#9 Find your bliss at the Self Realization Gardens

You will find the Self Realization Gardens off of the 101 (slightly west) overlooking the blue pacific ocean. This space has a wonderful, peaceful vibe. You can experience the beauty of a garden located on a cliff looking over the Pacific Ocean. The SRF garden is a part of the SRF Temple but the meditation garden is accessible to the public. You do not need to meditate on the grounds, of course, but there is something magical about this quiet spot high above the vastness of the ocean. It is a treasure and if you find your way on Highway 101, it is worth a stop-in. The gardens are open to the public Tuesday-Sunday.  The gardens and Hermitage were developed in 1937. The temple and gardens were founded and designed by Paramahansa Yogananda (1893-1952) who brought the teachings of Indian meditation to the U.S. The beach located just below the temple is known as Swami's. Stroll through the lush, tropical foliage, Lily ponds, huge koi fish, and many rare and wonderful species of plant life in the mature meditation garden. I like to sit on the meditation bench and take a moment to reflect on all of the wonderful things I have to be grateful for in this life. Self Realization gardens and Hermitage are located at 215 K St (between 2nd St & 3rd St) Encinitas, CA 92024