Where can I park at Moonlight State Beach and how much does it cost?

Moonlight State Beach has a large parking lot directly adjacent to the beach, accessible from the end of B Street (also called Encinitas Boulevard) in downtown Encinitas. Parking fees typically apply year-round, with rates varying by season—expect to pay around $3-5 per hour or $15-20 for all-day parking, though rates may change. The lot can fill quickly on summer weekends and holidays, so arriving early is recommended. Limited free street parking is available on nearby residential streets, but observe posted restrictions. The beach is also accessible via the Coaster train station, about a 15-minute walk away.

Are there restaurants and facilities at Moonlight State Beach?

Moonlight State Beach is well-equipped with amenities including restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic tables, fire rings, a snack bar, and volleyball courts. The beach concession stand offers basic food and drinks during peak season. Downtown Encinitas is just steps away, featuring numerous restaurants, cafes, and shops along Highway 101. You'll find everything from casual fish taco spots to upscale dining within walking distance. There are no hotels directly on the beach, but Encinitas offers various accommodations including boutique hotels, vacation rentals, and chain hotels, mostly located within a short drive or walk from the beach.

Why is it called Moonlight Beach?

Moonlight State Beach gets its name from the historic moonlight beach parties that were popular in the early 1900s. During that era, locals and visitors would gather for nighttime celebrations on the beach, dancing and socializing under the moonlight. The tradition gave the beach its enduring name, which has remained even as the area developed into one of Encinitas's most popular family destinations. While organized moonlight parties are no longer a regular occurrence, the beach still attracts sunset and evening visitors, and bonfires are permitted in designated fire rings, keeping the spirit of evening beach gatherings alive.

Encinitas · California · USA

Moonlight State Beach

You'll find Moonlight State Beach by following the scent of sunscreen and grilled burgers down the bluff stairway, where volleyball nets stand tall against a backdrop of swaying palms. The sand is soft and golden, the water swimmable even in winter, and the fire pits crackle to life as the sun dips behind the horizon.

1 / 8

Conditions right now

Reading live conditions…

Live from Open-Meteo · sea surface temperature and wave data modelled at 1-km grid resolution for Moonlight State Beach. Numbers refresh at the hourly tick.

Waves

—

01m2m3m+

Wind

—

kmh

Water

—

Air

—

OnlyBeaches IndexUpdated just now

OBI

—

Live-scored for Moonlight State Beach

Tuned for

Purity: 0%
Conditions: 0%
Crowd: 0%
Vibe: 0%

The OnlyBeaches Index weighs four pillars against your chosen persona. Purity comes from water clarity and air-quality heuristics; Conditions from Open-Meteo waves, wind and temperatures; Crowd from historical patterns; Vibe from nearby events within 50 km. The score rebalances throughout the day.

Verified beach

Encinitas·California·USA

No reviews yet

famousfamilyurbansunset

Trending This Week

Photos

8 captures from Moonlight State Beach

About this beach

Descend the concrete steps from the clifftop parking lot and you'll understand why this beach has anchored North County family life since 1925. The name comes from turn-of-the-century moonlight picnics held here, and that spirit of easy gathering persists: on any given Saturday, you'll see toddlers chasing shorebreak foam, teenagers lobbing a frisbee near th…

Where it is

Moonlight State Beach

Encinitas, California, USA

33.0486°, -117.2975°

Open in Google Maps

Top things to do

At Moonlight State Beach

Ride Mellow Waves

Forgiving breaks for beginners

Claim a Fire Pit

Sunset bonfire with s'mores

Wade In Safely

Lifeguards patrol year-round

Grab Snack Bar Fare

Burgers and shaved ice onsite

Near this beach

Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Moonlight State Beach.

Loading nearby eat & drink…

Loading nightlife…

Good to know

Questions people actually ask about Moonlight State Beach.

Is Moonlight State Beach safe for swimming with kids?

Moonlight State Beach is generally considered one of the safest family beaches in North County San Diego. It features lifeguard stations during peak hours and summer months, making it well-supervised for swimmers. The beach has a sandy bottom with gentle waves near shore, ideal for children. However, always check daily surf conditions and pay attention to posted warnings, as wave size and currents can vary. The beach's popularity means help is usually nearby, and the gradual slope makes it easier for parents to supervise young swimmers in shallow water.

What is the best time to visit Moonlight State Beach?

Moonlight State Beach is enjoyable year-round thanks to Southern California's mild climate, with average temperatures ranging from 60-75°F. Summer (June-August) offers the warmest ocean temperatures and longest days but brings crowds, especially on weekends. Spring and fall provide pleasant weather with fewer visitors, making them ideal for families seeking a more relaxed experience. Winter can be cooler with occasional rain, but still offers beautiful beach days. For spectacular sunsets, visit during late afternoon any season. Weekday mornings typically offer the most peaceful atmosphere with ample parking availability.