California Real Estate & Relocation Guide

Encinitas, California

Population: 58,014

Located in San Diego County

This place called Encinitas sits on the coastline of the Pacific Ocean and is embraced by the Batiquitos Lagoon to the north and the San Elijo Lagoon to the south.

The first inhabitants were Indians called the San Dieguitos, the La Jollans, and the Dieguenos. It was the Diegueno's group who were mission converts and helped to build the Spanish Missions.

In 1669, the Governor of Baja California, Gaspar de Portola, led an expedition throughout the San Diego and Monterey areas. When the expedition made its way through Encinitas on the El Camino Real, he named the area for the small oak trees on the surrounding hills.

He named this area "Encina Canada," Spanish for "Hills of Live Oaks." The area changed governmental hands from Spain to Mexico and in the 1800-s the Mexican government issued land grants to ranchers who would establish settlements in the San Diego area and who were willing to be under Mexico's rule.

The City of Encinitas was founded over 100 years ago and is now made up of five communities that take pride in their own distinct personalities. "Historic Encinitas" fills the Highway 101 Corridor that parallels the beautiful beaches and ocean.

"New Encinitas" centers on El Camino Real ("The Kings Highway" founded by the early missionaries from Spain). "Cardiff-by-the-Sea" is made up of quaint homes dotting the hillsides overlooking the sea.

"Leucadia" is famous for its giant eucalyptus trees that line the main thoroughfare on the Coast Highway. "Olivenhain" (which means "olive grove" in German) boasts plenty of open horse country, pastures, and a rural way of life.

The City has taken steps to the construction of new housing units that offer a wide range of housing types to ensure that an adequate supply is available to meet existing and future needs. The maintenance of a balanced inventory of housing in terms of cost, and style have ensured that the existing variety is maintained.

Each of the five communities has a distinct character due in large part to the nature of their existing residential neighborhoods. New housing constructed in the City reflects the character of the surrounding neighborhood in particular and the community in general. So, depending on what style you prefer, you will choose to buy in that specific area.

Encinitas residents enjoy and take advantage of the wide-open spaces surrounding them. With oceans, beaches, and a perfect climate, there is no need to drive for hours just to "get away from it all".

But remember, if big city excitement is what you crave, it isn't far away. Dodger Stadium, Universal Studios, the Hollywood Bowl, Six Flags Magic Mountain and Disneyland are all within driving distance.

Encinitas is one of the fastest growing areas in the region, and it is easy to see why! Come and enjoy the perfect Californian way of life right here!