Cardiff-by-the-sea was named after Cardiff, Wales in 1914. Many of the streets reflect that British flavor, while offering spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. For the outdoors person, there is plenty of hiking, bird-watching, biking and surfing. With Swami's beach at the northern end, this area is known as the surfing capital of Southern California.

Operating as part of the city of Encinitas, the town of under 12,000 still considers itself a separate entity.
Primarily residential, there are two hotels in town, fine dining, shops and the beautiful Pacific Ocean which attracts tourists to the region. San Elijo State Beach Campground, provides opportunities for tent camping right on the ocean.

Restaurant Row, home of six popular eateries, is located just south of the business district of Cardiff-by-the-Sea. One of several restaurants lined up side by side on Restaurant Row is The Beach House. The unique building has stained glass bathroom windows looking to the ocean. There are five other great picturesque restaurants along this section of Old Highway 101.