., San Diego, CA 92130 +1-888-906-6358 ~6.55 miles south of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Three Star hotel
  • 118 sleeping rooms in hotel
From£71
Very good 4.0 /5 Guest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Fairfield Inn & Suites San Diego Carlsbad
+1-888-749-6785
1929 Palomar Oaks Way, Carlsbad, CA 92011 +1-888-749-6785 ~6.56 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • 3 star Suburban property
  • Hotel has 100 rooms
From£102
Very good 4.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
Doubletree by Hilton San Diego Del Mar
+1-888-878-9982
11915 El Camino Real, San Diego, CA 92130 +1-888-878-9982 ~6.57 miles south of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Midscale Beach hotel
  • 224 sleeping rooms in hotel
From£102
Average 3.0 /5 Guest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Hampton Inn San Diego Del Mar in San Diego
+1-888-389-4485
11920 El Camino Real, San Diego, CA 92130 +1-888-389-4485 ~6.58 miles south of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Low-priced Suburban hotel
  • Gym is available on property
From£100
Very good 4.0 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Home2 Suites Carlsbad
+1-888-389-4121
1901 Wright Place, Carlsbad, CA 92008 +1-888-389-4121 ~6.66 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • 3 star hotel
  • Hotel has 16 suites
From£150
Average 3.0 /5 Reviews Call BookMore Details
Hampton Inn Carlsbad-North San Diego County : 2229 Palomar Airport Rd.
+1-888-675-2083
2229 Palomar Airport Rd., Carlsbad, CA 92011 +1-888-675-2083 ~6.94 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • 3-star Beach hotel
  • 3 floors in property
From£63
Average 3.0 /5 Hotel Reviews Call BookMore Details
Homewood Suites by Hilton Carlsbad-North San Diego County - Carlsbad
+1-800-716-8490
2223 Palomar Airport Rd., Carlsbad, CA 92011 +1-800-716-8490 ~6.95 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Affordable Suburban property
  • 2 conference rooms in property
From£91
Average 3.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
Motel 6 Carlsbad, CA - East : 6117 Paseo Del Norte
+1-800-805-5223
6117 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, CA 92011 +1-800-805-5223 ~6.97 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Cheap hotel
  • 94 rooms in property
From£47
Average 3.0 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Cassara Carlsbad : 5805 Armada Dr.
+1-888-965-1860
5805 Armada Dr., Carlsbad, CA 92008 +1-888-965-1860 ~7.26 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Expensive Beach hotel
  • 6 conference rooms in property
From£78
Average 3.0 /5 Hotel Reviews Call BookMore Details
Holiday Inn Carlsbad, an IHG Hotel
+1-888-788-5576
2725 Palomar Airport Rd., Carlsbad, CA 92009 +1-888-788-5576 ~7.26 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • 3-star Beach property
  • Check-in time: 3:00 pm
From£81
Very good 4.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach
+1-888-897-9207
6450 Carlsbad Blvd., Carlsbad, CA 92011 +1-888-897-9207 ~7.27 miles northwest of Cardiff by the Sea
  • 3-star Resort property
  • 3 floors in hotel
From£107
Average 3.0 /5 Recent Reviews Call BookMore Details
Legoland California Resort
+1-888-311-4278
1 Legoland Dr., Carlsbad, CA 92008 +1-888-311-4278 ~7.30 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Four-star Beach hotel
  • Free comp. breakfast
From£126
Very good 4.0 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Staybridge Suites Carlsbad, an IHG Hotel
+1-888-469-4795
2735 Palomar Airport Rd., Carlsbad, CA 92009 +1-888-469-4795 ~7.31 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Affordable Airport hotel
  • Airport shuttle available
From£126
Very good 4.0 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Carlsbad by The Sea Hotel
+1-888-734-9421
850 Palomar Airport Rd., Carlsbad, CA 92011 +1-888-734-9421 ~7.32 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Three Star Beach hotel
  • 2 floors in property
From£61
Average 3.0 /5 Reviews Call BookMore Details
Fairmont Grand Del Mar in San Diego
+1-888-841-5292
5300 Grand Del Mar Court, San Diego, CA 92130 +1-888-841-5292 ~7.39 miles southeast of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Luxurious 5-star Resort hotel
  • 33 meeting rooms in property
From£218
Very good 4.0 /5 Read Reviews Call BookMore Details
Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa
+1-888-455-5160
5480 Grand Pacific Dr. A, Carlsbad, CA 92008 +1-888-455-5160 ~7.57 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • 4-star Beach hotel
  • Check-in time: 4pm
From£142
Very good 4.0 /5 Guest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Residence Inn Carlsbad in Carlsbad
+1-888-965-8297
2000 Faraday Ave., Carlsbad, CA 92008 +1-888-965-8297 ~7.62 miles north of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Mid-scale Beach hotel
  • Gym is available on property
From£63
Average 3.0 /5 Review Score Call BookMore Details
Lakehouse Resort in San Marcos
+1-888-906-6358
1025 La Bonita Dr., San Marcos, CA 92078 +1-888-906-6358 ~7.89 miles northeast of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Four-star Lake property
  • 2 floors in hotel
From£86
Very good 4.0 /5 Recent Reviews Call BookMore Details
Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Del Mar : 3939 Ocean Bluff Ave.
+1-888-749-6785
3939 Ocean Bluff Ave., San Diego, CA 92130 +1-888-749-6785 ~7.92 miles south of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Three Star Beach property
  • 4 floors in property
From£118
Very good 4.5 /5 Latest Reviews Call BookMore Details
Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego-Del Mar
+1-888-878-9982
11025 Vista Sorrento Pkwy., San Diego, CA 92130 +1-888-878-9982 ~7.96 miles south of Cardiff by the Sea
  • Mid-scale Suburban hotel
  • Free breakfast
From£63
Very good 4.0 /5 Review Score 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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