Welcome to Del Mar
An artsy beach village with horse racing, surfing, and world-class seafood restaurants
Del Mar is a delightful, beach village in San Diego County, 20 miles north of San Diego city. The unique seaside community combines an atmosphere of world-class elegance with expansive, sunny beaches, huge nature preserves, and a charming small-town feel. Locals travel by bicycle through the laid-back, dog-friendly village. Originally established as a seaside resort offering relaxation, recreation, and breathtaking views to stars of old Hollywood, Del Mar is known for its thrilling horse racing, sumptuous restaurants, and premium leisure. The Del Mar Fairgrounds presents art exhibitions, various entertainment events, the annual San Diego County Fair, and a wide range of events throughout the year attracting residents and tourists alike. Local families enjoy the Art + Play Space, a hands-on art museum where children can learn and play.
For decades, architect John Lloyd Wright, the son of Frank Lloyd Wright, lived and worked in Del Mar and designed several mid-century homes in the Prairie School style. Del Mar’s palm-lined streets boast modern single-family homes, craftsman bungalows, and stunning estates.
What to Love
- Laid-back seaside ambiance with an upscale appeal
- Equestrian trails and world-class training facilities
- Dining at L’Auberge Hotel against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.
Local Lifestyle
Hip, artsy, and sophisticated, Del Mar offers its locals a little of everything in a pristine, natural paradise with the calm sounds of the ocean. Upscale establishments offer a touch of relaxed luxury. Del Mar’s weekly Farmer’s Market encourages a vibrant and neighborly atmosphere. The area’s natural beauty infuses every part of life. Residents enjoy the outdoors with hiking, biking, horse riding, and surfing; all are highly popular activities. Del Mar and its parks provide fun for the whole family and its beaches are dog friendly.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
In the heart of Del Mar, you’ll find The Plaza, where locals dine at world-class restaurants, shop at exclusive boutiques, catch live entertainment, and stroll around the European-style, open-air plaza with stunning ocean views. Local residents favor the L’Auberge Hotel and dining at Adelaide, which offers exquisite California cuisine made from locally-sourced seafood and produce. Locals go to the gorgeous Spa L’Auberge to unwind.
Inventive seafood creations are found at Poseidon. It is right on the beach with sea views. Award-winning cuisine is found at Pacifica Del Mar and their terrace is a favorite for locals and tourists alike. Pamplemousse Grille is an award-winning French country kitchen where you will find citrus poached Scottish salmon, Colorado lamb stew, and Jidori chicken schnitzel.
Things to Do
Take advantage of the great outdoors and Del Mar’s glorious weather at the San Dieguito Lagoon wetlands, home to over 200 bird species, or in the Torrey Pines State Nature Reserve, a 1,500-acre preserve offering miles of trails for hiking, running, horseback riding, and biking. At Powerhouse Park & Beach you will find playgrounds, green spaces, and of course, a fabulous beach.
At the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, you can ride on gorgeous trails through wetlands, canyons, and beaches. You can watch professional horse races at the Del Mar Racetrack and visit the Fairgrounds for year-round events. In the summer, the month-long San Diego County Fair brings live entertainment, exciting foods, carnival rides, and more to Del Mar. The 15th Street beach is a surfer’s dream and the only reef break for miles.
Schools
