Stay In Del Mar, Play In San Diego

Visitors to San Diego will find that Del Mar, California is the ideal home base for exploring the beach and beyond. San Diego’s theme parks, museums, famed Gaslamp Quarter and Convention Center, and other attractions are just a short drive away from centrally-located Del Mar.

Here’s a quick look at what to do in Del Mar and greater San Diego:

Day 1:

Arrive in Del Mar via convenient freeway access from San Diego International Airport or neighboring Southern California locales; Del Mar is just 30 minutes north of the airport, 90 minutes south of Los Angeles, and 2 hours east of Palm Springs.

Check into your ocean-view hotel and take a stroll around Del Mar Village, the collection of shops, restaurants and art galleries nestled along Del Mar’s “Main Street,” Camino Del Mar. Then grab a snack at Hotel Indigo’s Oceanview Bar & Grill!

Day 2:

Visit the famous Del Mar Racetrack or Fairgrounds, taking in a thrilling horse race, summer concert or event – See Del Mar Events Calendar for the latest happenings.

Hankering for the great outdoors? Try a round of golf at the exclusive Torrey Pines Golf Course or spend the day exploring Balboa Park, where stunning gardens are interspersed with museums, performing arts venues and historic sites – highlights include the San Diego Air & Space Museum, Art Institute and Old Globe Theatre, which is a replica of Shakespeare’s renowned stage.

As the sun sets, hit the Gaslamp Quarter in Downtown San Diego for a taste of San Diego nightlife. This historic center has evolved into a thriving entertainment district, replete with bustling nightclubs, cocktail lounges and music venues. Not your style? Head back to Del Mar for a glass of wine overlooking the moonlit ocean at the beachfront Jake’s Del Mar, followed by a walk along the beach under a starlit sky.

Day 3:

After breakfast or brunch at one of Del Mar’s quaint cafes, get ready for adventure, San Diego-style. Love amusement parks? Spend the day at one of several famous San Diego theme parks, including SeaWorld, Legoland, San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Prefer something a little out of the ordinary? How about hang-gliding or a hot air balloon ride? Check out these and other unique things to do in Del Mar.

Let’s not forget San Diego’s biggest attraction — it’s beaches. Del Mar boasts two miles of uninterrupted coastline with multiple access points for an easy day of sun, surf and sea. So, if you’ve had your fill of exploring, grab a beach towel and stroll down to the shore to participate in Southern California’s favorite pastime: relaxing on the beach.