Cardiff Real Estate

Welcome to Cardiff-by-the-Sea, a charming coastal community nestled in the heart of San Diego County, California. Known for its stunning ocean views and laid-back atmosphere, Cardiff offers a unique blend of beachside living and vibrant local culture.

This picturesque neighborhood boasts a rich history, with roots dating back to the late 1800s. Today, it is a haven for surfers, beachgoers, and nature lovers alike. The pristine beaches, such as Cardiff State Beach, are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying breathtaking sunsets. The famous San Elijo Lagoon, a vital coastal wetland, provides residents and visitors with ample opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the diverse local wildlife.

Cardiff’s community spirit is palpable, with a variety of local shops, restaurants, and cafes that reflect the area’s artistic vibe. Stroll through the quaint streets to discover unique boutiques, surf shops, and artisanal eateries serving fresh, locally-sourced cuisine. The Cardiff Farmers Market, held every Sunday, is a must-visit, offering an array of organic produce, handmade goods, and delicious food options.

Families are drawn to Cardiff for its excellent schools and safe neighborhoods, making it an ideal place to raise children. The area also hosts various community events throughout the year, fostering a sense of belonging and connection among residents.

With its stunning coastline, vibrant culture, and welcoming community, Cardiff-by-the-Sea is not just a place to live—it's a lifestyle. Embrace the coastal charm and discover why so many choose to call this enchanting neighborhood home.

Newest Listings in Cardiff

$1,099,000

3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ NDP2606966 MLS ⋅ ACTIVE Status ⋅ Park Place Bluffs BLDG.

Charming Townhome in Cardiff-by-the-Sea's beloved Park Place Bluff community! This vibrant 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home instantly impresses with a spacious living room that opens up to a private flagstone patio through updated French doors. The beautifully remodeled kitchen features real wood maple cabinetry, granite countertops, large window overlooking the patio light and bright throughout! Luxury vinyl flooring and recessed lighting flow through the entire downstairs. Upstairs, the generous primary suite enjoys a private balcony and large secondary rooms provide ultimate flexibility. The hall bathroom offers real wood cabinetry with a charming vintage vibe. Updated vinyl windows throughout. Lovingly cared for by the same owner for 28 years no pets, all upgrades done with pride! One-car garage plus one assigned parking space. Just a 2-minute stroll to the community pool! Enjoy miles of scenic walking trails, lush green open space, and a dog-friendly canyon right in the community. Minutes to Briggs Tennis Club, pickleball courts, and the Encinitas Village Center with Trader Joe's, great restaurants, and more. HOA includes water, trash, and exterior insurance. Welcome to the Cardiff lifestyle this is the one! Charming Townhome in Cardiff-by-the-Sea's beloved Park Place Bluff community! This vibrant 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home instantly impresses with a spacious living room that opens up to a private flagstone patio through updated French doors. The beautifully remodeled kitchen features real wood maple cabinetry, granite countertops, large window overlooking the patio light and bright throughout! Luxury vinyl flooring and recessed lighting flow through the entire downstairs. Upstairs, the generous primary suite enjoys a private balcony and large secondary rooms provide ultimate flexibility. The hall bathroom offers real wood cabinetry with a charming vintage vibe. Updated vinyl windows throughout. Lovingly cared for by the same owner for 28 years no pets, all upgrades done with pride! One-car garage plus one assigned parking space. Just a 2-minute stroll to the community pool! Enjoy miles of scenic walking trails, lush green open space, and a dog-friendly canyon right in the community. Minutes to Briggs Tennis Club, pickleball courts, and the Encinitas Village Center with Trader Joe's, great restaurants, and more. HOA includes water, trash, and exterior insurance. Welcome to the Cardiff lifestyle this is the one!

1081 Woodlake Dr, Cardiff-by-the-Sea

$2,399,000

4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 260018012 MLS ⋅ ACTIVE Status

The perfect Cardiff coastal home does exist! Picture coming home every night to an incredible home to relax in a backyard oasis that is second to none! This incredible 3 bed 2 bath home with ocean views and 1 bed, 1 bath ADU is a testament to coastal living at its finest. The updated open concept kitchen features high-end stainless steel appliances, a walk-in pantry, wine fridge, and breakfast bar ideal for casual dining or entertaining. The living room, anchored by a modern stacked-stone fireplace, seamlessly flows out to the covered patio and tiered backyard to enjoy indoor-outdoor SoCal living. The main level also includes a dining room, one bedroom, and full bath, offering convenience and flexibility. Upstairs, two well-appointed bedrooms await, including the expansive primary suite. Vaulted ceilings, a western-facing picture window with panoramic ocean views, office nook, and large walk-in closet create a true serene retreat. The stunning primary bathroom was completely remodeled in 2025! A covered patio provides the perfect setting for outdoor dining and entertaining, while the 25 owner-owned solar panels ensure energy efficiency. Situated on a desirable 9,000 sq. ft. corner lot, there's room for RV parking or another future ADU. BONUS! A separate studio/guest house with its own private entrance and yard presents an ideal space for in-laws or rental income. Complete with a kitchenette, stacked washer/dryer, walk-in closet, full bathroom, and private deck. Enjoy an excellent location close to shopping, charming restaurants, award-winning schools, and Swami's Beach. The perfect Cardiff coastal home does exist! Picture coming home every night to an incredible home to relax in a backyard oasis that is second to none! This incredible 3 bed 2 bath home with ocean views and 1 bed, 1 bath ADU is a testament to coastal living at its finest. The updated open concept kitchen features high-end stainless steel appliances, a walk-in pantry, wine fridge, and breakfast bar ideal for casual dining or entertaining. The living room, anchored by a modern stacked-stone fireplace, seamlessly flows out to the covered patio and tiered backyard to enjoy indoor-outdoor SoCal living. The main level also includes a dining room, one bedroom, and full bath, offering convenience and flexibility. Upstairs, two well-appointed bedrooms await, including the expansive primary suite. Vaulted ceilings, a western-facing picture window with panoramic ocean views, office nook, and large walk-in closet create a true serene retreat. The stunning primary bathroom was completely remodeled in 2025! A covered patio provides the perfect setting for outdoor dining and entertaining, while the 25 owner-owned solar panels ensure energy efficiency. Situated on a desirable 9,000 sq. ft. corner lot, there's room for RV parking or another future ADU. BONUS! A separate studio/guest house with its own private entrance and yard presents an ideal space for in-laws or rental income. Complete with a kitchenette, stacked washer/dryer, walk-in closet, full bathroom, and private deck. Enjoy an excellent location close to shopping, charming restaurants, award-winning schools, and Swami's Beach.

1927 Playa Riviera, Cardiff-by-the-Sea

$4,495,000

6 Beds ⋅ 5 Baths ⋅ 260011415 MLS ⋅ ACTIVE Status

Welcome to 518 Sheffield Avenue, where everyday living feels like a coastal retreat in the heart of Cardiff, in the Composer District. Tucked behind an automatic privacy gate on a low-traffic street west of I-5, this 6-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom residence offers the perfect blend of comfort, function, & lifestyle. Spanning approx. 3,826 square feet across two levels, the home is thoughtfully designed for modern family living. A highly desirable main-level en-suite bedroom, ideal as a guest suite or “Nana’s room,” adds flexibility for multigenerational living. Upstairs, all additional bedrooms provide a cohesive layout perfect for families, while the spacious primary suite features dual walk-in closets and an expansive bathroom retreat. Natural light pours through abundant windows, highlighting the home’s architectural character and seamless flow. Multiple fireplaces in the living room, family room, and primary bedroom create warm, inviting spaces throughout. The upgraded kitchen, complete with a Sub-Zero refrigerator, opens effortlessly to indoor and outdoor gathering areas, making day-to-day living and entertaining feel effortless. Butler's pantry included. Outside, a private courtyard and beautifully curated backyard designed for connection and relaxation come complete with a fire pit, fountain, pergola, and outdoor BBQ. Trail access to Encinitas Community Park, Seaside Market, Cardiff Elementary, local dining, shopping, and some of North County’s best beaches, this home offers exceptional walkability and a vibrant coastal lifestyle.

518 Sheffield, Cardiff-by-the-Sea

$8,500,000

3 Beds ⋅ 6 Baths ⋅ 260008807 MLS ⋅ ACTIVE Status

Breathtaking ocean views and a newly completed multi-million dollar renovation highlight this one-of-a-kind residence. The lagoon/ocean facing exterior has been fully reimagined to incorporate two outdoor kitchens and two covered dining areas within 2,000+ square feet of outdoor living space. Designed to blur the lines between indoors and out, the home embraces seamless indoor-outdoor living at every turn. Expansive floor-to-ceiling glass walls disappear into the scenery, flooding the interiors with natural light, ocean breezes, and uninterrupted views of the lagoon, sunsets, and coastline beyond. With the luxurious primary retreat positioned at the pinnacle of the home on the top-floor entry level, nearly every space captures jaw-dropping vistas of nature in its purest form. Every inch of the residence reflects thoughtful design and bespoke craftsmanship, from the sculptural statement staircase to the integration of the latest smart home technology throughout. Located just moments from Cardiff’s sandy beaches, renowned restaurants, boutique shops, and scenic lagoon trails, this is a rare opportunity to own one of North County’s most iconic and refined coastal retreats.

2516 San Elijo Ave, Cardiff-by-the-Sea

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