Welcome to LEUCADIA
Originally founded in 1870 by English spiritualists, Leucadia is a quintessential beach town located just north of Encinitas Boulevard, and boasts an extensive mix of upscale art galleries, shops and restaurants. Residents enjoy the tree-lined streets and classic architecture as well as the luxury homes, ocean view properties, and investment opportunities.
Local beaches are relatively secluded, and make this town a popular attraction with surfers who enjoy beaches like Beacon and Grandview. Leucadia is also home to a variety of restaurants and coffee shops loved by locals and visitors alike. Stop by the iconic Pannikin (housed in a converted railroad station) for coffee roasted in-house, or try one of the many restaurants in town for a taste of local cuisine.
Leucadia offers several festivals such as the annual Leucadia Artwalk, which includes vendor booths and musical performances scattered along Highway 101. Known for its natural beauty, this is a friendly, low-key community and an ideal place to call home, whether you are looking for a starter home, family property, or luxury oceanfront estate. Leucadia also falls under the highly regarded Encinitas Union School District.
Here's a list of top places to visit, restaurants to try, and a 3-day weekend itinerary for Leucadia, CA:
Top 10 Places to Visit in Leucadia, CA:
- Leucadia State Beach: Enjoy the sandy shoreline, great surf, and stunning sunsets.
- Leucadia Farmers Market: Discover fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local treats on Sundays.
- Leucadia Surf School: Learn to surf or improve your skills with experienced instructors.
- Beacons Beach: Explore this popular beach known for its scenic cliffs and good waves for surfing.
- Leucadia Roadside Park: Relax in this charming park with ocean views and a unique treehouse.
- La Paloma Theatre: Experience a vintage wooden slide inside a historic movie theater.
- Leucadia 101 Main Street: Stroll along this coastal street with eclectic shops, art galleries, and eateries.
- Paul Ecke Jr. Flower Gardens: Admire the beautiful floral displays and unique plants in this garden.
- Grandview Beach: Stunning and popular coastal spot, perfect for surfing and relaxation.
- Orpheus Park: Enjoy a peaceful park with green spaces, picnic areas, and a playground.
Top 10 Restaurants to Try in Leucadia, CA:
- Fish 101: Savor fresh seafood dishes and casual coastal cuisine.
- Pannikin Coffee & Tea: Start your day with coffee and baked goods in a historic train station.
- Haggo's Organic Tacos: Try organic and sustainable tacos and Mexican dishes.
- Nectarine Grove: Farm-to-table cuisine with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
- Valentina Restaurant: Casual neighborhood Bistro & Wine Bar offering a mix of seasonal plates along Hwy 101.
- Le Papagayo: Experience international flavors and live music in a vibrant atmosphere.
- Vigilucci's: Popular Italian restaurant known for its authentic dishes and charming coastal ambiance.
- Pandora’s: A coastal cuisine café featuring a coffee bar and curated selection of natural wines.
- Birdseye Kitchen: Try creative and locally-sourced dishes in a cozy cafe setting.
- EVE Encinitas: Delicious wood-fired pizzas and traditional dishes in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
3-Day Weekend Itinerary for a Visitor to Leucadia, CA:
Day 1: Beach and Exploration
- Morning: Relax at Leucadia State Beach, swim, or sunbathe.
- Lunch: Savor fresh seafood at Fish 101.
- Afternoon: Explore and walk along the hidden cliffs of Grandview Beach.
- Dinner: Try international flavors and enjoy live music at Le Papagayo.
Day 2: Outdoor Activities and Local Cuisine
- Morning: Take a surf lesson at Leucadia Surf School or visit Beacons Beach.
- Lunch: Enjoy organic tacos at Haggo's Organic Tacos.
- Afternoon: Stroll along Leucadia 101 Main Street, and visit the Leucadia Art Gallery.
- Dinner: Taste a mix of seasonal plates at Valentina Restaurant, followed by dessert from Cali Cream Homemade Ice Cream.
Day 3: Markets and Relaxation
- Morning: Visit Leucadia Farmers Market for fresh produce and local artisanal goods.
- Lunch: Have breakfast or brunch at Nectarine Grove and don’t forget to try one of their baked goods.
- Afternoon: Relax at Orpheus Park with amazing ocean views.
- Dinner: Try plant-based dishes at EVE Encinitas.
This itinerary offers a mix of beach activities, local markets, outdoor adventures, dining experiences, and relaxation for a memorable weekend in Leucadia, California. Please reach out to
Neda Nourani & Associates for more local information and recommendations.
