The Absolute Best Ice Cream in Encinitas: Sweet Coastal Gems

Growing up in Encinitas, I’ve spent countless summer days chasing the perfect scoop, each bite a sweet escape by the coast. The best ice cream in Encinitas isn’t just about flavor; it’s about the vibe, the creativity, and the joy of savoring something special.

From artisanal gelato to towering sundaes, this beach town serves up desserts that delight locals and tourists alike. My toplist of 10 ice cream shops captures the heart of Encinitas’ dessert scene, blending authentic experiences with unforgettable tastes. As a San Diego native, I’ve crafted this guide to help you find your next creamy obsession, whether you’re strolling the boardwalk or craving a treat after a surf session. Dive into these parlors and let your taste buds celebrate.

Top 10 Best Ice Cream Shops in Encinitas

As a lifelong Encinitas resident, I’ve savored countless scoops along our sunny coast, chasing the creamiest, most flavorful ice cream this beach town offers. From artisanal gelato to indulgent sundaes, Encinitas is a haven for dessert lovers. Below, I share my top 10 ice cream shops, each with basic information, standout highlights, and personal experiences to guide locals and tourists alike to the best ice cream in Encinitas.

JoJo’s Creamery

Address: 937 S Coast Hwy 101 #106, Encinitas, CA 92024
Phone: (760) 846-1313
Website: jojoscreamery.com
Hours: Open from 12 PM to 9 PM daily

Highlights:

Premium organic ingredients ensure rich, authentic flavors.
Unique flavor profiles, like Salty Caramel Cayenne, surprise the palate.
Generous portions satisfy even the hungriest dessert lovers.
Complimentary fresh cookies elevate every scoop.
Attentive, friendly service enhances the cozy experience.

What makes an ice cream shop unforgettable in a beach town like Encinitas? At JoJo’s Creamery, ranked #1 on my toplist for the best ice cream in Encinitas, I was greeted by a welcoming, artisanal vibe that felt like a warm hug. The scent of freshly baked cookies filled the air, instantly sparking excitement.

The ice cream here is nothing short of exceptional. Their Salty Caramel Cayenne is a masterpiece, blending sweet, buttery caramel with a subtle spicy kick, while the Vegan Coconut Mounds offers a creamy, tropical escape that rivals dairy-based options. The generous scoops ensure you leave fully satisfied, with flavors so bold they linger in your memory.

I couldn’t resist their homemade chocolate chip cookie, served warm with every order. It’s perfectly soft, slightly crisp at the edges, and pairs beautifully with the ice cream, creating a textural symphony that had me savoring every bite. The organic ingredients shine through, making each mouthful feel indulgent yet wholesome.

The staff at JoJo’s is incredibly warm and knowledgeable, offering samples with enthusiasm and tailoring recommendations to my preferences. Their genuine care made me feel like a regular, even on my first visit, elevating the entire experience.

For locals and visitors craving a premium ice cream adventure, JoJo’s Creamery is a must. With standout flavors, hearty portions, and heartfelt service, it’s the top pick on my toplist for the best ice cream in Encinitas. Stop by and treat yourself you won’t be disappointed.

Cali Cream Homemade Ice Cream

Address: 90 N Coast Hwy 101 Suite 101, Encinitas, CA 92024
Phone: (760) 704-8316
Website: calicreamicecream.com
Hours: Open from 11 AM to 11 PM daily

Highlights:

Over 50 bold flavors cater to every taste.
Signature s’mores ice cream evokes campfire nostalgia.
Hearty scoops offer great value.
Bakery treats like brownies complement the menu.
Welcoming staff create a homey feel.

Can an ice cream shop feel like a nostalgic escape? Stepping into Cali Cream Homemade Ice Cream, #2 on my toplist for the best ice cream in Encinitas, I was enveloped by a cozy, vibrant atmosphere. The colorful menu board and sweet aroma promised a delightful adventure.

The ice cream selection is staggeringly impressive, with over 50 flavors that dazzle. The S’mores is a nostalgic triumph, weaving toasted marshmallow creaminess with chocolate and graham cracker bits, while the Mint Oreo delivers a refreshing, cookie-packed punch. The massive portions ensure you get your money’s worth, leaving you blissfully full.

Their homemade brownies, a perfect sidekick, are rich and fudgy, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that pairs impeccably with the ice cream. Made with premium cocoa, they’re a treat that elevates the entire experience, earning sighs of delight from my table.

The staff’s cheerful energy and prompt service make every visit special. They patiently guided me through the extensive flavor list, offering samples with infectious enthusiasm that made choosing a joy.

Cali Cream is a gem for anyone seeking variety, value, and warmth. Its diverse flavors, generous servings, and friendly vibe make it a standout on my toplist for the best ice cream in Encinitas. Grab a scoop and savor the sweetness!

The Baked Bear

Address: 1051 S Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024
Phone: (858) 264-8550
Website: thebakedbear.com
Hours: Open from 12 PM to 10 PM daily

Highlights:

Customizable ice cream sandwiches spark creativity.
Freshly baked cookies add warmth to every bite.
Creamy, rich ice cream in classic and bold flavors.
Fun, interactive ordering engages guests.
Lively, upbeat service keeps the energy high.

What’s better than ice cream between two warm cookies? At The Baked Bear, #3 on my toplist for the best ice cream in Encinitas, the playful, inviting space buzzed with excitement. The sight of freshly baked cookies and vibrant ice cream tubs set the stage for a treat-filled adventure.

The ice cream here is luxuriously smooth, with standout options like Caramel Fudge Swirl, a decadent dance of sweet and salty, and Cookies & Cream, packed with chunky Oreo bits. The hefty scoops in their signature sandwiches ensure every bite is satisfying, leaving you grinning.

I opted for a warm brownie as a side, and it was divine dense, chocolatey, and perfectly gooey, complementing the ice cream’s chill. The high-quality cocoa and careful baking made it a standout treat that had me scraping the plate.

The staff’s vibrant energy and helpful suggestions made customizing my sandwich a blast. They handled my indecision with patience and smiles, creating a fun, stress-free vibe that amplified the experience.

For a customizable, indulgent treat, The Baked Bear is unbeatable. Its creative sandwiches, generous portions, and lively service secure its spot on my toplist for the best ice cream in Encinitas. Swing by for a sweet, memorable moment!

Gelato 101 Solana Beach

Address: 587 S Coast Hwy 101 Ste. B, Encinitas, CA 92024
Phone: (760) 704-8140
Website: gelato101.com
Hours: Open from 12 PM to 9 PM daily

Highlights:

Authentic Italian gelato crafted with tradition.
Seasonal fruit sorbets burst with freshness.
Silky texture elevates every scoop.
Acai bowls offer a refreshing alternative.
Knowledgeable staff enhance the artisanal feel.

Craving a taste of Italy in Encinitas? Gelato 101 Solana Beach, #4 on my toplist for the best ice cream in Encinitas, welcomed me with a sleek, European-inspired ambiance. The vibrant gelato display and fruity aromas promised an authentic escape.

The gelato is sublimely dense and flavor-packed. The Pistachio is a nutty revelation, made with real Sicilian pistachios, while the Mango Sorbet bursts with tropical vibrancy. The generous portions ensure you savor every spoonful, leaving you enchanted.

I tried their acai bowl as a side, and it was refreshingly perfect smooth, tangy acai topped with crisp granola and fresh berries. The vibrant ingredients created a harmonious balance that left me energized and satisfied.

The staff’s expertise and genuine warmth made the visit special. They shared insights about the gelato-making process with passion, making me feel like I was in a Tuscan gelateria.

Gelato 101 is a must for authentic gelato lovers. Its silky textures, vibrant flavors, and attentive service make it a gem on my toplist for the best ice cream in Encinitas. Stop in for a scoop of Italy!

Handel's Homemade Ice Cream

Address: 1140 N Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024
Phone: (760) 230-2130
Website: handelsicecream.com
Hours: Open from 11 AM to 10 PM daily

Highlights:

Daily-made ice cream ensures peak freshness.
Graham Central Station is a fan-favorite flavor.
Large scoops offer incredible value.
Thick shakes are a decadent treat.
Friendly, efficient service keeps lines moving.

What’s the secret to irresistible ice cream? At Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream, #5 on my toplist for the best ice cream in Encinitas, I stepped into a bustling, cheerful space filled with the enticing scent of fresh waffle cones.

The ice cream is velvety and bold, with Graham Central Station stealing the show a heavenly mix of graham cracker swirls and chocolate. The Vanilla Caramel Brownie is equally decadent, with gooey caramel ribbons. The heaping scoops ensure you leave happy and full.

I savored a thick chocolate shake as a side, and it was pure bliss rich, creamy, and perfectly blended with premium cocoa. It was so indulgent I sipped it slowly, relishing every moment.

The staff’s upbeat attitude and quick service impressed me, even during a busy rush. They handled orders with precision and smiles, making the wait feel like part of the fun.

Handel’s is a go-to for fresh, flavorful scoops. Its unique flavors, generous portions, and welcoming vibe earn it a spot on my toplist for the best ice cream in Encinitas. Grab a cone and see why it’s a local favorite!

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams

Address: 149 S El Camino Real, Encinitas, CA 92024
Phone: (760) 452-6027
Website: jenis.com
Hours: Open from 12 PM to 10 PM daily

Highlights:

Artisanal flavors push creative boundaries.
Gooey Butter Cake is a rich, unique treat.
Creamy texture melts perfectly.
Waffle cones add a crispy contrast.
Engaging staff make every visit fun.

What makes an ice cream shop stand out in Encinitas? Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, #6 on my toplist for the best ice cream in Encinitas, greeted me with a trendy, colorful vibe. The artistic flavor names and sweet aroma instantly piqued my curiosity.

The ice cream is impeccably smooth, with Gooey Butter Cake delivering a buttery, cake-like indulgence and Brambleberry Crisp offering a fruity, tart masterpiece. The generous scoops ensure every bite is a delight, leaving you craving more.

I tried their homemade waffle cone, which was crisp and golden, adding a perfect crunch to the creamy ice cream. Made with quality ingredients, it elevated the experience to sublime heights.

The staff’s lively enthusiasm and helpful recommendations made choosing flavors a joy. They shared stories behind the recipes with infectious excitement, enhancing my visit.

Jeni’s is a haven for bold flavor explorers. Its creative scoops, hearty portions, and vibrant service make it a standout on my toplist for the best ice cream in Encinitas. Dive into a scoop of artistry!

Yogurtland Encinitas

Address: 252 N El Camino Real, Encinitas, CA 92024
Phone: (760) 942-9400
Website: yogurt-land.com
Hours: Open from 11 AM to 10 PM daily

Highlights:

Self-serve frozen yogurt empowers customization.
Rocky Road flavor is a chocolatey delight.
Abundant toppings enhance every cup.
Affordable prices suit all budgets.
Clean, friendly service ensures comfort.

Looking for a fun, hands-on dessert experience? Yogurtland Encinitas, #7 on my toplist for the best ice cream in Encinitas, welcomed me with a bright, lively atmosphere. The colorful topping bar and chilled yogurt machines invited creativity.

The frozen yogurt is refreshingly creamy, with Rocky Road delivering a chocolate-marshmallow dream and Pineapple Sorbet offering a zesty, tropical burst. The self-serve portions let you pile on as much as you like, ensuring satisfaction.

I added fresh strawberries from the topping bar, and they were juicy and vibrant, complementing the yogurt’s tang. The seasonal fruit added a refreshing pop that left me smiling with every bite.

The staff’s welcoming demeanor and quick assistance kept the experience smooth. They ensured the topping bar was stocked and clean, making my visit hassle-free and enjoyable.

Yogurtland is perfect for customizable, budget-friendly treats. Its diverse flavors, hearty toppings, and friendly vibe make it a gem on my toplist for the best ice cream in Encinitas. Swirl your own masterpiece!

Solana Sumptuous Cookies

Address: 124 N El Camino Real, Encinitas, CA 92024
Phone: (760) 943-0800
Website: solanasumptuouscookies.com
Hours: Open from 10 AM to 8 PM daily

Highlights:

Ice cream cookie sandwiches blend textures.
Homemade cookies are soft and flavorful.
Classic vanilla ice cream shines in simplicity.
Cozy setting feels like home.
Attentive staff add personal warmth.

Can cookies and ice cream create magic? Solana Sumptuous Cookies, #8 on my toplist for the best ice cream in Encinitas, enveloped me in a homey, comforting ambiance. The warm cookie aroma and intimate seating felt like a sweet retreat.

The ice cream is rich and velvety, with Classic Vanilla providing a timeless, creamy base for their sandwiches. The Chocolate Fudge option adds a decadent depth that pairs perfectly with cookies. The hearty sandwiches ensure every bite is fulfilling.

I savored a freshly baked oatmeal cookie, which was chewy and spiced, complementing the ice cream’s chill. The wholesome ingredients created a nostalgic warmth that had me savoring every crumb.

The staff’s genuine kindness and personalized service made me feel like family. They checked in with sincere care, ensuring my order was just right.

Solana Sumptuous Cookies is a haven for cookie-ice cream lovers. Its cozy vibes, generous treats, and heartfelt service earn it a spot on my toplist for the best ice cream in Encinitas. Indulge in a sandwich today!

Little Fox Cups + Cones

Address: 115 N El Camino Real, Encinitas, CA 92024
Phone: (760) 652-5333
Website: littlefoxcupsandcones.com
Hours: Open from 12 PM to 9 PM daily

Highlights:

Small-batch ice cream ensures quality.
Ube ice cream offers a vibrant twist.
Crispy cones enhance every scoop.
Charming decor creates a whimsical feel.
Warm, engaging service delights guests.

What makes a small-batch ice cream shop special? Little Fox Cups + Cones, #9 on my toplist for the best ice cream in Encinitas, welcomed me with a whimsical, inviting space. The playful decor and sweet scents sparked instant joy.

The ice cream is impeccably crafted, with Ube delivering a vibrant, nutty sweetness and Salted Caramel offering a buttery, salty harmony. The generous scoops ensure you savor every artisanal bite, leaving you enchanted.

I tried their homemade waffle cone, which was crisp and golden, adding a perfect crunch to the creamy ice cream. The careful craftsmanship made it a textural delight that elevated every spoonful.

The staff’s warmth and engaging banter made my visit memorable. They shared flavor insights with genuine excitement, creating a personalized experience that felt special.

Little Fox is a gem for artisanal ice cream fans. Its unique flavors, hearty scoops, and charming service make it a must on my toplist for the best ice cream in Encinitas. Stop by for a whimsical treat!

Original Yogurt Shack

Address: 1476 Encinitas Blvd, Encinitas, CA 92024
Phone: (760) 942-1333
Website: originalyogurtshack.com
Hours: Open from 11 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights:

Classic frozen yogurt evokes nostalgia.
Tart Original flavor is a crowd-pleaser.
Fresh fruit toppings add vibrancy.
Relaxed vibe suits families.
Friendly, efficient staff ensure ease.

Craving a nostalgic frozen yogurt fix? Original Yogurt Shack, #10 on my toplist for the best ice cream in Encinitas, greeted me with a laid-back, retro vibe. The bright yogurt machines and fruity topping bar promised a classic treat.

The frozen yogurt is refreshingly tangy, with the Tart Original delivering a zesty, creamy punch and Chocolate offering a rich, indulgent twist. The self-serve portions let you customize to your heart’s content, ensuring satisfaction.

I piled on fresh mango chunks, which were juicy and sweet, enhancing the yogurt’s tang. The seasonal fruit added a vibrant pop that left me refreshed and happy.

The staff’s friendly efficiency and welcoming smiles made the visit seamless. They kept the space clean and inviting, ensuring a stress-free experience.

Original Yogurt Shack is perfect for classic yogurt lovers. Its tangy flavors, fresh toppings, and relaxed vibe make it a solid pick on my toplist for the best ice cream in Encinitas. Swirl a cup and enjoy the nostalgia!

Savoring Encinitas’ Sweetest Spots

My journey through Encinitas’ top 10 ice cream shops reveals a world of bold flavors, generous portions, and heartwarming service. From JoJo’s Creamery’s organic masterpieces to Original Yogurt Shack’s nostalgic tang, each spot offers something unique. These parlors are more than dessert stops; they’re where memories are made, from first dates to family outings. Whether you’re a local or exploring with San Diego Nav, this toplist ensures you’ll find the best ice cream in Encinitas to sweeten your day. Grab a cone, embrace the coastal charm, and indulge in the sweetness that defines our town.