Have you ever been to a primary care doctor and wondered why they focus on treating symptoms instead of addressing the root cause of your illness? Rather than take a patient-centered approach to address questions like, “Why are you ill?” they prescribe medications that alleviate symptoms but don’t do much to solve the underlying issue that’s causing you to be sick.
When you have a runny nose, you’re handed an antihistamine. When you have high cholesterol or high blood pressure, you’re prescribed a pill that treats the number. The truth is that this approach only tackles your symptoms. When the root cause isn’t fixed, your symptoms can get exponentially worse. Remember - your body’s dysfunction isn’t due to your meds not working.
This begs the question: Wouldn't you rather address the underlying cause of your health concerns so you can experience long-term relief? As a naturopathic doctor in Cardiff By The Sea, CA, Dr. Erica Oberg takes a functional approach to medicine and well-being instead of treating the symptoms her patients endure.
Health is a state of vibrant vitality, abundant energy, and positive affect. It can be learned, cultivated, and practiced by everyone. Dr. Oberg's approach to health and medicine combines the rigors of science with the wisdom of nature and our bodies. She is passionate about helping people experience a higher level of health and vitality. As such, her clinical practice focuses on preventing, reversing, and taming chronic disease, neuro-degeneration, and anti-aging.
Dr. Oberg specializes in nutrition & lifestyle, IV therapy, and identifying the underlying causes of disease using advanced testing and creating customized treatment plans to help individuals dial in their lifestyle, dietary supplements, peptides, bioidentical hormones, anti-aging pharmaceuticals, and more. If you’re looking for individualized, science-based, proactive functional, integrative, or natural medicine, we believe you’ll resonate with Dr. Oberg and work your way through life’s challenges with help from our functional medicine clinic in Cardiff By The Sea, CA.
Dr. Oberg and her team of licensed providers specialize in a range of naturopathic and science-based services, including but not limited to:
If you're ready to reclaim your vitality and learn more about Dr. Oberg's approach to health and medicine, we make it easy to get started. The first step is to have a complimentary 15-minute phone call to ask questions and determine if her approach is a good fit. Once Dr. Oberg understands your health needs and goals, your journey to optimal health and wellness truly begins.
Now that you know more about what makes Dr. Oberg different from other physicians, let's dig a little deeper into some of the most popular programs and clinical services offered at her functional medicine clinic.
As people get older, many things change in life. Often, those changes are good, like having more self-control, financial freedom, and patience. Others are hard to deal with, especially when they're out of our control. Like all things in life, our hormones change when we get older. These fluctuations can cause problems for both men and women, including:
If those symptoms sound familiar, you're not alone. A 2019 American Psychological Association survey found that almost half of women aged 30 to 60 in the US have experienced symptoms of a hormonal imbalance. Of course, as men age, they suffer from imbalanced hormones, too. Research from BodyLogicMD states that nearly 38% of males in America aged 45 and older have a testosterone deficiency.
The good news is that balancing your hormones and addressing the root cause of your symptoms doesn’t have to be hard. It’s a realistic goal with Dr. Oberg by your side. As a functional medicine doctor in Cardiff By The Sea, CA, she can help your body metabolize and detoxify both your own hormones and the endocrine-disrupting chemicals infiltrating your life. When your hormones are in harmony, you experience improved energy, mood, and overall health – and that’s something to be excited about.
Our comprehensive Three-Month Hormone Balancing Program is designed to empower you with the knowledge and tools to take control of your hormonal health. This is no "one-and-done service" - it's a holistic journey that spans three transformative months, offering the support and guidance to become confident, capable, and healthier than ever. Features of our hormone balancing program include:
You will receive support throughout your journey from Dr. Oberg, who will provide healthcare services, and our health coaches, who offers personalized coaching tailored to your specific needs.
Nutrition has a significant impact on hormonal health. A customized hormone-balancing diet plan will be provided to help nourish the body optimally based on individual goals.
We provide a range of practical strategies and tips for regulating hormone balance through your nervous system. These techniques aim to empower you to take control of your well-being.
When appropriate, we’ll prescribe you hormone replacement therapy (HRT), testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), or growth hormone peptide therapy to help balance your hormones.
At our functional medical office, we make it a point to correct the root causes of our patient's problems. We don't treat symptoms - but we do use them to figure out the underlying issues you're facing. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it could be time to consider HRT.
When you mention hormone replacement therapy, most people think the treatment is exclusively for females going through menopause. While that's partially true - HRT can relieve night sweats, hot flashes, and other menopause-related problems - men also deal with imbalanced hormones.
Testosterone plays a crucial role in male sexual health. Low levels can result in decreased sex drive, erectile dysfunction, and other sexual performance issues. Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection may be a sign of imbalanced hormones or low testosterone levels.
When your sleep patterns change - like when you have trouble falling or staying asleep - it could be a sign of a hormone imbalance. Testosterone is involved in regulating the sleep cycle, and insufficient levels of it can disrupt quality rest.
Imbalances in hormones can affect mental health and mood. If a man shows signs of irritability, mood swings, or depression, it could indicate low testosterone or other hormonal issues. Hormone replacement therapy can help regulate mood by balancing your hormone levels.
Menopause happens when a woman has not had a menstrual cycle for at least 12 consecutive months. It is a result of declining sex hormone levels, causing the ovaries to stop releasing egg cells. During menopause, women face a range of challenges.
Testosterone plays a crucial role in male sexual health. Low levels can result in decreased sex drive, erectile dysfunction, and other sexual performance issues. Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection may be a sign of imbalanced hormones or low testosterone levels.
Irregular menstrual cycles are a common sign that women are nearing menopause, and their hormone levels may be shifting. The frequency of their periods may increase or decrease, and the amount of bleeding could be more or less than usual, while also lasting for a shorter or longer time.
Hot flashes are perhaps the most well-known symptom of menopause and a frequent sign that a woman's hormones are imbalanced. Hot flashes are sudden feelings of warmth and sweating that are usually most intense on your face, neck, and chest.
Don't let hormone imbalances dictate your life. Take the first step towards reclaiming your balance, energy, and vitality. By working together with Dr. Oberg and her team, you can unlock the path to a healthier, more harmonious you.
When you choose Dr. Oberg as your naturopathic doctor in Cardiff By The Sea, CA, a new world of healthy living and wellness options are at your disposal. One of the most popular and effective ways to give your body the goodness it needs is with custom IV therapy at our functional medicine office.
Customized IV therapy from Dr. Oberg is all about tailoring your treatment to meet your health goals and needs. Unlike one-size-fits-all IV clinics, our team considers factors like nutrient deficiencies, hydration levels, and overall health to create a customized infusion. This personalized approach gives you better and more applicable results, whether you're looking to get a boost of energy, fortify your immune system, or get relief from a specific ailment.
Your custom IV therapy begins with a consultation with Dr. Oberg. During your initial meeting, we’ll get a better sense of what your brain and body needs. From there, we’ll create a custom infusion for you – not just a formula that matches your height, weight, and age.
Our IV drip therapy menu includes infusions such as:
IV therapy is considered one of the best ways to get the nutrients and immune-boosting goodness your body needs because it gives you a more direct, efficient means of delivery. Unlike oral supplement, which often falls short due to digestive limitations, IV therapy ensures swift and comprehensive nutrient absorption. Some of the biggest benefits of IV therapy from a functional medicine doctor in Cardiff By The Sea, CA include the following:
IV fluids and electrolytes rapidly hydrate your body, providing an efficient remedy for dehydration resulting from illness, physical activity, or excessive alcohol intake.
IV treatment is able to increase energy and fight tiredness, which can make you feel re-energized.
IV infusions containing immune-enhancing vitamins and antioxidants can fortify your immune system and assist in recovering from illness.
IV therapy containing growth factors, exosomes, and vitamins is effective in improving the health and appearance of the skin and hair. These components complement hair and facial microneedling treatments exceptionally well.
IV therapy can help reduce the symptoms of toxic exposure, like headaches, nausea, fatigue, and dehydration, whether it's from a basic hangover or prolonged exposure to molds, heavy metals, or other toxins.
Dr. Oberg’s personalized IV infusions can serve as an initial boost for making lifestyle changes and play a role in a sustained plan to control persistent conditions like diabetes, autoimmune disorders, cancer, heart disease, and others.
Support Mitochondria function and Anti-aging
Dr. Oberg offers carefully sourced and research backed regenerative therapies such as exosome and stem cell infusions. These can be powerful options for people recovering from chronic infections such as long COVID or Epstein Barr or Lyme. They are also powerful for neuro-regeneration and we frequently use them in stroke recovery and for traumatic brain injury.
Dr. Oberg offers personalized IV micronutrient therapy tailored to address specific nutritional deficiencies, hydration needs, and overall health. This therapy is based on advanced testing that evaluates your cells' nutrient levels. Whether you need more energy, a stronger immune system, or relief from different health issues, IV drip therapy can be customized to help you rediscover the very best version of yourself.
As we get older, our bodies experience a range of changes that affect our health and appearance. These changes are primarily caused by issues with mitochondria and cellular aging. However, there have been significant developments in regenerative medicine, offering the potential to turn back the hands of time and improve health. Schedule a consultation today with Dr. Oberg to begin your journey with regenerative medicine.
Regenerative medicine is an exciting, innovative field that centers on activating your body's innate regenerative abilities to repair and revitalize tissues, cells, and organs. Its focus is on improving your body's natural healing processes to counteract the impacts of aging and different health issues. If you find that old, nagging injuries won’t go away or that fine lines and wrinkles have become overwhelming, anti-aging medicine from a functional medicine doctor in Cardiff By The Sea, CA may be perfect for you.
At our naturopathic medical office, we use treatments like IV therapy, hormone replacement therapy, and Peptide Therapy to manage a broad array of health and aesthetic concerns. These treatments can aid in tissue repair, inflammation reduction, and enhancement of cellular function.
Anti-aging services offered at our functional medicine clinic include the following:
Peptides are fundamental components of proteins and play a crucial role in various biological processes, such as the aging process. Dr. Oberg offers peptide treatments to help counteract age-related decline, enhance muscle growth and performance, improve skin health, and more.
When you bring your hormones back into balance, you can fight back against issues such as fatigue, mood swings, reduced libido, and even erectile dysfunction.
Replenish vital nutrients, antioxidants, and hydration for improved energy levels, skin health, and immune support.
Exosomes are tiny vesicles generated from mesenchymal stem cells. These vesicles serve as powerful communicators, transmitting signals to various tissues in the body. Their main function is to trigger healing, regeneration, and repair processes, mimicking the actions of younger cells. They are considered to be one of the most effective strategies for combating the aging process.
When nutrition guidance, lifestyle adaptations, and powerful supplements are combined with naturopathic medical therapies from Dr. Oberg, you can reverse chronic diseases in your life and reach your anti-aging goals.
Our goal with regenerative medicine treatments is to rejuvenate deteriorating or aging tissue. Our approach to treatment centers on fixing and reversing damage instead of solely addressing symptoms like pain. Regenerative medicine harnesses the power of healthy cells to renew and restore function by enhancing the body's innate capacity for self-healing.
Dr. Oberg uses regenerative medicine to treat a range of issues, both aesthetic and injury-related, including the following:
Experience the future of anti-aging and regenerative medicine with Dr. Erica Oberg. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and embark on your journey to a healthier, more youthful you.
When you visit our functional medicine clinic, you can rest easy knowing Dr. Erica Oberg uses her unique skills, knowledge, and naturopathic principles for the betterment of your health and well-being. Unlike many traditional primary care providers, our team combines the best aspects of traditional wisdom and modern scientific medicine to diagnose, treat, and prevent chronic diseases.
You don't have to worry about us suggesting addictive pain medications or treatments that simply mask your aesthetic or medical challenges. Instead, our goal is to address the underlying factors holding you back. If you're ready to take the first step toward purposeful progress and healthy living, contact us today.
When most people think of the nicest restaurants in SoCal, their minds tend to lean toward larger cities and downtown hotspots with renowned eateries echoing their modern, glitzy surroundings. However, there are some smaller, quieter towns that are home to upscale restaurants that rival their big-city counterparts in both ambiance and cuisine. As...
When most people think of the nicest restaurants in SoCal, their minds tend to lean toward larger cities and downtown hotspots with renowned eateries echoing their modern, glitzy surroundings. However, there are some smaller, quieter towns that are home to upscale restaurants that rival their big-city counterparts in both ambiance and cuisine. As one of the best small-town restaurants in Southern California, Waverly brings the heat when it comes to fine dining.
Waverly is a modern, stylish restaurant located in the beautiful coastal town of Cardiff by the Sea.
The chic furnishings are reminiscent of old Hollywood, original pieces by an Australian artist, and a few modern flourishes somehow give Waverly both an elegant feel and a relaxed vibe consistent with its beach town surroundings.
The gorgeous, yet understated interior, including the central bar, is flooded with natural light and perfect for a laid-back brunch or Happy Hour.
The interior flows seamlessly into the exterior, and the restaurant's airy elegance carries through.
In its own words, Waverly serves up "Progressive American cuisine with a European influence." Several of the main entrees on the menu also feature a suggested wine pairing.
Whether you are here for brunch, lunch, or dinner, you will find a menu full of creative and tasty dishes that change often, even daily, due to the seasonal availability of the fresh ingredients used.
Every dish, from main dish to small bites, is a carefully crafted piece of food art.
In addition to an interesting wine and beer list, as well as a generous offering of non-alcoholic beverages, you can choose from an intriguing selection of signature cocktails, such as Chai Town, Red Moon, and Daily Fix.
Even something as common and simple as chocolate cake is elevated with a modern twist and is as delicious as it looks.
Speaking of dessert, Waverly puts a mouthwatering spin on traditional after-dinner sweets with its "Cheese Course" - a slice of French toast topped with blue cheeses, honeycomb, walnuts, and Quince marmalade.
Evenings bring another level of charm to Waverly, with candles and soft, glowing lights throughout.
This small-town restaurant certainly proves that you do not have to be in a big city to experience fine dining and sophistication. We think you'll agree that it's one of the best small-town restaurants in Southern California. Have you ever been to Waverly in Cardiff-By-The-Sea? Do you know of any other upscale small-town restaurants worth visiting? We would love to hear about your favorite hidden gems in the comments. We have a few more fun places to share, also. Check out these eight out-of-the-ordinary SoCal restaurants.
Many countries have a strong cycling culture, especially in Europe, such as the Netherlands, Denmark, Germany, Belgium, and others. This is also the case in a few Asian countries, such as China and Bangladesh. North American cities with a strong bike culture include Portland, San Francisco, Little Rock, Boston, Toronto, and others.Being a large country, the US has many bike trails stretching for well over a thousand miles—and the list is growing. For example, ...
Many countries have a strong cycling culture, especially in Europe, such as the Netherlands, Denmark, Germany, Belgium, and others. This is also the case in a few Asian countries, such as China and Bangladesh. North American cities with a strong bike culture include Portland, San Francisco, Little Rock, Boston, Toronto, and others.
Being a large country, the US has many bike trails stretching for well over a thousand miles—and the list is growing. For example, the Great American Rail Trail will be the longest bike trail in the country when it's finished, and it's already half complete and open for visitors.
Biking is not just a recreational activity but a viable mode of transport in the US, especially in urban areas. In a significant shift, many states with low population densities now allow bicycle use on interstate freeways, even outside urban areas. Moreover, in 2022, states and cities across America strategically decided to construct world-class protected bicycle infrastructure to encourage more people to embrace cycling.
Across the globe, many cities compete to attract cyclists and become the most bike-friendly cities in the world with good biking infrastructure, such as bike lanes and trails. In San Francisco, for example, cyclists look to bike across the Golden Gate Bridge, and it is possible. In scenic California, many such cities are surprisingly bikable, starting with these.
Irrespective of the season, coasting on an eco-friendly e-bike across some of the best trails in America could be a relaxing yet thrilling activity.
San Diego is already bike-friendly, and its bikeway network is growing. With an ambitious plan set in motion in 2016, the city is investing over $60 million over the next 30 years to enhance its "bikability" further. This long-term commitment clearly indicates the city's dedication to making San Diego a more bike-friendly city. Biking trends in the city saw a 71% increase in biking from 2019 to 2022.
San Diego is also a scenic travel destination with breathtaking views of beautiful beaches and desert landscapes. Biking through the city is not only an exhilarating experience but also a serene and calming one.
San Diego's trails are a great way to explore and experience several of this historical city's neighborhoods and locations while getting up close and personal with each one. The Seven Bridge Walk, for example, is a great way to explore several communities around the iconic Balboa Park, which are worth visiting, especially one bridge at a time.
Popular Biking Routes | Best Time to Bike in San Diego |
|---|---|
Early March through early May, flower fields bloom in spring. It's also the time when freshly picked strawberries are being sold on stands on the routes. |
With roughly 3.9 million residents within the city limits, Los Angeles is the second-most populous city in the United States after New York City. It is the commercial, financial, and cultural center of Southern California, but when it comes to the great outdoors, Los Angeles is also known for its beautiful hiking trails, which offer lots of fresh air, good vibes, and nature time.
Los Angeles has a reputation for its traffic and long commutes, but this doesn't diminish its status as one of the most bike-friendly cities in Southern California; it's home to fantastic scenic biking trails that explore the city's natural and urban sides.
Alltrails lists seven road biking paths in LA, but there are many more within the city. The ultra-scenic Marvin Braude Bike Trail, for example, is a 22-mile paved bicycle path that runs along the Los Angeles County coastline.
Monterey in California is a coastal gem waiting to be explored, from tidepools to beaches to marine life and a scenic lighthouse. Set on California's rugged central coast, Monterey is a famous strip of seafood restaurants, bars in converted factories, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which displays thousands of marine animals underwater.
Monterey is a haven for bikers, a place where adventure meets scenic beauty. Whether cruising along a bike lane or tackling an off-road trail, the thrill of biking in Monterey is an experience like no other. It's no wonder that biking is one of the area's most popular activities, with a plethora of bike trails catering to all skill levels!
This beachy California city is bike-friendly in every possible way, and e-biking next to the beach is one of the many popular and fun things to do in Santa Barbara. The bike path along East to West Beach is an easy, relaxing ride along the scenic coastline.
The Santa Barbara front and backcountry trails are as rewarding as they are challenging and are a great way to experience the vast areas of Los Padres National Forest. Whether it’s taking a leisurely ride along the ever-popular Cabrillo Boulevard, climbing a winding road to a spectacular vista, or descending full speed down a single track, biking in Santa Barbara is truly a pleasure.
Known primarily for its wineries, this region of magnificent redwoods, rolling hills, and ocean vistas also offers a great mix of other pastimes. Just 55 miles north of San Francisco, in the urban heart of wine country, Santa Rosa has a relaxed vibe and vibrant culture. The trail-lined Annadel State Park features wildflowers and Lake Ilsanjo.
Santa Rosa has an extensive system of trails through both urban areas and the countryside. “Sip and Cycle” rides are extremely popular in the area. They allow bikers to get some good exercise and stop at a winery to relax over a glass of wine when they earn a break.
One of the most famous wine country bike routes in the world is the 30-mile Dry Creek Valley & Alexander Valley loop that starts and ends in Healdsburg. The scenery is breathtaking; the wineries are superb.
California's capital city, Sacramento, is a melting pot of cultures, offering a plethora of fun things to do. It is renowned for its rich history, vibrant cultural diversity, and sports scene that is sure to thrill. Home to some of the state's most well-known bike trails, Sacramento is a city that celebrates diversity and adventure.
With a silver-level Bicycle Friendly Community award and 240 miles of mostly flat bike lanes, Sacramento has laid the groundwork for becoming a celebrated cycling city. The 30-mile point-to-point Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail is a famous biking route stretching from Folsom Lake to Old Sacramento. It has plenty of excellent stops and access points along the way, so bikers are in no way obliged to ride it in its entirety.
Known for its historic architecture, vineyards, and hospitality, San Luis Obispo took top honors as the #1 city in America for bicycling, awarded by PeopleForBikes, a nonprofit that promotes cycling. A somewhat underrated city for Central Coast biking, it has some great bike trails that any biker would love to explore.
Surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards and a stone's throw away from gorgeous beaches, San Luis Obispo's bike routes offer many scenic rides. Bob Jones Bike Trail smoothly guides bikers along the forests and seas of Avila Beach.
More people are choosing to walk or bike as their preferred mode of transportation in San Luis Obispo, and the Railroad Safety Trail gives them an easy and safer route through town.
Longtime residents are surprised to see the entrance and exit of the lot closed and broken into pieces.ENCINITAS, Calif. — With warm and dry weather in the forecast, finding a parking spot near Cardiff State Beach might be challenging. One of the parking lots near the beach is temporarily closed after it fell apart from recent storms."It's like it's...
Longtime residents are surprised to see the entrance and exit of the lot closed and broken into pieces.
ENCINITAS, Calif. — With warm and dry weather in the forecast, finding a parking spot near Cardiff State Beach might be challenging. One of the parking lots near the beach is temporarily closed after it fell apart from recent storms.
"It's like it's crazy going on out here let's see what's happening at our beach and parking lot," Sandy said.
At Cardiff Reef you'll find huge chunks of asphalt from where the parking lot collapsed.
"Everything is broken and the rocks are everywhere," Mia said.
"We're seeing chunks of the road basically everywhere on the beach," said 10-year-old Anton.
Longtime residents are surprised to see the entrance and exit of the lot closed and broken into pieces.
"I grew up here and I've never seen the parking lot look like this and the amount of rocks," Hannah said.
"We've never seen anything like this before," Brain said. "We've been living here a long time."
The recent storms caused flooding, mudslides and erosion around southern California.
"The real question is how much of this is man driven, global warming what is that leading to and is that part of what we're seeing today," Brian said.
CBS 8 checked in with the department of parks and recreation who gave the following statement:
"The Reef parking lot at Cardiff State Beach was damaged during a storm on January 21, 2024. Damage has continued to occur during subsequent storms. To better ensure the safety of park visitors, we have closed the parking lot. California State Parks is in the process of finalizing plans to repair the parking lot, and we are hopeful to begin construction soon. We understand how important this beach access is to the community and look forward to completing these repairs as soon as possible."
For now, residents say the damage has shown just how powerful mother nature can be.
"Very scary but you're right water is incredibly powerful," Brian said.
If you’re heading to Cardiff, the parking lot just south of this one is still open to beach goers.
"It's a good reminder of how powerful the ocean is," Hannah said.
WATCH RELATED: Saturated ground continues to threaten homes and hillsides
California's coastline is a haven for beachgoers, surfers, and nature lovers. Stretching along the Pacific coast, the town of Encinitas sits like a gem, offering some of the best beaches in the state. With a mix of sandy shores, renowned surf spots, and picturesque scenery, Encinitas and its surrounding areas have something for everyone. Here's our list of the top 5 beaches near this delightful SoCal local...
California's coastline is a haven for beachgoers, surfers, and nature lovers. Stretching along the Pacific coast, the town of Encinitas sits like a gem, offering some of the best beaches in the state. With a mix of sandy shores, renowned surf spots, and picturesque scenery, Encinitas and its surrounding areas have something for everyone. Here's our list of the top 5 beaches near this delightful SoCal locale:
A popular spot in the heart of Encinitas, Moonlight State Beach boasts a spacious sandy stretch that’s perfect for both sun-seekers and water enthusiasts. Families often frequent this beach, making the most of the dedicated children's playground, volleyball courts, and picnic areas. During the evening, the beach is bathed in a golden glow, providing a magical setting for an evening walk or a peaceful moment watching the sunset.
A surfer's paradise, Swami's Beach is internationally recognized for its powerful waves and great breaks, making it a top spot for experienced surfers. Named after the Self-Realization Fellowship's nearby retreat gardens, this beach is not just about the waves. On calmer days, it’s an excellent location for tide pooling, with sea anemones, crabs, and other marine creatures revealing themselves at low tide. The bluffs overlooking the beach also offer a scenic trail for those wanting to soak in panoramic ocean views.
South of Encinitas, Cardiff State Beach is another surfer’s hotspot, famous for its reef breaks. Aside from its surfing allure, Cardiff is great for kiteboarding and windsurfing when the conditions are right. The adjacent San Elijo State Beach campground is ideal for visitors looking to immerse themselves in a multi-day beachside experience.
Known locally as Beacons Beach, Leucadia State Beach is a haven for those looking for a more secluded, quiet beach experience. With steep cliffs framing the shoreline and a descent down a well-trodden trail, the beach retains an untouched allure. It's a top pick for sunbathers, surfers, and those simply wishing to escape the usual crowds.
Nestled between Beacon’s Beach and South Carlsbad State Beach, Grandview offers a smaller, intimate beach experience. It's popular among locals, and the waves cater to both novice and expert surfers. The beach gets its name from the 'grand view' visitors are treated to atop the wooden staircase that leads down to the sand.
Whether you're an avid surfer looking for the next big wave, a family in search of a day out in the sun, or someone just wanting to escape the daily grind and listen to the soothing sounds of the ocean, the beaches near Encinitas are sure to captivate and refresh your spirit. So, pack your sunscreen, grab a beach towel, and immerse yourself in the Californian beach dream.
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Historic rainfall took a toll on ocean quality throughout the state of California, according to nonprofit Heal The Bay's annual report.Kristina Houck, Patch Staff|Updated Wed, Jun 14, 2023 at 3:55 pm PTENCINITAS, CA — Thanks to recent heavy rainfall and millions of gallons of sewage spilled into the ocean, beach pollution grades slipped across Southern California this year, according to Heal the Bay's 33rd annual...
Kristina Houck, Patch Staff
|Updated Wed, Jun 14, 2023 at 3:55 pm PT
ENCINITAS, CA — Thanks to recent heavy rainfall and millions of gallons of sewage spilled into the ocean, beach pollution grades slipped across Southern California this year, according to Heal the Bay's 33rd annual Beach Report Card.
The nonprofit assigned letter grades to beaches across California based on levels of fecal-indicator bacterial pollution that are reported by local health agencies.
This year, the group's "Honor Roll" — reserved for beaches with immaculate water quality all year — dropped from 51 sites in 2022 to just two beaches. Only one Southern California beach —the beach near Point Loma Lighthouse in San Diego County — made the list with perfect water quality year-round. The other honoree was Bean Hollow State Beach in San Mateo County, according to the report.
Here's how Heal the Bay graded Encinitas beaches:
| Beach | Summer Dry Grade | Winter Dry Grade | Wet Weather Grade |
| Encinitas, San Elijo State Park | A+ | ||
| Encinitas, San Elijo State Park, Pipes surf break | A | ||
| Encinitas, Moonlight Beach, Cottonwood Creek | A+ | ||
| Cardiff State Beach, Seaside State Park | A | ||
| Cardiff State Beach, Las Olas | A | ||
| Cardiff State Beach Charthouse parking | C |
One San Diego area beach made Heal the Bay's "Beach Bummer" list, which covers the state's 10 most polluted beaches. The beach near Tijuana River Mouth ranked as the 6th-most polluted beach, according to Heal the Bay. The beach is affected by sewage-contaminated runoff from the Tijuana area.
Pollution tends to be highest following rainstorms, reflected by the "wet" grades, while dry-weather test results were generally "very good" across the state, according to Heal the Bay.
Heal the Bay said people who come in contact with water with a C grade or lower are at a greater risk of contracting illnesses such as stomach flu, ear infections, upper respiratory infections and rashes.
Los Angeles County is home to the state's most polluted beach, according to the rankings. Santa Monica Pier shares that first-place dishonor with Playa Blanca in Baja California.
Mother's Beach in Marina del Rey also made the list of top 10 most polluted beaches, which Heal the Bay said is due to its poor water circulation.
"As climate change continues to bring weather whiplash, our water woes will swing from scarcity to pollution. This year, record precipitation produced major impacts on water quality across Coastal California," said Heal the Bay CEO Tracy Quinn. "Now more than ever, we must prioritize multi-benefit projects to manage stormwater as both a water quality and supply solution, all while ensuring that the public is kept informed of risks to public health."
View an interactive map of beach grades here.
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