Up and Coming: Encinitas

Once a sleepy beach town, Encinitas, Calif., has grown into a lively population of young scenesters and visitors alike. By day, this North County city offers warm beaches to bring families and young groups to soak up the sun and play to the sound of the perfect surf. By night the Encinitas PCH strip boasts a popular nightlife of the best bars in town.

Moonlight Beach

Just past the funky suburb of Leucadia starts the most famous and busiest of beaches in Encinitas, Moonlight Beach. Visitors come for the always amazing surf and food from the local restaurant on the sand. It’s a family-friendly area with plenty of volleyball courts and bonfire pits for a full day and night of vacation. Just behind the sand is also a huge grass area for soccer and field play to make this beach scene a free for all in all things fun. If you are looking to grab a fire pit, make sure to show up early — it’s first come first serve!

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PCH Nightlife

From the funky Union Kitchen that offers exclusive San Diego wine and beer to the well-known D Street’s Bar and Grill nightclub, Encinitas has the right vibe and booze to appeal to any 20something’s Saturday night. Most bars take on a divey feel, so leave your upscale attire at home. You will only see blue jeans and sandals here. And, if one bar seems too busy, not to worry! Most of the popular spots are just a few blocks apart to make bar hopping easy and safe.

One last thing, while you’re there get a burrito from El Cotixan. You won’t regret it.