Stonesteps Beach

350 South El Portal Encinitas, CA 92024

Hours

General beach use from 4 a.m. - 2 a.m.

Cost

Visiting Stonesteps Beach is absolutely free! Free street parking nearby. No dogs allowed on the beach.

760-633-2740

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About

A trip to North County San Diego is incomplete without visiting iconic Stonesteps.

This beautiful location is steeped in history and charm that captivates locals and tourists. The Stonesteps are located at the western end of South El Portal Street and have been a significant part of the community for many years.

The upper section of the stairs is constructed of concrete, while the lower portion is wood. The steps enable visitors to safely reach the narrow beach 70' below.

Recently, Stonesteps was closed due to engineering issues caused by stormy winter weather. The staircase underwent reconstruction to make it structurally sound, and the well-loved beach access was reopened in the summer of 2023.

Stonesteps is more than an access to a small beach. The staircase has a rich history that binds the community and tourists together. Stonesteps has been a passage for fishermen and surfers who have made this their favorite spot.

Fun Facts & Cool Features

Stonesteps is not only a historical site and means to the marvelous beach, but a place full of fun and unique features.

One of the most noteworthy aspects of Stonesteps is its surfing culture. In the summer of 1975, a memorable surfing contest took place at the beach, with the winner, Tommy Lewis, taking two days to bring home his trophy.

The staircase is an engineering marvel, covering a 70-foot stretch from the bluffs. The two-part structure has stood the test of time and sees approximately 200,000 visitors yearly.

Stonesteps reflects the resilience and determination of the community to preserve its history and provide access to one of the most beautiful beaches in California.

Stonesteps is a great place to witness stunning sunsets on a North County San Diego vacation. The golden hues of the setting sun against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean create a mesmerizing moment.

Guests may also walk to nearby beaches from Stonesteps Beach. Head north for 4-5 miles, and you'll reach Beacon's Beach. Going south at Stonesteps Beach for about half a mile gets you to family-friendly Moonlight Beach.

Stonesteps grants access to a stunning beach where history, community, and natural beauty create a unique and unforgettable experience.

Visiting Stonesteps will leave you enriched and inspired.

Local Tips

The beach gets crowded during the peak summer months.
If you're interested in surfing, the south side of the beach offers better wave conditions.
High tide covers most of the thin beach. Plan accordingly.
The stairs may be challenging for some. Wear comfortable shoes and consider your fitness level before descending.
Lastly, remember to respect the beach and its environment by keeping it clean and leaving no trace behind.

Location

350 South El Portal Encinitas, CA 92024

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to get to San Diego and how far is it from L.A.?

When flying in, the San Diego International Airport (SAN) is only about 5 miles from downtown and with easy access to major highways so you can make your way to your Southern California getaway. Notably, for travelers that fly into Tijuana, the Cross Border Xpress (CBX) readily connects the two international airports.

As a top drive-to destination in Southern California, San Diego and its surrounding communities are easily accessible via I-8 coming from the east, as well as I-5 and I-15 the north. It’s about 125 miles from San Diego to L.A., via 1-5.

Are the beaches in San Diego swimmable?

San Diego’s coast stretches over 70 miles from Oceanside to the north to Imperial Beach to the south. With more than 33 beaches lining San Diego’s sandy shore, there’s certainly an ideal beach for your entire crew. Family-friendly spots with calmer waves include Cardiff-by-the-Sea and numerous Carlsbad beaches, while the surfer havens of Black’s Beach and Windansea Beach can offer waves that are not for the faint of heart. La Jolla Shores is a good spot for beginner-surfers.

What’s the weather like in San Diego and when is the best time to visit?

San Diego’s average temperature of about 71°F year-round makes any time a great time to visit “America’s Finest City”. With its mild Mediterranean climate, San Diego generally has the most stable and inviting weather in the country, topped with cooler evenings even in summer.

Spring and fall are some of the best times to visit San Diego, with fewer crowds and great temperatures. Summer is peak season in San Diego, with plenty of festivals and activity, though this also coincides with more precipitation particularly in May and June. Winter temperatures in San Diego can drop into the 60s during the day. Rather than dipping into the chilly waves, winter in San Diego provides a great opportunity to head out on a whale watching tour.

What’s the best way to visit Balboa Park museums and the San Diego Zoo?

The San Diego Zoo located in Balboa Park is world-renowned as a must-visit destination. In addition to the vast array of animals and exhibits within the Zoo, Balboa Park in San Diego also houses over a dozen museums. The Go City Card or a Balboa Park Explorer One-Day Pass are great options when exploring the area. Check with the Balboa Park Visitors Center online for more information.