In 1986 the communities of Cardiff-by-the-Sea, Leucadia, Olivenhain, and Encinitas incorporated as Encinitas. However, the distinct character of each remains. Old Encinitas along the coast road is a genuine bastion of Southern California's surf culture. Surfboard makers have called it home since the '60s.
New Encinitas is a sprawling inland suburb of bedroom communities along El Camino Real. Many homes face impressive inland views of hills. Olivenhain, inland near Rancho Santa Fe, is an historic township with houses on large lots. Encinitas has an active nursery industry with quality retail outlets. Quail Botanical Gardens is the county's best bargain attraction with a $2 admission.