It is the easternmost community of Encinitas, bordering the western portion of Rancho Santa Fe.

A common sight in the area during late afternoons and dusk are hot air balloons.

The area is located on the Rancho Las Encinitas Mexican land grant, and was settled by a German colony in the 1890s.

It is used today for community functions such as the annual Oktoberfest, Haunted House, summer movie series, craft fairs and a variety of civic group meetings.

Residents of Olivenhain may schedule the Meeting Hall and grounds for private functions; it is a popular wedding site.