Cancel

Open app

Search

Self-Realization Fellowship

4.8 (56 reviews)
Open 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Updated 1 month ago

Self-Realization Fellowship Photos

You might also consider

Recommended Reviews - Self-Realization Fellowship

Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
Yelp app icon
Browse more easily on the app
Review Feed Illustration

Reviews With Photos

Cindy T.

I was in the area for vacation, and someone recommended I take my kids here to check out the koi fish. My kids loved it, and there was a beautiful view of the ocean!

Nowell D.

This place will transport you to beautiful tranquil views of lush vegetation and views of the ocean. I went on a Friday morning only a few people that day. Please be respectful and mindful of those around praying and meditating. I enjoyed sitting in various spots under shaded trees to enjoy the sights of koi fish, different flowers, plant life, and soak in the breeze of the ocean waves. Views are amazing! This place is free and there is a box for donations. One of my top places to take friends and family that are visiting

Carmen V.

Walk. Meditate. Breathe. Contemplate nature. You can do all that in this fabulous place, plus a little bit of more enlightenment if you are into religion or want to disappear for a bit from the mundane. I would change the name of this building-gardens-view point (too long, too generic, don't know who are those fellows). I just call it the cake-temple, as it looks like something edible and pretty, and just in the heart of Encinitas, so new age, inspirational, mystical and fit town. Whether you see the light or not, this is a must visit from anyone, local or tourist, because the views of the sea are breathtaking (remember you breathe a lot here, so can have some taken away with these gorgeous seascapes!). Watching the kona fish in the pond or just smelling the flowers is another pleasant activity to do here. Very relaxing.

Keo N.

A delightful garden right at the edge of the pacific ocean. This is a good pit stop if you happen to be driving by. The place was meticulously kept with several koi ponds and a manicured landscape. A drought tolerant garden to the west opens up to beautiful views of the ocean and beyond. Will definitely return to enjoy this wonderous place.

Amazing Vistas
Scott B.

Now, I'm not a super crazy religious guy. I feel that I see proof the big guy and his work in each and every zany adventure I go on. Be it the wondrous scenery, the strange crafted art or just simply the batshit crazy cool shit I that drive around to see. I feel my relationship with the man upstairs is good. So, while planning a trip for a donut sandwich nearby, Yelpers informed me of this place, and then I read more about it in one of the books I'd acquired recently. I parked the car at the bottom of the hill, and then spent some time walking around trying to find the entrance. Eventually I found a gate, and I walked in and began some exploring. I avoided the temple as to not disturb any sermons or services or whatnot that were going on. This place is downright amazing. Blooming flowers, manicured lawns, gargantuan trees spreading their branches far and high. Multi-Tiered Koi ponds with healthy fish swimming about. Incredible vistas of the ocean. These gardens are absolutely beautiful. Truly proof of goodness and trust and purity that somebody so long ago made this and just lets random people just wander about through it. Generously sprinkled about the place are lil benches. Presumably for meditation? Centering? I dunno. But they're all over the place in lil natural alcoves. By koi ponds. By nature. By water. I even sat down at one, tried to contemplate my place in the universe and even 'ohhhhhhhmmmmmmmm'ed' for a lil bit. Turns out, I'm a terrible terrible meditator. Here's a beginner meditation tip: Don't park your butt on a bench next to a real pretty flower on a trail. Turns out lots of people come up that trail and then photograph said pretty flower. Even talk with the other people about said pretty flower. Every few minutes. Seriously. Park your butt on a bench elsewhere. So, I spent an hour or so meandering through the well trailed gardens, sitting in the benches here and there and was simply being inspired by the beauty and calmness of the place. It's just so very much 'Zen' and is actually pretty incredibly calming and relaxing. Not that my life is crazy excitement and worry to need that stuff. Thank you to the dude who started it, and I'll likely be coming back to this place.

John C.

I have been visiting this place since the mid 90's. Its a great spot to relax and clear your head. Amazing views of the pacific and very well maintained gardens. There are some very well hidden spots to practice meditation or simply veg out and get lost in the beauty of the coast. Lots of free parking on the street and really close to the lumberyard and Cardiff.

Andy C.

This place is super amazing and totally beautiful!!! Just take a look at the photos that are posted!!! This place is the place to come to when you want to just relax or to just walk around. The sights of this place are amazing and the beautiful flowers are just so amazing. Also, this place has breathtaking views of the ocean and an enchanting garden to walk around. Recently, I was there with a friend and we had a great time sitting by the edge of the cliffs, overlooking the ocean. This is an awesome place to come too when you just need to get away from it all and kick back.

SRF outdoor hallway
Nguyen T.

Nice, simple temple grounds with several lecture halls, friendly people/families, reading material, refreshments after Sunday lecture. It's located on a clean,normal residential street, with a few surrounding businesses. Several volunteers with name tags stand around if you have any questions. Very small parking area, but ample, free street parking. I came here solo, and it was a very non-intimidating experience. There's no main office here, but People smile at you and don't hesitate to answer any questions you may have. The demographic was mostly older people, few families. They even have a greeter, Naheim, who's so down to earth and friendly. I sat with her on one of the many seating areas, and we chatted it up, and she made me feel very welcome. She told me a temple location exists in downtown San Diego! Id check out this place in Encinitas though, because the meditation gardens on K St is beautiful and worth checking out. In between services, I walked down the street to browse the nearby businesses, ordered a Bombay latte and almond croissant at Darshan cafe, and just chilled out. They have other yoga/meditation studios nearby, Indian restaurant, a bar, etc. Check out their website and calender under "events" at https://www.yogananda-srf.org. I'll be back when I need my fix for spirituality !

See all

3 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Elana M.
94
108
54

7 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 3
Thanks 1
Love this 5
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Nowell D.
103
68
100

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 1

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of John L.
980
68
12

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Beautiful gardens very peaceful and free what can I say. I enjoy seeing the fish and ocean, amazing view

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

12 years ago

Helpful 5
Thanks 0
Love this 4
Oh no 0
Photo of Keo N.
364
1136
10669

8 years ago

Helpful 4
Thanks 0
Love this 3
Oh no 0
Photo of Scott B.
597
1047
3748

9 years ago

Helpful 9
Thanks 0
Love this 3
Oh no 0

4 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0
Photo of John C.
379
1173
9338

7 years ago

Helpful 4
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

3 years ago

I've been coming to this place for over 20 years. I'm so thankful to know I can escape to this place when I need to clear my head of stress.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Andy C.
229
1459
4039

17 years ago

Helpful 8
Thanks 0
Love this 5
Oh no 0

10 years ago

Helpful 5
Thanks 0
Love this 2
Oh no 0

10 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Ryan K.
97
38
14

8 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Raana J.
5
68
492

7 years ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

16 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

18 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0
Photo of Hanna R.
456
34
7

12 years ago

Helpful 3
Thanks 0
Love this 2
Oh no 0

16 years ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

12 years ago

Helpful 3
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

17 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Wendy T.
64
106
1

17 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0
Photo of Emma J.
896
616
2189

11 years ago

Helpful 3
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Julie S.
25
156
6

17 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

8 years ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

11 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of AJ B.
655
18
9

10 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

14 years ago

Helpful 7
Thanks 0
Love this 6
Oh no 0
Photo of Paula M.
131
181
106

8 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Gary B.
303
13
31

19 years ago

I walked in there in 1989. I realized I was myself and walked out. I'll be damned if this place worked. Five stars!!

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 8
Oh no 0

10 years ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 2
Oh no 0
Photo of Sara M.
40
13
0

19 years ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 3
Oh no 0

Page 1 of 2

Ask the Community - Self-Realization Fellowship

How much is the entrance fee to walk round the gardens?

It is free. Donations can be made at the drop box as you are about to walk up to the gardens.

View All 2 Questions

Review Highlights - Self-Realization Fellowship

It has the most gorgeous garden settings with Koi fish pond, flowers, plants, walkways, paths and ocean views.

Mentioned in 14 reviews

Read more highlights

You might also consider

Verify this business for free

People searched for Recreation Centers 613 times last month within 15 miles of this business.

Verify this business

Lightscape San Diego - Beautiful light show!

Lightscape San Diego

(100 reviews)

We've attended this glowious event several times and each time it is a slightly different…read moreexperience. We tend to stop for treats before walking around. The vendors are very friendly and ready to serve. I like the hot mulled apple cider and a simple hot dog. I don't like to eat too heavily since it involves walking around the venue. I carry the cider. It helps to keep me warm on the cooler nights it usually falls on. The last time we came it was the night that was designated for ages 21 and up. Although we did see some kids with their families there was significantly less littles and strollers under toe than our previous times here. We brought our adult kiddos and they ventured around among themselves. We went around twice...once with the steps and second time on the flat trails. The light displays are all synced with fun music and sounds. Each zone has a fun theme. Pleasantly stimulating experiences every time! Check it out if you haven't already.

Let there be lights! This was a beautiful exhibit. Not…read morespecific to the holiday but a mix of color scapes. I took my husband for his birthday which falls on Thanksgiving week. Paid for parking and anytime tickets for flexibility. Along the lit path are benches to sit and sip. Booths with hot cocoa and other snacks and beverages. I ordered the spiked hot chocolate. We look forward to visiting other botanical gardens to experience the holiday lights in the future - as it has been a trend from LA to SF too. Fan of the California Poppies!' #LetThereBeLights #Encinitas #BotanicalGarden #Holiday

San Diego Botanic Garden - "Fireflies" in bamboo

San Diego Botanic Garden

(612 reviews)

I really enjoy walking around the Botanic Garden with my family. Everyone I have met there has been…read morevery friendly and helpful. There are fun places for children to play, and every time we go, we find a wonderful new area or feature we didn't know about.

I always enjoy the Botanic Gardens but 2024 is the first time I attended the Lightscape festival…read more It was so worth the time and the trip and the parking! I took my Mom who I learned my gawking skills from and we had an excellent time walking and gawking at all of the amazingly designed lighting exhibits. It is very dark in the area say take time to slow down and watch for the entrance and parking signs and people. There were quite a few parking attendants around to point people toward spots and away from full lots. We went the day after Thanksgiving and it was full but it didn't take us long to find a parking spot. There were signs and the attendants also pointed everyone in the direction to the entrance. At the front, security checked bags and scanned tickets and ushered people into the park. Guides at the front suggested a route which included following the arrows lighted along the routes through the garden. It was so gorgeous! People were quite respectful of others trying to get photos of displays and couple and group photos. At one location I became the honorary photographer after helping out a few people. We walked around and posed and all for over three hours. It was a well spent wholesome family evening. You're killing it, SD Botanic Garden!

Self-Realization Fellowship - recreation - Updated May 2026

Loading...
Loading...
Loading...