Today, we said good-bye to San Diego, and hello to Encinitas – but not before stopping into the “Diners Drive-ins and Dives” recommended restaurant, El Indio, for lunch. 
This little hole-in-the-wall packed quite a punch with its authentic and homemade Mexican cuisine. As we were waiting in line, they let us try a handmade tortilla with melted butter. Michelle and I ordered the same thing: a taquito (it means “Little Taco” and it is still the most popular item on the menu today!), and the combo that came with a taco (beef or chicken) and a cheese enchilada. Top all that off with a salsa bar, and a selection of fountain sodas – traditional and Mexican varieties, and it was a lunch made in heaven.
After woofing down our food, we made our way back to I-5 and on to Encinitas and the Best Western Moonlight Inn and Suites. Though it’s not the W, the room is huge, has a balcony, a gorgeous pool area and sweeping views of the ocean. And it’s in a great location within walking distance of several beaches, although we didn’t realize that until after we drove down to the water.
After driving around and around trying to find a parking spot – we came across Stone Steps Beach. As the name would suggest, we walked down a ton of stone steps that were built into the side of a cliff to get down to the beach. Walking down was no problem…we didn’t really think about having to walk back up! The beach was fairly empty, with a few brave surfers and children in the 64 
degree water (only 10 degrees warmer than the Beluga Whale exhibit!). We stuck our feet in – but that was about as far as we were willing to try. Once our feet were sufficiently numb, we made the trek back up what seemed like 1,000 stairs! But we did it – with only a few breaks.
We headed back to the hotel, took a quick dip in the pool, and then went to a family function where we feasted on traditional Iranian dishes among laughter, stories and children running and playing.
Another wonderful day!
