Del Mar.
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The Pacific Surfliner cuts straight between the sandstone bluffs and the surf at Powerhouse Park. Del Mar smells of coastal sage, diesel exhaust, and cold ocean spray. Bing Crosby opened the racetrack turf club here in 1937, and the town still revolves around horses, kelp beds, and the steep drop down to the sand along Camino del Mar. It is wealthy, yes, but surfers still dry their wetsuits over tailgate gates before sunrise.
Last updated 22 Aug 2026
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What to do in Del Mar San Diego United States
Del Mar San Diego United States sits in San Diego, United States. Travellers usually come for coastal walks, local seafood, sporting heritage, beaches — and the guide above turns any combination of those interests into a timed plan, stop by stop, with the local context behind each recommendation.
24 hours in Del Mar San Diego United States
With one day, keep it tight. A single-day Del Mar San Diego United States itinerary built around coastal walks and local seafood gives you a morning, an afternoon and one evening stop without crossing the town twice. Select 1 Day above to see it.
2 days in Del Mar San Diego United States
Two days lets you separate the place itself from what surrounds it — adding sporting heritage on day two, plus time for a slower meal. Choose 2 Days to expand the plan.
3 days in Del Mar San Diego United States
Three days is where Del Mar San Diego United States opens up: beaches, day trips, and the things that only work when you are not rushing.
Del Mar San Diego United States itineraries by interest
Coastal Walks in Del Mar San Diego United States
Follow the dirt tracks through Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve down to the beach, or walk the bluffs from Seagrove Park along the rail line early in the morning.
Local Seafood in Del Mar San Diego United States
Order grilled local yellowtail, Pacific swordfish, or Baja rock shrimp ceviche along Camino del Mar, where kitchens let fresh catch and lime juice do the heavy lifting.
Sporting Heritage in Del Mar San Diego United States
Summer brings thoroughbred racing to Del Mar Racetrack, running live since 1937 where the turf meets the surf, with morning workouts open to early risers at 8:00 AM.
Beaches in Del Mar San Diego United States
North Beach welcomes unleashed dogs at the San Dieguito River mouth, while Powerhouse Beach offers easy grass lawns, clean public showers, and steady shorebreak.
Surfing in Del Mar San Diego United States
Paddle out at 15th Street reef for consistent lefts and rights over cobblestone and sand. Arrive at dawn before the onshore winds kick up around mid-morning.
Markets & Produce in Del Mar San Diego United States
Hit the Del Mar Farmers Market on Saturday afternoons at the Civic Center for Carlsbad strawberries, local avocado honey, and smoked fish right off the boats.
Hiking in Del Mar San Diego United States
Climb the Crest Canyon Trail through coastal sage scrub and chaparral, connecting the upper neighborhoods to the San Dieguito River valley with zero crowds.
Architecture in Del Mar San Diego United States
Walk Stratford Court to inspect historic 1920s Tudor Revival cottages, stone bungalows, and mid-century seaside villas tucked beneath the rare Torrey pine canopy.
Day Trips in Del Mar San Diego United States
Take Highway 101 north through Solana Beach and Encinitas for taco stands, or head ten minutes east to the polo fields and citrus groves of Rancho Santa Fe.
Craft Beer in Del Mar San Diego United States
San Diego County is craft beer country. Order cold pints of local West Coast IPAs heavy on Simcoe and Citra hops on open-air patios along Camino del Mar.
Birdwatching in Del Mar San Diego United States
The San Dieguito Lagoon wetland restoration trails host osprey, great blue herons, and snowy egrets foraging the tidal flats just east of the Jimmy Durante blvd.
Wine & Vineyards in Del Mar San Diego United States
Sample regional California coastal Pinot Noir and crisp Santa Barbara County Chardonnay on sidewalk tasting terraces without needing to drive into the valleys.