Nestled along the stunning Southern California coastline, Del Mar is a charming beach town with a rich blend of natural beauty, exciting attractions, and upscale experiences. Whether you’re planning a relaxing weekend or an adventurous getaway, Del Mar has something for everyone. Let’s explore the top 10 attractions that make Del Mar a must-visit destination.

1. Del Mar Beaches

Del Mar’s historic beaches offer a blend of scenic beauty and rich amenities.

Powerhouse Park, the main waterfront area, features expansive grass lawns, walking paths, showers, a playground for kids, picnic tables, and benches overlooking Del Mar City Beach.

The main stretch of beach in Del Mar, extending from 15th Street to the River Mouth, is often hailed as North County San Diego’s finest beaches. With excellent swimming conditions, intermediate surf, and convenient access points, it’s perfect for families and beach enthusiasts alike.

South of 15th Street, the coastline transforms with gentle bluffs providing a quieter, more rugged experience. During low tide, the beach is passable all the way to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, offering a seamless connection to nature.

2. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

For nature lovers, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve offers breathtaking hiking trails overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Discover unique wildlife, dramatic sandstone cliffs, and the rare Torrey pine tree. The Beach Trail is a favorite, leading hikers down to the sand for an unforgettable experience.

3. Del Mar Racetrack

Known as the place “where the surf meets the turf,” the Del Mar Racetrack is a legendary venue for thoroughbred horse racing. Open during the summer and fall seasons, the track also hosts exciting events like the Del Mar Fair and live music concerts.

4. Dog Beach in Del Mar

Dog lovers rejoice! Dog Beach has become one of the most frequented dog-friendly beaches in San Diego. Its natural beauty and inviting environment have made it a key destination for dog owners nationwide.

Pro Tip: Be sure to check out our latest article, Del Mar Dog Beach: 2025 Regulations, to read up on the city of Del Mar’s rules for when your pup can be on and off-leash during each season!

5. Powerhouse Park

This oceanfront park is perfect for a family day out. With playgrounds, picnic areas, and sweeping views of the Pacific, Powerhouse Park is a favorite for both locals and visitors. Bring a blanket and enjoy a sunset picnic!

6. Del Mar Farmers Market

Every Saturday from 12pm – 4pm, the Del Mar Farmers Market offers an array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and international cuisine. Located at the Del Mar Civic Center, it’s a great spot to grab picnic essentials before heading to the beach.

7. One Paseo

Shop, dine, and unwind at One Paseo, an upscale lifestyle center and best shopping in Del Mar. With boutique shops, trendy eateries, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s perfect for a leisurely afternoon or evening stroll.

8. Free Flight Bird Sanctuary

Get up close with exotic birds at Free Flight, a unique sanctuary dedicated to rehoming and re-socializing parrots. Interact with these colorful creatures in a serene, tropical setting.

9. Golfing at Torrey Pines State Golf Course

Perched on the stunning cliffs overlooking the Pacific, Torrey Pines State Golf Course is a golfer’s dream. This iconic course is renowned for hosting major tournaments like the U.S. Open and offers breathtaking ocean views at every hole. Whether you’re an experienced golfer or a beginner, playing here is an unforgettable experience.

10. Fine Dining in Del Mar Village

Del Mar is a food lover’s paradise. The village boasts numerous oceanfront restaurants, including Jake’s Del Mar, Poseidon, and Pacifica Del Mar. Indulge in fresh seafood while watching the sun dip below the horizon. If you’re looking for the best brunch spots in Del Mar, look no further than local-hot spots such as Pacifica or Toasted Del Mar, voted #1 on Yelp’s Top 100 Brunch Spots in the U.S.!

Plan Your Stay in Del Mar

From pristine beaches and scenic trails to world-class dining and unique attractions, Del Mar truly has it all. If you’re planning to visit, make your trip even more special by staying in one of our stunning Del Mar vacation rentals.

Browse our collection and book your dream getaway. Experience the best that Del Mar has to offer, right from the comfort of a luxurious home away from home.

Encinitas, with its laid-back coastal vibe and thriving arts culture, has become a hotspot for live music enthusiasts. From intimate acoustic sessions to high-energy weekend performances, this San Diego County gem offers diverse venues where music lovers can experience exceptional live entertainment any day of the week.

The Heart of Downtown: Historic Establishments

Roxy Encinitas

The Roxy stands as a cornerstone of the local music scene, housed in the historic La Paloma Theatre building. This sophisticated venue offers nightly live music performances (except Mondays) alongside classic speakeasy-style cocktails and thoughtfully crafted shared plates, creating an authentic atmosphere that bridges past and present. You can check out their impressive lineup of performances on their website.

Union Kitchen & Tap Encinitas

Union Kitchen & Tap brings a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere to downtown Encinitas. This community-oriented venue features three distinct dining areas and a lively main bar, complemented by reclaimed wood accents and modern furnishings, all just steps from Cardiff’s famous surf spots. Their classic American menu, crafted from fresh local ingredients, pairs perfectly with craft cocktails and local brews while live music adds to the welcoming atmosphere – you can view their entertainment schedule on their website.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Mr. Peabody’s

Mr. Peabody’s, a family-operated establishment since the 1970s, has earned its reputation as one of Encinitas’ most beloved music venues. This casual spot combines scratch-made cuisine and generous portions with affordable prices and regular live performances, creating an authentic local experience that keeps visitors coming back. Music lovers can browse their extensive performance schedule on their website.

1st Street Bar

1st Street Bar stands as one of downtown Encinitas’ longest-running establishments, offering a slice of local history with every visit. This retro-styled tavern combines the charm of a longtime local watering hole with pool tables and live music performances, which you can find listed on their website.

Coastal Vibes and Seaside Sounds

The Kraken

The Kraken, a Cardiff institution since 1976, maintains its reputation as a beloved “coastal playground” under local ownership. This iconic venue continues its tradition of hosting both intimate shows and bigger-name entertainment, maintaining its salty charm while evolving with the community – check their website for upcoming performances.

Fine Dining Meets Fine Tunes

Le Papagayo

Le Papagayo in Leucadia offers a unique fusion of Mediterranean and Latin American cuisine in an art gallery-style setting. As one of North County’s most popular fine dining establishments, this Coast Highway 101 gem combines exceptional cuisine with nightly entertainment, creating an unforgettable experience – their website features a current schedule of performances.

Whether you’re a longtime local or just visiting Encinitas, the live music scene offers something for everyone. From casual beach bars to upscale restaurants, each venue contributes its own unique flavor to the rich tapestry of local entertainment. The best part? Live music in Encinitas isn’t just a weekend affair – you can find performances happening almost every night of the week across these various venues.

Planning a trip to North County? Be sure to check out our stunning vacation rentals in Encinitas, CA! Choose from oceanfront vacation homes just steps away from all that Downtown Encinitas has to offer! Book your stay today with P.S. Platinum Vacation Rentals.

Top 10 Del Mar Attractions & Things To Do