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Rugged coastline on San Diego Self Guided bike tour
Encinitas palm trees on San Diego Self-Guided bike tour
Alila Marea Beach Resort on San Diego Self-guided
Palm Springs and Joshua Tree National Park bike tour with Trek Travel
Coast of Encinitas on a San Diego bike tour
Vaga restaurant in Encinitas
Coastline and beach on San Diego Self Guided bike tour
Highway 101 sign in Encinitas
Trek Travel Sneak Peek New Trips
Rugged coastline on San Diego Self Guided bike tour Encinitas palm trees on San Diego Self-Guided bike tour Alila Marea Beach Resort on San Diego Self-guided Palm Springs and Joshua Tree National Park bike tour with Trek Travel Coast of Encinitas on a San Diego bike tour Vaga restaurant in Encinitas Coastline and beach on San Diego Self Guided bike tour Highway 101 sign in Encinitas Trek Travel Sneak Peek New Trips
TRIP STYLE: Self-Guided
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  5. Encinitas Self-Guided Bike Tour

Encinitas Self-Guided Bike Tour

Southern California and the Coastal U.S Highway 101

Encinitas is one of the country's most desirable destinations year-round with its 260 days of sunshine along with the beauty of the Pacific Ocean. On this Southern California self-guided bike tour, you’ll get a taste of it all along the dramatic stretches of coastline just 25 miles north of San Diego. Experience four fun-filled days of cycling along the Cali coast and up into the surrounding hills. Then, feel the sand between your toes as you bask in ‘barefoot luxury’ at your hotel and spa perched atop a seaside bluff. From spa days to surf lessons to endless trails exploring local nature preserves, adventure awaits on your terms as you choose how you want to spend every moment of each day. Whether you’re ready to push the limits on a leg-grinding climb or want a bit more pampering at the poolside spa, this is the ultimate destination with practically limitless options. Book your trip with confidence » Experience Trek Travel's One Collection where you stay in one luxurious hotel during your trip

One world-class hotel your entire stay See more One Collection trips

Learn if a self-guided trip is right for you »
Abundant tropical garden with flowers and succulents.
From:
$2199 Per Person
Duration:
4 Days & 3 Nights
Rider Level: ?
3 - Active Non-riders Welcome
Trip Style: ?
Self-Guided
Hotel Level: ?
Luxury
From $2199 per person View All Details
Close Details
Trip Wows
Enjoy the luxurious Alila Marea Beach Resort perched on the cliffs of the Pacific Ocean in one of the most unique and iconic coastal towns in Southern California
Ride fantastic routes that take you along California’s famous coastal U.S. Highway 101
Take a dip or watch the top-notch surfing at Swami's beach, a destination immortalized by the Beach Boys song, "Surfin' USA"
Visit San Diego Botanic Gardens with nearly 4,000 kinds of plants from all over the world and the largest bamboo groves in the U.S.
Savor the delights of Southern California cuisine, inspired by fresh, local ingredients
Encinitas Self-Guided Bike Tour
A very well-conceived trip with fun routes, excellent food, and interesting side tours. We felt Trek was fully behind us whilst enjoying the freedom of self-guidance. And the Trek bikes inspired confidence!
-John, Trek Travel Guest

Dates & Prices

The Earlier You Book, The Greater The Rewards

We reward our guests with lower pricing and more dates to choose from the earlier you book. Rest assured, once you book, your price and date are guaranteed.
Guaranteed 
to run
?
Sold Out/
Waitlist
?
Private/
Reserved
?
Limited 
Availability
?
Single Occupancy from: +$750
Single Occupancy from: +$749
?
Nov 6 – Nov 9 
Guaranteed Limited Availability
$2199 / Person, Double Occupancy Book this date
Nov 13 – Nov 16 
Guaranteed Limited Availability
$2199 / Person, Double Occupancy Book this date
Apr 29 – May 2 
$2199 / Person, Double Occupancy Book this date
May 6 – May 9 
$2199 / Person, Double Occupancy Book this date
May 13 – May 16 
$2199 / Person, Double Occupancy Book this date
May 20 – May 23 
$2199 / Person, Double Occupancy Book this date
Don't see your ideal travel date? 
Call us at (866) 464-8735 for custom date availability
Looking for a one of a kind, once in a lifetime experience?
Look no further. Choose your trip date, get your group together and we will do the rest. Private trip pricing is as follows:

  • 10+ Guests Price as advertised*
  • 8-9 Guests +$750 per person to trip price*
  • 6-7 Guests +$1,500 per person to trip price*
  • 4-5 Guests +$2,000 per person to trip price*
  • 2-3 Guests +$3,000 per person to trip price*
  • 1 Guest        Call us for pricing*


Traveling with a small group? Consider semi-private trips.
For groups of up to six people, semi-private trips offer unique flexibility within a larger Trek Travel guided trip. Learn more »

*Pricing, availability and guest minimums are all subject to change at any time. Certain dates have a minimum number of guests required, please contact us for details. Private pricing is not available on Ride Camp, Race, Special Edition or Cross Country style trips.
Book a Private Trip
Looking for a date that you don’t see?
Look no further. Simply tell us your preferred travel dates and we’ll work together to deliver the same great trip on your custom schedule.
*Pricing, availability and guest minimums are all subject to change at any time. Certain dates have a minimum number of guests required, please contact us for details. Custom dates are not available on Ride Camp, Race, Special Edition or Cross Country style trips.
Customize my trip dates
Want to customize this trip?
We've got you covered. We’ll work with you to build your perfect vacation from scratch, including your choice of riding, accommodations and dining options. With the help of our trip designers and travel experts, the world is available like never before.
*Pricing, availability and guest minimums are all subject to change at any time. Certain dates have a minimum number of guests required, please contact us for details. Custom trips are not available on Ride Camp, Race, Special Edition or Cross Country style trips.
Book a Custom Trip

Day To Day

See Dates & Pricing Download PDF Download PDF

It’s time to chase the sun! Your Trek Travel host will meet you at the Alila Marea Beach Resort at 11:00 AM. Come dressed to ride as you leave your bags at the front desk and head out for your first day of cycling. Kick off your self-guided tour by cycling along this world-famous coastline and enjoying views of the stunning seaside bluffs and surfers below. You’ll get the first taste of SoCal’s rolling hills as you cycle inland and loop around San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve, one of San Diego’s largest wetlands full of wildlife and home to a huge variety of native birds and reptiles. As you return towards the hotel, take time to stop at the San Diego Botanic Garden, considered one of the "Top Ten North American Gardens Worth Traveling For" by the American Public Gardens Association and home to miles of serene trails, a picture-worthy waterfall, and the largest, most epic bamboo grove in the world. Tonight, enjoy the pink hues of an amazing sunset over the Pacific from your hotel’s private perch atop a stunning seaside bluff.

Today's Ride:

Encinitas to San Diego Botanic Garden
Approximately 24 mi | 38 km and 1,230 ft | 375 m

Hotel:

Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas

Are you ready for a true adventure today? You’ll put your legs and lungs to work with a ride inland towards Del Dios. You’ll start your day at sea level, cycling on the city’s dedicated bike lanes towards Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve. You will pedal past classic Californian ranches with citrus groves and mountain vistas in the backdrop. Getting to the summit here is special - you’ll be surrounded by palm trees and stunning views of Lake Hodges. As you begin your descent towards the Pacific stately, palm trees welcome you to the historic and charming village of Rancho Santa Fe. Stop for lunch or coffee at Thyme in the Ranch, a neighborhood cafe and bakery with an assortment of artisanal baked goods and menu items made with locally sourced ingredients. Take in the aroma of eucalyptus trees and hilltop views of the Pacific before heading back towards the coastline. This evening consider heading to Leucadia, a neighborhood known for music and food venues where you’ll find fresh seafood or authentic tacos and a large mix of live music options, as well.

Today's Ride:

Del Dios Loop
Approximately 40 mi and 64 km | 2,812 ft and 857 m

Avid Option:

Encinitas to Escondido Loop
Approximately 52 mi | 84 km and 3,764 ft | 1,147 m

Hotel:

Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Begin your day on the patio of the Alila’s onsite restaurant overlooking the coastline as you sip on a cup of coffee and enjoy breakfast made from the finest locally sourced ingredients. Once you are all fueled up head out for another great day of cycling. You’ll start your day riding south on Highway 101, where you can take your pick from the many beaches en route from your hotel and stop for a quick dip in the ocean. A rollercoaster ride awaits as you head inland past impressive estates and ranches following roads lined with eucalyptus and palm trees. Today is fun and challenging with incredible views around every turn. This evening you might wish to catch the sunset at Moonlight State Beach and then grab a bite to eat in downtown Encinitas, where many delicious options await.

Today's Ride:

Encinitas to San Dieguito Reservoir
Approximately 38 mi | 61 km and 2,248 ft | 685 m

Avid Option:

Encinitas to Black Mountain
Approximately 58 mi | 94 km and 4,575 ft | 1,394 m

Hotel:

Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Take a final morning spin up Highway 101 to loosen up your legs or choose to enjoy a peaceful morning strolling along the beach or at the hotel with some yoga. It’s been a few wonderful, sun-filled days in Encinitas, but sadly it’s time to say goodbye. Your Trek Travel host will meet you at 11:00 AM at the hotel to collect your bike and gear before you continue on toward home or other adventures.

Today's Ride:

Ocean Side Out and Back
Approximately 21 mi | 33 km and 560 ft | 185 m

Included Meals:

Breakfast

It’s time to chase the sun! Your Trek Travel host will meet you at the Alila Marea Beach Resort at 11:00 AM. Come dressed to ride as you leave your bags at the front desk and head out for your first day of cycling. Kick off your self-guided tour by cycling along this world-famous coastline and enjoying views of the stunning seaside bluffs and surfers below. You’ll get the first taste of SoCal’s rolling hills as you cycle inland and loop around San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve, one of San Diego’s largest wetlands full of wildlife and home to a huge variety of native birds and reptiles. As you return towards the hotel, take time to stop at the San Diego Botanic Garden, considered one of the "Top Ten North American Gardens Worth Traveling For" by the American Public Gardens Association and home to miles of serene trails, a picture-worthy waterfall, and the largest, most epic bamboo grove in the world. Tonight, enjoy the pink hues of an amazing sunset over the Pacific from your hotel’s private perch atop a stunning seaside bluff.

Today's Ride:

Encinitas to San Diego Botanic Garden
Approximately 24 mi | 38 km and 1,230 ft | 375 m

Hotel:

Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas

Are you ready for a true adventure today? You’ll put your legs and lungs to work with a ride inland towards Del Dios. You’ll start your day at sea level, cycling on the city’s dedicated bike lanes towards Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve. You will pedal past classic Californian ranches with citrus groves and mountain vistas in the backdrop. Getting to the summit here is special - you’ll be surrounded by palm trees and stunning views of Lake Hodges. As you begin your descent towards the Pacific stately, palm trees welcome you to the historic and charming village of Rancho Santa Fe. Stop for lunch or coffee at Thyme in the Ranch, a neighborhood cafe and bakery with an assortment of artisanal baked goods and menu items made with locally sourced ingredients. Take in the aroma of eucalyptus trees and hilltop views of the Pacific before heading back towards the coastline. This evening consider heading to Leucadia, a neighborhood known for music and food venues where you’ll find fresh seafood or authentic tacos and a large mix of live music options, as well.

Today's Ride:

Del Dios Loop
Approximately 40 mi and 64 km | 2,812 ft and 857 m

Avid Option:

Encinitas to Escondido Loop
Approximately 52 mi | 84 km and 3,764 ft | 1,147 m

Hotel:

Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Begin your day on the patio of the Alila’s onsite restaurant overlooking the coastline as you sip on a cup of coffee and enjoy breakfast made from the finest locally sourced ingredients. Once you are all fueled up head out for another great day of cycling. You’ll start your day riding south on Highway 101, where you can take your pick from the many beaches en route from your hotel and stop for a quick dip in the ocean. A rollercoaster ride awaits as you head inland past impressive estates and ranches following roads lined with eucalyptus and palm trees. Today is fun and challenging with incredible views around every turn. This evening you might wish to catch the sunset at Moonlight State Beach and then grab a bite to eat in downtown Encinitas, where many delicious options await.

Today's Ride:

Encinitas to San Dieguito Reservoir
Approximately 38 mi | 61 km and 2,248 ft | 685 m

Avid Option:

Encinitas to Black Mountain
Approximately 58 mi | 94 km and 4,575 ft | 1,394 m

Hotel:

Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Take a final morning spin up Highway 101 to loosen up your legs or choose to enjoy a peaceful morning strolling along the beach or at the hotel with some yoga. It’s been a few wonderful, sun-filled days in Encinitas, but sadly it’s time to say goodbye. Your Trek Travel host will meet you at 11:00 AM at the hotel to collect your bike and gear before you continue on toward home or other adventures.

Today's Ride:

Ocean Side Out and Back
Approximately 21 mi | 33 km and 560 ft | 185 m

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Hotels

hotel image

Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas

Encinitas, California

Luxury Accommodation | At Alila Marea Beach Resort, you will enjoy the unspoiled beauty of the Southern California coastline and views of the Pacific. The property is designed to showcase the amazing coastal views, allowing you to lose yourself in the landscape. Alila Marea’s beachfront resort location makes for sublime relaxation and endless adventure. The resort offers a unique opportunity to experience one of California’s greatest natural attractions – the Pacific Ocean – and the charming beachtown of Encinitas, where you can immerse in a vibe that is refreshingly unpretentious, artsy, and chill.
www.alilahotels.com

What's Included

For us, the details matter most

Every moment of a Trek Travel self-guided bike trip has more than you could have ever dreamed. More experiences. More scenery. More choice. It's the little additions to every Trek Travel cycling vacation that make it truly special. And that's how we help you create more memories.

bike

Trek Emonda SL 5 Disc

The Trek Emonda SL 5 Disc is the perfect bike for your self-guided trip. Its lightweight aerodynamic frame will have you cruising with ease throughout your day. The Shimano hydraulic brakes give you consistent stopping power and control in any weather. The Emonda SL 5 is equipped with Shimano 105 components, the workhorse group of Shimano's lineup that will keep your focus on enjoying the hills with its buttery smooth shifting. We think you'll like this bike so much, you'll want to get one of your own! Learn More

bike

Trek Electric Assist Verve+ 3

This comfortable bike is perfectly designed to give you that little boost you want. The front suspension will take the edge off any bumps in the road and the Bosch system will keep you smiling from ear to ear. The integrated battery keeps this bike looking sleek as you pedal through amazing terrain. Learn More

bike

Trek Electric Assist Verve+ 3 Low-Step

With its Low-Step frame design, hopping on and off the Trek Verve+ 3 is super easy. The front suspension will take the edge off any bumps in the road and the Bosch system will keep you smiling from ear to ear. The integrated battery keeps this bike looking sleek as you pedal through amazing terrain. Learn More

View all our bikes & gear

WHAT'S INCLUDED

  • Three nights of accommodation at a handpicked hotel
  • Daily breakfast
  • Daily lunch and dinner recommendations
  • Trek Emonda SL 5 disc road bike, Trek Electric-Assist Verve+3 or Trek Electric-Assist Verve+3 Lowstep
  • Up to three daily route options on riding days
  • Trek Travel water bottles to keep
  • Each bike is equipped with a Garmin GPS computer, a flat pack containing one tube, two tire levers, CO2 cartridge with inflator, and a patch kit (the flat pack is only large enough for these items so if additional gear is needed, please plan to bring your own bar bag or small backpack for daily rides)
  • A mini frame pump, front and rear lights
  • Bontrager helmet (optional if you do not bring your own)
  • Bontrager saddle (we suggest you bring your own for the most comfortable fit)
  • Shimano clipless pedals or flat pedals (optional if you do not bring your own)
  • A bike lock, all necessary chargers and a floor pump
  • Bike fit on the first day to help you find your optimal riding position
  • Ride With GPS Experience on your phone to get all the information you need on your self-guided adventure

GEAR

  • Trek Emonda SL 5 disc road bike, Trek Electric-Assist Verve+3 or Trek Electric-Assist Verve+3 Lowstep, available in a limited quantity
  • Garmin GPS computer with mount
  • Trek Travel water bottles to keep
  • Shimano clipless road pedals, Shimano clipless mountain pedals, or flat pedals (optional if you do not bring your own)
  • Bontrager helmet (optional if you do not bring your own)
  • Bontrager men's and women's specific saddles
  • Bontrager front and rear Flare R lights
  • Each bike is equipped with a flat pack containing one tube, two tire levers, CO2 cartridge with inflator, and a patch kit (the flat pack is only large enough for these items so if additional gear is needed, please plan to bring your own bar bag or small backpack for daily rides)
  • A mini frame pump
  • A bike lock, all necessary chargers, and a floor pump
  • Coupon valued up to $500 off a new Trek Bicycle. Your coupon will be delivered via email prior to your trip.
  • For the most comfortable ride, you may choose to bring your own pedals, saddle, and helmet on the trip. Your Trek Travel host will install your gear on the first day during your bike fit.

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED

For self-guided trips you are welcome to thank your host with a gratuity based on your level of service.
  • Airfare and transportation to and from the trip meeting/departing locations
  • Lodging before and after the trip
  • Personal items purchased during the trip
  • Optional activities not scheduled by Trek Travel
  • While we provide daily breakfast, the other meals are not included. On self-guided trips, Trek Travel provides restaurant recommendations and invites you to explore the local cuisine at your leisure.

More Information

Rider Level: 3 - Active?

AVERAGE DAILY MILEAGE:
54 kilometers / 34 miles
TOTAL MILES:
218 kilometers / 136 miles
AVERAGE DAILY ELEVATION:
434 meters / 1,425 feet
TOTAL ELEVATION:
1,737 meters / 5,700 feet
TERRAIN: HILLY
The terrain is varied with some coastal riding and some hilly segments characterized by rollers and some sustained climbs with wide shoulders but some traffic. This trip is best suited for our Type 3 Riders. While Trek Travel seeks to find quiet, paved secondary roads or bike paths to experience a region; there are heavily trafficked sections of some routes on this trip. There are safe cycling lanes alongside these trafficked segments however you should be comfortable riding in cycling lanes next to traffic should you choose to book this trip.
NON-RIDING ACTIVITIES:
There are a variety of non-riding options on this self-guided trip for riders who want to take the afternoon off or travel companions who want to spend little or no time in the saddle. Some of these options may need to be scheduled before your trip–please contact one of our Trip Consultants for more information. Except as specified in the itinerary, expenses and transportation to these activities are not included in the trip price. Some non-riding options on this trip are:
  • Visit the San Diego Botanical Garden's more than 5,000 varieties of plants in 29 specialty gardens
  • Enjoy the spa, pool, wellness classes, and other amenities at Alila Marea Beach Resort
  • Hit the Beach either right out the door of your hotel or explore many of the beaches up the coastline
  • Explore San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve and Nature Centre
  • Shop the many galleries and grab a fish taco in downtown Encinitas
  • Take a surf lesson and yoga classes at the resort

See itinerary for specific daily ride distances and elevation options. On all of our vacations, Trek Travel seeks to find quiet, paved secondary roads or bike paths to experience a region; busy roads are avoided as much as possible. Our itineraries are an approximation of our trips. Trek Travel strives to offer every guest a vacation of a lifetime on every trip. At times routes, hotels, activities, etc. listed here may change at the discretion of the trip designer or Trek Travel's local experts to improve the trip experience.

Averages and totals are calculated from our "Today’s Ride" options.

Travel Details

How to Get There

FLY INTO:
San Diego
MEETING TIME:
11:00 AM
MEETING LOCATION:
Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas

Say Farewell

FLY OUT OF:
San Diego
DEPARTING TIME:
11:00 AM
DEPARTING LOCATION:
Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas

All Details

Arriving

We recommend flying into San Diego International Airport (SAN) in San Diego, approximately 30 miles from your hotel. San Diego International Airport is served by 17 major and commuter airlines. You can hail a taxi from the Transportation Plazas outside of each terminal. Taxi rides from the airport to Encinitas will cost approximately $95. The airport is also served by all major car rental agencies.

Your Trek Travel host will meet you at the Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas at 11:00 AM on the first day of your Encinitas Self-Guided bike tour to go over details of the week ahead. Depending on number of guests booked for your departure date, it is possible we will ask you to shift your meeting time by approximately 30 minutes. Please have your riding gear readily accessible to avoid having to unpack your luggage. After a trip overview, you may change into your cycling gear where you will then be fitted to your Trek bike ensuring you will be comfortable for the week. Following a safety talk and reviewing the details of the route, saddle up to begin the day's ride.

If you will be late for the pick-up or are going to miss it altogether, please inform your Trek Travel host by calling Trek Bicycle Encinitas (760-632-0006), and provide them with your expected arrival time and contact details.

View our pre hotel recommendations

Leaving

Your Trek Travel host will meet you at 11:00 AM at the Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas to collect your bike and equipment. You may check out up until 11:00 AM. From here you may choose to extend your stay in the area or secure a taxi back to the San Diego International Airport. Do not book flights departing before 3:00 PM.

View our post hotel recommendations

Planning For Your Trip

Packing and Weather

During the spring you can expect generally sunny weather with midday temperatures averaging mid 70s (degrees Fahrenheit) during the day and cooling off at night into the 60s. During summer months the sun is out 70 percent of the time and temperatures hit the 80s. It is also when the ocean is at its warmest. During the fall and winter you can generally expect temperatures to average from the mid 60s and 70s, dropping to the 50s as the low temperature. Due to temperature differences between morning and mid-day, we suggest dressing in layers and bringing your cool-weather cycling gear for the mornings in the spring, fall, and winter. We also strongly suggest checking the weather forecast right before your trip so you can pack appropriately. Packing List

Before and After Your Trip

before

Before & After: San Diego, California

San Diego is renowned for its idyllic climate, miles of pristine beaches, and popular attractions including the world-famous San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park. It has a booming arts and culture scene with 15 museums, countless art galleries and studios, beautiful gardens, and the Tony Award-winning The Globe Theatre. Foodies can eat to their hearts content exploring San Diego’s diverse culinary scene, boasting award-winning meals found in the thousands of restaurant options. We recommend the following accommodations for your pre- and post-trip hotel:

Why Trek Travel

Our Bikes

Our unrivaled selection of Trek Bikes sets the bar for quality and comfort. From the ultra-smooth Trek Domane SL 7 to the Trek Electric-Assist Verve+, you deserve the best ride on your vacation. Plus, we offer a range upgrade options to take you the extra mile.

Our Guides

Our guides are trained to make your trip magical. They aren't just experts in riding; they're trained in delivering uncompromising service in ways you won't believe. We know that it's the unexpected surprises that make a trip magical. That's why our guides pride themselves on anticipating your needs before you ask.

Your Day. You Decide.

Our vacations are built to deliver the ultimate in flexibility, from extreme relaxers to hard-core roadies. You pick your mileage, itinerary and experiences. We take care of the rest.

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