Gracie Barra is one of the most trusted names in martial arts today. Our values, commitment to excellence and dedication to Jiu-Jitsu have set us apart as a leader in the Encinitas martial arts community.
Gracie Barra is no ordinary martial arts organization. Students enjoy access to over 1000 Gracie Barra Schools worldwide, professional-quality Jiu-Jitsu gear and online resources to further their training. We promote a holistic perspective to Jiu-Jitsu, including physical and mental wellness. All GB Schools are supervised by a Gracie Barra certified instructor, who supports students and helps each one achieve their potential through challenging training programs.
At Gracie Barra Encinitas, we believe that starting Jiu-Jitsu isn’t just a new hobby it’s a life changing decision. Whether you’re looking to get in shape, gain confidence, reduce stress, or learn practical self-defense, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu offers something unique for every lifestyle and goal.
Every time you step on the mat, you’re building discipline, mental toughness, and physical strength all within a supportive and respectful community. Our students, from beginners to advanced, often say that their first class was the beginning of something incredible.
Learn how to protect yourself with practical, effective techniques.
Boost strength, endurance, and flexibility while having fun.
Clear your mind and release tension with every training session.
Develop mental strength and self-assurance on and off the mats.
Train with teammates who motivate, challenge, and support your growth.
Learn how to protect yourself with practical, effective techniques.
Boost strength, endurance, and flexibility while having fun.
Clear your mind and release tension with every training session.
Develop mental strength and self-assurance on and off the mats.
Train with teammates who motivate, challenge, and support your growth.
Gracie Barra Encinitas has received extremely positive reviews from its students. The school has an average rating of 5.0 stars based on 59 reviews, indicating a high level of satisfaction among practitioners.
Reconnect Marketing2025-07-28Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Gracie Barra Encinitas is the most welcoming, clean facility. Instructors are professional and great with kids. The variety of classes is amazing. Brian Franklin2025-07-24Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’ve had the privilege of training at Gracie Barra Encinitas since 2005, and it’s truly been one of the most meaningful and consistent parts of my life. Under the guidance of Professors Nelson Monteiro and Rafael Ramos—both world-class instructors and incredible human beings—I’ve grown not only in my jiu jitsu journey but also as a person. Their leadership has cultivated a culture that is as welcoming and inclusive as it is technical and disciplined. From day one, this academy felt like home. The atmosphere is warm, the community is tight-knit, and the values go far beyond the mats. It's a place where lifelong friendships are made and where everyone, regardless of rank or background, is treated with respect and care. I earned my black belt here 14 years ago, and I still look forward to every training session. That says a lot about the kind of place this is. Gracie Barra Encinitas isn’t just an academy—it’s a family. J.R. Udani2025-07-23Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My daughter and I both train here. She started when she was 3 and is now 5. Both kids and adult programs are amazing. The instructors are very knowledgeable and have ton of experience. I’ve been to many gyms in San Diego and Hawaii and I can easily say this by far the cleanest gym I’ve been to. The facility is air conditioned, has a water station, and coffee! It’s a really good place to get a workout, make lifelong friends and network. Nate Gaudioso2025-06-08Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great training environment. Both myself and my son train here, and it’s been especially great for my son. The instructors work wonderfully with kids, and adults too! Jayson Flowers2025-06-08Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. World class jiu-jitsu & more importantly people! exceptional community!!! MKS2025-06-08Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 11 - 02 - 2020 What a great school!! Everyone is very friendly and welcoming from the black belts to the white belts. Take it from a newbie, you want to be here. I been here a month and It's obvious this school has a great hospitality base and an emphasis on proper jiu jitsu technique. Their policies are not overbearing and they don't make you sign any contracts. The school has recently been redesigned and looks amazing inside. There is lots of room for rolling! Well done GBE! Definitely have my recommendation! 12 - 01 - 2021 update- I have received my blue belt! What an accomplishment! So stoked! Here is what I have learned: get comfortable in the uncomfortable, be flexible, it's hard to have an ego when your getting choked, respect, confidence and most importantly that the instructors, coaches and training partners treat each other like family. Pretty sure I found my home! If you are interested come by!!!!!! Try a free lesson! Update 11/4/2023- I have been promoted to Purple belt. Some things I have learned; No matter what, a good class/roll can really change a person's life. I have faced difficult situations this year, every challenge I received I met with the same calm and mythodical mindset as if were training. I'm not just training to get my black belt, but to be a better man. A gentleman that studies a gentle art. Much thanks to Master Nelson, Professor Rafa, the Professors, coaches and my training partners for their guidance, I am stoked to have these people as guides. Update: 6/7/25 - I have been promoted to brown belt. I am thankful for this promotion and honored to wear this belt. I am more honored to be apart of this amazing community. I'm thankful for all the time we shared together. Come train with us! Erika Weinthal2025-05-02Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We absolutely love GB Encinitas! They are so incredible with the kids and teach them valuable, lifelong skills in a way that’s fun, approachable, and engaging. My daughter loves it here! Highly recommend joining. Hannah Braddock2025-04-28Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Gracie Barra has been amazing for my 5 year old daughter. I love that classes are offered so frequently, and that we get to practice as a family on Saturdays! Everyone is so wonderful and the facility is top notch.
Find the Perfect Time for Your Jiu-Jitsu Journey
We understand life can get busy, but with our flexible schedule, you can easily find a time that fits into your daily routine and your family’s as well. Whether you’re looking to embark on your own Jiu-Jitsu journey or introduce your child to the art, we offer a variety of class times that perfectly accommodate any schedule. Take the opportunity to schedule a class at Gracie Barra, the ideal place to grow, learn, and develop in a safe and welcoming environment.
Without discipline, there is no mastery, neither in Jiu-Jitsu nor in life. Discipline equals freedom!
“I don’t have time to workout.” Familiar? This is a very common excuse that your brain makes up to keep you from accomplishing something difficult.
Do you have a hard time sticking to a routine? Our classes are fun and addictive and we’ll be there to support you along the way.
Don’t like to work out at a gym because you get bored? You’re not alone. Jiu-Jitsu is like a human game of chess, keeping your workouts exciting!
Welcome to our world-class facilities at Gracie Barra Encinitas. Our space is equipped to support your training and growth in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Here, you’ll find spacious training areas with high-quality mats, ensuring a safe and effective practice environment. Our clean, well-equipped locker rooms offer convenience and comfort. Plus, our community space provides a welcoming area to relax and connect with fellow practitioners. Experience the best in martial arts training at Gracie Barra Encinitas.
At Gracie Barra Encinitas, our instructors are dedicated to delivering world-class Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training rooted in the Gracie Barra philosophy of integrity, respect, and personal growth.
With a career spanning over four decades, he has trained directly under the Gracie family and played a key role in the international growth of Jiu-Jitsu.
As the head professor and founder of Gracie Barra Encinitas, Professor Monteiro brings unmatched experience, technical excellence, and a deep passion for teaching. His academy reflects his high standards of professionalism, respect, and discipline, offering a world-class environment for students of all levels.
Located in beautiful Encinitas, CA, Gracie Barra Encinitas stands as a testament to Professor Monteiro’s lifelong commitment to excellence and the true values of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.