Mission Beach
Pacific Beach
Mission Bay
La Jolla Beaches
Coronado & South
North County
Del Mar
OB & Sunset Cliffs

Del Mar Beach

home \ site map \ Enlightened Explorer Travel \ about this site

Highlights | Logistics | Getting There | Insider Tips

Highlights

The City of Del Mar, world famous for its horseracing (July – September at the fairgrounds), has one of North County’s most popular beaches. Located just north of Torrey Pines State Beach, Del Mar’s beach is perfect for families, tourists, and surfers who enjoy its wide expanse of sand. Swimming, walking, surfing, body boarding, and even grunion hunting are just some of the activities you can enjoy at this beach. Del Mar also has two seaside parks — Seagrove and Powerhouse — both great for picnicking and stunning ocean views. Often referred to as “Malibu South,” the community of Del Mar features expensive real estate, luxury hotels, and high-end boutiques, trendy cafes, and restaurants (along Camino Del Mar / Highway 101). The Del Mar Fair, one of the largest county fairs in the U.S., runs from mid-June through July 4 and has carnival rides, games, entertainment, and exhibits.

Logistics

Del Mar has restrooms, showers, and wheelchair accessibility. Lifeguards are stationed year-round. Paid parking is available across from Powerhouse Park or try street parking near 15th Street and Coast Boulevard (metered). You can find free street parking on 17th Street; however, like most beaches during the summer, spaces fill early. At peak times, parking is scarce and traffic backs up along Coast Route 101, but it’s not a problem if you arrive a little early in the day.

Getting There

From the north, take I-5 south and exit at Villa de la Valle. From the south, take I-5 north to Del Mar Heights Road.

Insider Tips

For good reason, Del Mar is one of the most popular beach communities and San Diego County. Great beaches, fairgrounds, horseracing, and a quaint, upscale village provide plenty of activities for everyone. Powerhouse Park, with a full playground, is especially nice for families with young children. Beachgoers can also find good, cheap eats at Roberto’s taco stand on Carmel Valley Road, overlooking Los Penasquitos Lagoon.

Back to top