Farms, gardens, and eateries, oh my! This fully packed two-day (or leisurely three-day) food and flower lover’s agenda is full of adventure, all within less than a 30-minute drive of Encinitas in San Diego County.
A beautiful, boutique farm stay near Encinitas
Inn at Moonlight Beach:
If you’re looking for a stay that’s more than just a getaway, the Inn at Moonlight Beach is a must-visit. Nestled in a lush, biodynamic urban farm, this serene retreat offers stunning views and an immersive farm-to-table experience. Guests can harvest fresh fruit, vegetables, and herbs right from the garden. They provide baskets and shears, allowing you to bring nature straight to the plates.
For a hands-on touch, the Maker’s Station invites you to dig into the soil, craft garden-inspired keepsakes, and embrace the beauty of sustainable living. This is more than just a boutique inn. It’s a place to recharge, reconnect, and truly savor the simple joys of nature.
Book a reservation to dine in Encinitas:
Herb & Sea isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a coastal dining experience that celebrates the best of Southern California’s seasonal bounty. With fresh seafood, locally harvested produce, and bold, vibrant flavors, every dish is a tribute to sustainability and community. Thoughtfully crafted and responsibly sourced, the menu honors the farmers and fisheries that make it all possible. Whether you’re savoring a casual bite or a special night out, Herb & Sea delivers fresh, flavorful dining with a purpose.
Be sure to order:
- Embered Beets – from Sage Hill Farms with pistachio butter, date vinaigrette, and crispy Mediterranean oil
- Coal Roasted Sunchokes with tandoori spiced pistachio, peanut, shallot vinaigrette, feta, herb salad
- Coastal Roots Farm: (images from coastalrootsfarm.org)
Coastal Roots Farm’s Farm-to-Table Dinner Series happens one night per month from June – October. The series offers an intimate dining experience that celebrates the bounty of their 18-acre regenerative farm. Each event features a multi-course pescatarian menu crafted by local chefs, highlighting organic vegetables and sustainably sourced fish. Each course is also complemented by thoughtfully selected wine and beer pairings. With seating limited to 60 guests, these dinners foster a sense of community connection in a serene farm setting. By attending, guests not only enjoy exquisite, seasonally inspired dishes but also support the farm’s mission to nourish the local community.
This is a once-monthly ticketed event that happens between June and October. Check the website as times, chefs, and menus vary. Plan your visit and make a reservation: https://coastalrootsfarm.org/farm-to-table-dinners/
Spectacular cut flowers, gardens, and farms to visit in and around Encinitas:
DAY 1: Encinitas
1. San Diego Botanic Garden:
Nestled in Encinitas, this botanical garden spans 37 acres of diverse flora and scenic trails. Visitors can explore over 5,000 plant species across 29 uniquely themed gardens, including rare bamboo groves, desert landscapes, and a tropical rainforest. The garden is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
2. Coastal Roots Farm:
Coastal Roots Farm’s Farm Stand is a community-driven hub offering fresh, organic produce grown using regenerative farming practices. Open year-round, this pay-what-you-can farm stand ensures that everyone, regardless of income, has access to nutrient-rich fruits, vegetables, and eggs. The selection changes with the seasons, highlighting the farm’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and food justice. Visitors can shop, learn about local food systems, and directly support the farm’s mission to nourish the community.
Location: 441 Saxony Rd, Encinitas, CA 92024
DAY 2: Carlsbad
3. Carlsbad Strawberry Company U-Pick Farm:
At Carlsbad Strawberry Company, strawberry season isn’t just about fruit—it’s about fun, family, and making unforgettable memories. Their U-pick experience lets you roam through acres of sun-drenched fields, handpicking the juiciest, ripest berries straight from the vine. Whether you’re filling up a basket with farm-fresh goodness, snapping Instagram-worthy photos, or just soaking up the fresh air, this is the kind of outing that brings joy at every turn. With a deep-rooted history in Carlsbad spanning over 50 years, this family-run farm is more than just a place to pick strawberries—it’s a seasonal tradition you don’t want to miss.
4. Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch:
If you haven’t experienced The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch, you’re missing out on one of Southern California’s most breathtaking seasonal spectacles. Every spring, from March to May, nearly 50 acres of vibrant Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers explode into a stunning sea of color, transforming the rolling hills into a painter’s palette of pinks, oranges, yellows, and reds. Whether you’re strolling the fields, snapping frame-worthy photos, or hopping on a wagon tour for a laid-back ride through the blooms, this is the ultimate way to welcome the season.
Location: 5704 Paseo del Norte, Carlsbad, Ca 92008
5. Mellano Farmstand:
If you’re craving farm-fresh produce straight from the source, Mellano Farm Stand is the place to go. Located in the heart of Oceanside, this family-run farm stand offers a vibrant selection of locally grown fruits, vegetables, and flowers, all harvested with care from their multi-generational farm. From crisp greens to sun-ripened berries, every item reflects their commitment to quality and sustainability. But it’s more than just a place to shop—it’s a community hub where visitors can connect with local agriculture, explore seasonal offerings, and even take part in farm events. Whether you’re stocking up on fresh ingredients or just looking for a scenic spot to slow down and savor the simple things, Mellano Farm Stand delivers the best of California’s bounty.
DAY 3: Old Town San Diego
6. Temecula Olive Oil’s Tasting Room:
If you’re exploring San Diego and looking for a unique tasting experience, Temecula Olive Oil Company’s Old Town San Diego Tasting Room is a must-visit—just a 25-minute drive from your accommodations. Nestled in the heart of historic Old Town, this cozy spot invites you to sample locally grown, estate-milled extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars that showcase the best of California agricultuolre.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just curious about high-quality olive oil, the knowledgeable staff will guide you through tastings, helping you discover new flavors and pairings. Plus, with a charming Old Town atmosphere and plenty of nearby shops and attractions, it’s the perfect stop for a laid-back afternoon of exploring and savoring. Taste, shop, and take home a little bottle of CA GROWN olive oil.
7. Old Town San Diego Wine Tasting Tour:
With 75 five-star reviews on Google, the Old Town San Diego Wine & Beer Walking and Trolley Tour is the ultimate way to sip, savor, and explore the city’s rich history. This three-hour guided tour takes you on a flavorful journey through Old Town and Downtown San Diego, where you’ll indulge in nine ample pours of fine wines (or craft beer at most stops!), paired with delicious food equivalent to a full meal. Your expert guide will immerse you in the art of wine and beer tasting, sharing insights on perfect food pairings while weaving in fascinating stories of San Diego’s past. Along the way, enjoy a leisurely sightseeing walk, a fun trolley ride, and stunning bay views. To top it all off, the experience includes an indulgent chocolate and wine pairing, making it a must for food and wine lovers alike.
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