The Ultimate Del Mar Village Day Trip Guide for Summer

While every season in Del Mar offers sunny skies and amazing weather, there’s just something about summer in our seaside destination. There’s a reason so many people flock to our Village, beaches, and fair grounds every year when the days become longer and the temperatures higher. Because there’s so much to do in the summer, we’ve laid out how to make the most of a sun-filled day in Del Mar.

8:00 am — Enjoy Your Morning Coffee With an Ocean View at Pacifica Breeze

Beat the crowd and stop by Pacifica Breeze Café right when it opens. The popular spot overlooks the Pacific Ocean and the charming Village of Old Del Mar. Go ahead and order a freshly baked scone or muffin if your stomach is rumbling, and get your coffee to go so you can enjoy it out on the beach.

8:30 am —Stroll Along the Beach

While Del Mar doesn’t get too hot in the summer, a stroll along the beach is much more pleasant during the cooler morning hours before it warms up. Head down 15th Street until you reach Seagrove Park; there you can sit and relax for a bit before making your way down to the beach. Wander along the waves, watch for dolphins, and search for sand dollars until you’re ready for breakfast.

10:00 am —Sit Down for Brunch at Americana

Americana Restaurant is the cozy spot on the corner of 15th Street and Camino del Mar that’s begging you to pull up a seat and stay a bit. From countless omelet options, to a breakfast burrito, French toast, or even a bowl of cereal, you’ll find a dish to satisfy any breakfast craving you may have. It might still be early, but their drink menu is worth a glance—the Kiwi Bellini, Morning Martini, and Post-time Bloody Mary will definitely help your morning get started off right. Or keep strolling and simply stop next door at Elixir, owned by the owner of Americana, for a healthy transportable smoothie or Acai Bowl.

12:00 pm — Have Some Fun at the San Diego County Fair

Summer in Del Mar is best celebrated at the San Diego County Fair, which takes place every year at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. Whether you have kids in tow, or are visiting with your significant other or friends, the fair has a little something for everyone. The fun and festivities begin June 2 and run (almost every day) until the fireworks display on July 4. Visit the petting zoo, strap in on a few carnival rides, and of course sample plates from the food vendors. This year, we’ll definitely be lining up for Chicken Charlie’s, which dishes out Kool Aid Hot Wings, deep fried Oreos, and Chicken In a Waffle On a Stick.

6:00 pm — Catch a Summer Solstice Twilight Concert OR Unwind By the Pool

Once you’re spent on fair fun, head back to the Del Mar Village and check into your room at Hotel Indigo Del Mar. Here you can refresh or even take a siesta if need be.Once you’re ready to venture back out into the world, you can decide if you want to soak up the remaining daylight hours by the pool or grab a hot pizza from Del Mar Pizza and a growler from Viewpoint Brewing Co., and stroll to Powerhouse Park for some live music. The Summer Twilight Concert Series hosts an array of musical artists from June to September. Check the Del Mar Foundation website for dates and details.

9:00 pm — Indulge in Late Night Bites & a Drink or Two at En Fuego

Once you’re done rocking out at the Twilight Concert Series or soaking in the hot tub back at Hotel Indigo, head on over to En Fuego for some late-night bites and margaritas. By now, your food coma from the fair has probably worn off and you’re ready to fill up on a couple more drinks and maybe a taco or two. En Fuego is open until 1 am on the weekends, so you can grab a table outside (might as well enjoy the warm summer night) and indulge.A summer day in Del Mar provides endless opportunities to have some fun in the sun. Extend your stay to take full advantage of all the activities our seaside town has to offer—from surfing to hiking to a little R&R at the spa. For more information on places to stay, dine and explore, visit the Del Mar Village online.