Home > San Diego's NORTH COUNTY encompasses nearly 2,000 square miles of rugged and vast terrain that is home to 19 communities that each have their own unique qualities. From historic mountain towns to charming beach communities...it is San Diego North's diversity, alluring weather and the abundance of things to see and do that make it a preferred destination by both leisure travelers and meeting planners. Are you looking for accommodations? Here is some information about North County Hotels. Are you looking for something to eat? Here is some information about North County Restaurants. Are you planning on buying a home? Here is some information about North County Real Estate. Are you looking for things to do? Here is some information about North County Attractions. CARDIFF-BY-THE-SEA Founded about 1911, Cardiff-by-the-Sea is a shoreline community with 2.6 miles of Pacific coastline and world-class surf that draws professional and amateur surfers from all over Southern California and beyond. Known for its charm, Cardiff retains its small village hospitality and welcomes visitors. Cardiff has warm sunny days and cool evenings that prevail throughout the year. Escape to Cardiff-by-the-Sea for a memorable vacation in the quiet of a village. For more information, contact the Cardiff Chamber of Commerce, 2051 San Elijo Avenue, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA 92007, 760-436-0431. CARLSBAD Known as "The Village by the Sea," Carlsbad has the charm of a European village and much of the architecture reflects this old-world theme. The Village with its unique shops, including many sidewalk shops, superb restaurants and romantic hotels, is just a short walk from the beach. Throughout the month of April, the popular flower fields off Palomar Airport Road and Interstate 5 are a rainbow display of ranunculus. See the well in front of Alt Karlsbad Hanse House. The mineral water discovered here matched the properties of the water found in Karlsbad, Bohemia. With its beauty and serenity, Carlsbad may be one of the most picturesque coastal communities in Southern California. For more information contact the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce, 5934 Priestly Drive, Carlsbad, CA 92008, 760-931-8400; or the Carlsbad Convention & Visitors Bureau, P.O. Box 1246, Carlsbad, CA 92018, 760-434-6093, or 800-227-5722. ENCINITAS The beautiful grounds at Quail Botanical Gardens, featuring one of the most extensive collection of plants, trees and shrubs, is a favorite of visitors. Known as "The Flower Capital of the World," Encinitas boasts an extensive collection of unique nurseries and gardens. The San Elijo Lagoon, a brackish shallow water wetland, is home to aquatic insects, small fish, and water birds. Situated on 175 acres of lush greens with ocean views, the Encinitas Ranch Golf Course is one of the newest golf courses in coastal San Diego North. There are also excellent restaurants to discover, beaches to explore, interesting shops, galleries, coffee houses and excellent hotel accommodations. For more information, contact the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce, 138 Encinitas Blvd., Encinitas, CA 92024, 760-753-6041 or 800-953-6041 or the City of Encinitas, 505 S. Vulcan Ave., Encinitas, CA 92024-3633, 760-633-2600. LA JOLLA Spanish for "the jewel," La Jolla is a very picturesque coastal community. The cliffs and La Jolla Cove are a dramatic frame to the Pacific Ocean and the community's beaches are popular with divers and marine life enthusiasts. With fine hotels and shops, award-winning restaurants and theater, art galleries and the Birch Aquarium at Scripps, La Jolla is a town that exceeds expectations. For more information about the City, contact the La Jolla Town Council, 7734 Herschel Avenue, Ste. F, La Jolla, CA 92037, 858-454-1444. OCEANSIDE Oceanside's many visitor attractions include 3.5 miles of some of Southern California's widest and sandiest beaches, a small craft harbor, the longest over-water pier in Southern California, the magnificent San Luis Rey Mission and a wide variety of cultural and recreational facilities. Water sports are highly popular here, especially surfing, sailing and fishing. The Oceanside Transit Center is a major rail hub and offers services on the Metrolink and Coaster commuter rail, as well as AMTRAK trains easily linking Oceanside with both San Diego and Los Angeles. The gateway to San Diego North, Oceanside operates one of the most active California Welcome Centers and maintains a comprehensive display of information about activities, attractions and events in Oceanside, San Diego and the rest of California. For more information, contact the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce Visitor & Tourism Information, 928 Coast Highway, Oceanside, CA 92054, 760-721-1101 or 800-350-7873 or the City of Oceanside, 300 North Coast Highway, Oceanside, CA 92054, 760-435-3065. RANCHO SANTA FE At the center of Rancho Santa Fe is an historic village where a casual stroll reveals quaint courtyards, unique specialty shops and restaurants in a charming setting. There are two "boutique resorts" in the community, Morgan Run Resort and Club and The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe. Each is impeccably maintained and upholds a commitment to quality service. A croquet field is located in the heart of the community and on any weekend you can enjoy vigorous competitions that rival any of the NFL or NBA from men and women dressed in traditional "whites." Rancho Santa Fe also has exclusive golf courses that are beautifully landscaped and ingeniously designed. For more information, call the Inn at Rancho Santa Fe at 858-756-1131. SOLANA BEACH The city of Solana Beach is proud of its Highway 101 retail centers, beaches, viewpoints and many recreational opportunities. With its new train station, this rapidly emerging city now serves as a gateway from San Diego to the north coastal area. The exciting South Cedros Design District is now home to one of San Diego North's most innovative art communities. Additionally, this small coastal community lures sun lovers, surfers, joggers and beach walkers, as well as art shoppers and theatre- and cafe-goers. Interesting restaurants, nightclubs and studios offer a true adventure for those looking to satisfy a culinary craving or discover a hard-to-find art treasure. For more information, call the Solana Beach Information Center at 858-350-6006 or contact the Solana Beach Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 623, Solana Beach, CA 92075-0623, 858-755-4775 or the City of Solana Beach 635 South Highway 101, Solana Beach, CA 92075, 858-720-2400.