If you’re searching for the best things to do in Del Mar California, you’ve landed in the right place. As a San Diego local who spends way too much time exploring every pocket of this coastline (usually with my Mini Goldendoodle Louie in tow), I can tell you that Del Mar is one of those towns that punches way above its weight. It’s tiny – barely two square miles – but it’s packed with incredible beaches, world-class dining, stunning hikes, and a charm that feels like old Hollywood meets modern coastal California.
Del Mar sits about 20 miles north of downtown San Diego, right along Coast Highway 101, and it’s one of my absolute favorite day trips in the county. Whether you’re road tripping up the coast, spending a week in San Diego, or you’re a fellow local looking for a fresh weekend vibe, this guide covers everything worth your time.
Let’s get into it.
Hit Del Mar City Beach and Powerhouse Park
This is ground zero for any visit to Del Mar. Del Mar City Beach stretches for about two miles, and the sweet spot is the area around Powerhouse Park near 15th Street. The waves here are solid for surfing, the sand is wide enough for volleyball, and the vibe is relaxed but lively.
Powerhouse Park itself is a grassy stretch running parallel to the ocean with picnic tables, a playground, walkways down to the sand, and some of the best sunset views in San Diego County. I love grabbing a coffee and just sitting on the grass watching surfers catch waves at the 15th Street break.
Parking tip: Street parking is metered along Coast Boulevard, and there’s a paid lot across from the park. For free parking, try the City Hall lot at 1050 Camino Del Mar or side streets a couple of blocks inland – just read the signs carefully. Del Mar parking enforcement does not play around.
If you’re looking for more beachfront dining in the area, check out my guide to waterfront restaurants in Del Mar.
Things to Do in Del Mar, California with Your Dog
This is where Del Mar really shines for Louie and me. Del Mar has one of the best dog beach setups in all of San Diego County, and that’s saying something.
Del Mar Dog Beach (North Beach)
Del Mar Dog Beach, officially the North Beach area, runs from 29th Street north to the Solana Beach border – about a half mile of sandy coastline where dogs are the main attraction. During the off-season (day after Labor Day through June 15), dogs are allowed off-leash all day as long as they’re under voice control. That’s the best time to go.
During summer (June 16 through Labor Day), off-leash time is restricted to dawn until 8 am. After 8 am, dogs must be on leash. So if you’re visiting in July or August, set that alarm. Louie and I are usually out there by 6:30 am in the summer, and it’s honestly the most magical time – mist on the water, dogs sprinting through the surf, and practically no crowds.
Important rules: Leashes can’t be longer than six feet. You must clean up after your dog. Fines start at $285 for violations, so don’t test it.
On Main Beach (between Powerhouse Park and 29th Street), dogs are completely prohibited during the summer. Off-season, they’re allowed on-leash only, with off-leash permitted from dawn to 8 am. South Beach (Powerhouse Park to 6th Street) requires leashes year-round.
For the full breakdown of every dog-friendly stretch of sand in the county, read my guide to dog friendly beaches in San Diego.
Explore Seagrove Park for Ocean Views Without the Sand
Seagrove Park is one of those spots that visitors walk right past without realizing what they’re missing. It sits on a grassy bluff above the beach at 15th Street and Coast Boulevard, right next to Powerhouse Park but elevated with stunning bird’s-eye views of the Pacific.
There’s no direct beach access from Seagrove, which is actually part of the appeal. You get the ocean panorama, the sound of the waves, benches tucked among cypress trees, and a walking path – all without dealing with sand. It’s gorgeous for sunset, and Louie loves a leashed stroll through here. Leashed dogs are welcome, and there are bag dispensers throughout the park.
Fair warning: this park is wildly popular for weddings, especially on summer weekends. Don’t be surprised if you show up and there’s a ceremony in progress.
Hike Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
Torrey Pines is technically right on the Del Mar / La Jolla border, but every Del Mar visitor should consider it essential. This is one of the most stunning coastal hikes in all of Southern California, with dramatic sandstone cliffs, rare Torrey pine trees (one of the rarest pines on Earth), and sweeping ocean views from every trail.
The Guy Fleming Trail is the easiest option – a 0.7-mile loop with two overlooks. For something more involved, the Razor Point and Beach Trail combo gives you cliff-edge views and drops you right down to Torrey Pines State Beach via a scenic staircase.
Logistics: The reserve is open daily from 7:15 am to sunset. Parking uses demand-based pricing ranging from $10 to $25 per vehicle. The South Beach lot fills up fast, especially between 10 am and 1 pm on weekends. Get there early or use the North Beach lot off McGonigle Road as a backup.
Dog owners take note: Dogs are not allowed anywhere in Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve – not on trails, not on the beach, not even inside your car in the parking lot. This is a hard no. Leave your pup at home or with a friend for this one. You can check the official details at California State Parks.
Catch a Race at Del Mar Racetrack
Del Mar Racetrack is iconic. Co-founded by Bing Crosby in 1937, this is the place “where the turf meets the surf,” and it’s genuinely one of the most fun things to do in Del Mar, California, during the summer months.
The 2026 summer racing season runs from Opening Day on July 17 through September 7 (Labor Day), with races on Thursdays through Sundays. General admission starts at just $10, which makes it an affordable outing. Opening Day is the big event – think elaborate hats, dressed-up crowds, and a full-on party atmosphere.
The signature $1,000,000 Pacific Classic race is scheduled for August 22 this year. There are also themed events throughout the season, like Tacos and Tequila, Del Mar Wine Fest, and a new Beer and BBQ Fest. Tickets are available at DMTC.com.
Even if horse racing isn’t your thing, the people-watching alone is worth the price of admission.
Visit the San Diego County Fair
The Del Mar Fairgrounds hosts the San Diego County Fair every summer, and it’s a massive deal. For 2026, the fair runs from June 10 through July 5 (closed Mondays and Tuesdays) with the theme “Once Upon a Fair.”
Think carnival rides, deep-fried everything, live concerts, farm animals, craft exhibits, and crowds – lots of crowds. It’s chaotic in the best way. Go on a Wednesday or Thursday if you want a slightly more manageable experience. Weekend evenings are a zoo.
This is also one of those things to do in Del Mar, California, that works for literally every age group, from toddlers to grandparents.
Walk Del Mar Village and Shop Del Mar Plaza
Del Mar’s downtown village runs along Camino Del Mar (Highway 101) south of the racetrack. It’s a charming mile-long strip of Tudor- and Spanish-style buildings filled with boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and cafes. It’s walkable, it’s photogenic, and there’s good people-watching.
Del Mar Plaza is the centerpiece – a multi-level shopping and dining complex anchored by restaurants with incredible ocean views. Grab a seat on the upper terrace for sunset. You’ll find spots like Pacifica Del Mar for upscale seafood and several other restaurants with outdoor patios overlooking the coast.
For dining right on the sand, Poseidon and Jake’s Del Mar are the two heavy hitters. Both are beachfront restaurants sitting directly on the sand – a rarity along California’s public beaches. Poseidon is known for its covered patio, and Jake’s has a great brunch. If you want more options, don’t miss my roundup of the best beachfront restaurants in San Diego.
Browse the Del Mar Farmers Market
The Del Mar Farmers Market runs every Saturday from 12 pm to 4 pm year-round at the Del Mar Civic Center (1050 Camino Del Mar). It’s a certified nonprofit market with local produce, fresh seafood, baked goods, honey, international food vendors, and arts and crafts.
What I love about this one is the food court situation – you can grab Malaysian pancakes, handmade quesadillas, Thai food, or fresh pizza and eat right there. It’s more of a community hangout than just a produce run. Free parking is available in the Civic Center garage, which is a huge bonus in parking-challenged Del Mar.
And yes – they even have a dog zone with treats and water, so Louie always gets to come along.
Explore Crest Canyon and San Dieguito Lagoon
If you’re looking for things to do in Del Mar, California, beyond the beach, the inland trails are surprisingly good. Crest Canyon offers gentle loops through Torrey pine groves and connects to the San Dieguito Lagoon, which is an important bird habitat and a peaceful place for a walk.
These trails are more mellow than Torrey Pines – think flat paths through wetlands rather than cliffside scrambles. They’re great for an easy morning walk, and Louie loves the smells along the lagoon. Dogs are allowed on leash on the trails around the lagoon area.
Other nearby hiking options include Scripps Bluff Preserve and the Riverpath Del Mar trail system. None of these will take more than an hour or two, and they’re perfect for rounding out a beach day with something different.
Take a Surf Lesson
Del Mar is a fantastic place to learn to surf. The waves at the 15th Street break near Powerhouse Park are generally mellow enough for beginners, and there are several local shops offering lessons and rentals.
Del Mar Surf School runs lessons for beginners, and Rusty Del Mar has both rentals and instruction available. You can rent surfboards, boogie boards, and wetsuits if you’d rather go it alone. Summer mornings before the wind picks up are the best time to catch clean, manageable waves.
Detour to One Paseo
If you want a more curated shopping and dining experience, One Paseo is a commercial development a couple of miles east of the coast that has become a local favorite. It’s got a mix of boutiques like Fjällräven and Lululemon, plus restaurants and a brewery (Harland Brewing is excellent). There’s also a self-guided art walk through the property.
It’s not beachy, but it’s a nice change of pace – especially if you need a break from the sun or want a more polished dinner option.
Things to Do in Del Mar, California: Practical Tips
Here are a few things I wish someone had told me the first time I explored Del Mar:
- Parking is the #1 challenge. In summer, free spots disappear by mid-morning. Arrive before 9 am or be prepared to pay.
- The marine layer is real. Mornings are often overcast until 11 am or noon, especially May through July. Bring a layer.
- Summer weekends are packed. If you want a more relaxed experience, visit on a weekday or during the shoulder season (September through November is ideal).
- Heat warning for dogs: Sand gets brutally hot in the afternoon during summer. If you can’t hold your hand on it for five seconds, it’s too hot for paws. Stick to morning visits.
- Del Mar is a great stop on the Pacific Coast Highway. If you’re driving the coast, make sure to check out my guide to the best stops on PCH in San Diego County.
Is Del Mar worth visiting?
Absolutely. Del Mar is one of the most charming coastal towns in all of San Diego County. It has gorgeous beaches, excellent restaurants, world-class hiking at Torrey Pines, and a walkable village that feels upscale without being pretentious. Whether you’re spending a few hours or a full day, it delivers.
For such a small town, the variety is impressive – you can hike dramatic bluffs in the morning, eat on the beach at lunch, catch horse races in the afternoon, and watch the sunset from Seagrove Park. It’s also far less crowded and easier to navigate than La Jolla, which is a major plus.
If you’re combining Del Mar with a broader San Diego trip, make sure to also check out my guide to things to do in Old Town San Diego for a completely different vibe.
What is the best time to visit Del Mar?
The best time to visit Del Mar depends on what you’re after. For the most pleasant weather and fewest crowds, September through November is the sweet spot – warm days, clear skies, and off-peak pricing on everything. Summer (June through August) is peak season with racing, the county fair, and packed beaches, but expect traffic and parking headaches.
If you’re visiting with a dog, the off-season (after Labor Day through mid-June) is hands down the best time. Off-leash rules at Dog Beach are the most relaxed, and the beach itself is blissfully uncrowded. Spring is also gorgeous, though May and June can bring the “June Gloom” marine layer that keeps mornings foggy.
No matter when you visit, mornings are almost always the move in Del Mar – cooler temps, easier parking, and better vibes all around.
How do I get to Del Mar from San Diego?
Del Mar is about a 25 to 40 minute drive north of downtown San Diego, depending on traffic. Take I-5 north to the Via de la Valle or Carmel Valley Road exit and head west to Coast Highway 101. During rush hour (especially summer Friday afternoons), that drive can stretch closer to an hour, so plan accordingly.
You can also take the Coaster commuter train to the Solana Beach station, which is just north of Del Mar, and walk or grab a rideshare into town. It’s a scenic ride along the coast and removes the parking headache entirely. The Coaster runs on weekdays and weekends with multiple daily departures.
If you’re road tripping, Del Mar is a natural stop on any San Diego to San Francisco road trip itinerary.
Are there free things to do in Del Mar?
Plenty. Most of the best things to do in Del Mar, California, are completely free. Walking on Del Mar City Beach costs nothing. Seagrove Park and Powerhouse Park are free to enjoy. Strolling through the village and window shopping doesn’t cost a dime. The Farmers Market is free to browse (though you’ll probably leave with snacks).
Even hiking in Torrey Pines can be free if you walk in from Highway 101 instead of paying the parking fee. The free docent-led hikes on weekends and holidays at 10 am are a great way to learn about the reserve without spending anything. Del Mar Dog Beach is also free – just bring your pup and enjoy.
Del Mar has an upscale reputation, but you can absolutely enjoy a full day here without spending much at all.
Can I bring my dog to Del Mar?
Yes – Del Mar is one of the most dog-friendly beach towns in San Diego. Del Mar Dog Beach (North Beach, north of 29th Street) allows off-leash dogs during the off-season and before 8 am in summer. South Beach requires leashes year-round. Main Beach prohibits dogs entirely during the summer.
Beyond the beach, leashed dogs are welcome at Powerhouse Park (they even have a doggie water fountain), Seagrove Park, the Del Mar Farmers Market, and on outdoor patios at many village restaurants. Just keep in mind that dogs are completely banned from Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve – trails, beach, and parking lot included.
For summer visits with your dog, always bring water, stick to morning hours when the sand is cool, and watch for signs posted at each beach access point. The rules are well-enforced here. Check the City of Del Mar’s official website for the most current dog regulations before you go.
Final Thoughts
Del Mar is the kind of place that makes me grateful I live in San Diego. It’s got the beaches, the food, the trails, and that relaxed coastal energy that Southern California does best. Whether I’m bringing Louie for an early morning run at Dog Beach or grabbing brunch at one of the beachfront spots, it always feels like a mini vacation – even though it’s right in my backyard.
I hope this guide to things to do in Del Mar, California, helps you plan an awesome visit. It’s one of those towns where you can keep it simple (beach, tacos, sunset) or go all out (hike, races, wine, fancy dinner) – and either way, you’ll leave happy.
If you want to keep exploring, head north to Encinitas (here’s my guide to waterfront restaurants in Encinitas) or south toward La Jolla for more incredible coast. There’s always more to see.
About the author
Written by Michelle, solo traveler and creator of Wandering California – a California travel blog covering coastal road trips, hidden gems, and dog-friendly adventures with Louie (Mini Goldendoodle co-pilot).
