Only in Del Mar Village: Best Beach-Side Fireplaces to Watch the Sunset
The few precious weeks nestled between the end of summer and early autumn are one of the best times to visit Del Mar. This time of year could actually be considered Del Mar’s real summer—the crowds of tourists have left, and the weather is still amazing. Our seaside neighborhood is still warm and sunny during the day, but it finally starts to cool down at night. These late-summer-early-fall nights offer the perfect temperatures to unwind next to an outdoor fireplace. Even better, most places to sit fireside in Del Mar offer a blissful combination of ocean views and spectacular sunsets, with the sound of crashing waves providing a relaxing soundtrack to your evening. These five restaurants and bars around the Del Mar Village each have their own unique atmosphere and character. Whichever you choose, you can expect the charm and warmth that makes our village as inviting as the fire you’re cozying up to.
Tamarindo Del Mar
Enjoy some fire-inspired flavors while sitting at one of Tamarindo Del Mar’s fire pit tables on the lively corner of 15th Street. Let your taste buds blaze with delight as you savor their smoky mezcal margaritas, flame-grilled carne asada tacos, or charred Caesar salad.
Hotel Indigo
The fire pits at Hotel Indigo are simply wonderful. Even if you’re not a guest at the hotel, grab a beer or a signature cocktail and some California eats while you lounge around the multiple pits on the outdoor patio. With live, local music on Fridays and Saturdays, sweeping ocean views, and big, comfy couches, this is a place where locals come to hang out—sometimes even with their furry friends in tow, since the patio is dog friendly.
Il Fornaio Del Mar
Il Fornaio is the place to head for upscale Italian cuisine in a charming and even romantic atmosphere. Once you’re done with dinner, steal a seat along the restaurant’s fireplace table. A different take on fireside dining, Il Fornaio’s setup is a long, ledge-like table that overlooks the ocean. Here you can sip on some wine or nosh on some dessert as you enjoy the warmth. Since this hot spot isn’t really designed for lounging, we recommend heading here for a girls’ night out or date night.
Poseidon Restaurant
While technically not an outdoor fireplace, Poseidon does offer visitors the best of both worlds. The restaurant has a beachfront location with a fire pit inside. For nights when it’s particularly chilly, you have the chance to sip your libations by the fire indoors. If you do want to head out and dine al fresco, the tables out on the patio are accompanied by heaters to keep you warm.
Zel’s Del Mar
Located up on Camino Del Mar, Zel’s Del Mar’s warm, bistro-like setting makes it a neighborhood favorite. Its outdoor dining area has a central fire pit that keeps patrons warm as they dine. Happy hour, a seasonal menu, and live music every Friday night through Sunday night make it an enticing place for a casual night out during fall.
In true California fashion, Del Mar is the place to enjoy a fire and the smell of the sea, without having to endure freezing temperatures. When you find yourself fireside this fall, tag us in your Instagram pictures, @visitdelmarvillage. You can also visit us online to find other exceptional places to stay and dine in Del Mar.