Open today 8 AM – 5 PM ★ 4.5 173 reviews 820 Birmingham Dr, Cardiff Call (760) 436-1820 Directions

Who we are

Same corner.
Same hands.

We're a family-owned hand car wash that believes in quality over shortcuts. Every car is washed by people — soaped, rinsed, and dried by hand with a mitt and a towel, never by machines or brushes.

Since 2003Family owned100% hand wash
Carter, the Cardiff Car Wash surfing dog

Our story

The Cardiff Car Wash story

We're a family-owned hand car wash that believes in quality over shortcuts. Every car is washed by people — soaped, rinsed, and dried by hand with a mitt and a towel, never by machines or brushes.

Our team is experienced, friendly, and focused on giving you the best service possible. Whether you're coming in for a quick wash or a full detail, we're here to make sure your car leaves looking its best.

For over 20 years, Cardiff Car Wash has been dedicated to reliable, high-quality car care right here in the community. From the beginning, we've focused on hand washing every vehicle with attention and care — no brushes, no shortcuts.

What sets us apart is our consistency. Our team takes pride in every wash, treating each car like it's their own. We're proud to be a local, family-run business that people count on to keep their vehicles looking their best.

That's Carter on the wave — our surfing dog, and the closest thing this place has to a second mascot after the sign out front. He rides along on every page for the same reason we're still washing by hand: Cardiff-by-the-Sea is a beach town, and we've never wanted to look like anywhere else.

On the lot

This is what by hand looks like.

Two crew members drying a black car at the Cardiff lot
A crew member polishing the wheel and fender of a dark Tesla
A crew member drying the window of a white Jeep Gladiator
Carter, the Cardiff Car Wash surfing dog

Joining is easy

Come say hi.

820 Birmingham Drive · Cardiff, CA 92007. Open 8 AM – 5 PM · Every Day.

Carter the Cardiff Car Wash dog here. Want first dibs when we run a deal or add a service? A couple notes a month — no soap opera.