been going to Calavery chapel for 20 years since they were in Vista. our worship group left because of a very unfortunate circumstances with the pastor Dan Kettle. would not recommend this church read more

Great church. Only the Bible/scripture is preached. Pastor Ryan really has a passion and love for Jesus Christ and love for all people that is seen through his preaching. It's a pretty casual church and people are more or less friendly. read more

I visit NCCC when I visit family in Encinitas. I have been there quite a bit in the last few years. I love it there! The worship is definitely "out of this world" Thank God!! We enter into His Heavenly Kingdom realm! Ryan and Mark's teaching are always fresh...scriptural and thought provoking. The people there seem friendly to me and if some feel unwelcome, they probably just need to get involved! That is normally the way of bigger churches. I am thankful for NCCC and often tell others about it that are visiting that way. If I ever move to that area, I would love to make it my home church. read more

Wonderful people and welcoming attitude I have no more to say except all experiences great read more

I was going to North Coast Calvary since I was a kid. I cant tell you how disappointing leadership has become. The church went WOKE. They have no strong stance in this troubling time. They would rather make you feel good then talk about pressing issues. They wont discuss politics in church, because they are scared it might rub people the wrong way. Church needs to be involved in government. But the government shall not be involved in the church. There are far to many things going on right now to attend a feel good church. Being woke is the worst thing the church can do right now. It is about taking a stand on Gods word and doing what is right. read more

My first impression was very good. I liked the sermon and pastor; people were very friendly! I was told the primary Pastor will be back next Sunday. I will check it out! read more

Not welcoming, kind of snobby members look down on others of a different age group or socioeconomic status. Somewhat gossip filled membership as well. Most of the staff is not all that friendly. A couple of the male pastors seem untrustworthy at best and creepy at worst. Very money grabbing oriented. Just feel good motivational type preaching. No talk about anything biblical related that might turn anyone away. All about keeping that money coming in. ​ read more

Something for everyone We've been going here since we moved to Carlsbad in 2009. We've been to the megachurches, the start-ups, the traditional, the unconventional. North Coast is the kind of community where you will feel welcome and confortable, no matter what your background or beliefs are. Yes, there are a lot of surfers- hey- it's Carlsbad. But I don't think it qualifies as a surfer church-- I've been to those where the pastor wears hawaiian shirts and talks surf-- this is not one of them. One of the things I really love about the community is that it is very inclusive. The pastor Mark Foreman is constantly talking about how so many people in the christian world come up with their own set of rules and expectations that aren't really in the bible. The other thing is that I never feel like I'm being talked down to- there's no oversimplification and it's neither a room full of stuffy academics. The messages are real, relevant, and challenging every time. And if you're single, married, college age, 50+, have kids- whatever- there are a group of likeminded people there that you can connect with. read more

Beautiful Church. Great programs, but the leaders of the programs could be a bit friendlier. When one is looking for a new church or others to worship with, warm interaction with church leaders is desired vs aloofness or disinterest. New members are not necessarily trying to become best friends with staff members, just looking for a place of worship where they are comfortable. read more

The church fellowship and pastor are great. However, this place feels a bit off... the people are not really welcoming to people of color here. They all give you that "you don't belong here" vibe, and it wasn't just from going 1 or 2 times, it was several times. read more

Love it here and love Pastor Mark. I have been coming here for so many years, they were on Vulcan in Encinitas. Great congregation of pastors, a great youth program and volunteers in childcare. The church has grown so much over the past 10-15 years, it just keeps getting bigger. Fantastic music and musicians. Beautiful grounds and a casual easy going vibe. read more

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This is a great church. We just came back today and brought our kids for the Harvest Festival. Such a great way to reach out to the local community and those who do not attend church. My girls had so much fun! I have attended several women's bible studies here and met some amazing ladies who love Jesus! I love the worship. Bomb. It's for sure a come as you are church. My Mom is a Southern Baptist used to wearing her Sunday best and sitting in a pew listening to Amazing Grace. This is a far cry from that - Come wearing flip flops and boardshorts if you must, but just COME!! I like that. I think it makes people who don't normally come to church feel comfortable and able to be exposed to the gospel. As far as the regular church services go, I find that it is just too busy for us. Soooo many people come, it's easy to feel lost in the crowd. Also, my daughter is not used to being away from me, so whenever I dropped her off in the toddler child care, her number would undoubtedly pop up on the monitor during the service before I even got to listen to the sermon. I just wish they would work a little more with the children to get them settled before calling the parents. That being said, I think it is difficult because they need more people to serve in that particular area, so they probabably cannot devote the time necessary to each individual child because there are just SO many kids there. read more

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I like going to this church bc pastor Mark preaches from the bible! He gives us an outline to follow and also there are screens to follow. His preaching are always followed by great examples and stories that we can all relate to. Also they have women bible studies that I enjoy a lot. I love my bible leader :). She's the most spiritual leader and a great example to us young ladies. read more

I have been attending North Coast, oh wow, for almost 20 years. Thats crazy. There isn't one thing i don't love about this church. Its authentic and the pastors are the real deal...so come as you are. The homeless man that sat next to me on Easter service- welcome. You want to wear flip flops...welcome. You want to dress up - You'll be welcome. You want to be involved - there is plenty of opportunity. Its a big church with a big congregation so join a group or get involved in ministry - I think thats the best way to meet people. There are so many activities for children and the kids love it. They have so many missions and ministries - NCCC is true blessing. Not everyone dresses up...so, if you are worried about what other people are wearing or doing...let it go. Matthew 4:19 Jesus said "Come, Follow me" Just follow Jesus and keep your focus on yourself and your own walk. There are 4 service times and they are always posted on their website. The staff works very hard 7 days a week - occasionally there is a change in service times due to an event but there is always plenty of notice, announcements in the bulletin and on the website. Anyway, Mark Foremann is the best pastor i have ever met. So authentic, humble, and relatable. I never regret the time I spend listening to him teach. He teaches from the Bible and doesn't take liberties with the text. I really recommend his book Wholly Jesus. I found an interview on vimeo http://vimeo.com/13114208 Lastly, Kids games is coming up -there are 2 sessions one in June and one in July. The Switchfoot BRO-AM is coming up July 11 & 12 at Moonlight Beach. read more

This is a very friendly church and it has grown in size. Easy to get over looked if you only go to the church services and that is about it. We were involved in Sunday school on Saturday nights for several years and meet great people. We llike to go to the Harvest party during Halloween time and also the Christmas celebration is an annual event. read more

On the outside Calvary Chapel feels like a super huge church but they do such a GREAT job at making you feel like you are in a smaller church! They have a chapel area that is smaller for those that would rather have an intimate environment to worship or would rather not have a lot of people around. Their 6:00 pm service has less people too and it is geared more towards the young adults but open to everyone. The worship is always wonderful and you can see it is about worshiping God and not about the team showing off or being center of attention. They have so many small groups, events, studies every week that helps you get involved and to try to meet new people. The messages are Bible driven always and really let you dwell on the word of God. Every week they have sermon notes but also have questions for you to ponder on. We are so happy that our first thing we did moving to Carlsbad was finding a wonderful church and hope to make new friends! read more

They have 845a and 1045a services. First time going to north coast and went with a buddy of mine. I typically go to the rock in San Marcos. NCC has modern band that plays. Not too flashy or overdone whereas the rock, I enjoy, but could see that people think it's too much. I enjoyed the sermon and the print out given in the pamphlet that summarizes the verses that they were concentrating on. I might try to check out a during the week activity at some point. read more

Thanks Sarah T.! I don't even know how I came across your review for North Coast Calvary Chapel but it made a difference. I've been going to North Coast off and on for the last couple of months, but I after going to Newcomers Night this last Monday I've decided to make more of a commitment. Pastor Mark is great... and he's really funny. Everyone is so nice and welcoming! If you're looking for a great community, I would recommend North Coast Calvary. read more

I haven't been here yet but I'm going through a really rough time in my life and I've been wanting to visit a church but I usually miss the chance every Sunday, today hasn't been the best so I was looking up things to help n I saw visit a spiritual center n got excited since it's Sunday so I'm gonna try to make my way there if I'm able to today read more

We attended our first service here at North Coast Calvary Chapel thinking that it was a different church. I'm so glad that we ended up at the wrong one. Pastor Mark's sermon was very easy to relate to and wow it just touched home. Everyone was so nice & welcoming. The Children's services were great (our 7 year old had a lot of fun). As far as the Jr. High School services, our 13 year old will probably sit with us in the main church next time. We'll be back next Sunday! read more

Great services here, pastor Mark Foreman is a delight to listen to and definitely captures your attention. We love that we can drop off our daughter in the children's room and that we feel safe leaving her there so we can enjoy the worship. Only issue I've ever had is that for almost a year now I have been trying to find a small group to join. I have contacted the church numerous times and filled out that piece of paper they give you when you're ushered in a few times as well. All I've had were emails saying someone would contact me... the only time I had contact was for someone to tell me they didn't have any more room. Guess it is to be expected with a church that big. read more

We have only been two times but both times were amazing. The worship here is so AWESOME and Mark the pastor really loves Jesus which comes out in his sermons. Every single person we have met was kind, engaging and eager to talk and make us feel welcome. Not overwhelmingly big so you can see familiar faces and feel at home. We are happy to say that this will be our new home church. read more

I've been part of NCCC since 1998. My husband and I got involved in a small group (Young Marrieds). That turned into Young Families and we made lasting friendships that are still going strong. Most of us now have kids in their teens. We have found support and love at every stage of life. We also see how the staff is very aware of ministering to all ages (birth to the golden years). There are opportunities to serve alongside our local or global partners and also to connect with others of shared interests. We have found the teaching to be bible based and Holy Spirit led. The Lead Pastor (and the church as a whole) values adult-to-adult relationships. They are not going to tell you to "do this" or "don't do that", but based on scriptural teaching, through the conviction of the Holy Spirit, you know what you should and shouldn't be doing. This is not a place where shame and guilt will be used to make you feel unworthy. This is a place where you will learn about God's great love for you - even when you may not be loving yourself. It isn't the church for everyone. It is large and easy to just come and go and never plug in. If you want to meet people, you need to get involved. Join a small group, go on a mission trip, or volunteer to serve on the weekends or for a large event. Once you do, you'll see how much smaller the church feels. Our children are now almost adults and heading off to college. We can only pray that they will find a church family like we've had at NCCC. I encourage you to come and join us for a few weekends before deciding if this is the right place for you. read more

Today was my first time here. My family drove down to watch the Dodgers play the Padres in San Diego. We planned to go to church somewhere down here, as we would miss our services at home, but didn't know where. Saw a bunch and picked this one. At first I was focused on the shorts and sandals. That faded when the speaker gave his sermon. It was the Jesus from the bible. No books, courses, pamphlets, notes. The only book that mattered was the bible he kept in his hand. The people I met were wonderful, all of them. Thank you for making us travelers feel at home. God bless you all. read more

Impressive church grounds with ocean view! There is a great field for the children to play, a coffee shop, and a beautiful balcony to enjoy the ocean view. read more

Came here last night for the Shane and Shane/Phil Wickham Christmas concert and I was so surprised by the campus. Yes, campus, because it is that big and felt like a well manicured mini-college. It had easy parking, signage to direct me where to go, bathrooms were clean and plenty of stalls, cute coffee shop, auditorium was large and good sound system...a great spot to host! read more

It prides itself on being a surfers church. So the congregation gets away with wearing their worse, as opposed to their "best" to worship. Ushers wore flip-flops and chewed gum. It was not to welcome the poor and homeless to feel comfortable in their midst. It was sheer carelessness and disrespect for the presence of their Lord. A loud and showy band opens the service, each instrument trying to displace the other. The drums always win; the congregational singing is the loser. It is to attract the youth, I am told. Attract them to what? Ears ringing, I retreated to the overflow tent, and, before long to another church, where I was treated with courtesy, and could approach worship to my Lord with dignity This night, Christmas Eve, I returned to North Coast Calvary Chapel and was politely welcomed even before entering that rainy night by a tall man in a black suit and a colorful tie. Inside there were other greeters and ushers, all in suits and ties as befitted the birthday party of our Lord. The church's new gymnasium was packed twenty minutes before the third service of the evening was to begin. There was a buzz of conversation before worship which inexplicitly silenced with a long clear quiet acappello note of an elegant black soprano on the podium. Quietly she continued to sing the welcoming carol, Oh Come all Ye Faithful. The pianist, the drummer, the guitarist were silent as she slowly sang, then imperceptibly soft voices from the congregation supported the call to worship. All of us were singing, but in parts like a great choir concert, while the soprano soared with our souls to Bethlehem. Then, just as unrehearsed, the congregation dropped away, and the soprano sealed the call to the Faithful with a her voice, dropping and soaring to the Angels listening. So began worship last night, with dignity of dress, so "ordered from above" as one of the ushers explained. The Babe also came from above to dwell with us, born in a feeding trough. He was there last night. read more

I have attended the church off and on for many years. It is a genuinely Christian church, with humility, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. I consider the pastor, Mark Foreman, to be a genius. I have heard insights and understandings from him that are profound. I expect he would give the credit to the Spirit, but he was the messenger. The music is contemporary, typical of the Calvary Chapel movement. If you want an organ and a choir, you will not find it here. It is not tedious and repetitious, like some others, and is generally of professional quality. read more

We moved to San Marcos a year and a half ago. We visited several churches, but kept coming back to North Coast Calvary Chapel, so it became obvious to us that it was where we wanted to be and at that point we hadn't even heard the senior pastor preach. When we heard Mark Forman we were thrilled with our decision. Mark doesn't preach, he teaches and his insights are pretty amazing, but he is a humble guy. He also isn't afraid to share the pulpit (there really isn't a pulpit) so there are many incredible speakers that are always excellent. The worship music is just that worship music, it is not a performance. It is wonderful. The music is mostly contemporary, but some rather traditional as well. The worship leader is so talented and has incredible singers and musicians. But it's still all about worship. OK, I'm going to tackle the "what should people to wear to church" question. This is not a dress up church. This is not a dress down church. This is not a surfer church. This is a church for people, all people, wearing whatever they wear. This is a come as you are church, this is an "all are welcome church" and it's a joy. It's about worshipping God and listening to His Word in fellowship with other believers. No one is here to impress anyone. Attending Northcoast is the highlight of my week; I look forward to going to church. At the Saturday and Sunday evening services there is a coffee break between the music and the sermon (teaching). After wonderful musical worship, you get a cup of coffee or tea and settle in to hear God's Word and you feel like you are home, with friends. I've been a Christian all my life and I've been to many great churches, but Northcoast is a church I don't ever want to leave. read more

Awesome modern worship music. No pretence. Come as you are. Don't have to wear a suit in fact I don't know if I've ever seen anyone in a suit. Very casual. It's a huge church but they have all types of small groups frrom hiking, bikers, surfing, Mom's, blended families, after 50, singles, guitar lessons, sports. There is a spot for anyone and everyone. Really good kids and teens programs. It's a great place to go if you aren't a "churchy" type person, guests who haven't gone to church before usually like it and feel comfortable. read more

Let me start by saying that I am a recovering Catholic and grew up in the Catholic faith. After having children I began searching for a spiritual foundation for our family. I simply couldn't find a practical spiritual message in the Catholic church and was disgusted by the sexual abuse scandals that were hidden by the church. I was skeptical of SoCal Christian community thinking that there was some strange Benny Hin type worship or some legalistic and judgmental Christian values ..ie; as long as you subscribe to only our church's values you'll be saved. I was introduced to NCCC through the childrens ministry and Kids Games and found NCCC to be a great community and really nice non- judgmental people and began attending services. Pastor Marks message resonated with me .. Don't believe your worthy? Not sure it's for you? Want to wear shorts and Flip Flops .... Your welcomed at NCCC. Rarely have I left a service without taking away a practical biblical message that I can apply to my daily life. For the critics... NCCC is in a San Diego beach community with young families that surf, skate, like music and enjoy God's blessings. Last I checked.. Jesus wore sandals and hung out with beggars, thieves and prostitutes and loved them all the same. The beautiful thing about America is that we are all free to practice the religion of our choosing. Whether you worship God, Allah, Buddha or a lamppost you are welcome to do so in a tuxedo, a burkah or surf trunks. We are all welcome to attend Services that are structured appropriately for our values. Personally.. I choose to attend NCCC and volunteer my time there because they make me feel welcome and help me to better understand how I can live my life according to God's will I don't criticize others for their values or beliefs. I may not agree with them... But accept that it's in Gods hands.. Not mine So thank you.. NCCC, Pastor Mark, Pastor Jeff for helping me and my family feel welcome and gain a much better understanding of better living through a Christ-Centered life read more

Caring, great music and message, and doing amazing things in the community. The service is at multiple times and they provide a variety of ways to be involved or to quietly enjoy the Word. The congregation is large but you can sit outside or in the chapel to avoid the larger crowd if you like a more intimate setting to worship. I ( we) like to mix it up. Makes you feel very welcome! read more

This used to be a wonderful church. They started out in a strip mall and the pastor knew everyone. All were welcomed. You could come to church in a pair of shorts and be treated no differently than someone dressed in their Sunday Best. Then the church got big. It became a corporate church where Sunday service became a "see and be seen" parade of those who were keeping up with the Joneses and showing off their children dressed up for Sunday School. There's a whole staff of church employees you can schedule a meeting with - just give them a date a few weeks out in advance because their time is valuable you know. The elderly, single people, those without children, and those from different backgrounds (gay) used to have a place in this church. Now it is a church that focuses on one group only: young couples with young children. Although the church has grown both in congregation size and physical buildings (they now have a multi-building complex on some pricey real estate in Carlsbad) they have lost their focus. The congregation STILL meets in a gymnasium designed for basketball, they built an entire building to house a preschool, and they've built a plush coffeehouse BUT NO SANCTUARY. Church isn't about playing basketball, drinking coffee, or finding a good Christian preschool. IT'S ABOUT MINISTERING TO THE CONGREGATION. All the congregation. Not just the ones who have children to play in the basketball gym or children to attend the preschool. The pastor likes coffee so much he essentially built his own coffeeshop with church funds. There were better uses for the money we donated. The church gets involved in ministry all over the world while ignoring the members of their congregation that are living in their cars and eating from food shelves (which the church doesn't have - but hey they have a great coffeehouse). I used to love this church but they've made it very clear that you don't belong if you can't bring children and they are very unwelcoming to gay people as well. read more

My husband of 47 years and I have looked our entire married life for a church. We thankfully have finally found it here. We feel fed and nourished after hearing Mark Foreman. He speaks from the heart, his own life experiences and most importantly from the Bible. It hurts me so much to see a terrible and untrue review like the one prior to mine. Everyone has been so kind and welcoming and Mark Foreman is a true Christian and man of God. Please come and see for yourself. They have all kinds of programs one can get involved in if you want or you can just come on Sunday and hear fantastic music and a sermon that will speak to you throughout the week. Judge for yourself, you will not be disappointed!!! read more

I like that this church has so many activities and a calendar with groups to join. Its very large and has beautiful grounds. Theres multiple things going on every day which is awesome! read more

Pastor Mark is the real deal. I just started to attend two months ago and feel at home. The women's ministries are awesome. There is something there for everyone. I feel blessed being a part of North Coast Calvary. Yasmen F. read more

Great preaching. Not a small church where you can get to know everyone. It was at one time small. So, you gotta choose.

My home church and the only place I call home outside my domicile. The pastors at NCCC are there to change lives and minister to Carlsbad. If you haven't seen the new campus see it, the classrooms are much improved over Ralph's era. read more

Mark Foreman is an incredible Pastor. Our family looks forward to hearing him weekly. They have many classes there to help others. My husband and I have taken many classed there. Most of the facilitators are wonderful, genuinely there to assist you in your personal growth. One facilitator, Debbie Ryan is a pseudo psychologist. In my opinion, she is all ego. She needs to be let go and replaced. read more

Even today, Pastor Mark mentioned that he wasn't concerned with "rating's" on Facebook and the like, referencing "rampant consumerism" now infiltrating the church. Despite that disdain, this place should be the church home to all in North County. That does not mean it is for the weak of heart; struggles and challenges demonstrate character...the church has clearly faced some unfortunate staff related situations recently but is facing them head on, demonstrating incredible discernment, wisdom, and love. The Gospel is for sinners not saints, and this is church that clearly embraces sinners. That being said, and as Pastor Mark put it more eloquently, "When you accept Jesus, it's not on your terms...he cannot just be your 'savior' but must also be your 'master.'" read more