Situated between the San Elijo Lagoon to the south and the Batiquitos Lagoon to the north, the city of Encinitas, founded more than 100 years ago, is now made up of five communities that take pride in their own distinct personalities. They are: Cardiff-By-The Sea, Leucadia, Olivenhain, Old Encinitas and New Encinitas. Located along Interstate 5 and 25 miles north of Downtown San Diego with 21.5 square miles of land, Encinitas is home to approximately 58,000 residents.

The city’s historic Highway 101 corridor, paralleling six miles of rugged coastline, is known as Old Encinitas. It offers an old-style California coastal flavor, with shops, restaurants, cafes and historic architecture. Recently renovated, this charming area proudly welcomes visitors and locals alike, with its reproduction of the historic “Encinitas” sign, hanging above the center of town.

The El Camino Real corridor lies several miles east of the coast, and is referred to as New Encinitas. This area is the vibrant centerpiece of commerce and opportunity, with block after block of businesses, restaurants, shopping centers and medical offices.

Olivenhain borders Rancho Santa Fe and South Carlsbad and is just a twenty-five minute drive north from downtown San Diego. Olivenhain is just east of "New Encinitas". The majority of homes are in rural settings, from one half to several acres of land; on average two acres. Although Olivenhain is country, the Pacific Ocean is only a ten-minute drive.

Leucadia is located on Highway 101 on the north San Diego County coast. Leucadia has a laid back character of its own: a tucked-away beach town with a funky atmosphere and some upscale homes. The many trees, lush landscaping, and tracts of vacant land create a relaxed, rural feeling. Beaches are popular with surfers and residents enjoy the dramatic views from the oceanfront bluffs.

Cardiff-by-the-Sea is a beach community tucked between Encinitas and Solana Beach. It has the Pacific Ocean on its west, Encinitas on east and north, and a beach and lagoon on the south. Many homes are on the hillside with sweeping panoramic ocean views. Although operating as part of the city of Encinitas, the town of under 18,000 still considers itself a separate entity.

Below are links to the area's schools. Click here for other general area information.