Where to Run in San Diego

Where To Run in San Diego: Cardiff Kook to Fletcher Cove

Difficulty: 4
Destination: 10
Distance: 4 miles

The Cardiff Kook really gets in the spirit for Halloween…and he doesn’t stop dressing up only when holidays call for it! Catch a glimpse of him on this gorgeous North County running route.

The scenic stretch from Fletcher Cove in Solana Beach headed north to Cardiff-by-the-Sea is as appealing as the names sound. Think of any song lyrics that have ever mentioned California’s Highway 101, and here you have them in real life, ocean waves crashing to your left as you run north. Hop on this route where Lomas Santa Fe meets the Pacific. Venturing north, you’ll eventually join the footpath along “The 101” as locals lovingly call it. Set apart from the road by a divider, this path gives you ample running room on flattish road. Featuring a gradual climb when heading north, you’ll experience just enough elevation to give your route an extra kick. Complete with sea salt and sea breeze to keep your lungs happy. When running north from Solana Beach, wrap up four miles at the renowned Cardiff Kook (the local surfer statue famous for being dressed up in whichever costume the locals choose to sneak on him overnight), or keep your miles going by heading on into Encinitas. Moonlight Beach is just an extra 2.4 miles away. Plus, Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream is just up the hill from the sand. 

Restrooms: Fletchers Cove, Cardiff State Beach (2.0 miles), San Elijo State Beach (4.5 miles)

Parking: street parking along Hwy 101, Moonlight Beach parking lot, paid parking at State Beaches