Encinitas neighborhoods explained: what are the five communities?

One city, five communities

Encinitas incorporated in 1986, bringing together New Encinitas, Old Encinitas, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, Olivenhain and Leucadia into a single city ^[1]. The City describes itself as running along six miles of Pacific coastline in northern San Diego County, with a population of about 60,000 ^[1].

A few landmarks the City highlights

• The century-old Downtown 101 coastal shopping district ^[1]
• San Elijo Lagoon Reserve, which the City calls the largest coastal wetland in San Diego County, home to nearly 300 bird species over the year ^[1]

Practical differences by area

• Zoning: some areas have their own Specific Plans: Downtown, North 101, Cardiff and Encinitas Ranch ^[2].
• Water: depending on the property, water comes from the San Dieguito Water District or the Olivenhain Municipal Water District ^[3].
• Schools: Cardiff has its own elementary school district, separate from Encinitas Union. See which school district serves my address ^[4].

Sources checked Oct 3, 2026. Rules and hours change, so confirm with the source before you act. This is general information, not legal, medical or financial advice.