San Elijo State Beach, CA
Beach Alerts
Dangerous Surf
Dangerous Surf: High waves present from 11 AM-4 PM — swimming not recommended
Crowd Alert
Crowd Alert: Beach at capacity from 12 PM-5 PM — consider alternative times
About This Beach
San Elijo State Beach in Cardiff-by-the-Sea offers a stunning coastal setting with dramatic cliffs overlooking a wide sandy beach. Popular with surfers, the beach also has areas suitable for families, although access involves stairs. Amenities include restrooms, showers (token-operated), and nearby restaurants and shops. The campground, though highly rated, is often crowded and close to road and train noise.
*Click a parking icon on the map to draw the shortest path to the nearest entrance.
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Beach Overview
Amenities
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Weather Forecast
Updated: 7/18/2026, 10:15:00 AM
Hourly
| Time | Air Temp | UV | Wind | Rain |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:00 | 73° | 5 | 6 mph | 0 |
| 11:00 | 75° | 7 | 7 mph | 0 |
| 12:00 | 76° | 8 | 8 mph | 0 |
| 13:00 | 76° | 9 | 8 mph | 0 |
| 14:00 | 76° | 9 | 8 mph | 0 |
| 15:00 | 76° | 8 | 9 mph | 0 |
| 16:00 | 75° | 6 | 8 mph | 0 |
Surf Conditions
Updated: Updated: 7/18/2026, 10:15:00 AM
Hourly Surf
| Time | Temp | Wave | Period | Swell | Tide |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:00 | 73°F | 2.8 ft | 12s | ↓ S | +0.5 ft |
| 11:00 | 73°F | 2.8 ft | 11s | ↓ S | +1.5 ft |
| 12:00 | 73°F | 2.8 ft | 11s | ↓ S | +2.2 ft |
| 13:00 | 73°F | 2.8 ft | 11s | ↓ S | +2.5 ft |
| 14:00 | 73°F | 2.8 ft | 12s | ↓ S | +2.2 ft |
| 15:00 | 74°F | 2.8 ft | 12s | ↓ S | +1.6 ft |
| 16:00 | 74°F | 2.8 ft | 12s | ↓ S | +0.9 ft |