15 Best Things to Do in Del Mar, California
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Written by Kyle Kroeger
For those looking for a quiet getaway from the hustle and bustle of downtown San Diego, there is the beautiful town of Del Mar, located less than 30 minutes from downtown San Diego but still in San Diego County. Del Mar is known for its beaches and the Torrey Pines State Beach and Reserve, home to land untouched by man and overlooks gorgeous cliffs.
Many activities in Del Mar include taking a trip through Torrey Pines and hiking its trails or going through the Del Mar Plaza for shopping. One of the best things to do in Del Mar is to visit the San Diego County Fair when it’s in town!
Looking for a place to stay in Del Mar? You can book any room in nearby San Diego, or you can also book a room here at the L’Auberge Del Mar or Del Mar Beach Hotel!
Wherever you choose to stay, know there is lots to explore, so get ready to have fun on the beaches of beautiful Del Mar, California.
TL;DR
- Most significant landmark – Torrey Pines State Reserve
- Park to visit – Powerhouse Park
- Free activity – Del Mar Public Library
- Activity for kids – San Diego County Fair
- Activity for adults – Del Mar Racetrack
- Place to eat – Zel’s Del Mar
- Nightlife – Del Mar Plaza
- Place to stay – L’Auberge Del Mar
Things to Do in Del Mar, California
1. Visit the San Diego County Fair
Address: 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014
The San Diego County Fair occurs every summer and is home in Del Mar, California. If you’re in town just for the fair, we recommend finding accommodation nearby so you can relax, unwind, and enjoy the sights and sounds throughout the fair!
One such place is the L’Auberge Del Mar, a swanky spa and hotel where you can get your fill of relaxation massages and be pampered like the king or queen you are!
The L’Auberge Del Mar also has a new dining room called Adelaide. You can enjoy fine dining overlooking the ocean and unwind after a long day at the fair.
At the fair, there are lots of fun activities and things to try, including different foods, games, and prize-winning competitions.
For science buffs, there’s everything from gems and minerals shows to chair-making shops and presentations from the San Diego Police and San Diego Sheriff’s Department. There are options to suit various interests here, so visit their website to book early and get your tickets!
See Related: Things to Do in San Diego
2. Hike Through Torrey Pines
Address: 12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037
Torrey Pines State Reserve is one of the most carefully guarded and cared-for parks in the San Diego and Southern California regions.
There are hiking trails that allow you to explore this once-remote area and get a feel for the massive beauty that is the Torrey Pines State Reserve. The famous Torrey Pines Golf Course is also nearby.
Torrey Pines sits alongside beautiful cliffsides, offering breathtaking views of the expansive Southern California Pacific Ocean. While it is incredibly beautiful, it’s important to remember that this reserve has the name “Reserve” because it is protected and has special regulations.
It is protected to remain untouched, as it was, and exemplifies the geological history of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding areas.
As such, you can walk, hike, or visit many of its trails with family and friends and see the magnificent coastal wilderness. However, there are no pets allowed, no trash, no camping, and no overhead drone footage. Visit their website for more information on rules, restrictions, and more.
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3. Visit the Del Mar Racetrack for Exciting Horse Races
Address: 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar, CA 92014
If you love to watch horse races and want to experience the best in exciting races, look no further than the Del Mar Racetrack! This is one of the best areas for horse enthusiasts and owners alike.
Members get exclusive access on opening day, and there are ample drinks, beers, and safe gambling opportunities for you to win big.
This historic area is where betting on horses is tradition and where you can see the most talented, up-and-coming, or seasoned jockeys and their horses battle it on the field. For more information on the season, how to get tickets, and how to gamble safely, we recommend visiting their website online.
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4. Visit the Del Mar Farmers Market
Address: Civic Center, 1050 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014
The Del Mar Farmers Market is the perfect place to taste local foods, see local artisans, and get a feel for the best this beach town offers! It is held every Saturday afternoon at the Civic Center from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
It’s one of the best places to get a fill of your local goods, buy fresh produce and fruits that are certified organic, and mingle with residents. There’s also free parking nearby, making this the perfect place for you and your little ones to explore Del Mar!
This is unlike any other farmers’ market you’ve seen. You can enjoy culinary foods worldwide, including Chinese food, seafood, hummus, kettle corn, cheese, baked goods, and more.
The farmers market is non-profit, so they donate heavily to support local California Farmers. Visit the Del Mar Farmers Market website here for more information and to view the products currently being sold here.
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5. Go Paddle Boarding at La Jolla Shores Beach
Address: 2261 Avenida De La Playa, La Jolla, CA 92037
To start your unforgettable journey at Del Mar, we recommend visiting La Jolla Shores Beach to get a small taste of the warm waters and ample opportunities for outdoor activities and water sports!
Located just over 20 minutes from Del Mar, La Jolla Shores Beach is one of the top beaches in the area. If you want to tour the area further, you can paddle through the La Jolla Sea Caves and also explore the La Jolla ecological reserve.
You’ll have so much fun paddle boarding alone or with a partner! Visit this site to book your tour of the sunny Southern California waters in La Jolla, San Diego!
See Related: Day Trips from San Francisco
6. Walk through Seagrove Park
Address: 15th St & Coast Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014
Seagrove Park is one of the many Del Mar beaches open to the public and for private events! Seagrove Park is open every day from sunrise until around 10 p.m. It is also one of the perfect spots for people who want to plan an event since it can accommodate up to 24 guests without a special event permit.
This is the perfect spot to take your loved one to explore the beautiful ocean views of Del Mar and San Diego. It is nestled between gorgeous palm trees and is one of the best places for photo opportunities! Visit their website for more information and details on how to host your event here.
See Related: Things to Do in Santa Barbara
7. Visit Del Mar Dog Beach
Address: 3902 29th St, Del Mar, CA 92014
If you’re a dog lover or have brought your little furry friend, Del Mar Dog Beach will be the best spot to sit back, relax, and unwind. The Del Mar Dog Beach is one of the best spots in the area to unleash your dog, let them roam free, and ensure they get the best exercise.
The Del Mar Dog Beach is just one of many popular dog-friendly beach locations in the area! There is free parking along 29th Street.
It is just west of North City and is the perfect place to stop by before shopping at Whole Foods Market, just minutes away. Visit their website for more information.
8. Explore the Free Flight Bird Sanctuary
Address: 2132 Jimmy Durante Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014
The Free Flight Bird Sanctuary is open to the public by appointment. Nevertheless, it is one of the most exciting and fun things to do for kids and adults alike! The Sanctuary has exotic birds that have been rescued and are now living peacefully in their beautiful aviary.
The Free Flight Bird Sanctuary is on a mission to re-house, re-socialize, and help exotic birds abandoned or left as strays find their forever homes again while educating the public on the importance of various bird species.
If you’re interested in adopting a bird, the sanctuary can also help by providing a bird that has been well-trained, re-housed, and socialized, so you can rest assured it is safe to be around friends and family.
Want to learn more about the Free Flight Bird Sanctuary? Visit their website to plan your visit and get more information on adopting your bird.
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9. Read at the Del Mar Public Library
Address: 1309 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014
At first glance, you might mistake the Del Mar Public Library for being just a regular house in the middle of the street! However, the Del Mar Public Library is home to literary masterpieces, books, and toddler storytime classes to make it fun for everyone!
It is a perfect place for parents and adults to explore the beauty of literature while taking in the sights and sounds of the surrounding beaches.
They also have chair yoga, so make sure to check out their website for the latest on when it’s being held, as well as for more information on the many available story time appointments.
There are also other amazing services here, such as immigration citizenship courses, as well as educational literacy programs.
10. Shop at the Del Mar Plaza
Address: 1555 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014
If you’re looking for a more traditional area with ample areas to shop, boutiques, and high-end restaurants, look no further than the Del Mar Plaza! Ample nightlife experiences help you unwind while taking in the panoramic ocean views. There are always events, music, and singing here at Del Mar Plaza.
For people who want to shop for beauty and wellness, there are also shops like Urban Girl Accessories or CoCo Rose. These are high-end shops where you can find high-quality accessories and beauty products.
There are also lots of areas to dine, including the Monarch Ocean Pub and Kini Koffee! Visit their website for a scoop on current events and more information on the best shopping center in Del Mar.
See Related: Things to Do in Santa Ana
11. Take Surf Lessons at Del Mar Surf School
Address: 151 10th St, Del Mar, CA 92014
Have you ever wanted to learn to surf but don’t know where to start? You must take surf lessons at the Del Mar Surf School! This surf training program is specifically for Del Mar residents and tourists who do not know how to start.
All surf instructors have around ten years of experience or more, so you’ll be in safe hands while learning. This is more fun than beach volleyball and is a memorable experience for anyone at any age!
Remember that all classes are 90 minutes, so plan for this if you plan on continuing lessons or want to take advantage of being in one of Southern California’s best places to surf.
Look at their website for more information on how to book a surfing class. These classes are private and 1 to 1, so you can have all the attention you need to learn how to surf like a pro. Del Mar Beach Hotel is nearby just for you to rest.
See Related: Best Surfing Spots in the World
12. View the Pacific with Magical Adventure Balloon Rides
Address: 153 S Sierra Ave #505, Solana Beach, CA 92075
Magical Adventure Balloon Rides is one of the most trusted and well-established tourist attractions in Del Mar. If you’ve ever dreamt of going for a hot air balloon ride, one of the amazing things about Del Mar is the ability to hop into one of these air balloons and get breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
These hot air balloon rides are 45 minutes to an hour in the air, but the experience itself will be 3 hours, so plan accordingly.
You can meet with the instructor and have a peaceful experience up in the air, or even book this as a special gift for your wedding anniversary or another special event.
Work with your instructor for any limitations, and enjoy the best sites anywhere in San Diego. See their website for more information on how to book your air balloon ride today!
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13. Visit the Grand Golf Club
Address: 5200 Grand Del Mar Way, San Diego, CA 92130
For those who want to find the best golf courses in the area, we recommend visiting the Grand Golf Club as your number one spot for golfing.
Because of the sunny weather in San Diego, playing golf has never been easier, and there is always an opportunity for you to hit the course and enjoy the best playing at the Grand Golf Club.
You can play here if you have a Fairmont Grand Del Mar membership. This is an excellent membership since it will give immediate access to families, access to tons of fitness classes, and access to their 50,000-square-foot state-of-the-art clubhouse.
To learn more about membership opportunities and to find the best deals for your membership, check out their website and schedule your next visit here.
14. Have a Picnic at Powerhouse Park
Address: 1658 Coast Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014
Powerhouse Park is considered one of the best parks in Del Mar. There are restrooms located throughout the park, as well as a huge playground, so you can have fun while also taking your kids to play and get out all of that energy.
Powerhouse Park is also open for guests, so you can invite as many as 24 people simultaneously for a private event. If you book an event with alcohol or more than 24 people, you must have a permit.
Nevertheless, it’s worth it to book an event here and enjoy the sights and sounds of San Diego, the surrounding Pacific Ocean, and the shores of Del Mar.
Visit their website to get more detailed information on amenities, visiting hours, and how to book a reservation for events. The park is also ADA-friendly, making it a great spot for family gatherings and those with disabilities and mobility who need ADA-accessible amenities.
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15. Eat at Zel’s Del Mar
Address: 1247 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014
Zel’s Del Mar is the perfect place to stop by, have a quick bite to eat, and enjoy the sights and sounds of downtown Del Mar. They have served California residents food for the past ten years with no signs of slowing down.
What people enjoy most about this restaurant is its drinks, casual atmosphere, and ability to offer high-quality food without being too upscale. This restaurant perfectly encapsulates California living and is the perfect spot for people who want to sit back, relax, and take in the sites and sounds of Del Mar.
You can choose from various cocktails and oysters and visit during happy hour for special pricing. Live music from Thursday through Sunday nights also makes this one of the most unforgettable places in Del Mar!
Visit their website for more information on menu options and to find the best options for parking and hours of operation. Currently, they are open for dinner after 4 p.m.
How to Get Around Del Mar, California
Although Del Mar is a beach town, that doesn’t mean your only method of transportation is surfing! This beautiful modern town is home to loads of transportation options.
Ridesharing Options for Solo Traveling in Del Mar, California
Del Mar is a somewhat smaller town in San Diego County but quite expansive. Therefore, it’s best to consider a ridesharing option if you aren’t renting a car and still want a way to get around the city. Uber and Lyft are both good options.
Booking a Car Rental in Del Mar, California
If you want to book a car rental in Del Mar, visit RentalCars.com to find the best choices in the area.
Using the Public Transportation System in Del Mar, California
Del Mar also has public transportation options available. Catching the bus is also a great, eco-friendly way to travel and is one of the best ways to save money while on vacation. Check out these public transportation options for Del Mar.
Places to Stay in Del Mar
Best Western Premier Hotel Del Mar is the perfect place to stay when visiting the quaint seaside village of Del Mar. The hotel offers a relaxing outdoor pool and hot tub, as well as easy access to the Del Mar Racetrack and Del Mar Fairgrounds. rooms at Best Western Premier Hotel Del Mar feature free WiFi, air conditioning, a refrigerator, an iPod docking station, a 42-inch flat-screen cable TV, and more.
The rooms at Les Artistes Inn are truly art-inspired, with 12 vibrant and colorful options to choose from. Each room comes equipped with cable TV, a microwave, and a comfortable seating area. But the best part of this inn is its lush surroundings. With stone walkways and beautiful gardens,Les Artistes Inn is the perfect place to take a stroll and get away from it all.
If you're looking for an unforgettable vacation experience, look no further than the Hotel Indigo San Diego Del Mar. Nestled in the beautiful California coastline, this luxurious hotel offers everything you need for a perfect getaway. From its two stunning outdoor pools to its world-class spa facilities, the Hotel Indigo San Diego Del Mar has it all.
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