Cardiff-by-the-Sea Homes for Sale

Welcome to Cardiff-by-the-Sea, a charming coastal community nestled in the heart of San Diego County, California. Known for its laid-back vibe, beautiful beaches, and fantastic surf, Cardiff-by-the-Sea offers a unique blend of small-town charm and modern convenience.

If you're looking to make Cardiff-by-the-Sea your home, you're in luck! There are plenty of homes for sale in this picturesque seaside town. Whether you're in the market for a cozy beach cottage, a luxury oceanfront estate, or a stylish modern condo, you're sure to find the perfect property to suit your needs and lifestyle.

With its convenient location just a stone's throw away from the beach, Cardiff-by-the-Sea is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Spend your days soaking up the sun on the sand, catching a wave at one of the area's renowned surf spots, or exploring the scenic coastal trails that wind their way through the community.

When you're not out enjoying the great outdoors, Cardiff-by-the-Sea offers a variety of local shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore. From trendy boutiques to cozy coffee shops, there's always something new to discover in this vibrant seaside town.

So why wait? Come experience the laid-back coastal lifestyle of Cardiff-by-the-Sea and find your dream home in this idyllic beachside community. With its stunning natural beauty, welcoming community, and endless recreational opportunities, Cardiff-by-the-Sea truly has something for everyone.

Newest Cardiff-by-the-Sea Homes for Sale

$3,000,000

2 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 260018681SD MLS ⋅ Coming Soon Status

ABSOLUTELY STUNNING PANORAMIC 180-DEGREE OCEAN AND WHITE WATER VIEWS define this exceptional Cardiff-by-the-Sea home. Perched on an elevated parcel in the highly sought-after Walking District, this remarkable home captures breathtaking coastal views stretching from La Jolla to Oceanside. Beautifully renovated throughout, the property seamlessly blends timeless charm with modern finishes. The main residence (2309) features 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, while a studio (2311) offers a full bath, kitchenette, and its own spectacular ocean views—ideal for guests, a private office, creative space, or rental opportunities. Zoned R-2: Minor Multiple, this property presents outstanding flexibility and the possibility of future potential. Enjoy it as a primary residence with a guest house/studio, or explore the opportunity to further develop the site with multiple units (buyer to verify with the City). Whether you're seeking an exceptional coastal retreat, an income-producing property, or a potential premier development opportunity, this is a rare opportunity to own one of the most desirable view properties in Cardiff-by-the-Sea and embrace the ultimate Southern California beach lifestyle.

Cardiff-by-the-Sea

$2,399,000

4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 260018012SD MLS ⋅ Active Status

The perfect Cardiff coastal home does exist! Picture coming home every night to an incredible home to relax in a backyard oasis that is second to none! This incredible 3 bed 2 bath home with ocean views and 1 bed, 1 bath ADU is a testament to coastal living at its finest. The updated open concept kitchen features high-end stainless steel appliances, a walk-in pantry, wine fridge, and breakfast bar ideal for casual dining or entertaining. The living room, anchored by a modern stacked-stone fireplace, seamlessly flows out to the covered patio and tiered backyard to enjoy indoor-outdoor SoCal living. The main level also includes a dining room, one bedroom, and full bath, offering convenience and flexibility. Upstairs, two well-appointed bedrooms await, including the expansive primary suite. Vaulted ceilings, a western-facing picture window with panoramic ocean views, office nook, and large walk-in closet create a true serene retreat. The stunning primary bathroom was completely remodeled in 2025! A covered patio provides the perfect setting for outdoor dining and entertaining, while the 25 owner-owned solar panels ensure energy efficiency. Situated on a desirable 9,000 sq. ft. corner lot, there's room for RV parking or another future ADU. BONUS! A separate studio/guest house with its own private entrance and yard presents an ideal space for in-laws or rental income. Complete with a kitchenette, stacked washer/dryer, walk-in closet, full bathroom, and private deck. Enjoy an excellent location close to shopping, charming restaurants, award-winning schools, and Swami's Beach. The perfect Cardiff coastal home does exist! Picture coming home every night to an incredible home to relax in a backyard oasis that is second to none! This incredible 3 bed 2 bath home with ocean views and 1 bed, 1 bath ADU is a testament to coastal living at its finest. The updated open concept kitchen features high-end stainless steel appliances, a walk-in pantry, wine fridge, and breakfast bar ideal for casual dining or entertaining. The living room, anchored by a modern stacked-stone fireplace, seamlessly flows out to the covered patio and tiered backyard to enjoy indoor-outdoor SoCal living. The main level also includes a dining room, one bedroom, and full bath, offering convenience and flexibility. Upstairs, two well-appointed bedrooms await, including the expansive primary suite. Vaulted ceilings, a western-facing picture window with panoramic ocean views, office nook, and large walk-in closet create a true serene retreat. The stunning primary bathroom was completely remodeled in 2025! A covered patio provides the perfect setting for outdoor dining and entertaining, while the 25 owner-owned solar panels ensure energy efficiency. Situated on a desirable 9,000 sq. ft. corner lot, there's room for RV parking or another future ADU. BONUS! A separate studio/guest house with its own private entrance and yard presents an ideal space for in-laws or rental income. Complete with a kitchenette, stacked washer/dryer, walk-in closet, full bathroom, and private deck. Enjoy an excellent location close to shopping, charming restaurants, award-winning schools, and Swami's Beach.

1927 Playa Riviera, Cardiff-by-the-Sea

$4,495,000

6 Beds ⋅ 5 Baths ⋅ 260011415SD MLS ⋅ Active Status

Welcome to 518 Sheffield Avenue, where everyday living feels like a coastal retreat in the heart of Cardiff, in the Composer District. Tucked behind an automatic privacy gate on a low-traffic street west of I-5, this 6-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom residence offers the perfect blend of comfort, function, & lifestyle. Spanning approx. 3,826 square feet across two levels, the home is thoughtfully designed for modern family living. A highly desirable main-level en-suite bedroom, ideal as a guest suite or “Nana’s room,” adds flexibility for multigenerational living. Upstairs, all additional bedrooms provide a cohesive layout perfect for families, while the spacious primary suite features dual walk-in closets and an expansive bathroom retreat. Natural light pours through abundant windows, highlighting the home’s architectural character and seamless flow. Multiple fireplaces in the living room, family room, and primary bedroom create warm, inviting spaces throughout. The upgraded kitchen, complete with a Sub-Zero refrigerator, opens effortlessly to indoor and outdoor gathering areas, making day-to-day living and entertaining feel effortless. Butler's pantry included. Outside, a private courtyard and beautifully curated backyard designed for connection and relaxation come complete with a fire pit, fountain, pergola, and outdoor BBQ. Trail access to Encinitas Community Park, Seaside Market, Cardiff Elementary, local dining, shopping, and some of North County’s best beaches, this home offers exceptional walkability and a vibrant coastal lifestyle.

518 Sheffield, Cardiff-by-the-Sea

$8,500,000

3 Beds ⋅ 6 Baths ⋅ 260008807SD MLS ⋅ Active Status

Breathtaking ocean views and a newly completed multi-million dollar renovation highlight this one-of-a-kind residence. The lagoon/ocean facing exterior has been fully reimagined to incorporate two outdoor kitchens and two covered dining areas within 2,000+ square feet of outdoor living space. Designed to blur the lines between indoors and out, the home embraces seamless indoor-outdoor living at every turn. Expansive floor-to-ceiling glass walls disappear into the scenery, flooding the interiors with natural light, ocean breezes, and uninterrupted views of the lagoon, sunsets, and coastline beyond. With the luxurious primary retreat positioned at the pinnacle of the home on the top-floor entry level, nearly every space captures jaw-dropping vistas of nature in its purest form. Every inch of the residence reflects thoughtful design and bespoke craftsmanship, from the sculptural statement staircase to the integration of the latest smart home technology throughout. Located just moments from Cardiff’s sandy beaches, renowned restaurants, boutique shops, and scenic lagoon trails, this is a rare opportunity to own one of North County’s most iconic and refined coastal retreats.

2516 San Elijo Ave, Cardiff-by-the-Sea

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Based on information from California Regional Multiple Listing Service, Inc. as of . This information is for your personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties you may be interested in purchasing. Display of MLS data is usually deemed reliable but is NOT guaranteed accurate by the MLS. Buyers are responsible for verifying the accuracy of all information and should investigate the data themselves or retain appropriate professionals. Information from sources other than the Listing Agent may have been included in the MLS data. Unless otherwise specified in writing, Broker/Agent has not and will not verify any information obtained from other sources. The Broker/Agent providing the information contained herein may or may not have been the Listing and/or Selling Agent.