Olympus Park

A Modern Playground Paradise

Found in Encinitas, California, Olympus Park is a 3.1-acre retreat that opened its gates in May 2021. This hillside park on Olympus Street features thoughtfully designed terraced levels that create distinct activity zones. The park represents a meaningful step toward Encinitas' "10-Minute Walk" initiative, aiming to put green spaces within easy reach of all residents.

Play Areas That Keep Kids Coming Back

The playground is definitely a highlight of this park. Kids absolutely love the artificial turf hill where they can "sled" or "surf" down using pieces of cardboard. It's such a simple concept, but the squeals of delight tell you everything you need to know about how fun it is.

The play area doesn't stop there. You can find concrete slides, a large tunnel slide, and various climbing structures that challenge young adventurers. Older kids gravitate toward the giant zip line, which delivers those stomach-dropping thrills that make a playground memorable. For the little ones, there's a charming playhouse and a group swing, plus a separate section with toddler swings in the upper part of the park.

Most of the equipment works best for children 5 and up, but there's a dedicated small area for younger explorers as well.

Get Moving or Just Hang Out

For those looking to stay active, Olympus Park offers several options. An exercise pad provides a wonderful spot for morning yoga or an impromptu workout. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy the half-court basketball court or try their hand at pickleball on dedicated courts.

The skate park is well-suited for beginners and intermediate skaters. With its pump track, mellow snake run ending in a half bowl with coping, and another gentle bowl with metal coping, it's an ideal spot to practice and progress your skating skills without feeling intimidated.

For a more relaxed pace, take a stroll along the walking path or try out the reflexology path. And your four-legged friends haven't been forgotten - separate dog park areas for large and small pups mean everyone can safely enjoy some off-leash time.

Take a Breath and Enjoy Nature

When it's time to unwind, spread out a blanket on the spacious grassy area or claim one of the picnic tables under the gazebo. Benches scattered across the park offer quiet spots to sit and watch the world go by.

The garden area, created in partnership with the San Diego Botanical Garden, adds a touch of natural beauty with its diverse plant collection. You'll also notice various public art pieces that enhance the park's character and give it a distinctive sense of place.

Good to Know Before You Go

Note that there are no public restrooms available, which might limit how long you can comfortably stay, especially with kids in tow. Parking is limited to what's available on the street, which can be a bit challenging during peak times, particularly on weekends.

The multi-level design attracts families from across San Diego County, with some making special trips to visit.

Created with Community in Mind

What makes Olympus Park special is that it wasn't designed in isolation. Local residents contributed their ideas through an extensive public outreach process, resulting in a space that truly serves the community's needs. This collaborative approach has resulted in a modern playground experience with some unique features.