“The ‘Day Use’ parking area/access to the San Elijo State Beach (just north of the campground) fills up fast. Locals flock to this stretch of coast reaching down from Swami’s to Pipes, the two popular surf breaks north of the San Elijo Campground. I flock here for the food … and target practice.” Sandbag C. Gull
A lengthy walking path meanders along the bluff area of Cardiff, along Hwy 101. This area is also a popular cycling connection between Encinitas and Solana Beach, and beyond. So…plenty of walking & cycling traffic. Many skip the paid lot, and parking gets jammed along busy Coast Hwy 101. There are four lanes of traffic being distracted by the beauty – so be alert!
“As a side note: Some park to the east of the train tracks, then cross the tracks illegally. Railroad officials can and do fine people for crossing the tracks at unauthorized points. So cross at Chesterfield, or be prepared to forfeit $1,000 if you’re caught. That’s a years supply of fries, for those of you who can’t count”. Sandbag.
San Elijo Sate Beach | Day Use Access Slideshow
Logistics
- Lifeguard services → if any ← varies by season, day, hours, even weather!
- Limited → paid ← parking available in the ‘Day Use’ lot [north of campground entry]
- Street parking located on both sides of South Coast Highway 101
- Public beach access is from the bluff via a long steep staircase or steep pathway
- The stairs are located beside the campground entrance
- The steep pathway is located at the Day Use lots north end
- The steep pathway is → not ← wheelchair | stroller friendly & disintegrates at the end
- Pedestrian crossing signal is located near Chesterfield Street → Cross there ←
- Leashed dogs are allowed in the campground, but not on the camp’s beach
- Campground convenience store typically open daily from 8 AM to 8 PM
- Public bathrooms & showers available
Directions
Take Interstate 5 to Cardiff-by-the-Sea: Exit at Birmingham & head west toward ocean. Go left at San Elijo then right at Chesterfield. San Elijo State Beach will be north on Hwy 101, with the Day Use lot located just north of the campground entry.
