You want to spend a day outdoors with the family, but the idea of visiting the local park or the zoo has become a lot more of the same. If this sounds a bit too familiar, why not spend some time in Leucadia? This North County community is home to an eclectic mix of funky retail shops, art galleries, laid-back restaurants and secluded beaches. Known as the “Art and Soul” of Encinitas, Leucadia is the quintessential San Diego surf town. Spend a day exploring our favorite places to shop, eat and play and we know you’ll be hooked.
Photo credit: Surfy Surfy via Facebook
Where To Shop
Surfy Surfy
This shop is the perfect spot to spend some time if your little one has been interested in taking up the art of surfing. The history of surfing is rich and alive at this Leucadia surf shop. JP St. Pierre, owner and founder of Surfy Surfy, comes from a family dedicated to the art of handcrafted, custom surfboards. His father, Peter St. Pierre started Moonlight Glassing with four of his friends in 1979. One step inside Surfy Surfy and you and your entire family will be ready to hang ten.
974 N Coast Hwy 101
Leucadia, Ca 92024
760-452-7687
online: shopsurfysurfy.com
Photo credit: Love Child’s website
Love Child
This resale boutique is a parents dream! The shop is stocked with high-end clothing, quality toys and gear at prices that won’t break the bank. Giving eco-friendly parents an easy and stylish way to reduce, reuse and recycle is just one of the reasons customers have been falling in “love” with this shop since 2010. Clothing ranges from newborn – 10 years. Love Child is open Tues. – Sat., from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. (closed on Monday).
online: thelovechild.net
Photo credit: Fish 101 via Facebook
Where To Eat
Fish 101
This popular hangout serves fresh grilled seafood, local beer and wine, and has a no-frill attitude that locals and visitors alike simply adore. That’s why it’s no surprise that this small fish house is always hopping. Luckily they have a patio in the back that’s decked out with twinkling lights that’s the perfect setting to kick back and enjoy those $2 fish tacos (offered during happy hour every day from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.).
1468 N Coast Hwy 101
Encinitas, Ca 92011
760-943-6221
online: fish101restaurant.com
Photo credit: Pannikin Coffee and Tea via Facebook
Pannikin Coffee and Tea Shop
There is nothing better than being able to give your kiddo a history lesson while sipping on a perfectly brewed cup of joe. The bustling shop is located in the historic Santa Fe Railroad Station, which dates back to 1888. Bought in 1980 by the Holder family, the building was restored to its original grandeur and has been serving San Diegans coffee, tea and incredible baked goods ever since. Gluten free options are available, and delicious!
510 N Hwy 101
Encinitas Ca 92024
760-436-5824
online: pannikincoffeeandtea.com
Haggos Organic Taco
Gourmet taco might sound like an oxymoron; until you step into Haggo’s Organic Taco shop. The halibut is cooked with the owner’s special dry rub and ingredients are 95% organic and locally grown. So next time you and your kiddos are looking for a healthy snack after the park, skip the juice bar and head over to the taco joint. Your taste buds will thank you.
114 N Coast Highway 101
Encinitas, Ca 92024
online: haggosorganictaco.com
Photo credit: Leucadia Farmers Market via Facebook
Where To Play
Leucadia Farmers Market
We know sleeping in on Sunday may feel like a distant memory. Instead of yearning for the good old days, why not make the most of your new early morning weekend schedule and be first in line at The Leucadia Farmers Market? From an abundance of local produce, to fresh fish from Poppa’s Fresh Fish company, you’ll be able to get everything you need for a delicious Sunday dinner. The Farmer’s Market is open Sundays, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Paul Ecke Elementary School.
185 Union Street,
Encinitas, Ca 92024
online: leucadiafarmersmarket.com
Photo credit: Leucadia Surf School via Facebook
Leucadia Surf School
If you’re planning on having your little babe on a surfboard before they can read the words high tide, Leucadia Surf School is the place for you. The surf school has instructors that are equipped to teach wanna-be surfers of all ages. Classes take place at Moonlight Beach which has some of the best beginner waves in San Diego as well as great amenities like brand new bathrooms — parents rejoice!
Located at Moonlight Beach
760-635-SURF (7873)
online: leucadiasurfschool.com
Prodigy Kids Performing Arts
If people stop you at Target to let you know your kid belongs on stage, Prodigy Kids Performing Arts is the place for you. Classes range from singing and dancing to acting and musical theater and the amazing teachers at Prodigy Kids are experts at developing young talents.
116 Encinitas Blvd
Encinitas, Ca 92024
858-336-0878
online: prodigykidsperformingarts.com
Have you been to Leucadia? Do you have a favorite spot or hangout that wasn’t mentioned? We’d love to hear your thoughts.
— Aimee Della Bitta
