The San Diego Union Tribune selects Moonlight State Beach as the best local beach for families.
Moonlight State Beach (Encinitas)
This easy-to-find spot is also the most hassle-free.
Main entrance: Third and C streets.
Parking: Very limited free spaces by the water, but there is a sizable pay lot.
Facilities: Moonlight is like an all-inclusive cruise — it has parking, restrooms, showers, grassy picnic areas, fire pits, a playground, volleyball courts and even a snack shop, all in one defined area.
The scene: With all the amenities, you’ll see lots and lots of kids running around, parents chit-chatting and plenty of birthday parties.
Sand quality: Pretty, but with lots of stray Cheerios.
Food: The on-site concession stand has an old-fashioned appeal, and it sells items like nachos, hot dogs, bagels, burritos, ice cream and candy bars. If you want something fancier, The Lumberyard is a short drive (or long walk) south on South Coast Highway 101.
Claim to fame: It’s just a few miles away from both Juanitas, the Mexican food place popularized by the band blink-182, and Lou’s Records, one of San Diego County’s best independent music stores.
Nearby spots: Cardiff State Beach has a similar family-friendly atmosphere and is good for Stand Up Paddleboarding. There are also popular surfing areas like Pipes and Swami’s.
