Get into a California state of mind at the oceanfront Encinitas Retreat. Panoramic ocean views, beautiful Tuscan-inspired architecture, nearby beach access and, of course, the famously sunny San Diego weather will have you relaxed in no time. Soak in the sun from the extensive outdoor living areas, explore charming downtown Encinitas and, in the evenings, escape to this vacation rental’s four inviting bedrooms. The villa’s setting on a bluff above the beach puts you in the perfect spot to feel the breeze off the water. Fold back the glass wall to step out onto the sprawling patio, which is kept private by a fence and row of palms. Whether you’re craving a nap in the sun, a reading session in the shade, an al-fresco barbecue dinner with sunset views or a cozy evening around the firepit, Encinitas Retreat has an outdoor space for it. There’s even an outdoor shower where you can rinse off after returning from the beach. The traditional elegance of Tuscan country estates gets a sunny California twist at Encinitas Retreat. On one side of the house, formal living and dining areas recall Italian mansions with double-height ceilings, sweeping staircases with wrought-iron railings, and a stately stone fireplace. On the other, the open-plan TV room and kitchen get a more relaxed vibe from a fold-away glass wall overlooking the patio and ocean and painted surfboards on the wall. The fully equipped kitchen has both a breakfast bar and a cozy breakfast banquette. With four spacious bedrooms, there’s enough room at Encinitas Retreat to spread out on a honeymoon or take a holiday together as a family. There are two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms: one with a king bed, private balcony and ocean views, and one with a queen bed. The other two bedrooms have a king bed and queen bed, respectively, and share a bathroom. Warm tones, traditional furnishings and large windows in the bedrooms create the same atmosphere of European-inspired luxury as in the common living areas. From the villa’s location in the North County area of San Diego, it’s a 5-minute walk to either Moonlight State Beach or downtown Encinitas, where you’ll find everything from shopping and dining to a vintage movie theater. If you’re chasing the sun, it’s also worth driving the 2.6 miles to San Elijo Beach or the nearly 17 miles to La Jolla Shores. Book a tee time at nearby Torrey Pines Golf Course, spend an afternoon exploring downtown San Diego, or bring the kids to the San Diego Zoo. When it’s time to leave, make your connection at McClellan-Palomar Airport, about 9 miles away, or San Diego International Airport, 27 miles away. Copyright © 2016 Luxury Retreats. All rights reserved.