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Complete Guide to Del Mar

a view of a city next to a body of water

Del Mar is about 20 miles from San Diego, California. This seaside village is a world-class destination with a small-town feel. It started as a Hollywood retreat and has become a mecca for vacationers worldwide due to its tranquility, pristine beaches, and many other activities. Here’s what you need to know about the area.

Getting There

This quaint village is just north of San Diego. You can get there via plane, bus, train, tram, or your own vehicle. If you are already in or have flown into the San Diego area, you can ride the NCTD Coaster train or NCTD Breeze buses into the city. You can also hop an AMTRAK train from several regions, including Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, and San Diego. You can also travel via Pacific Surfliner.  

Getting Around

While in the area, you can use public transportation, such as the tram or bus system, or hire a car via a taxi service or Uber. You can also drive around the city, but parking may be challenging, and you will likely have to pay for it.

Some hotels are close to beaches, theme parks, and other attractions so that you may walk, or the hotel may provide transportation. In addition, many shops, restaurants, and hotels also are within walking distance.

a body of water with a city in the background

Hotels To Stay At

Southern California has a wide variety of hotels. You can stay at three-star locations like the Best Western Premier Hotel or four-star hotels like the Hilton. You even have five-star options, including the L’Auberge. This community also has a variety of inns. If you plan to visit a theme park, Legoland also has a resort where you can get tickets to the park, among other amenities.

Activities To Do

One of the most popular activities in the area is the Del Mar Race Track. Spend a day at the second-largest racing venue in the country from late July through mid-September. You can also see races from mid-November through December. You can spend a whole day at the track, watching as many as ten races.

While you are in the area, visit one of several beaches. City Beach is divided into three sections, North, which is dog-friendly; Main, which tends to be the most popular and is near two parks; and South, which has great surfing. You can also visit Torrey Pines State Beach, part of the natural reserve. You can even hike to the beach on one of several trails through the reserve.

The fairgrounds also have several events throughout the year. You can see museum exhibits, such as the King Tut immersive experience, or see a live performance at The Sound. Don’t forget the Del Mar or San Diego County Fair held at the fairgrounds. You can enjoy live entertainment, learn about local agriculture or experience the FunZone with its rides and games.

Don’t forget the area’s many museums, farmers’ markets, shopping, guided tours and hikes, wildlife excursions, sanctuaries, parks, spas, and shopping.

a table topped with a blue umbrella

Bars & Restaurants To Attend

While in Southern California, check out the excellent bars and restaurants. You will find it here whether you are looking for an upscale or dive bar. You can even find pubs and clubs. It all depends on what you are looking for.

You can find anything from seafood to cheeseburgers if you need a great restaurant. You can also experience authentic Mexican, Italian, and French food in the area. Some cafes and restaurants offer farm-to-table cuisine with local ingredients, while others offer fish and seafood caught that day.

You can try almost everything you desire in this area of Southern California. Check out all North San Diego County has to offer.