Guide To Del Mar
Situated just north of San Diego, Del Mar is a small and charming coastal town which was founded in 1885 by railroad contractor Theodore Loop and rancher Jacob Shell Taylor. Despite the world famous Del Mar racetrack, otherwise known as the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, Del Mar is widely known for its pristine beaches, sunny weather and historic downtown village.
Del Mar Village
Camino Del Mar and 15th Street
Del Mar, CA 92014
www.delmarmainstreet.com
Del Mar Village is a quaint village which runs along Camino Del Mar/Hwy 101 and has over 60 shops, including upscale apparel, specialty items and art galleries. Some top shops include Loghman Jewelers, Ooh La La, Peaches En Regalia, Sunglass Hut, and Urban Beach House, where you can find the finest Del Mar lifestyle clothing and gifts for men, women and children.
Several restaurants sit in the Village as well and offer up beautiful ocean views. Many can be found at the two-level European marketplace, Del Mar Plaza Shopping Center. Indulge in a delicious Italian lunch at Il Fornaio, or if you're in the mood for Japanese tapas, stop by Shimbashi Izakaya.
Seagrove Park
1601 Coast Boulevard
Del Mar, CA 92014-2318
(858) 259-0502
www.delmar.ca
Just two blocks west of the Del Mar Village is where you'll find the stunning Seagrove Park, which sits along a bluff overlooking the ocean. If you're lucky, you might spot some dolphins which are often seen near the shore break. This picturesque park is an ideal spot to picnic, throw a ball around, or simply relax. For those looking for more adventure, follow the hiking trails to the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. The Reserve offers 2,000 acres of coastal park that will take your breath away.
Just below the park, past the train tracks, is another large grassy area known as Powerhouse Park. A great playground and the beach are at your fingertips here. During the summer months, concert goers gather at Powerhouse Park to enjoy the Del Mar Twilight Summer Concert series, which brings friends and families together for music, dancing, and picnics.
The Fairmont Grand Del Mar
5300 Grand Del Mar Court
San Diego, CA 92130
(858) 314-2000
www.thegranddelmar.com
If you're looking for a truly special stay at a luxury resort, look no further than the Grand Del Mar, which seamlessly blends the charm and sophistication of an old-world Mediterranean estate with modern décor and elegance. This serene destination is located within the Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve and is surrounded by nature and beauty. Guest rooms here and suites are spacious, beautifully decorated and offer scenic views of the champion golf course or canyon preserve. Several swimming pools are on the property for guests, and a Renaissance-inspired spa provide sumptuous ways to relax.
The jewel of the property is the resort's signature dining venue, Addison, Southern California's only Five-Star and Five Diamond restaurant, which was also named as one of the country's "Best New Restaurants of 2007. Chef William Bradley along with a passionate and skilled staff create culinary masterpieces, putting a contemporary twist on French cuisine while using fresh, local ingredients. If you're looking for an experience unlike any other, Addison is the best of the best.
Del Mar Racetrack
2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd
Del Mar, CA 92014
(858) 755-1141
www.dmtc.com
The world famous Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, otherwise known as The Del Mar Racetrack, is one of Del Mar's leading attractions. Opened in 1937, the track is the second largest horse-racing venue in the western U.S., and has been the scene of some of the best horse racing over the years. Attracting thousands of visitors each year for its beauty, charm, and great racing, the Club was actually built by a partnership of celebrities Bing Crosby, Gary Cooper and others. The seaside track sees most of its action during the months of July, August, and September, when you can catch daily races. Once winter hits, you're out of luck if you want to see some racing though, because it's only held during those 3 months in the summer. People come from far and wide to see races here, and women often wear grand hats, while men dress up too. It's the closest track the west has to Chuchill Downs, otherwise known as the venue that holds the yearly and famous Kentucky Derby.
Magical Adventures Balloon Rides
34843 Rancho California Rd
Temecula, CA 92591
(866) 365-6987
www.hotairfun.com
If you're looking for some real fun and some serious views, Magical Adventures has you covered. For an activity you'll always remember, they'll take you up in a hot air balloon, where you can share a basket ride, or get a private one with your family, or special person. Magical Adventures offers a Del Mar sunset ride, or a Temecula sunrise ride to choose from. Whichever you choose, the 1 hour excursion is sure to be memorable. During your trip, you'll fly over elegant homes, golf courses and see incredible views of the ocean.