6. Point of Interests
Del Mar is globally known for its fabulous beaches (nestled between sandstone cliffs and the Pacific Ocean), world famous thoroughbred racetrack, county fair, fine cuisine and unique shopping.
And now that we mention “shopping”, we highly recommend visiting Del Mar Plaza. Because this shopping center offers an upscale retail experience for those with excellent taste for fashion and food. Visitors will enjoy fine dining, unique galleries in an elegant atmosphere of fountains, sculptures and palazzo-style terraces with spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean.
For the Mother Nature lovers, Powerhouse and Seagrove are two coastal parks located above the 15th Street surf break, that are worth visiting. Both parks are popular spots for sunbathing and dining al fresco –using one of the many picnic tables or just over the nice grassy areas.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is also a beautiful spot with several hiking trails, and it is located just from the city.
North Beach, better known as “Dog Beach”, is located north of 29th Street and it stretches almost one half mile to the border with Solana Beach. This is a popular spot for dog owners because they can take their dogs to enjoy the beach all year-round, and it remains open to dogs even during summer. However, during this time, owners must keep their dogs restricted to a six foot leash.
The mouth of the San Dieguito River and a stretch of coastal bluff are part of the North Beach as well.
The Scripps Bluff Preserve perches above North Beach, from where you can enjoy 360 degree views of the coastline and the inland lagoons.
Del Mar Farmer’s Market is also a great place to visit every week. It operates year around on Saturdays from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. At the market, visitors and residents can find organic and pesticide-free fruits and vegetables, flowers and orchids, international cuisine, eggs, seafood, cheese, humus, guacamole, bread and baked goods including gluten free, chocolate, coffee, candy, granola, almond and walnut butter, honey, jam, ice cream, spices, and other specialty crops not widely grown on a large scale or found at traditional food sources.
Del Mar racetrack, located at the Del Mar Fairgrounds, is the second largest horse-racing venue in the western United States. A large multitude of events take place at this location –and not just horse racing. Some of the activities include: Family Fun Day every Saturday and Sunday, Friday Night Concerts, Giveaway Days, Camp Del Mar (which is a daycare center for children whose parents are spending the day at the track), and Opening Day at Del Mar with their famous hat contest.
The worldwide known San Diego County Fair is also held at the Del Mar Fairgrounds every summer.
