The phrase, ‘There’s more than meets the eye’, perfectly coincides with the seemingly tiny community that is Leucadia. Located in the coastal city of Encinitas, this community within a community has earned the right to stand on its own two feet (atop a sailboard, of course!). While the unknowing passerby might just keep on passing, we’re here to recommend that you stop and stay awhile in this warm, bustling village by the sea!
Start with something sweet at Leucadia Donut Shoppe
If you visit Leucadia in the wee hours of the morning, you’ll find that there’s always a steady flow of patrons at the arguably sweetest-smelling establishment in Southern California. Opening as early as 5:00 AM, the Leucadia Donut Shoppe remains open until the last donut is standing. The short working days are a testament to the popularity of the shop’s decadent pastries. You’ll be starting your visit with a smile and will likely daydream about doughnuts for several days to follow. Oh, and if you opt for something in a glaze be prepared to never be truly satisfied by another glazed donut again - that is until your next visit!
Sip an Americano at Pannikin Coffee & Tea
Okay, you’ve had your grab-and-go sugar fix for the morning. Now it’s time to sit back, relax and sip some finely crafted coffee at Pannikin Coffee & Tea. Open between 6 AM and 6 PM Monday to Friday (6:30 AM - 6 PM on Saturday and Sundays), this cafe and novelty shop keeps your mug filled from dusk until dawn. Whether you opt for a seat inside, on the patio, or out on the lawn, you’ll feel right at home in this rustic aromatic abode. If you’re in need of a kick, we highly recommend that you order an Americano (a combination of two shots of espresso and water). Prepared and blended to perfection, it’ll be sure to give you the indulgent boost that you didn’t even know you needed. As experts in the caffeine arts, they do coffee right at Pannikin’s! While you’re there, it couldn’t hurt to scope out their equally yummy menu of breakfast pastries and goodies.
Fulfill your surfing needs at Bing Surfboards
Okay, so you’re steps from the beach but you’re lacking some trusty beach essentials. You’re in luck, because Bing Surfboards is just around the corner! A haven for water-lovers, this shop has all the accessories you need for surf, sand and sea. Whether you’re in need of sunglasses, bathing suits, surfboards or wet suits, Bing has everything from A to Sea. If a bargain is what you’re in the market for, look no further than outside the front of the store. On the sidewalks along Bing, you’ll find racks and racks of all the latest sale items! Talk about a walk-by browsing! Window shopping just got a whole lot easier.
Soak up sun at Beacon's Beach
At sun-up and sundown (and anywhere in between) the entrance at Beacon’s Beach is lined with surfers and paddleboarders beginning or ending their day at sea. A community of surfers and beach-goers, Leucadia breeds water-lovers who practically live on their boards. Walk down the sandy entrance and watch the endless waves caught by old and new surfers alike. Fully equipped with your new wetsuit from Bing Surfboards? Take the plunge and indulge in an afternoon swim among the Leucadia locals!
Dine raw at Peace Pies
Once you’ve worked up an appetite on land and sea, we recommend a visit to the best kept gluten-free secret this side of the Pacific Coast Highway. Peace Pies serves up raw, vegan, organic dishes that are so satisfying you’ll think you’re splurging. From salads to entrees to finely-crafted desserts, these menu options will leave you feeling full, yet guilt-free! If you’re in the mood for something hearty and healthy, we recommend the Luna Tuna wrap. This tuna-less tuna-like wrap is served on a coconut tortilla and consists of sunflower seed tuna pate, tomato, pickles, sprouts, and honey mustard dressing. Sit and enjoy Peace Pies’ cozy and eclectic indoor-outdoor atmosphere.
Have big fun in this small community!
Now that you’re in the know regarding all the exciting happenings inside Leucadia, perhaps you’ll take a second look the next time you drive by this coastal town! It may be small in scale, but this beach-front community is booming with excitement amidst its borders. Let the adventure begin!
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