Leucadia

Leucadia, the northern most community of Encinitas, is an old-fashioned beach town that seems to have been forgotten by time. Its two miles stretching along historic coast highway 101 is lined with Mom 'n Pop businesses, and unlike so many other Southern California towns, this funky neighborhood has managed to resist franchise chain stores and fast food restaurants. Outdoor cafes, cute boutiques and numerous sports stores are more the norm.

Founded in the late 19th century by British “spiritualists”, Leucadia was named after one of the Greek islands and means "sheltered paradise". Many of the street names were inspired by Greek mythology, such as Hygeia, Jupiter, Hymettus, and Plato.

One of the characteristics that stands out in Leucadia's unique lifestyle is the abundance of sports activities, with a high concentration of triathletes living there, and a serious focus on surfing. Leucadia offers several world class surf spots know to the locals as Beacons, Stone Steps and Grandview. The beach lies far below the main coastal road called Neptune, another Greek God, and below tall sandstone cliffs that create a gorgeous backdrop to those enjoying the beach and surf.

Leucadia is also known for its numerous flower growers and citrus and avocado groves, though gradually, the agricultural land is giving way to residential properties. Leucadians still value their beautiful gardens and abundant fruit trees, however, hence the annual tradition of Encinitas Garden Tours.