Wake up, Del Mar! The golden days are ticking down, and sunny adventures are calling your name louder than a chorus of seagulls at breakfast. Whether you’re a local plotting one more splash or a visitor planning a breezy escape, Del Mar rolls out its beach towel for every style of end-of-summer wanderer.
Beach Days: Sand, Sun, and Dolphin-Watching
If you haven’t had enough salt on your skin yet, it’s time for another parade down the sands of Del Mar City Beach. Stretch out at 1700 Coast Blvd, where the sunshine sits a little sweeter and locals may tell tales of dolphins playing in the waves. Early risers might spot a pod surfing the breakers, especially around Seagrove Park (1601 Coast Blvd) or the bluffs off the main strand. Don’t forget a pair of sunglasses—those glimmering Pacific blues are best enjoyed with wide-open eyes.
For dog lovers, Northern Del Mar Dog Beach, between 29th Street and Solana Beach, is fair game for leash-free fetch and joyful canine chaos. Your four-legged friend will make more pals than you at this sandy dog haven.
Sunset Vibes: Parks and Picnics
When the sun dips, head for Powerhouse Park at 1658 Coast Blvd. Picture perfect doesn’t even begin to cover the view here, especially with the sky painted in sherbet hues. Summer twilight concerts (check for dates through August at Powerhouse Park) mean you can picnic on the grass while live bands send happy tunes across the ocean breeze.
Final Fairs and Races: Pure Del Mar Energy
Did someone say fried food on a stick and whirling carnival rides? The Del Mar Fairgrounds (2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd) are a playground for just about anyone, and if you time it right, you’ll catch the tail end of the San Diego County Fair—a swirl of color, music, and retro family fun. The racetrack next door isn’t just for horse fans. Whether you place a bet or sip something cold in the stands, everyone wins a dose of classic California excitement.
Seaside Shopping: The Plaza Parade
Even the most sun-drenched surfer wants a stylish souvenir, and Del Mar Plaza (1555 Camino Del Mar) is the unofficial headquarters for breezy summer shopping. Local boutiques burst with coastal flair, artsy galleries tempt with handmade gems, and terrace cafés are the spot for people-watching over an ice-cooled drink.
Farmer’s Magic: Saturday Strolls
Saturday is market day at the Del Mar Farmers Market (1050 Camino Del Mar). Trade screen time for fresh finds—get your hands on juicy peaches, cheerful flowers, and artisanal bites. Chat with friendly vendors, try something new, and create a DIY picnic to enjoy at the beach later.
Adventure Unplugged: Scenic Hikes and Balloon Rides
Ready for that heart-leaps-out-of-your-chest moment? Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is waiting just north at 12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla. Sturdy shoes and a little wanderlust are all you need to wind through sandy trails perched high above the waves. Pause for a panoramic selfie, then keep an eye out for rare Torrey pine trees that don’t grow anywhere else.
If you want a view with true wow factor, consider a hot air balloon ride at sunset. Balloons often launch from the Del Mar Coast, and from up there, the world transforms into a patchwork of sea, sand, and sunlit rooftops.
Brunch by the Waves
For brunch fans (or anyone who’s ever loved the sound of bacon sizzling within earshot of the sea), snag an outdoor table at The Poseidon Restaurant (1670 Coast Blvd). Fuel up on crab cake benedict or cinnamon rolls, with waves practically lapping at your toes.
Don’t Miss: Art and Easy Days
Slide into culture mode at the Del Mar Art Center Gallery (1101 Camino Del Mar Suite AA), where local artists brighten the day with cool paintings, ceramics, and jewelry. Take a break from the sun to browse, chat, and maybe pick up a piece of Del Mar creativity for your home.
Playful Ways to Wind Down
Grab a bike from a local shop and cruise the coast, or take a volleyball spin at River Mouth/Dog Beach. If you prefer quiet mornings, stroll North Beach for some seashell-hunting bliss. When you’re done, reward yourself with a smoothie or gelato picked up somewhere in town.
Your End-of-Summer Checklist
Ready to make the most of every sunny minute? Here’s your playful “don’t miss” list for Del Mar:
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Splash around at Del Mar City Beach (1700 Coast Blvd)
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Let your dog run wild at Del Mar Dog Beach (North Beach, between 29th St and the Solana Beach border)
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Shop, dine, and take in the view at Del Mar Plaza (1555 Camino Del Mar)
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Stroll the Saturday Del Mar Farmers Market (1050 Camino Del Mar)
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Watch the sunset (and maybe a live band) at Powerhouse Park (1658 Coast Blvd)
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Find art treasures at the Del Mar Art Center Gallery (1101 Camino Del Mar, Suite AA)
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Hike Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve (12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla)
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Enjoy a beachfront brunch at The Poseidon Restaurant (1670 Coast Blvd)
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Go ballooning for epic coastal views
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Bet on the horses or eat fair food at the Del Mar Racetrack (2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd)
Pack up—and soak in every kaleidoscopic corner of Del Mar before summer takes her final bow. There are beach days, fair lights, tasty breakfasts, and breezy concerts waiting just for you.
Sources: theeverygirl.com, haustay.com
Header Image Source: lajollamom.com
