San Elijo State Beach FAQ
These are the questions people ask most about San Elijo State Beach, answered from California State Parks' own pages, the park's 2026 posted order and the 2025 campground map. Each answer links to the page with the full details.
Quick Links
- Prices and hours: hours and fees
- Booking a campsite: reservations
- Site numbers: campground map
- Getting there: parking and directions
- Dogs: dog rules
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does San Elijo State Beach cost?
Vehicle day use is $8 at the regular rate and $20 at the holiday, seasonal and weekend rate. Campsites cost $50 (inland) to $95 (ocean hookup) a night.
How do I reserve a campsite at San Elijo State Beach?
On ReserveCalifornia.com or at 1-800-444-7275. A non-refundable $8.25 reservation fee applies.
How many campsites does San Elijo have?
The 2025 California State Parks campground map lists 158 public sites: 47 ocean, 78 inland, 9 ocean hookup, 18 inland hookup and 6 accessible paved sites.
Are ocean sites worth the extra money?
Ocean sites cost $70 against $50 inland and sit on the bluff above the beach, but California State Parks notes they have no shade.
What time is check-in at San Elijo campground?
2 p.m., with no early check-in. Check-out is noon.
Are dogs allowed at San Elijo State Beach?
Yes, on a 6-foot leash, in the campground and on the beach only from Lifeguard Tower 16 south to the San Elijo Lagoon mouth.
Can you have a fire on the beach at San Elijo?
No wood fires. Self-standing propane or butane burners with 6 inches of clearance are allowed. Wood fires go only in campground fire rings.
Is alcohol allowed at San Elijo State Beach?
Only inside registered campsites. Alcohol is prohibited on the beach.
Are there lifeguards at San Elijo State Beach?
Mobile lifeguards patrol. Summer towers are often staffed, spring and fall have limited tower staffing, and winter towers are not staffed.
Where do day visitors park?
In the San Elijo North Day Use lot, paid by machine or QR code. It is closed from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.
Does San Elijo campground have showers?
Yes, token-operated showers for registered campers. The token machines are at the ranger station.
Is there Wi-Fi at San Elijo State Beach?
No. California State Parks says Wi-Fi is unavailable at San Elijo and South Carlsbad State Beaches.
What is the maximum RV length at San Elijo?
24 feet on hookup sites and 35 feet on non-hookup sites.
Is Cardiff State Beach part of San Elijo?
No. Cardiff State Beach is a separate state park unit that adjoins San Elijo to the south. It is day use only.
Is San Elijo Lagoon part of the state beach?
No. The lagoon is a county park and state ecological reserve run by San Diego County Parks and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Can you fish at San Elijo State Beach?
Yes, finfish by hook and line from shore with a California fishing license. The offshore marine conservation area limits other take.
Can you collect shells at San Elijo?
No. Rocks, shells, animals and other natural objects in Swami's State Marine Conservation Area are protected.
Are drones allowed at San Elijo State Beach?
Not without a park special use permit and FAA registration.
Is there a beach wheelchair at San Elijo?
Yes, one free beach wheelchair, first come, first served. Check it out with photo ID at the campground entrance kiosk; the chair itself is kept in the Cardiff Reef day-use lot.
What is the phone number for San Elijo State Beach?
The campground kiosk is (760) 753-5091. Camping reservations are 1-800-444-7275.