Outdoor movie nights in Del Mar are the summer tradition you didn’t know you needed. Imagine the Pacific breeze, a sky full of stars, and your favorite film flickering on a big screen. Whether you’re a Del Mar local or just visiting, these events are a must for anyone who loves movies, snacks, and a little bit of ocean magic.
Cinema by the Sea: Del Mar’s Signature Movie Night
Del Mar Foundation’s Cinema by the Sea is the main event for outdoor movie lovers. The first movie of the summer takes place right on the sand in May, with the rest of the series lighting up Powerhouse Park. These screenings are perfect for families, couples, and groups of friends looking for a relaxed night out. Registration is required, so join the Del Mar Foundation’s email list to snag your spot before these popular events fill up.
What to Bring: The Outdoor Movie Night Survival Kit
You don’t need much to have a great time, but a little planning goes a long way. Here’s your checklist for a flawless movie night:
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Blankets: The sand and grass can get chilly after sunset, so bring a big, cozy blanket. Bonus points if it’s big enough to share.
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Fold-up Chairs or Pillows: For those who prefer not to sit on the ground, a lightweight chair or a pile of pillows is a game-changer.
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Layers: Even in June, the ocean breeze can surprise you. Pack a hoodie or a scarf to stay comfortable.
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Friends and Family: Outdoor movies are best enjoyed with good company. Bring your crew and make it a night to remember.
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Snacks and Drinks: More on this below, but trust us, you’ll want something tasty within arm’s reach.
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Reusable Cups and Plates: Help keep Del Mar beautiful by skipping single-use plastics.
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A Camera or Smartphone: Capture the sunset, the crowd, and your group’s best movie faces.
Food for the Flicks: Local Del Mar Eats
Forget popcorn from a box. Del Mar’s food scene is packed with options to upgrade your movie night picnic.
Del Mar Farmers Market is a treasure trove for fresh, local bites. Grab a pizza from Fuego Pizza, sushi rolls from Oishi Sushi Fusion, or tamales from Gourmet Tamales. Sweet tooth? Sourpuss Donuts and Berry Fresh smoothies have you covered. Don’t forget a bag of fresh bread from Le Rendez Vous French Bakery or a tub of organic hummus from Baba Foods for easy snacking.
If you’re feeling fancy, order takeout from one of Del Mar’s standout restaurants. Pacifica Del Mar serves up seafood that’s perfect for a pre-movie feast. Beeside Balcony’s Mediterranean-inspired menu is great for sharing, and Coya Peruvian Secret offers hearty empanadas and ceviche that travel well to the park. For a family-style spread, try a “Paseo Picnic” meal pack from nearby One Paseo, which feeds a crowd and comes with all the fixings.
Movie Ideas for Every Crowd
Choosing the right movie is half the fun. Here are some crowd-pleasers for every kind of outdoor movie night:
For Families:
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Paddington 2: A bear in a blue coat brings laughs and heart to all ages.
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Kung Fu Panda 4: Action, humor, and a message about believing in yourself.
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The Little Mermaid: Sing along with Ariel and friends.
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Up: Adventure and emotion, with balloons for days.
For Friends:
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The Goonies: Treasure hunts, pirate ships, and plenty of nostalgia.
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Trolls Band Together: Colorful, musical, and impossible not to dance to.
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Wish: Disney magic for everyone.
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The Marvels: Superheroes and cosmic adventures.
For Romantic Evenings:
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The Princess Bride: Sword fights, true love, and witty banter.
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Enchanted: Fairy tale meets New York City.
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The Fault in Our Stars: For those who like their romance with a few tears.
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Beauty and the Beast: A tale as old as time, perfect for date night.
Local Tips for a Five-Star Movie Night
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Arrive Early: The best spots go fast, especially for beach screenings. Set up your blanket before sunset and enjoy the view.
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Bike In: Parking can be tricky near the beach. If you live nearby, ride your bike and skip the search for a spot.
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Bring Games: Frisbees, cards, or a soccer ball help pass the time before the movie starts.
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Layer Up: Did we mention the ocean breeze? You’ll thank us later.
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Respect the Scene: Keep noise down during the movie, clean up your area, and leave only footprints behind.
The Magic of Movies by the Sea
Outdoor movie nights in Del Mar are more than just a film—they’re a summer ritual. With the sound of waves in the background and the community gathered together, it’s a simple pleasure that never gets old. Bring your best snacks, your favorite people, and settle in for a night where the stars on screen meet the stars above.
Sources: ecoflow.com, backyardstarz.com, visitdelmarvillage.com
Header Image Source: Alex Litvin on Unsplash
