Cardiff-by-the-Sea blends coastal charm with vibrant summer events—outdoor concerts, cultural festivals, and wellness gatherings. July 2025 brings curated experiences perfect for high-income families and retirees seeking community, quality, and coastal living.
1. Switchfoot Bro-Am Surf & Music Festival
Date: Weekend of July 5–6, 2025 (exact date TBA)
Location: Moonlight State Beach, Encinitas
Website: Switchfoot Bro-Am
Parking: Beach lots fill early—bike, walk, or use ride-share. Paid parking available downtown.
Founded by Encinitas-based band Switchfoot, this dynamic event blends a surf contest with a full day of live music and community outreach. It’s free to attend, though donations benefit local youth-focused charities such as VH1 Save the Music and A Step Beyond. The crowd is diverse, with many local families, artists, and wellness-minded retirees gathering for sun, music, and purpose. For a quieter experience, arrive early for the surfing portion, then enjoy the afternoon concert with your toes in the sand.
2. TGIF Concert in the Park – Carlsbad
Date: Friday, July 11, 2025
Location: Stagecoach Park, Carlsbad
Website: City of Carlsbad TGIF Concerts
Parking: On-site lot available but fills by 4 PM. Nearby overflow and neighborhood street parking available.
This free July 11 concert features ’80s band The Reflexx. Enjoy a picnic or food trucks in a relaxed, family-friendly park setting—perfect for summer nights.
3. Encinitas Art Night – Cardiff Satellite Galleries
Date: Mid-July (July 13, 2025, tentative)
Location: Downtown Cardiff and participating galleries
Website: EncinitasCA.gov
Parking: Street parking available on Coast Hwy 101 and side streets; plan to arrive before 6 PM.
Art Night transforms Cardiff’s business corridor into an open gallery walk with live music, wine tastings, and local art installations. Galleries and pop-up exhibits highlight regional talent and invite guests to stroll from venue to venue at their own pace. The event’s elegant, low-key vibe makes it ideal for collectors and art-appreciating retirees looking for a relaxed evening immersed in creativity.
4. Seaside Wellness: Yoga & Sound Bath Sessions
Date: Mondays in July (July 8, 15, 22, 29)
Location: Glen Park, Cardiff-by-the-Sea
Website: Cardiff Wellness Events
Parking: Street parking only—arrive early and respect residential signage.
Held in Glen Park’s ocean breeze, these yoga and sound bath sessions offer a peaceful reset. Popular with wellness-minded locals and retirees. Advance booking required.
5. Heritage BBQ & Community History Day
Date: Saturday, July 20, 2025 (TBD)
Location: San Dieguito Heritage Museum, Encinitas
Website: San Dieguito Heritage Museum
Parking: On-site parking lot available; overflow on nearby streets.
This intimate, family-friendly event features storytelling, crafts, BBQ, and exhibits on Cardiff’s early settlers—perfect for history lovers of all ages. Donations support museum programs and restoration.
6. Cardiff Dog Days of Summer
Date: Sunday, July 21, 2025
Location: Encinitas Community Park
Website: Cardiff 101 Main Street
Parking: Free at park lots and neighborhood streets; fills early—arrive before 9 AM or carpool/rideshare.
More than a pet event, this long-running festival celebrates Cardiff’s community spirit with live music, food trucks, dog contests, adoptions, and a beer garden. It’s an ideal Sunday outing for families and retirees, with VIP seating for added comfort.
7. Sunset Picnic & Movie Night
Date: Saturday, July 27, 2025
Location: Encinitas Community Park
Website: Encinitas Parks & Rec
Parking: Ample lot parking available; carpooling encouraged during peak hours.
Families and couples gather with beach blankets, gourmet takeout, and local wines for an evening under the stars featuring a family-friendly film and live music beforehand. The event is well-organized, with food trucks, clean restrooms, and space for lawn games. It’s a simple yet luxurious summer tradition that reflects the easygoing lifestyle of Cardiff-by-the-Sea.
8. Cardiff Reef Coastal Walk & Wine Tasting
Date: Sunday, July 28, 2025
Location: Cardiff Reef State Beach
Website: The Nature Collective
Parking: Small lot at Cardiff Reef; arrive early. Seaside Beach lot also available with day pass.
This guided eco-walk explores Cardiff’s unique marine and estuary ecosystem. After the educational hike, guests enjoy a private wine tasting overlooking the coast. Limited to 25 attendees, this event is curated for adults who appreciate sustainability, science, and boutique wine experiences. It’s ideal for eco-minded retirees and couples seeking meaningful weekend plans.
Discover Elevated Coastal Living
From surf festivals to wine tastings, Cardiff-by-the-Sea in July offers upscale, well-curated events that showcase the best of local coastal living. And with August just around the corner, even more local favorites from outdoor concerts to food-focused gatherings are on the horizon.
Considering making Cardiff-by-the-Sea your permanent coastal retreat? Kelli Miller, a trusted local expert, helps families and retirees find the perfect property and lifestyle match. Reach out today to explore real estate options tailored to your goals.
Live the Cardiff lifestyle—with Kelli Miller by your side.
