Del Mar CaliforniaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Del Mar, California.
1. Del Mar Beach
SCENIC COASTAL PARADISE
Del Mar Beach offers visitors a stunning stretch of coastline with beautiful views from the historic Coast Highway 101. The beach features family-friendly amenities and is known for its pristine sandy shores where visitors can relax and enjoy picnics. Each lifeguard station along Del Mar Beach includes a helpful map of Del Mar Village highlighting nearby restaurants, shopping, and services.
2. Del Mar Dog Beach
CANINE-FRIENDLY SHORELINE
Del Mar Dog Beach is a popular pet-friendly destination where dogs can romp freely along the shoreline. This beach allows four-legged companions to splash in the waves alongside their owners in a dedicated space for canine enjoyment. The dog-friendly atmosphere makes it a favorite spot for pet owners looking to include their furry friends in beach day activities.
3. Free Flight
EXOTIC BIRD SANCTUARY
Free Flight is a unique nature and wildlife area in Del Mar that provides sanctuary for exotic birds. Visitors can interact with various species of birds in a controlled environment that promotes education and conservation. The sanctuary offers a rare opportunity to learn about these magnificent creatures up close while supporting their care and protection.
4. Del Mar Racing
HISTORIC THOROUGHBRED TRACK
Del Mar Racing at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club has been hosting premier horse racing events since 1937, when Bing Crosby welcomed the track's first guests. The beautiful facility is located at the Del Mar Fairgrounds and is known for its slogan 'where the surf meets the turf.' This historic venue has become woven into the fabric of San Diego history as a summer tradition that attracts visitors from across the region.
5. Powerhouse Park
OCEANFRONT COMMUNITY SPACE
Powerhouse Park serves as a picture-perfect oceanfront recreational area in the heart of Del Mar. The park features expansive green spaces overlooking the Pacific Ocean, making it ideal for picnics and community gatherings. Adjacent to the Powerhouse Community Center, the park offers stunning coastal views and convenient access to Del Mar Village.
6. Seagrove Park
COASTAL BLUFF OVERLOOK
Seagrove Park provides visitors with dramatic views from coastal bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The meticulously maintained green space offers benches and areas for relaxation while enjoying the ocean breeze. This picturesque park is a popular spot for sunset watching, small gatherings, and wedding ceremonies with its panoramic ocean backdrop.
7. Del Mar Plaza
UPSCALE SHOPPING DESTINATION
Del Mar Plaza is an elegant shopping center featuring a collection of upscale boutiques, specialty shops, and fine dining establishments. The open-air marketplace offers ocean views and a sophisticated atmosphere reflective of Del Mar's charming European-inspired character. Visitors can enjoy quality shopping experiences and gourmet dining options with spectacular Pacific Ocean vistas from the plaza's terraces.
8. Del Mar Farmers Market
LOCAL PRODUCE & CRAFTS
The Del Mar Farmers Market operates weekly on Saturdays, offering the freshest and finest local produce, flowers, and seafood the region has to offer. This open-air market allows visitors to browse through artisanal foods and handcrafted items from local vendors. The market's friendly atmosphere provides an authentic taste of the local culture and agricultural bounty of Southern California.
9. Del Mar Fairgrounds
YEAR-ROUND EVENT VENUE
The Del Mar Fairgrounds hosts the hugely popular San Diego County Fair and numerous special events throughout the year. This versatile venue is home to the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club and attracts visitors from across Southern California for its diverse programming. The fairgrounds have become a cultural institution in the region, offering entertainment options for families and visitors of all ages.
10. Fairmont Grand Del Mar
LUXURY RESORT EXPERIENCE
The Fairmont Grand Del Mar is a stunningly beautiful AAA Five Diamond property featuring 249 luxury rooms located just a short drive inland from Del Mar. The resort showcases a championship 18-hole golf course and an award-winning spa for the ultimate in relaxation and recreation. It proudly houses Addison, the only restaurant in Southern California with a coveted Michelin rating of three stars.
11. Del Mar Village
CHARMING SEASIDE COMMUNITY
Del Mar Village offers a vibrant small-town atmosphere with European charm, featuring unique independent shops, services, and restaurants all accessible on foot. This historic area once served as a retreat for Hollywood's biggest movie stars during the golden era of the film industry. Today, the village attracts visitors seeking tranquility, breathtaking vistas, and award-winning cuisine with spectacular ocean views.
12. Del Mar Library
CULTURAL LEARNING CENTER
The Del Mar Library serves as an important cultural and educational resource for residents and visitors alike. The library offers a variety of programs, materials, and services that reflect the community's interests and needs. Its convenient location within Del Mar makes it easily accessible for those seeking knowledge, entertainment, or a quiet place to read and study.
13. Children's Playground
FAMILY FUN ZONE
The Children's Playground, also known locally as the Tot Lot, provides families with a dedicated recreational space for young children. The playground features age-appropriate equipment designed for safe and engaging play experiences. This family-friendly attraction offers a perfect spot for kids to burn energy while parents enjoy the charming surroundings of Del Mar.
14. Beaches & Bluffs Coastal Driving Tour
SCENIC SHORELINE EXPLORATION
The Beaches & Bluffs Coastal Driving Tour takes visitors along San Diego's ultimate coastal route, showcasing dramatic cliffs and stunning ocean vistas. This self-guided experience allows travelers to discover hidden gems and panoramic viewpoints at their own pace. The tour provides a comprehensive way to experience Del Mar's natural beauty and surrounding coastal areas from the comfort of your vehicle.
15. Solana Beach Electric Bike Tour
COASTAL CYCLING ADVENTURE
The Solana Beach Electric Bike Tour offers a unique way to explore the stunning coastline near Del Mar with minimal physical exertion. Participants can cruise along scenic routes with the assistance of electric bikes, making the journey accessible to riders of various fitness levels. The tour provides opportunities to discover local landmarks, beaches, and viewpoints while enjoying the fresh ocean air.