BottleRock 2023: A Sit-Down With The Band High Noon
We sit down and talk music with one of the top emerging artists in the Bay Area rock scene after their performance at BottleRock 2023.
Adventures al fresco, eateries by the shore, and picnics during sunset—what more could you ask for while on a getaway to Del Mar?
You can never tire of splashing around San Diego, and its underrated beach cities are a testament to that. Today, we’re exploring the fun things to do in Del Mar that’ll give you the ultimate tour of the oceanside city. Adventures al fresco, eateries by the shore, and picnics during sunset—what more could you ask for while on a getaway to San Diego? Without further ado, here are the coolest things to do in Del Mar.
The famous Dog Beach in Del Mar is one of San Diego’s best pet-friendly beaches. Also known as North Beach, this fun stretch of shore is always filled with leash-free dogs and their owners running around the sands. This is the thing to do in Del Mar if you’d like to mingle with other dog moms and dads in the city.
Does your business rank among the best in California?
nominate a businessLearn more about our selection criteria and vetting process.
This small park among the residential developments in Del Mar Heights gives you a chance to escape the crowds on a tranquil hike. The short loop trail has views of the city that’ll make you swoon any day.
Tucked between towering palm trees and surrounded by panoramic ocean views, Seagrove Park is the perfect spot for an afternoon picnic. The park also has beach access, so don’t forget to pack your bathing suit to enjoy two fun things to do in Del Mar in one day.
Fresh coastal cuisine and gorgeous ocean views? Say no more. Poseidon on the Beach embodies SoCal’s laid-back sophistication perfectly—executive chef Mourad Jamal gives the state’s cuisine a unique twist. Indulge in Chilean sea bass and enjoy a pistachio-crusted Loch Etive salmon, with the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop.
As one of San Diego’s best hikes, the Coast to Crest Trail is not one to be skipped. While it’s heavily trafficked, the route is pretty wide and gives hikers enough room to trek without feeling suffocated. The views are unbelievable—make the most of this fun thing to do in Del Mar by unwinding on the beach at the end of the trail.
The Free Flight Exotic Bird Sanctuary gives you the chance to interact with colorful tropical birds in the middle of San Diego. The sanctuary aims to maintain an environment that shelters and re-socializes parrots, and you can help them by sponsoring one. To find out more, schedule an appointment and pay a visit—this Del Mar attraction is one you won’t forget anytime soon.
One of Del Mar’s primary shopping and dining destinations, Del Mar Plaza is a high-end, dog-friendly destination that’s nothing short of entertaining. You’ll find beachfront eateries, live music, and specialty boutiques that’ll make you want to shop ‘til you drop.
The nature preserve at the top of the bluff overlooking North Beach is still very much a wild stretch of land. Saved from demolition and construction in the 1970s, the overlook now stands as a top coastal photography destination. Still somewhat of a hidden gem, this awesome thing to do in Del Mar will definitely have you avoiding the cliché photo ops.
If you happen to be in this beach city on a Saturday, visit the Del Mar Farmers Market between 1 and 4 p.m. Also located on Camino Del Mar, this attraction offers everything from vegetables and potted herbs to hummus and baked goods, but you won't want to miss out on the arts and crafts.
Camino Del Mar is perhaps the most visited street in the city. This shopping and dining destination keeps Del Mar residents and tourists entertained all day, every day. Visit on an empty stomach to dine at Beeside Balcony before discovering other things to do in Del Mar this weekend.
Whether you’re a pro yogi doing a self-guided session or a newbie just looking to get into meditation, the beach is the best place to be. Companies like Yoga Del Mar offer beachside sunrise sessions that’ll have you feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day—no matter what fun things to do in Del Mar are on your itinerary.
A favorite spot for Peruvian food, Coya Peruvian Secret is a must-visit Del Mar restaurant. The fresh ingredients and authentic recipes will have you daydreaming about ceviche for days to follow.
If you happen to coordinate your visit during the summer months, you shouldn’t miss this seasonal event. The San Diego County Fair is a major tourist draw—over a million visitors have attended the festival in the past years. Come for the food, stay for the atmosphere, and enjoy your Ferris wheel ride.
Del Mar is known for hosting world-class horse racing competitions every year, from July through September. The Del Mar Thoroughbred Club is one of the biggest of its kind in the United States—it’s been a major Del Mar attraction and social hotspot ever since its establishment in the ‘30s.
If the city has a designated sunset seat, then it has to be the perfect spot to watch the sunset in SoCal. The picture-perfect spot is actually an old California-native Torrey pine carved into an artistic bench. While you might need to wait in line to take a pic at this Del Mar attraction, the views will definitely make your wait worthwhile.
Pro golfers and mini golfers alike will enjoy spending time at the Del Mar Golf Center. Sign up for a lesson, play a friendly game with your family, and watch professionals score a hole-in-one as you check out this cool Del Mar attraction.
One of the largest remaining tidal wetlands in the county, the San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve and Nature Center captivates every nature enthusiast. Trek a few of the easy or moderately rated hiking trails and become one with nature as you explore this unique ecosystem near Del Mar.
Are you or your travel companions skaters? If so, you’re going to love this thing to do near Del Mar. If you’re planning on relocating to Del Mar, La Colonia Park is a great place to find your local skate community right off the bat. Localism hasn’t been reported to be an issue at the park either, so you won’t have to worry about receiving a sour welcome.
Hiking the trails at Torrey Pines State Reserve is a must-do San Diego activity for outdoor enthusiasts. The 2,000-acre reserve in La Jolla offers plenty of awesome trails for all skill levels. Fan favorites include the Torrey Pines Beach Loop Trail and Broken Hill Trail Loop.
More of a surfer than a hiker? Torrey Pines is still where it’s at. At the half-mile stretch south of Del Mar, you’ll face consistent and powerful waves fit for intermediate surfers. Following this fun thing to do in Del Mar, San Diego, head out to the nearby Mexican eateries for quick and tasty bites (we recommend Roberto’s Mexican Food).
A few companies near Del Mar offer scenic hot air balloon rides—the perfect way to wrap up your trip. Compass Balloons and Magical Adventure are two top-rated companies you won’t regret choosing. This is how you properly bid adieu to a weekend full of fun things to do in Del Mar with style.
We sit down and talk music with one of the top emerging artists in the Bay Area rock scene after their performance at BottleRock 2023.
Coming out of BottleRock 2023 with one of the festival's most exciting performances, Starcrawler chats about how California influenced them.
The Honeyboys were the ultimate mood-setters at BottleRock 2023, impressive with their unique blend of rock, funk, jazz, and cool ocean air.
Treat your eyes with the most colorful locations the Golden State has to offer.