Cardiff by the Sea, usually referred to as Cardiff, is a beach community located in Encinitas. It borders Solana Beach to the south in San Diego County, and Encinitas on its east and north and has a lagoon on its south. With a population of under 12,000, Cardiff-by-the-Sea operates as part of the city of Encinitas, but unlike the other communities that comprise Encinitas, has its own ZIP code92007. Cardiff is also home to a few well-known surf spots, such as Swami'sand Cardiff Reef.

Cardiff Reef ("The Reef") is a popular surf spot in Cardiff that produces waves both professional and novice surfers enjoy year round. Surfing at The Reef has progressed from just a few surfers in the 1950s to become one of the most popular surfing spots in San Diego County. Cardiff Reef and nearby surf spot called Pipes, are famous for their smooth and consistent wave shape. When the tide is low, a flat rock reef is revealed that extends 50 yards from shore. Exploring these tide pools is a popular activity for visitors of Cardiff.

The homes and lifestyle of Cardiff is very laidback and very much the quintessential beach community. Many of the older and smaller homes have, and continue to be renovated for maximum modern lifestyle and enjoyment of the coastline views.

Cardiff by the Sea is a quaint and charming seaside village with a long surfing history, located about 20 miles north of San Diego, and sandwiched between Solana Beach and Encinitas. Cardiff has gorgeous views of the Pacific as well as the San Elijo Lagoon which forms the southborder, and is a popular tourist and surfer destination. There is a beachfront overnight camping site that is very well in use all year round.

​​​​​​​You will find Cardiff homes in a variety of styles, including bungalows and cottages, twin-homes, contemporary and Spanish, as well as apartments and condominiums; there are several gated communities of attached and detached homes. Reverse floor plan homes are common on the hill (living space is upstairs, bedrooms down) to take advantages of the glorious views, and many are 3 stories.