Top 9 Things To Do In Del Mar, California

things to do in del mar california
John
John 
Updated
| 6 min read

There’s always something that deserves your attention in Del Mar, California! From its recreation-based attractions, that get you up close and personal with some of San Diego’s top sights and sounds, to its opportunities for world-class relaxation and rejuvenation, you’re going to find that the distance between yourself and an easy, good time is shorter than ever before! Come for the reputation, and discover for yourself why Del Mar exists as one of California’s top renowned coastal cities!

1. Del Mar Race Track

Del Mar Race Track
Source: Photo by Flickr user Rennett Stowe used under CC BY 2.0

There’s always something to do and to see at the Del Mar Race Track. Known by locals as the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, this track hosts a variety of activities throughout the year, especially during the height of the tourist season. First and foremost, locals and visitors alike flock to the Del Mark Race Track during peak horse racing season to catch a glimpse of their favorite thoroughbred, or to place a bet on the prospective winning horse! You’re in for a treat even in you visit the Del Mar Race Track when it isn’t hosting an adrenaline-inducing horse race. The track itself also hosts a variety of concerts, charity events, and the like; those interested in taking advantage of the award-winning events venue are encouraged to check the website for the property itself, to view their constantly updated slew of exciting endeavors that are available in the region. There’s always a concert to attend, a horse race to witness, or an event worthy of your attendance at the Del Mar Race Track!

Del Mar Race Track

Address: 2260 Jimmy Durante Boulevard, Del Mar, CA 92014

Website: Del Mar Race Track

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2. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

Torrey Pines State Park Valley
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Nauticashades used under CC BY-SA 3.0

This massive natural park provides those in the area with the perfect excuse to get outdoors and to experience the very best that the wildlife of the Del Mar area has to offer you! This massive local park, which exists parallel to the California coast, contains several species that are largely indigenous to the region. Bordered by the city of Del Mar to the north and the Torrey Pines Golf Course, the space was originally dedicated as a nature preserve in 1977. The park itself exists atop a plateau, bordered on the coastal side by cliffs, and boasts a countless number of natural species. Local wildlife that routinely frequent the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve includes bobcats, foxes, coyotes, cacti, and of course, the Torrey pine. Seasonally, you can even spot whale migrations atop the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve cliffs! For an unparalleled introduction to local Del Mar wildlife, make the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve your next destination for outdoor adventure!

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

Address: 12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037

Website: Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

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3. Spa L'Auberge

Eco-SPA treatment room
Source: Photo by Flickr user Unique Hotels used under CC BY-SA 2.0

If you’re looking for an unrivaled opportunity to experience the relaxation and the rejuvenation that typify this low-key Del Mar location, you’re going to find all that and more at Spa L'Auberge! First and foremost, you should know that when you take advantage of the low rates and the high rate of satisfaction that you’ll receive exclusively at Spa L'Auberge, you’re also taking advantage of an award-winning venue! Spa L'Auberge was recently named one of the Top 25 Spas in the United States! This location takes pride in the fact that they have harnessed the healing powers of the Pacific Ocean, allowing you to experience the fullest extent of costal rejuvenation. Warm yourself by one of their top-tier fire pits and refreshment stations, and check out the diversified portfolio of treatments that the spa offers! Over ten specialized treatment rooms await your indulgence, and the Spa L'Auberge will always have the perfect spa selection for you!

Spa L'Auberge

Address: 1540 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014

Website: Spa L'Auberge

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4. Powerhouse Park

Powerhouse Park, Del Mar, CA
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Seojoohyun used under CC0

Just steps from the white sands of a beautiful Del Mar shore, Powerhouse Park is the perfect place for the entire family to rake in friendly Del Mar rays! A thoroughly family-friendly venue, Powerhouse Park is characterized by multiple wide open spaces, as well as ample opportunities for several different types of engaging recreation. There is, of course, a playground and swing set available for the youth, as well as picnic areas for larger gatherings. Powerhouse Park is the perfect place to host a local event or a social function of any kind, given its unique host of facilities that an make for a successful gathering, no matter the estimated party size or duration. Powerhouse Park is also bordered by trees on many sides, providing shady spaces all over the park for those who are looking to relax in the shade, make the most of your time in Del Mar, with a trip to Powerhouse Park in Del Mar!

Powerhouse Park

Address: 1600 Coast Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014-2354

Website: Powerhouse Park

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5. Free Flight

Parrot
Source: Pxfuel

Whenever you’re looking to experience a unique outlet for recreation, while simultaneously giving back to the local community and having an insane amount of enjoyable fun, there’s always time to visit Free Flight in Del Mar. One of the region’s primary animal shelters, Free Flight allows all visitors a chance to experience a bevy of unique wildlife. Free Flight is open to the public every day of the week, and allows passersby the chance to get to know the wonders of an exotic bird sanctuary. Free Flight also hosts regular events, both to raise money for the preservation of these species, as well as to foster a unique relationship between humanity and aviation! From parrots to macaws, you’re going to see everything under one roof. Birds here at Free Flight are also available for adoption! Come experience a frenzy of flight, at Del Mar’s Free Flight!

Free Flight

Address: 2132 Jimmy Durante Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014

Website: Free Flight

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6. Del Mar Farmers' Market

Old Farmers' Market
Source: Photo by Flickr user NatalieMaynor used under CC BY 2.0

Simply put, you’re not going to find a better combination of outdoor activity, together with the finest fruits, vegetables, and local produce, than at the Del Mar Farmers’ Market! From strawberries to locally grown corn, fine desserts to healthy beverages, there’s something for absolutely everyone to enjoy at this eclectic California farmers’ market. Taking advantage of the location’s year-round mild weather patterns, this farmers’ market is open from 1 pm to 4 pm on each and every Saturday, where come rain or come shine, local farmers and vendors will allow you to purchase unparalleled, fully organic products. The variety of offered products is constantly changing, and new vendors are constantly introduced to the mix, to make each and every trip to the Del Mar Farmers’ Market a new endeavor!

Del Mar Farmers' Market

Address: 225 9th St, Del Mar, CA 92014

Website: Del Mar Farmers’ Market

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7. Fletcher Cove Beach Park

Sunset at Cafe Del Mar (1333723058)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Alex Harries used under CC BY 2.0

Nested delicately above a plateau overlooking the glorious Pacific Ocean, Fletcher Cove Beach Park allow those who frequent its grounds to experience the best of the local atmosphere. Take in the delicate decorations of the park itself, while you are audibly soothed by the visible proximity of the crashing waves. Fletcher Cove Beach Park allows guests to enjoy its viewing deck, which offers panoramic, majestic views of the ocean from nearly all angles. Furthermore, locals and visitors alike love the wide open grassy spaces, as well as the playground. Making excellent use of its limited available space, Fletcher Cove Beach Park makes every inch count. It has has picnic tables and a basketball court for your enjoyment! It’s a wonder that with the ocean so close, the park draws so many visitors each day, those individuals who, at least briefly, wish to take advantage of an enviable location and a modern example of a well-done park.

Fletcher Cove Beach Park

Address: 111 S Sierra Ave, Solana Beach, CA 92075

Website: Fletcher Cove Beach Park

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8. Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas

Luxury seat
Source: Pxfuel

How is it possible to capitalize on a moviegoers’ experience while in Del Mar? It’s easy – I feel you’re the mind behind the Cinépolis Luxury Cimenas in Del Mar! Not only do locals and visitors alike flock to the location for a new spin on witnessing a new movie amidst world-class luxurious backgrounds. Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas takes your movie experience a full step further – you can actually order from a wide offered variety of foods and beverages while you watch the movie without leaving the comfort of your seat or missing a single riveting moment of the movie you came to enjoy! Push one button and a dedicated Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas attendant is at your seat, ready to deliver popcorn, candy, a meal, or a beverage of your choosing. It’s a new spin on modern entertainment, one you’re going to fall in love with quickly at Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas!

Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas

Address: 12905 El Camino Real K1, San Diego, CA 92130

Website: Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas

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9. Cafe Secret

Pasta
Source: Piqsels

When it’s time to take even an abbreviated respite from your action-packed day in Del Mar for a bite to eat, come check out Cafe Secret in the heart of Del Mar! One of California’s best-kept secrets, Cafe Secret is a fine example of first-class Peruvian cuisine, delivering international favorites in the form of scrumptious dishes and unbeatable food and beverage prices! It’s a culinary experience as marvelous as it is affordable. The furnishings at Cafe Secret are also enviable, with covered patio seating and simple elegance evident in the decorations throughout the property. Since its inception, Cafe Secret has earned an award-winning reputation, receiving acclaim from food critics and locals alike for its dedication to cultural masterpieces, and for its consistent delivery of sensational dishes. From its cookies and its sandwiches to its pastas and soups, there isn’t a loser on the entire menu at Cafe Secret!

Cafe Secret

Address: 1140 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014

Website: Cafe Secret

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Make coastal excellence your own

Take your experience of California thoroughly to the next level, when you make any one of these terrific Del Mar attractions the highlight of your stay! From its foods at Cafe Secret and the iconic farmers’ market, to its recreational opportunities, its well-known parks, and its thrill-inducing activities at locations like the Del Mar Race Track, there’s something for absolutely everyone to enjoy in glorious Del Mar! Make coastal excellence your own, and bask in the sheer volume of activity that’s part of California’s reputation!

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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John Gallagher is a digital marketing consultant and writer from San Diego, California. When he isn't thoroughly enjoying the writing process or pretending he thoroughly enjoys the revision...Read more

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