I have been here a handful of times and love coming here to watch sunsets, watch surfers, meditate. Today, I stopped in to catch the sunset. I told myself if the parking lot had an open spot, I would stop, otherwise, I would get back on the road to go home. I got lucky tonight and got a spot. This lot is always full but I have managed to get a spot a few times. You either need to come real early or later in the day. Sunsets here are gorgeous, its a bit further south, so you're going to get the sun setting more to the far right, so it wont be directly in front of you, but still very beautiful and unique in its own way. Tonight, there was an impromptu band playing and music was great! They played one of my fave songs Fade Into You by Mazzy Star and I almost cried. The views were so gorgeous and while the song was playing I saw two sparrow like birds on the most beautiful red flowers and it just felt like life could not be any better. The benches up top are a hot commodity, but people come and go quickly so I got a nice spot and sat and watched the sun setting for about 30 min more. I saw a guy bring his own foldable reclining chair and thats a great idea! I think I am going to do that too! This is the best spot to relax for awhile... I love this place and will be coming back often. I also hope one day to be out there surfing with all those amazing surfers!! There were so many out there today, was a site to see!! read more

Swami's Beach - Gorgeous sunset - Beaches Near Me - Encinitas, California

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I don't know what it took me years if not decades to review this fabulous surfers beach. Well, not only surfers can enjoy it but you will need energy to go up and down the long stairs and compete for space with the surfers and their boards. The feeling of being in a exotic location is overwhelmingly beautiful. Total vacation vibes, a place of peace and joy. I went there after a long time a couple days ago on my way to interpret in the area and stopped for a picnic at the little park before you get to the stairs. All very clean and perfect even if small. Restrooms, grass stra, picnic tables, perfect trees and plants, benches. Just a few parking spots which means most probably you have to park nearby and walk. The vistas from above the beach are spectacular. The sand is warm and thin, perfect for long walks or taking a quick nap. read more

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Favorite beach! Even if you get farther parking you can walk on the beach to get to the main stairs case area or you can walk the trail which are both really good views A great spot for swimming, snorkeling, surfing, reading, jogging etc Love to come here all day to tan, eat some sandwiches and enjoy the cali sun! read more

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Beautiful and calm spot with a peaceful vibe. Early mornings are magical, with plenty of catching the sunrise and riding what looked like great waves. I'm not a surfer, so I can't judge the breaks, but they seemed consistent and fun. The sound of the ocean, soft breeze, and open horizon make it perfect for relaxing walks or just sitting quietly. Clean, scenic, and refreshing--an easy place to unwind and start the day feeling centered and happy. Highly recommended for a serene coastal escape. read more

Swami's Beach - Swami Beach - Beaches Near Me - Encinitas, California

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A uniquely beautiful southern California surf spot and green park located close to downtown Encinitas on highway 101. read more

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Great little spot to swim, surf and relax. Parking is limited so come early. Be ready to go down a steep set of stairs to reach the beach. read more

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A most famous surf beach point in Southern California. Surf history way back to the sixties. Only a small break in the late pm. maybe two feet. Update : I never surfed here but the name came from the surfers being able to see the landmark buildings from the water.. Supposed to be a great surf break directly in a line with the buildings. For me, just being here is a feeling of history. read more

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One of the best beaches to go surfing at in the morning, also really fun for holidays since it's not as packed than other beaches

Clean, easy access, uncrowded, locals are respectful . So i need to blabber on for another 85 characters to post

I love Encinitas and this beach is one of my favorite places to hang out. It's so beautiful and picturesque. I love the signage and everything about the area. What else can I say besides you need to come here!! read more

Swami's Beach - I love this building and need to go inside - Beaches Near Me - Encinitas, California

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I have been rolling cameras at Swamis Reef Surf Park for over 20 years and because of the ever changing tides, weather and radical geology it is photographically one of the most dynamic and energetically changing places to capture light...That's on TOP of all the great WAVES that roll in! First time there tip: Don't expect to drive up to a large parking lot and unload a SUV full of beach gear and toys...It's a small park lot but there is more parking along Hwy. 101 but there is only one way down to the beach via a long steep stairway and at high tide the sand beach at the bottom is GONE! *Also during negative low tides the the ancient fossilized reef the park is named after is revealed making for some really interesting photo subjects and exploration! Other than checking a tide chart there is plenty to roll cameras on in this sunset through the palm trees little park that is overseen and donated to Encinitas from the SRF - the Self Realization Fellowship spiritual church and it's one of the best point breaks in San Diego to go surfing or just a great place to hang out and just slow it down to Natures pace! *More more about Swamis Reef Surf Park Encinitas California check out the Xcorps Swamis Vibe photo and film series. read more

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Favorite childhood beach. I've spent a lot of time here over the course of my life watching surfers ride wave early in the morning. The beach has changed and is now covered in rocks. I recommend wearing flip flops, do your best not to slip. Outside of that, getting into the water is a little rough on the feet with all the added rocks. If you can struggle past that the rest is bliss. It's still a great, slow, tucked away spot. read more

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Swami's Surf Beach is a famous surfing mecca at the south end of Encinitas. The park at Swami's Beach is a great vantage point for watching surfers and has shaded areas to enjoy a picnic as well. When the tide isn't too high, you can walk south for quite a distance into San Elijo State Beach. Walking north leads into a spot below the steep Encinitas bluffs called Boneyards. Several cafes, including Swami's Cafe, and other restaurants are just a short walk north on Highway 101. There is a long stairway that descends the steep bluff from the parking lot to the beach. If the parking lot is full you will have to park along the highway outside of the park entrance. During low tides some tide pools can be found at the point north from the bottom of the stairs. Some benches and picnic tabes can be found right in the parking lot area, for those who want to sit and enjoy the scenery. Depending on the time of day, you will enjoy some shade near some of the picnic tables. read more

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Most beautiful beach I've been too!! Very clean and not packed with people on a Saturday. The waters are cold and there is no shade so make sure to wear lots of sunscreen to not burn and look like a lobster haha. Parking is located along side (free parallel parking). You walk down a few steps to get to the beach and BAM your there. read more

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I heard about this beach surfing spot from a more life experienced friend that grew up surfing here as a young in. His surfing days are behind him, but he raves about this spot to this day. So I made sure to visit when I was in the area. It was a beautiful beach. What's not to like...soft sand, surf-able waves, tide pools, restrooms, grassy picnic-able area, and paved parking lot...just to name a few things. The lazy summer weekday mid morning that I dropped in, the waves were calm. Very few surfers were out in the water. Beautiful beach. If you want to check out the tide pools, head to the right side of the beach. Take the stairs down to the beach. As I drove near the beach, I noticed the neighboring wellness center roof that was shaped a bit like the Taj Mahal and painted a gold color. The center is north of the beach and in a visible from the main road. It is quite eye catching. Well the Swami Beach has the same type of sculptures in bright colors on the steps that lead down to the beach. If added a funky fun vibe. Right in front of the beach access is a small grassy area with two large wooden tiki head sculptures. read more

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I did some search and some blogs mentioned this place was a gem. There was slight rain and drizzle when we went. Tide pools were pretty awesome. I just miss the sound of waves. You do have to hike up and down the stairs but not so bad. Tide pools were quite interesting. Small parking lot. A lot of surfers. read more

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I don't even want to review this a five-star Beach because I do not want everybody coming. The truth of it is to have to be in good physical shape as there is a long staircase with steep incline up and down to get to this beach. It is a beach for the local Surfers they all know each other and greet each other on the wait. Also on the right of the stairs is all sorts of tide pools at low tide. Please be respectful of the creature as this was their spot way before any tourist. There is a parking lot. I'm walking across. There is also a restroom before you descend the stairs. read more

I like this beach for a long run from Encinitas down to Torrey Pines. The views that come to your side are inspirational. Seeing the surfers dot the sea is great to. On low tide, I run on the sand below, but the concrete up top is nice to see dogs walk by. Because the bike lane is separated, no need to dodge the bicyclists. Despite having a campground in the area, this strip of beach is clean. On the weekends there are a group of friendly (hippie) looking people singing sometimes. read more

Stunning beach, perfect view of the ocean. Lovely for walks and beginner surf. Very peaceful, can't hear any of the road. Nice, clean and safe. read more

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Well I was Walking around the Zen Garden but it was closed until further notice !! So then I walk right into Swami's Beach in Encinitas Del Mar !! Well let me start off by saying this beach is really amazing and lots of surfers come here and there are lots of people who ride there bikes here also !! There are benches on top where you can sit and look down at the beautiful beach !! It's just an amazing view from the top !! So prepare to take lots of pictures it will turn out nice !! There is stairs for you to get down to the beach also !! But before that there is an cool area of green grassy area for you to chill and relax also !! As for parking the lot is not to big but it was closed for the time being but I can see this lot filling up pretty quickly !! But there are other options for parking but it is not to far of a walk but this is an very enjoyable beach and I say you must check it out for yourself !! There are lots of options for eating and it kind of reminds me of Pacific Beach in a way but much more beautiful and perfect for all !! Overall Satisfaction: Fun Factor: 4 stars out of 5 very cool beach with lots of Surfers here and great for taking pictures !! Cleanliness: 3 out 5 Stars for being well kept and good for everyone who loves the outdoors !! Parking: 3 out of 5 Stars the parking lot is not to big but there are other options for parking and not to far from beach !! Overall Grade: 4 stars out of 5 and a Beautiful Beach !! A Must See for anyone Traveling to San Diego !! I can see myself coming back and enjoying more often !! read more

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BEAUTIFUL BEACH BACKDROP After cycling around Encinitas I came across Swami's Park next to the Flower Fellowship. There is a small grassy-park-picnic area and a wooden staircase down to the beach. The sand is soft and the water clarity was nice and clear. Not a lot of surfers in this area, the waves were calm. It's nice to enjoy a beach walk not covered with tons of tourist and people traffic. If you want to enjoy a quiet beach, this place would be it. read more

Swami's Beach - Gorgeous - Beaches Near Me - Encinitas, California

Beautiful setting. Cliffs overlooking the ocean and beach below. Staircase that leads down to the beach, very stable and well maintained. Outdoor shower facility located at the bottom to rinse off in fresh water. Expansive beach with tide pools. Huge boulders to sit or relax on. Perfect for the day or the sunset. Lots of walking room and distance. At the top on every Sunday the coolest yoga and creatively artistic individuals gather and play musical instruments, dance, picnic and just have fun. It's great to partake with them or to just watch and enjoy the chill vibe. I've been going for years. It's a uber cool experience. Bring the children, it's children and pet friendly. read more

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Came here from Orange County and have found a new respect for beaches after visiting this location. The sight of the beach is mesmerizing from the parking lot, and is even more spectacular when you're up close. No soft sand on the shore cause the tide gets very close so make sure to come earlier in the day!! Stairs from the parking lot down to the shore and anti-maskers were quiet an obstacle, but putting that aside the experience was very pleasant. This beach is worth the drive to visit! read more

Swami's Beach - Beaches Near Me - Encinitas, California

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How do you give below 5 stars to nature's best It's such relaxing place to SURF, think, and rest :) To get to the water, you'll need to go down the stairs So work out your bums while soaking in the summer air Loved everything about this beach Wish I could take it to church, so I could preach! read more

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Swamis is yet another fantastic beach located in north county. This spot is a great place to surf or grab some morning/afternoon waves. There are always pretty decent swells and the vibe at this beach is awesome, I would recommend this beach to anyone visiting or from Encinitas. Pros- Views Picturesque Swells Lifeguard on duty usually Easy access Clean Cons- Parking is limited (use street) Stair climb can be brutal read more

Swami's Beach - Beaches Near Me - Encinitas, California

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This is a really nice beach! Unfortunately, I specifically stopped here on the way to San Diego because I was looking for a great tidepool beach, and while I arrived only about 20 minutes after low tide ended, I was worried that low tide might not have been low enough that day, and I was right. Looks like what I had heard is indeed correct: there are only tidepools when low tide is particularly low, otherwise you can see where the tidepools would have been, but they're mostly underwater. Did see one pretty big crab crawling around on the rocks by where the tidepools were, though. Still doesn't change the fact that it's a great beach - quiet, perfect soft silky sand, proper working relatively-not-disgusting bathrooms and working drinking fountain, and for some wacky reason, not covered in people even on a sunny Saturday afternoon (at least in October - probably would be in the middle of the summer.) There is a free parking lot, but word of warning, it's tiny (it was full when we got there, and again, there weren't even that many people on the beach). There's a surprising amount of free street parking along PCH right next door, though, so we didn't have a problem finding parking. It's also conveniently right at the edge of town, so you can park, go to the beach, and then also walk into town and get food, etc. without having to find parking a second time. read more

4.5... Wow, I should come to Encinitas more often... I have always heard of this place, but never been. If you're able to find parking at the lookout, then you'll be able to experience an awesome beach view. After a long flight of stairs down to sea level, you are able to walk the strand. Came here on a week night so the foot traffic was less with walkers and runners. Flat, packed sand, few kelp and rocks aligning the strand and you occasionally see odd rocks and sea shells. Pretty cool! A great place to watch the sunset. Will def come back for a beach run!!! read more

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No doubt another great beach on San Diego's North County's coast. I'm telling you, I plan to visit every each one. Swami's is certainly more a surfers kinda place but it doesn't mean us non-surfers can enjoy the beach and scenery. To reach the beach, you have to make your way down some steep stairs down the bluff to the beach below. Once you are there, you'll appreciate the beach. If you visit during low time, some tide pools form here and there. The sand is soft and fine. There's a small park a top the bluff has a small amount of parking so you will be very lucky of you find some readily on busy days. You can also park along the highway or into the adjacent neighborhoods then take a short walk, which is what I typically do. Great beach. read more

One of my favorite beaches to the my clients to for a photoshoot! Ive learned that this beach isn't as congestion as some- maybe because you have to walk up and down tons of stairs to get to it (so maybe not the best family friendly option) but that makes it great for photos because less people! It is also surrounded by lush tropical trees and cliffs that resemble something out of a Hawaiian magazine. Perfect for a steamy couples session with no tiny eyeballs looking at you LOL. All in all, it is STUNNING! just watch out for high tide. read more

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We took our grandkids here to check out the tide pool. The small parking lot was full but street parking was available. Great vista of the majestic ocean from the street level; the palm trees nearby added to the calming ambience. Lots of surfers carrying long boards descended the steep staircase to reach the beach with seeming ease. Alas, I was already winded half way down the stairs, gingerly grabbing the railing for dear life! The beach was peaceful and not packed with sunbathers. The water was way too cold but it's definitely a great place to spend a relaxing afternoon enjoying fresh air and watching surfers in action. The kids gave the tide pool a big thumbs up. Climbing back up those stairs was challenging. As much as I tried deferring it, I had to access the bathroom at the head of the stairs so I ended up going up twice. When it's time to go home we had to lug everything we brought down back up. I am definitely out of shape, and had to stop a couple of times on each ascent to catch my breath. Good thing my huffing and buffing were not too conspicuous and the ocean view at dusk en route was enchanting. Coming to this unique beach was a good motivation to exercise more ! read more

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This is such a sweet little beach. We were there at higher tide..so we didn't get to see the tide pools. However, it was fun watching the surfers, easy to social distance, live music was being played on a grassy area up the stairs, beautiful beach rocks, etc. read more

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I found this beach by just walking over from the meditation center. This was such a nice private beach with beautiful pebbles and beautiful water. I am definitely going to make sure that I come back here again because it was just so nice and peaceful and I'm sure that if I came when the sun was setting that this would just be a beautiful sight to see. Parking was not bad at all but this was also probably because I parked near the meditation center and then I just walked down and happened to find the beach! Can't wait to see what other beaches are close by! read more

Easy access, great view from above and on the beach, clean and easy to walk. Love the rocks and dimensions the beach has to offer. Love how clean it is kept. Stunning! read more

This past weekend my spouse was the victim of a serious car crash on the street immediately in front of Swamis and I would sincerely like to thank all those who helped. One never knows where life will turn. One day you might be waiting to pull into a parking space on Hwy 101 so you can go for a six-mile run with your better half and then, WHAMO, a speeding car slams into you from behind, pushing you into a parked car, sending it over the curb into the bike lane resulting in a 3 car pile up. The first responder was an off-duty lifeguard/nurse who was jogging, came upon the scene, and immediately summoned EMS while performing triage. I don't know who she is but- THANK YOU! I only found out about what had taken place when, after surfing for 3 hours, I walked up the Swamis stairs to see what was taking my better half so long to arrive for our run and then saw the sirens, fire-trucks, police cars, and, gulp, ambulances. I would also like to express my sincere thanks to all of the many bystanders, surfers, joggers, and pedestrians who stopped to help. The cyclists/cycling teams who rode on Hwy 101 that afternoon during the accident also deserve special mention. Even though the bike lane was partially blocked, many had the respect, common sense, and decency to either navigate on to the frontage road, be patient enough to go with the diverted flow of traffic, or got off their bikes and walked 40-50 feet around the active accident scene. One team of about 1/2 doz. riders, wearing red and white jerseys/shorts were exceptions because they chose to pass from the right, ride into the scene, and impede EMS personnel, law enforcement officers, and accident victims just so their route would not be interrupted. My spouse was in the ambulance, I was on my cell phone trying to call family/friends for help, when this Banshee lead cyclist with long, curly blondish hair and fat legs rides in and screams, "Excuse Us!!! Coming through...right of way!!!" WTH?!?! That said, one incidence of selfish stupidity does not take away from the fact that Swamis really is a beautiful place and the people who cherish it ROCK!!! Please drive, ride, run, surf and walk SAFELY around here, K? read more

Another stunning, peaceful, and clean beach in Encinitas. The overlook view from the steps is breathtakingly gorgeous! There's a small parking lot that's free but it fills up on busy days. Plenty of street parking near by though :) read more

When I hear Swami's, I think surfing and surfing only. While it is a well renown surfing spot, I am here to tell you that it is more than that. There is a park on top of the cliff overlooking Swami's that has benches, some shade trees, picnic tables and most importantly.....bathrooms. When riding bike, one needs to know all the pertinent stops. The views from the cliff are wonderful. You're able to sit there and overlook the beach below and listen to the waves crashing on the shore. Very soothing, very peaceful and an ideal spot to take a break. When the swells are good, surfers here are plenty. There is a lot of amazing talent out in those waters and it makes me jealous that I'm not able to do that. Oh well....I'm happy on my bike, especially if there is a bathroom near by. read more

Swami's Beach - Swami's looking South towards La Jolla - Beaches Near Me - Encinitas, California

A local staple, great spot to sit outside for breakfast or lunch. So many good options - both basic and unique and everything comes out so fast for how busy the place is. We love to come here before going for a beach walk. Dog friendly which is always a plus! read more

A good beach! Not too packed and there are lots of surfers here that you can scope out. :) If you want to swim, there is a small section which allows you to swim. The stairs to the beach from the parking lot isn't too bad either compared to the Thousand Steps Beach in the OC. I prefer going here vs. going to La Jolla on a weekend for example because parking around this place wasn't as bad and it wasn't as crowded. I like this place. It also has a small parking lot but it's easier to find street parking. Oh, and in the parking lot, there is a restroom for men and women. read more

Our friend from Encinitas took us here to check it out. Parking can be crowded, but definitely a beautiful beach! Easy access with wooden stairs. Lots of surfers, great to catch some waves. There is a bathroom and few benches at the top. Great to watch the sunset on a perfect day! It's also right across some great stores and little restaurants. Amazing beach to visit and make a quick stop if you're around the area. read more

Swami's Beach - Beaches Near Me - Encinitas, California

It's not often that a place makes me want to relocate from San Francisco, but this place is close! (OK, maybe not relocate, but try to make more money so I could have a place to stay in the area.) Dozens of cute male surfers for every 2.5 gals is a ratio I fully support. Beautiful views, clean beaches, and good waves are the icing on the cake! The parking lot is small, but it's pretty easy to get parking on the street without having to walk too far. (Granted, I was just there this past weekend, so I'm sure it's probably more crowded in the summer.) There's a pretty steep staircase to get to the beach, but I was able to lug down a huge, heavy beginner surfboard without too much trouble. There's a shower for you to rinse off at the bottom of the stairs and a bathroom up in the parking lot. I can't comment too much on the waves because I've only been surfing a few times and have always stayed on the inside. We surfed here for three days and on my last day I tried to paddle to the outside, but the surf was a little too strong. However, the waves on the inside were perfect for practicing. I'm typing this in March, so the water was chilly and everyone was wearing wetsuits. The water warms up during the summer, but even during that time I'd make sure to wear booties because there are quite a few rocks in some areas. Just typing this makes me want to come down again and go surfing or take a jog on the beach and then head into Encinitas for some Mexican food! read more

Swami's Beach - Beaches Near Me - Encinitas, California