Del Mar

Despite Del Mar’s idyllic oceanfront setting, this little town just north of San Diego was, in many ways, born around horses. The Del Mar Racetrack was co-founded in the late 1930s by Bing Crosby, whose star power attracted an influx of his Hollywood peers and helped put the town on the map. The road leading to the track and fairgrounds entrance is Jimmy Durante Boulevard, an homage to the raspy-voiced character actor who loved the place.

Horse Racing and Other Events in Del Mar

Racetrack season still runs every summer, and during November’s shorter Bing Crosby Season. The annual summer and fall meets attract top horses, jockeys, and racing fans from around the country, making the city a premier destination for both seasoned bettors and those looking for an exciting day out. Indeed, opening Day in mid-July is one of the few times around mellow San Diego when you see locals dressed to the nines, including a parade of fabulously impractical hats. For the rest of the year, the track’s home turf hosts festivals and events like June’s county fair and the Kaaboo Music festival, which has seen the likes of Sheryl Crow, Foo Fighters, and Snoop Dogg and will return to Del Mar in 2025.

Where to Eat and Drink in Del Mar

Take a short walk from the fairgrounds to Viewpoint Brewing Co., Del Mar's first local brewery, where the tasting menu includes the house’s Del Martian Ale or the So Cal Sol, paired with small plates; watch the sunset over the lagoon or play lawn games next to the outdoor patio.

The mile-long heart of Del Mar runs along State Highway 101, just south of the track, with its mix of Tudor- and Spanish-style buildings. Along the way you’ll find plenty of places to eat, drink, or kick back, such as Beeside Balcony for delicious Mediterranean cuisine, Sbicca for a glass of wine and New American bites, and the open-air En Fuego Cantina & Grill for Cal-Mex. For sunset views, grab a chair at the shopping-and-eatery-filled Del Mar Plaza, anchored by  Monarch Del Mar, where you can enjoy live music and daily sunset toasts on its vast, elevated outdoor seating area. Restaurants right on the sand are a relative rarity along California’s public beaches, but Del Mar Beach is home to Jake’s Del Mar and Poseidon on the Beach, two longtime favorites.

Where to Stay in Del Mar

The luxury hotel L’Auberge Del Mar sits at the town center, a short walk from grassy Powerhouse Park and its adjacent surf-friendly beach. Tennic courts, Zybra beach cruisers, and pool cabanas are just a few of the deluxes amenities on offer. Hotel Indigo Del Mar, another upscale luxury option, has easy access to the beach and local attractions. For a more intimate stay, Les Artistes Inn offers uniquely themed rooms and a charming atmosphere; if proximity to the water is paramount, Del Mar Beach Hotel is the only truly on-the-beach hotel in Del Mar.

Outdoor Activities in and Near Del Mar

The city and surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor activities that take advantage of its coastal beauty and mild climate. The pristine beaches are perfect for swimming, surfing, and beach volleyball, while the nearby Torrey Pines State Reserve provides scenic hiking trails with ocean views. Golfers can enjoy a round at the renowned Torrey Pines Golf Course, while the San Dieguito Lagoon offers birdwatching and kayaking.

“What truly sets Del Mar apart is its charming village atmosphere,” says K.C. Vafiadis, a chairperson with the Del Mar Village Association, whose family has deep roots in Del Mar. “Its growth is naturally limited by the lagoons to the north and south, the freeway to the east, and the ocean to the west. Visitors are drawn to the comforting familiarity they find here, year after year.”

Shopping in Del Mar

Exploring the village on foot is a great way to stay active and perhaps pick up some souvenirs, like a stylish outfit at Jennifer Croll or a pair of sunglasses at Sunset Sunglass. If you’re in the mood to explore inland, visit One Paseo, a couple miles east of Del Mar. This commercial and residential community’s signature white cottages are home to such destination retailers as adventure-wear purveyor Roark and Swedish outdoor-goods company Fjällräven, as well as household names like Lululemon and Sephora. Make a day of it by going on the guided One Paseo Art Walk and having a meal at Tocaya Modern Mexican and a pint at Harland Brewing.

For  more inspiration on how to make the most out of your time in Del Mar, see these Visit Del Mar pieces on ocean-view restaurants, best Del Mar locations to view a sunset, boutique recommendations, and a guide to cocktails in Del Mar.