When to Go
The park is open daily at dawn, with beach parking available from 5am until 10pm. Lifeguard towers are open from 10am to 6pm during the summer season, from late June to Labor Day. Expect crowds on holiday weekends and during peak season. The ADA-accessible viewpoint at the Moonlight Beach Overlook is available on a first-come, first-served basis—arrive early to find on-street parking or come to watch sunset.
Know Before You Go
- All City of Encinitas beaches are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- No dogs, portable grills, alcohol, smoking, or glass are allowed.
- Moonlight State Beach and its parking lot are ADA accessible.
- Restrooms, showers, and picnic facilities are available year-round.
Moonlight State Beach
This family-friendly beach makes it easy to go swimming, surfing, and fishing all summer long.
There’s a reason Moonlight Beach is consistently listed among the top-rated beaches in the region. The flat sand, free parking, and state-of-the-art playground make it a popular spot for San Diego County residents, especially during the height of summer. The beach has many amenities—recreational equipment rentals are available for tennis and volleyball courts, with a snack bar to supplement your family picnic. There’s no campground at Moonlight, but you can find camping at South Carlsbad State Beach or San Elijo State Beach, each located nearby on Highway 101.
There’s a reason Moonlight Beach is consistently listed among the top-rated beaches in the region. The flat sand, free parking, and state-of-the-art playground make it a popular spot for San Diego County residents, especially during the height of summer. The beach has many amenities—recreational equipment rentals are available for tennis and volleyball courts, with a snack bar to supplement your family picnic. There’s no campground at Moonlight, but you can find camping at South Carlsbad State Beach or San Elijo State Beach, each located nearby on Highway 101.
When to Go
The park is open daily at dawn, with beach parking available from 5am until 10pm. Lifeguard towers are open from 10am to 6pm during the summer season, from late June to Labor Day. Expect crowds on holiday weekends and during peak season. The ADA-accessible viewpoint at the Moonlight Beach Overlook is available on a first-come, first-served basis—arrive early to find
Read more...When to Go
The park is open daily at dawn, with beach parking available from 5am until 10pm. Lifeguard towers are open from 10am to 6pm during the summer season, from late June to Labor Day. Expect crowds on holiday weekends and during peak season. The ADA-accessible viewpoint at the Moonlight Beach Overlook is available on a first-come, first-served basis—arrive early to find on-street parking or come to watch sunset.
Know Before You Go
Public campgrounds (book externally) —