Cardiff Seaside Retreat Guidebook
Sightseeing
Looking for the closest point of entry to the beach from the retreat? Simply cross the 101 at Chesterfield and there is a gate to the San Elijo Campgrounds tucked behind the famous statue known as the Cardiff Kook. Please note: the gate is locked shortly after sunset.
7 residents recomanen
Public Art "Magic Carpet Ride" or "The Cardiff Kook"
Looking for the closest point of entry to the beach from the retreat? Simply cross the 101 at Chesterfield and there is a gate to the San Elijo Campgrounds tucked behind the famous statue known as the Cardiff Kook. Please note: the gate is locked shortly after sunset.
Turn off your ringer, hush your voice and slip inside the gates of this waterfront sanctuary. Beautiful gardens, koi ponds and breathtaking ocean views will give you an immediate attitude adjustment.
92 residents recomanen
Jardins de Meditació
215 W K StTurn off your ringer, hush your voice and slip inside the gates of this waterfront sanctuary. Beautiful gardens, koi ponds and breathtaking ocean views will give you an immediate attitude adjustment.
This great little beach is an easy walk from the retreat and has parking if you'd prefer to drive. Great spot for beginner surfers, sand castle building and sunset gazing. Tip: Grab food to go from Kai's, Tower 13 or Las Olas across the street and enjoy dinner on the beach.
99 residents recomanen
Cardiff State Beach
This great little beach is an easy walk from the retreat and has parking if you'd prefer to drive. Great spot for beginner surfers, sand castle building and sunset gazing. Tip: Grab food to go from Kai's, Tower 13 or Las Olas across the street and enjoy dinner on the beach.
Swami's State Marine Conservation Area
Food scene
Pop in for warm apple fritter, a fresh baked donut or all sorts of yummy desserts from this local favorite.
73 residents recomanen
VG Donut & Bakery
106 Aberdeen DrPop in for warm apple fritter, a fresh baked donut or all sorts of yummy desserts from this local favorite.
This awesome local market has everything you need from everyday to gourmet. They're famous for their marinated tri-tip, called "Cardiff Crack" and have an incredible selection of wines, cheeses, fresh fish and to-die-for desserts.
176 residents recomanen
Cardiff Seaside Market
2087 San Elijo AveThis awesome local market has everything you need from everyday to gourmet. They're famous for their marinated tri-tip, called "Cardiff Crack" and have an incredible selection of wines, cheeses, fresh fish and to-die-for desserts.
Best little breakfast place in town and it's only 2 blocks away. They are famous for their huge and delicious burritos but my personal favorite is their egg sandwich with bacon.
68 residents recomanen
Pipes Cafe
121 Liverpool DrBest little breakfast place in town and it's only 2 blocks away. They are famous for their huge and delicious burritos but my personal favorite is their egg sandwich with bacon.
The Besta-Wan Pizza House was established in 1965 and is the longest standing business in Cardiff by the Sea. And certainly the quirkiest. Bring your kids and your dog and check out their huge menu that offers decadent as well as healthy options.
35 residents recomanen
The Besta Wan Pizza House
148 Aberdeen DrThe Besta-Wan Pizza House was established in 1965 and is the longest standing business in Cardiff by the Sea. And certainly the quirkiest. Bring your kids and your dog and check out their huge menu that offers decadent as well as healthy options.
The freshest, tastiest and most fun little fish restaurant in So Cal (in my humble opinion). The line is often long but moves quickly. Tips: Upgrade your side to include the brussel sprouts. Grab an outside seat to watch the sunset and passersby.
22 residents recomanen
Fish 101 Cardiff
2101 San Elijo AveThe freshest, tastiest and most fun little fish restaurant in So Cal (in my humble opinion). The line is often long but moves quickly. Tips: Upgrade your side to include the brussel sprouts. Grab an outside seat to watch the sunset and passersby.