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San Diego Magazine /  San Diego Covered /  Major Attractions /  Del Mar

Del Mar

If picturesque seaside communities alongside miles of beaches sounds appealing, then a day in seaside North County is just the ticket. Among the charming coastal towns are two standouts, each with a unique atmosphere.

The village of Del Mar, with its small-town flavor and upscale shops and restaurants, is the official starting point for your North County experience. To feel like a local, take a lunch to the beach (Sea Grove Park at the foot of 15th Street and Ocean Avenue). Later, stop at Del Mar Plaza, overlooking the Pacific, to catch a famous “green flash” sunset.

A mile north, “where the surf meets the turf,” lies the Del Mar Fairgrounds, home of the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club founded by the legendary Bing Crosby. The racing season starts the end of July and runs through September with live Thoroughbred racing six days a week (except Tuesdays). Post time is 2 p.m. (4 p.m. on Fridays).

Farther north sits the eclectic town of Solana Beach. The town’s art district is a couple of blocks down from the train station on South Cedros Avenue and features everything from Southwest collectibles to one-of-a kind artwork.

Directions: A 30-minute train ride from downtown San Diego’s Santa Fe Station on Amtrak or the Coaster express takes you right to Solana Beach. By car, 20 miles north of downtown on Interstate 5, take the Del Mar Heights Road exit for Del Mar, or take Via de la Valle for the Del Mar racetrack and Solana Beach.