Cardiff-by-the-Sea

About Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Nestled along the stunning coastline of North County San Diego, Cardiff-by-the-Sea—often simply called Cardiff—is a classic Southern California beach town known for its laid-back vibe, breathtaking scenery, and tight-knit community.

Part of the city of Encinitas, Cardiff offers an idyllic blend of small-town charm and upscale coastal living, making it a favorite destination for surfers, families, and luxury homebuyers alike.

Cardiff-by-the-Sea Real Estate Overview

Cardiff-by-the-Sea is renowned for its eclectic mix of oceanfront homes, beach cottages, and hillside estates with panoramic coastal views. Many properties here offer walkability to beaches, restaurants, and shops—highly coveted features among luxury buyers.

Notable Neighborhoods Include:

The Composer District: One of Cardiff’s most desirable neighborhoods, known for its charming streets and proximity to Swami’s Beach and downtown Encinitas.

Walking District: A highly walkable area close to Cardiff Reef, Seaside Market, and local cafés—ideal for those seeking a true beach lifestyle.

Park Place: A family-friendly enclave offering larger homes with community amenities and easy access to hiking trails and parks.

Prices in Cardiff generally range from around $2 million for charming cottages to over $10 million for prime oceanfront estates.

Jason Barry Team | Barry Estates has deep experience in Cardiff’s unique market, often representing both buyers and sellers in exclusive, off-market transactions.

Market Insights & Trends

Cardiff-by-the-Sea remains a strong, competitive market due to its unique combination of oceanfront properties, walkability, and small-town ambiance. Click here to view additional market info.

Quick Market Overview:

Median Home Price: $2.5M+

Property Types: Oceanfront homes, bluff-top estates, beach cottages, townhomes

Buyer Demand: Extremely high, especially in the Composer District and Walking District

Investment Potential: Strong long-term appreciation, plus short-term rental income opportunities

With its limited supply of homes and enduring appeal, Cardiff continues to attract luxury buyers and investors seeking both lifestyle and value.

Interested in Cardiff’s latest market data or your property value? Contact Jason Barry Team | Barry Estates for a private consultation.

Schools & Education

Cardiff is served by excellent public schools and offers easy access to top private institutions in nearby communities.

Top Schools Serving Cardiff-by-the-Sea:

Cardiff Elementary School (K-2): A highly rated elementary school at the heart of the community.

Ada Harris Elementary School (Grades 3-6): Known for its academic programs and student-focused environment.

Oak Crest Middle School: Located nearby in Encinitas, offering strong academics and extracurriculars.

San Dieguito High School Academy & La Costa Canyon High School: Both high-performing public high schools within easy driving distance.

Nearby private schools include Santa Fe Christian Schools, The Grauer School, and others in Encinitas and Solana Beach.

Lifestyle & Amenities

Cardiff-by-the-Sea offers a quintessential coastal lifestyle, centered around beach days, local dining, and community connections.

Community Highlights:

Beaches: Cardiff State Beach and San Elijo State Beach are top spots for surfing, swimming, and sunset strolls.

Dining: Enjoy iconic eateries such as Seaside Market (“Cardiff Crack” tri-tip), VG Donut & Bakery, and beachfront dining at Pacific Coast Grill and Chart House.

Outdoor Activities: Residents enjoy hiking in San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve, biking along Coast Highway 101, and year-round water sports.

Shopping & Wellness: A mix of boutique shops, yoga studios, and wellness centers throughout town and nearby Encinitas.

Cardiff’s signature mix of casual luxury, friendly locals, and scenic beauty makes it one of North County’s most coveted communities.

Featured Listings

Explore our exclusive selection of luxury homes for sale in Cardiff-by-the-Sea:

Exclusive Listings

Work with Jason Barry Team | Barry Estates

As San Diego’s leading luxury real estate team, Jason Barry Team | Barry Estates offers unparalleled expertise in Cardiff’s unique market. With over $6 billion in career sales, our team provides clients with insider knowledge, unmatched negotiation skills, and personalized service.

Whether you’re looking for an oceanfront estate, a walkable beach cottage, or an investment property, our team is here to help you navigate the Cardiff-by-the-Sea market with ease.

Ready to explore Cardiff-by-the-Sea real estate?

Contact the Jason Barry Team today to schedule your confidential consultation.