RJ Homes of La Jolla

Pros

• Guests praised the location as being right by the beach and close to shops and cafes.
• They appreciated having access to wetsuits, surfboards, and boogie boards, finding it very convenient.
• The complimentary bikes were a standout perk.
• Rooms were described as cute and a great size.
• The staff and management were responsive and provided service that goes above and beyond.
• The property is clean, modern, and offers easy access to the beach.
• A coffee shop across the street and other nearby eateries are highlighted as positives.
• Discounts at local spots, including about 10% off at the coffee shop, are noted as nice perks.
• The surrounding area is considered safe, scenic, and great for walking to the beach and restaurants.
• Guests frequently say they would recommend Surfhouse and would definitely return.

Cons

• The hotel sits next to an AmTrak train track, causing loud horns until about 1:00 am.
• It is not a boutique hotel; there is no front desk and check-in is via email.
• The place is loud, with trains blaring their horns as they pass by, including multiple horn blasts after 9 pm.
• The room is cold and sparse, and the bed is just ordinary.
• The beach is not close.
• The street is a little loud due to restaurants and the railroad, though it sometimes quiets down.
• Some guests question how anyone could stay there for more than one night.

Review

Nestled on a lively Encinitas street just a short stroll from the ocean, Surfhouse offers a laid-back, surfer-friendly stay that many guests describe as a welcome blend of convenience, comfort, and personality. The location is consistently praised as absolutely unbeatable: you're close to the beach, right among walkable shops, casual eateries, and a beloved coffee scene. Guests repeatedly note that having access to wetsuits, surfboards, and boogie boards on the premises is incredibly convenient, turning a beach day into a seamless routine. The property also shines for families and kids, who enjoy the approachable vibe, the easy access to the water, and the chance to ride bikes provided by the hotel. It's the sort of place that feels like a small, social hub - perfect for those who want to soak up sun, surf, and local color with minimal fuss.

One of Surfhouse's standout appeals is the gear and gear-adjacent conveniences. The reviews repeatedly highlight the ease of grabbing a wetsuit or surfboard rather than lugging equipment from home, a major time-saver for a beach-focused itinerary. Complimentary bikes are a recurring high point, offering a simple, active way to explore Encinitas' broad sidewalks, coffee shops, and storefronts. Guests also appreciate the practical perks: a nearby coffee shop across the street, a few discounts at local spots by showing a room reservation email, and the general sense that the team understands the surfing and beachgoing rhythm. Parking passes are part of the package, and the overall sense is one of a friendly, low-frills base camp for coastal adventures rather than a luxury resort experience.

Inside, Surfhouse reads as an inn rather than a boutique hotel, with a distinct, no-fuss charm that many reviewers seem to embrace. Room layouts vary in size and function, giving guests options depending on their needs. Room 1 is described as the more expansive space, with a kitchenette-like setup, a sink, ample countertop area for light meals or snacks, and a table that can be rearranged for dining or work. It also features a patio outside the door with a long table and several high chairs, creating a communal outdoor dining vibe that's hard to beat for groups looking to linger over a casual meal or a morning coffee. A Murphy bed tucked in this larger room adds to the flexibility, while the decor - sea foam greens and white, with clean, modern touches - contributes to a bright, beachy mood. Room 1's scale and amenities make it feel airy and accommodating for surfers juggling boards and bags.

Room 2 presents as a more compact counterpart, offering a queen bed with a plush mattress and a calmer footprint. There's still a thoughtful touch - one chair and a small counter area with a refrigerator - so guests can enjoy simple breakfasts or cold drinks without leaving the room. Both rooms are described as clean and well-kept, and many guests appreciate the practical details, from well-chosen furnishings to updated bathrooms. The overall impression is that Surfhouse prioritizes comfort and function within a surf-focused framework rather than opulence, which suits travelers who want a straightforward, tidy place to rest after a day on the waves.

Despite the strengths, the location does come with a notable trade-off: proximity to the AmTrak rail line and the accompanying train horns. Several guests mention hearing loud horns - especially during certain stretches of the night - as trains pass by near the railroad crossing. For some, this noise is an occasional nuisance, but it's consistently acknowledged as a factor in the sleep experience. A number of guests report that the sounds can be loud enough to require earplugs or the use of a sound machine, yet many still feel the overall stay was worth it because the noise doesn't always wake them, and the convenience of the location more than compensates. A few visitors mention that the street's energy, with restaurants and traffic, can also contribute to a noisier night, though for others the hum of activity adds to the lively coastal vibe rather than detracting from it.

The hotel's operation style aligns with its inn vibe. There isn't a traditional front desk; rather, check-in and communication occur via email or text, and staff are described as responsive and helpful. This approach works well for guests who value flexibility and a personal touch over formal service. There are stories of staff going above and beyond - such as allowing an extended stay in one room while a guest made a seamless transition to another - highlighting a commitment to guest comfort that can feel unusually hospitable for a modestly priced seaside property. Cleanliness and upkeep are repeatedly praised, with notes about the management's attentiveness and the general ease of getting in touch when needed.

Beyond the rooms, the surrounding neighborhood earns high marks. Guests consistently call the area "great" for walking to beaches, restaurants, and shops, with a sense of safety that helps families and solo travelers alike relax and explore. The coffee shop across the street is not only convenient but also part of the local charm, and the broader Encinitas scene - with its relaxed vibe and picturesque scenery - contributes to a satisfying overall experience. Some guests even make a point of recommending nearby burrito spots, while others simply enjoy the mix of small eateries and bars within easy walking distance. The presence of parking near the door and the option to catch a quick bite along the way add to the practical, low-stress feel that many guests seek in a beach town stay.

Overall, Surfhouse often earns a strong, positive verdict from travelers who want a simple, well-located base for a coastal getaway. It's frequently described as clean, well-kept, and good value for the price, with many guests expressing a desire to return. The vibe leans toward relaxed, family-friendly or couple-friendly surf-house comfort rather than high-end luxury, which seems to be exactly what a sizable portion of guests are after: a comfortable place to sleep, gear and bikes handy, and a spot in the heart of Encinitas' beach-and-street life. If your priority is proximity to the beach and a lively neighborhood, with the flexibility of a self-service, text-activated experience, Surfhouse delivers - just brace yourself for the train horns and the occasional evening street bustle. For surfers, sun-seekers, or anyone who wants an easygoing home base a stone's throw from the ocean, this is a place that tends to fit the bill.

This part of Encinitas, California offers a variety of amenities and services that cater to individuals seeking a convenient and comfortable living environment. With a selection of restaurants, cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians, hospitals, and transportation options available within a short distance, residents can easily access necessary goods and services. The proximity to healthcare facilities such as Scripps Memorial Hospital Encinitas and Rady Children's Hospital ensures accessible medical care when needed. Additionally, the presence of recreational spaces like Olympus Park and San Elijo Lagoon Nature Center provides opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation. Overall, this area presents a well-rounded community with convenient access to essential services for senior living.

Restaurants

• Pannikin Coffee & Tea (0.5 miles)
• In-N-Out Burger (1.6 miles)
• Plant Power Fast Food (2.3 miles)
• Shake Shack (2.4 miles)
• Pacific Coast Grill (3.8 miles)
• Tip Top Meats & Europe (3.9 miles)
• Chart House (3.9 miles)

Cafes

• Starbucks (0.6 miles)
• Ironsmith Coffee Roasters (1.4 miles)
• Goodonya (2 miles)
• Starbucks (3.3 miles)
• Starbucks (4.3 miles)
• Claire's on Cedros (5.2 miles)
• Barefoot Coffee Roasters (5.8 miles)

Parks

• Olympus Park (0.8 miles)
• San Elijo Lagoon Nature Center (4 miles)
• Alga Norte Community Park (4.2 miles)
• Fletcher Cove Park (5.4 miles)
• San Elijo Hills Park (6.4 miles)
• Holiday Park (6.9 miles)

Pharmacies

• CVS Pharmacy (1.7 miles)
• Sav-On Pharmacy (2.5 miles)
• Rite Aid (2.6 miles)
• Walgreens (2.8 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (2.8 miles)
• Reliant Pharmacy (4.2 miles)
• Rite Aid (4.2 miles)

Physicians

• Wheeler & Seul Oral Surgery (2.1 miles)
• Carlsbad Shores Family Dentistry (2.4 miles)
• Skincare Physicians & Surgeons (2.5 miles)
• Matthew M Schultzel, DO (2.5 miles)
• Carla Celene Schuermann-Berryman, MD (3 miles)
• Orthopaedic Specialists of North County (3.8 miles)
• Scripps Coastal Medical Center (5.4 miles)

Hospitals

• Scripps Memorial Hospital Encinitas (2.3 miles)
• Optum - Carlsbad State (7.1 miles)
• Eye Surgery Associates (8 miles)
• Rady Children's Hospital (8.2 miles)
• Tri-City Medical Center (8.3 miles)
• Tri-City Medical Center Registration (8.3 miles)

Transportation

• McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD) (4.3 miles)

Theaters

• Regal Edwards San Marcos (8 miles)