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Photo: Hawk watching gulls at Moonlight Beach, Encinitas (8212661076) by Tim Buss from North County, San Diego, California, USA (CC BY 2.0) License

Moonlight State Beach

Public beach · Encinitas, California

Good conditions todayBarbecue grillPicnic tablesPublic restroomPublic shower

Sandy beach with a snack bar, playground, volleyball & tennis courts & recreation equipment rentals.

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Current water conditions

Water temp
70°F
21°C
Cool water — ease in carefully. Cool enough to cause cold-water shock on a sudden entry. Get in gradually, let your breathing settle, and keep an eye on weaker swimmers.

Live data from NOAA buoy 46274 (1.3 mi away), as of Aug 20, 10:56 PM UTC. Conditions are for general information only and can change quickly — always judge the water in person and follow posted advisories before swimming.

Weather at Moonlight State Beach

H: 71° L: 69°
Partly Cloudy
Partly Cloudy
71°
|
Feels like 74°
Precipitation
24%
Humidity
91%
Wind
7 mph
UV Index
4.2
Water Conditions:
🏊Cool but swimmable
12 AM
Mist
70°
3 AM
Clear
70°
6 AM
Partly Cloudy
70°
9 AM
Mist
70°
12 PM
Fog
71°
3 PM
Overcast
71°
6 PM
Overcast
70°
9 PM
Overcast
71°

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Frequently asked questions

Where is Moonlight State Beach?
Moonlight State Beach is a public beach in Encinitas, California.
What is the water temperature at Moonlight State Beach?
As of August 20, 2026, the water temperature at Moonlight State Beach in Encinitas, California is 70°F (21°C), measured by NOAA buoy 46274, 1.3 miles away.
Can you swim at Moonlight State Beach?
There is no fixed answer for Moonlight State Beach: whether it is safe to swim there on a given day depends on the water temperature, recent rainfall, and any advisories posted at Moonlight State Beach in Encinitas, California. Check current water conditions before you go, and follow posted signs and local guidance.
How is Moonlight State Beach rated?
Moonlight State Beach in Encinitas, California has an average visitor rating of 4.7 out of 5, based on 2492 reviews.

Visitor Reviews

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Been here? A quick note helps the next visitor plan their day. Handy things to mention:

Water temperatureCrowds & parkingBest time to goSafety & access

Best Times to Visit

👍
Right Now
Good conditions for visiting
🏖️ Swimming Beaches Tips:
  • Arrive early for best parking and beach spot selection
  • Check for lifeguard schedules and swim only in designated areas
  • Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life
  • Watch for beach flags indicating water conditions
Best Seasons:
☀️ Summer (Jun-Aug)🍂 Fall (Sep-Nov)🌸 Spring (Mar-May)

Location & Contact

west of I-5 on, Encinitas Blvd, Encinitas, CA 92024

Encinitas, California 92024

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Highlights

Picnics

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible entranceWheelchair accessible parking lot

Amenities

🍖 Barbecue grill🧺 Picnic tables🚻 Public restroom🚿 Public shower🏐 Volleyball court

Family & Children

👶 Good for kids👶 Playground