La Paloma Theatre — Local services in Encinitas

Visiting La Paloma is like stepping back in time. The Spanish Colonial architecture might not be immediately evident from the exterior but it sure is inside. I can only speak to having seen movies here, but this theater is known to host live music and other events. As far as movie watching goes: Check the La Paloma theater website for showings and times and DO NOT rely on just Google results as they have proven inaccurate, whereas if I had referenced the official theater website I would have avoided showing up for a flick not playing. Also be aware that if you come here to see a movie, don't expect the luxury and latest technological cinema experience--come for the experience of a movie in a vintage setting. Although they use a digital protector and have outfitted the theater with digital surround sound, the acoustics are nothing like an IMAX theater. The screen is smaller than modern-day screens and audio booms and echoes off walls, meaning I wouldn't recommend seeing a flicks with heavy dialogue that's critical to understanding or appreciating a story as you'll likely strain to pick out what's being said at times. If you choose the right movies to see here and come for an experience greater than just what is on the screen, you'll have...

When I think of La Paloma I merely think of Paloma the drink, but apparently it means Pigeon. Being one of the older buildings in Encinitas, or at least feeling that way from lack of renovations, I would think Encinitas was once known for a pigeon population, like Capo being known for Swallows with the name.

I generally come here for small, limited releases or local stuff. Belgian Waffle Ride, Reel Rock Film Tour.

It’s old school, but the seats are surprisingly not totally uncomfortable and the concessions are offering, cash only for most events since they are small independently run. Bathrooms are meh, cleanliness is meh. Somewhat nostalgic feeling back to the 80’s when all theaters were like this. Lots of earth tone colors.

The stage is the sort of standard high school theater sized and set up. There are windows in the back that when they dim the lights don’t backlight the experience keeping things nice and dark.

The coolest part of the place is the stage left and right exits that drop you off street side on D Street, so you exit behind...

My experience at this movie theatre was very negative for one reason, the volume level. The movie was far too loud, and I'm not usually that sensitive to that. I'm sure my ears have been damaged even though I had to plug my ears throughout the movie. It was literally like being in the front row of a heavy metal concert if the singer is screaming the entire show. It was terrible. Now, the movie I watched was an old school movie, so maybe there is a problem controlling the volume when using old school film (if they do in fact use actuall film). But seriously, you guys have to fix this in order to make an enjoyable movie experience. It is a cool place and I appreciate the historic side of it, but really tone the volume down a bit. Until they fix this, I urge you not to go here unless you want permanent...