While my sister and I were in San Diego, we decided to check out the Self-Realization Fellowship. It's not as big as the one in Pacific Palisades but there is one thing that makes the one we visited awesome. Being next to the ocean made for a very peacful meditation in the afternoon on a beautiful warm sunny day. Also the people walking around were very quiet and would keep very low voices when talking to not to disturb people. If you are ever in the area and like to meditate or just sit somewhere peaceful, this place and it is free to visit. One thing though. I don't think this place has a ramp to make it up the hill. There is a flight of stairs but it's not that bad. I made it up without a problem. I felt like I walked up two floors. read more

See all

Garden is beautiful and very well kept. Nice place to enjoy nature with a great ocean view. Smaller than expected but glad I stopped by to enjoy the grounds and view on a beautiful day in San Diego. PSA: Wear comfortable shoes. It's a bit steep. read more

See all

The meditation garden is so serene and pretty. The view of Swami's Beach below is very picturesque. There is no reservation for the garden, just observe the posted hours. No food or drink. Please keep voices low out of respect. read more

See all

This is such a breathtaking place! Located right on the beach, the views are phenomenal! It brings you back to being one with nature, a beautiful family, stroll, or ideal place to take out of towns. They are so friendly and welcoming here, be sure to take in the peace and quiet. Highly recommended for a beautiful getaway From the hustle and bustle of the city. read more

I LOVE the meditation gardens. The gardens are perched on a cliff high above the ocean. Everything about them is calming, nurturing and beautiful to behold. The expansive view of the ocean below. The diversity of plants, flowers and trees. The colors. The koi pond. The small gardens tucked off the paths. The lovely places to sit and meditate or simply relax and absorb the surroundings. In my experience, visitors have always been respectful about keeping their voices down and not disturbing others. As an added plus, it's usually easy to find parking close by on the street. I continue to be amazed that this hidden treasure is open to the public and free to visit, though I always leave a donation in the box. I've brought many out-of-town visitors here, and they always recall the gardens as a highlight of their trip. If you're in Encinitas and haven't been here before, I encourage you to make these gardens a must-see. read more

I was in the area for vacation, and someone recommended I take my kids here to check out the koi fish. My kids loved it, and there was a beautiful view of the ocean! read more

Self-Realization Fellowship - Recreation Centers Near Me - Encinitas, California

See all

This place will transport you to beautiful tranquil views of lush vegetation and views of the ocean. I went on a Friday morning only a few people that day. Please be respectful and mindful of those around praying and meditating. I enjoyed sitting in various spots under shaded trees to enjoy the sights of koi fish, different flowers, plant life, and soak in the breeze of the ocean waves. Views are amazing! This place is free and there is a box for donations. One of my top places to take friends and family that are visiting read more

Self-Realization Fellowship - Recreation Centers Near Me - Encinitas, California

See all

A meditation oasis. Serenity, blissful vibrations, magical gardens, Lake, chapel, and Temple. Reservations required for Lake level visits. Sunday morning service. read more

Love coming here to meditate + journal. I do not attend the sunday services as much as I used to since the topics have been repetitive over the years. Great peaceful spot, highly recommend visiting! Glad they're not doing reservations like Lake Shrine! read more

I frequent this place for afternoon meditation, and it's consistently a fantastic spot to unwind. The tranquil atmosphere and the subtle spiritual vibe make it a haven for a few minutes of peaceful reflection. Highly recommend for anyone seeking a calming escape. They are closed on Mondays and don't open until afternoon. read more

Beautiful gardens very peaceful and free what can I say. I enjoy seeing the fish and ocean, amazing view

Great place for meditation with beautiful view and garden. Small pond with colorful fishes. Try to enjoy the environment. read more

Walk. Meditate. Breathe. Contemplate nature. You can do all that in this fabulous place, plus a little bit of more enlightenment if you are into religion or want to disappear for a bit from the mundane. I would change the name of this building-gardens-view point (too long, too generic, don't know who are those fellows). I just call it the cake-temple, as it looks like something edible and pretty, and just in the heart of Encinitas, so new age, inspirational, mystical and fit town. Whether you see the light or not, this is a must visit from anyone, local or tourist, because the views of the sea are breathtaking (remember you breathe a lot here, so can have some taken away with these gorgeous seascapes!). Watching the kona fish in the pond or just smelling the flowers is another pleasant activity to do here. Very relaxing. read more

See all

A delightful garden right at the edge of the pacific ocean. This is a good pit stop if you happen to be driving by. The place was meticulously kept with several koi ponds and a manicured landscape. A drought tolerant garden to the west opens up to beautiful views of the ocean and beyond. Will definitely return to enjoy this wonderous place. read more

See all

Now, I'm not a super crazy religious guy. I feel that I see proof the big guy and his work in each and every zany adventure I go on. Be it the wondrous scenery, the strange crafted art or just simply the batshit crazy cool shit I that drive around to see. I feel my relationship with the man upstairs is good. So, while planning a trip for a donut sandwich nearby, Yelpers informed me of this place, and then I read more about it in one of the books I'd acquired recently. I parked the car at the bottom of the hill, and then spent some time walking around trying to find the entrance. Eventually I found a gate, and I walked in and began some exploring. I avoided the temple as to not disturb any sermons or services or whatnot that were going on. This place is downright amazing. Blooming flowers, manicured lawns, gargantuan trees spreading their branches far and high. Multi-Tiered Koi ponds with healthy fish swimming about. Incredible vistas of the ocean. These gardens are absolutely beautiful. Truly proof of goodness and trust and purity that somebody so long ago made this and just lets random people just wander about through it. Generously sprinkled about the place are lil benches. Presumably for meditation? Centering? I dunno. But they're all over the place in lil natural alcoves. By koi ponds. By nature. By water. I even sat down at one, tried to contemplate my place in the universe and even 'ohhhhhhhmmmmmmmm'ed' for a lil bit. Turns out, I'm a terrible terrible meditator. Here's a beginner meditation tip: Don't park your butt on a bench next to a real pretty flower on a trail. Turns out lots of people come up that trail and then photograph said pretty flower. Even talk with the other people about said pretty flower. Every few minutes. Seriously. Park your butt on a bench elsewhere. So, I spent an hour or so meandering through the well trailed gardens, sitting in the benches here and there and was simply being inspired by the beauty and calmness of the place. It's just so very much 'Zen' and is actually pretty incredibly calming and relaxing. Not that my life is crazy excitement and worry to need that stuff. Thank you to the dude who started it, and I'll likely be coming back to this place. read more

See all

Call before you make the trip. We have visited here several times, but have been disappointed twice (once very recently) to find them and the gift shop closed. So don't just go by their posted hours on Yelp. read more

This place is super amazing and totally beautiful!!! Just take a look at the photos that are posted!!! This place is the place to come to when you want to just relax or to just walk around. The sights of this place are amazing and the beautiful flowers are just so amazing. Also, this place has breathtaking views of the ocean and an enchanting garden to walk around. Recently, I was there with a friend and we had a great time sitting by the edge of the cliffs, overlooking the ocean. This is an awesome place to come too when you just need to get away from it all and kick back. read more

See all

I have been visiting this place since the mid 90's. Its a great spot to relax and clear your head. Amazing views of the pacific and very well maintained gardens. There are some very well hidden spots to practice meditation or simply veg out and get lost in the beauty of the coast. Lots of free parking on the street and really close to the lumberyard and Cardiff. read more

See all

Nice, simple temple grounds with several lecture halls, friendly people/families, reading material, refreshments after Sunday lecture. It's located on a clean,normal residential street, with a few surrounding businesses. Several volunteers with name tags stand around if you have any questions. Very small parking area, but ample, free street parking. I came here solo, and it was a very non-intimidating experience. There's no main office here, but People smile at you and don't hesitate to answer any questions you may have. The demographic was mostly older people, few families. They even have a greeter, Naheim, who's so down to earth and friendly. I sat with her on one of the many seating areas, and we chatted it up, and she made me feel very welcome. She told me a temple location exists in downtown San Diego! Id check out this place in Encinitas though, because the meditation gardens on K St is beautiful and worth checking out. In between services, I walked down the street to browse the nearby businesses, ordered a Bombay latte and almond croissant at Darshan cafe, and just chilled out. They have other yoga/meditation studios nearby, Indian restaurant, a bar, etc. Check out their website and calender under "events" at https://www.yogananda-srf.org. I'll be back when I need my fix for spirituality ! read more

See all

I've been coming to this place for over 20 years. I'm so thankful to know I can escape to this place when I need to clear my head of stress.

I visit here today. I had a rude experience at the main entrance located at left where the restroom are there's a small office located there. There was a employee at 2:40 pm with white short hair older had a white skirt yelled at my son and mother she was very rude yelling at my 7 year old. I had told her I was only taking photo's which didn't change her rudness thats not spiritual behaviors learn to talk to children I saw that she would yell with pure anger no kindness. She even didn't know how to control her anger left me in complete shock!!. I think she needs to be retrained with kindness for kid's treat people with respect!! The garden was beautiful bad experience with the office staff!! Never return there again! This happened at this location address 215 W K St, Encinitas, CA 92024 (760) 753-1811 read more

We've been visiting the gardens for years. Now we visit their religious services about once a month for some meditation and guidance: They have a great playroom for our toddler. The electronics are top notch so we can hear the sermon clearly over our kids having fun. Thanks SRF. We look forward to years of self realization read more

It is one of the most beautiful places in San Diego County to be visited. It is very relaxing next to the ocean. There are many benches to sit for meditation and several fish ponds. The garden is always nicely maintained with flowers through out. The place and atmosphere is very calming. read more

See all

My co-workers have been telling me to come here for months and I finally got the chance this past weekend. This place is very easy to find and is right near the beach. As soon as I walked in, I was blown away at the beauty of this place. I walked up the stairs to check out the garden and was in awe. It is VERY well maintained and clean. I love the koi ponds and the lil waterfalls they have, the koi are huge!!! And the water was clean, not murky. I've never seen koi that big before and my, were they lovely to look at. There are benches throughout the garden so you can sit and meditate or just enjoy the scenery overlooking the ocean. It's beautiful here and I would definitely recommend this place to anyone who's looking to get away from all the chaos they're going through especially when you've got so much frustration built up, this is a good place to clear your head and calm your nerves. It's also a good place for couples to go and have a romantic stroll. A few things to point out...please be respectful as this is a santuary and the people who are here meditating would appreciate you passing by quietly. Also no drinks allowed....but you can carry them in a bag/purse. I thought that was funny. The security guard said i couldn't bring my water bottle inside but I was able to if i had a bag to put it in. read more

By far one of the most beautiful places in San Diego. Breathtaking views and amazing vegetation along with the serene atmosphere make this place one of the most inspiring places to visit in the area. If you want to clear your head and sit and just BE, this is the place. The Koi Carp ponds are really nice and I have spent many an hour just sitting in there. The place is not huge by any stretch but its worth it. If you want to impress some out of town friends go visit. Ommmmmmmmmmm. read more

BEAUTIFUL! My husband took me here on one of our first dates and it was so special! Anytime we have people visiting from out of town I take them here to show them the most beautiful spot in Encinitas :) * Remember to be quiet & respectful! ** I always try to make a small donation so they can keep this place alive! read more

I'm not a religious person, by any means, but the gardens of this place have a really cool vibe, and if you ever need a place to go to just clear your head for a minute- this is a great setting for that. There's private benches for meditation overlooking the gardens, coi pond, and Swami beach. Great place to chill on the way to or from something and just kind of hit "reset" on your frame of mind. read more

I first visited "the Swami's place" The Self Realization Fellowship over 30 years ago. I would drive all by myself about 50 mi. just to get away from the hustle and bustle of the fast paced, work a day world and clear my mind and be inspired. It is serene and peaceful with places to sit and meditate or read a book. Yesterday I revisited ....I now live closer and do not come as often. Came with family who some had never been. This is a must visit place like no where else. It has the most gorgeous garden settings with Koi fish pond, flowers, plants, walkways, paths and ocean views. It not only has the most visual nature/natural beauty.... the energy is Divine. read more

I agree... this place is like a MINI EDEN.... it's so beautiful and relaxing! little paths, benches, the views are absolutely breathtaking. oooh now i want to go back! read more

I like to bring my family from the mid-west here. Everyone I've ever brought here has loved it. I found this place through a world religion's class I took over twenty years ago. Anybody can go in, stroll through the gardens and enjoy the gorgeous views. You should probably drop a few dollars in the donations box. Good karma. read more

What a sweet gem along the coastal mountains of Encinitas! There's always a steady stream of visitors throughout the park, so I'm not sure how easy it'd be to meditate here. However it is an excellent place to take a date or out-of-town friends for a 5 star view of the coast. It's great to grab one of the ocean-facing benches to sit and watch the waves roll in - the sound of the ocean and the green surroundings make for a truly sublime experience! read more

Beautiful and free! Beautiful gardens and landscapes. They have the most amazing, beautiful shop...I saw an sculpture that I haven't even seen in India (I am Indian). Must see/go to if you are around town. read more

Who knows what the place is actually like. If you go to check out the gardens on Mother's Day and you're an actual mother with a 4 week old infant, they won't let you take your stroller. Total B.S. to deal with on Mother's Day. Can't tell you if it's worth it or not. I will NOT be trying again. It's not worth the hassle for me to attempt with a newborn and be treated rudely at the gate. Happy Mother's Day to me! read more

This place is amazing. Such a beautiful, serene environment with many little mediation or quiet nooks that you can sit in and self-reflect or just enjoy a nice sunny day. The views are just superb; this place never ceases to put me in a good mood! read more

See all

My cousin and friends and I came to the SRF to visit the Self Realization Fellowship in Encinitas CA. The view is gorgeous overlooking the coast and the energy of the gardens is very peaceful and calm. Lots of Coy fish in the streams within the gardens. You can visit the SRF to meditate or go to a service at the chapel. It's been years since I've been to the SRF in Malibu so coming to the Encinitas SRF was so refreshing. Highly recommended! Take a minute to just breath and meditate... It will slow your roll! read more

See all

The Self-Realization Fellowship is a major landmark in the little town of Encinitas. Its gardens have a spectacular view of the ocean. Despite the SoCal vibe and all the surfers, the Self-Realization Fellowship maintains a pacific presence. The gardens provide a place for serenity. Its onion domes are a sign that you've found the place... and yourself. read more

Unexpected pleasant surprise! Easy access from PCH. Safe and secure. On ocean. Lots of flora . Lots of meditation areas. Beautiful must see. read more

I walked in there in 1989. I realized I was myself and walked out. I'll be damned if this place worked. Five stars!!

I love this place. It has breathtaking views of the ocean and an enchanting garden to walk around. Recently, I was there with a friend and we had a great time sitting by the edge of the cliffs, overlooking the ocean. I also go to the temple to meditate with others. Hindus from around the world come to visit this place. read more

Absolute must visit. So gorgeous! You can't miss the building - it's pretty obvious when you drive by which place is the self-realization fellowship. The meditation garden entrance is around the corner, and stunningly beautiful and well maintained. Lots of benches for taking in the plant life, reading, or meditation. Great views of the coastline. A few ponds with fish. One of the most relaxing places I think I've ever been. read more