Encinitas Coastal Connections

Halloween in Encinitas means more than pumpkin spice and oversized costumes. For those craving chills and thrills, the area offers some seriously spooky haunted houses and ghost tours — all within a short drive from your front door. Whether you’re a thrill seeker, a lover of haunted history, or just looking for a unique way to enjoy the season, here’s your go-to guide for ghostly happenings that won’t keep you on the road all night.

Olivenhain Haunted Hotel: Where Scouts Stir Up Spooky Scenes

Just a quick trip from Encinitas, the Olivenhain Meeting Hall transforms into the Olivenhain Haunted Hotel for two nights on October 25 and 26, from 6 to 9:30 p.m. This isn’t your average haunted house. It’s a fundraiser for the energetic Boy Scout Troop 2000 and the Olivenhain Town Council, filled with scenes like a Zombie Banquet, Dr. Frankenstein’s laboratory, and a Witches’ Lair you’ll actually want to linger in.

What sets this haunt apart? The actors are local scouts aged 12 to 18, adding a spirited, homegrown vibe. You’ll also find carnival games that bring a touch of fun to the fright. Tickets are just $8, and both cash and credit are accepted at the door, making it a budget-friendly haunt worth checking out. Find it at 423 Rancho Santa Fe Road, Olivenhain.

Haunted Ghost Town at Heritage Ranch: Pirates and Peril

If you’re looking for a ghost tour that tells a tale, the Haunted Ghost Town is calling your name. From October 25 to 27, from 5 to 8:45 p.m., Heritage Ranch (450 Quail Gardens Drive) becomes the doomed town of Bitter Gulch.

By day, enjoy a milder experience for kids until 6:30 p.m.. Then, for those over 12, things get seriously spine-chilling after 7 p.m. Watch for a ghostly pirate ship and a cursed pirate crew, brought to life by professional actors. Tickets cost $28 for adults and $16.80 for kids 10 and under. Plan ahead by grabbing yours at hauntedtown.org.

San Diego’s Haunted San Diego Ghost Tours: Dive Deep Into Paranormal History

For those willing to venture a bit further, around 30 minutes away in San Diego, there’s no shortage of ghostly exploration. The Haunted San Diego Ghost Tours offer one of the most complete experiences in the region. This tour visits up to five haunted locations, including the Villa Montezuma historic mansion, Horton Grand Hotel, Davis Horton House, and the El Campo Santo Cemetery. You even get to see the grounds of the famous Whaley House, often called one of America’s most haunted homes.

The tours run nightly with options to catch 7 p.m. or 9 p.m. departures, lasting about two hours. This experience involves some walking but nothing too strenuous — think just a few city blocks between stops. Seats fill up quickly due to the small group size, so book early to avoid ghostly disappointment. Check bookings and details at hauntedsandiegotours.com.

Whaley House Evening Tour: America’s Most Haunted House

If you’re up for a shorter but no-less-spooky outing, the Whaley House in Old Town San Diego offers a 30-40 minute guided evening tour. It’s known far and wide for being haunted by former residents and spooky visitors from the past, including one famously ghostly terrier named Dolly Varden.

Tours run year-round but are especially popular come fall. Remember, advanced reservations are required. The tour involves walking through dimly lit historic rooms, so wear comfy shoes and expect some uneven flooring. Tickets and reservation details can be found at whaleyhousesandiego.com.

Haunted Happenings Made Easy

Whether you want to wander through ghostly mansions, explore eerie pirate towns, or enjoy haunted hotels with a flair of local spirit, Encinitas and its neighboring areas have plenty to offer. These events range from budget-friendly scout-led shows to premium ghost tours with expert storytellers, ensuring a perfect match for any brave soul.

Start planning your haunted adventure now—tickets are moving fast. And remember, these are more than just spooky spots; they’re a chance to experience a little local history mixed with the thrill of the unknown. So grab your flashlight and maybe a friend who’s not afraid to check under the bed. Happy haunting!