Del Mar
Locals know it as "The Village by The Sea"
Del Mar, San Diego, CA
Nestled along the picturesque coastline of San Diego County, Del Mar is a charming seaside community renowned for its stunning beaches, upscale amenities, and a relaxed yet vibrant lifestyle.
With its blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions, Del Mar offers residents an unparalleled living experience.
Neighborhoods
Del Mar offers a variety of unique and desirable neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character and lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a beachfront retreat, a family-friendly community, or a private luxury estate, Del Mar has something to offer.
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Del Mar Village: The heart of Del Mar, featuring charming boutiques, top-rated restaurants, and stunning ocean views. Residents enjoy a walkable lifestyle with easy access to Del Mar Beach and the Del Mar Fairgrounds. The area boasts a mix of historic coastal cottages and high-end modern homes.
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Beach Colony: Located just steps from the sand, this is Del Mar’s premier oceanfront neighborhood. It features luxury beachfront estates and upscale condos with direct beach access, ideal for those seeking a true Southern California coastal lifestyle.
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Del Mar Heights: A highly sought-after residential area offering scenic ocean views and larger lot sizes. Known for its peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere, it is close to Del Mar Village and major freeways. The neighborhood is home to top-rated schools, making it popular among families.
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Rancho Del Mar: Located just east of the I-5 freeway, this area offers more space and privacy compared to coastal neighborhoods. It features large estates, equestrian properties, and gated communities, making it a great option for those seeking luxury homes with easy access to both the beach and inland amenities.
Schools
Del Mar is served by top-rated schools in the Del Mar Union School District and San Dieguito Union High School District, both known for their strong academic programs, excellent teachers, and high test scores. Here are some of the best schools in the area:
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Canyon Crest Academy: A nationally recognized high school offering a rigorous academic program, including AP and honors courses, a strong performing arts program, and a competitive athletics department. The school is known for its student-driven learning approach, fostering leadership and innovation.
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Torrey Pines High School: One of the highest-ranked public high schools in California, offering a diverse curriculum with Advanced Placement (AP) courses, an award-winning athletics program, and strong college preparation. The school is known for producing high-achieving students who go on to top universities.
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Carmel Valley Middle School: A highly ranked middle school known for its outstanding academics, competitive sports teams, and advanced programs, including accelerated math and science courses.
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Sycamore Ridge School: Consistently ranked as one of the top elementary schools in San Diego, Sycamore Ridge offers a rigorous academic curriculum, strong parent involvement, and a supportive learning environment.
Beaches
Del Mar is home to some of the most scenic and inviting beaches in Southern California. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot, a secluded stretch of sand, or an adventurous surf break, Del Mar’s coastline offers a perfect beach for every occasion.
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Del Mar City Beach: Known for its wide sandy shores and gentle surf, this is one of the most popular beaches in North County San Diego. Features picnic tables, restrooms, and volleyball courts, making it an ideal spot for a full day by the ocean.
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Dog Beach (North Beach): A popular off-leash beach where dogs can roam free and play in the waves, making it a haven for pet owners. Extends from 29th Street to the Solana Beach border, offering plenty of space for dogs to run, fetch, and swim.
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Torrey Pines State Beach: Located just south of Del Mar, this scenic beach is backed by the towering cliffs of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. Offers a more rugged and natural coastline, with hiking trails leading to panoramic ocean views.
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Powerhouse Park & Beach: A family-friendly beach with a grassy park, picnic tables, and a children’s playground. Located near Del Mar Village, making it a great place to enjoy a beach day followed by dining or shopping. A popular location for weddings, yoga classes, and outdoor concerts due to its stunning oceanfront setting.
Attractions & Activities
Del Mar is more than just a beautiful coastal town—it’s a destination full of exciting activities, outdoor adventures, and unique attractions. Whether you're into luxury shopping, hiking scenic trails, or enjoying world-class entertainment, Del Mar has something to offer for everyone.
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Del Mar Fairgrounds & San Diego County Fair: Home to some of the biggest events in Southern California, the Del Mar Fairgrounds hosts concerts, expos, and seasonal events throughout the year. The San Diego County Fair, held every summer, is one of the largest county fairs in the U.S., featuring thrilling rides, live entertainment, delicious food, and family-friendly fun.
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Del Mar Racetrack: Open during the summer and fall seasons, the racetrack offers a glamorous horse racing experience, complete with betting, dining, and special events like Opening Day’s famous hat contest.
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Del Mar Village: A charming coastal downtown area filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and award-winning restaurants. Hosts seasonal events like Taste of Del Mar, a food and wine festival showcasing the area's best dining spots.
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The Grand Golf Club at Fairmont Grand Del Mar One of the most luxurious golf courses in San Diego, offering a championship-caliber course designed by Tom Fazio. Features a stunning landscape, a state-of-the-art clubhouse, and access to spa and dining amenities at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar resort.
Dining
Del Mar offers an exceptional culinary scene, blending oceanfront dining, fresh coastal cuisine, and gourmet experiences. From casual beachside eateries to upscale restaurants with stunning views, there’s something for every palate.
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Jake’s Del Mar: A must-visit for anyone looking for beachfront dining with a view. This upscale yet relaxed restaurant specializes in fresh seafood, prime steaks, and tropical cocktails, all served with breathtaking oceanfront views. Their Sunday brunch is especially popular.
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Adelaide at L’Auberge Del Mar: An elevated dining experience located inside the luxurious L’Auberge Del Mar resort. Features a locally inspired menu with farm-to-table ingredients, fresh seafood, and handcrafted cocktails, all in an elegant coastal setting.
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Pamplemousse Grille: One of Del Mar’s finest dining experiences, offering French-inspired gourmet dishes with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Known for their impeccable service and extensive wine list.
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Monarch Ocean Pub: A casual but stylish gastropub located at Del Mar Plaza, offering craft beers, elevated pub fare, and ocean views from the patio.
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Sbicca: A charming bistro featuring a globally inspired menu with dishes like braised short ribs, fresh seafood, and house-made pastas. The rooftop patio is a hidden gem.
Events
With a mix of high-energy entertainment, gourmet food festivals, and relaxed community gatherings, Del Mar’s events offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a horse racing enthusiast, a foodie, or just looking to soak in the local culture, Del Mar’s year-round events make it one of the most exciting places to visit and live in Southern California.
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Del Mar Thoroughbred Club Horse Racing: One of the most iconic events in Del Mar, horse racing season at the Del Mar Racetrack draws visitors from all over. The Summer Meet (July–September) kicks off with the famous Opening Day Hat Contest, where attendees dress in their most extravagant hats. The Fall Meet (November–December) offers a more relaxed atmosphere but still delivers thrilling races, entertainment, and special events.
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San Diego County Fair: One of the largest county fairs in the U.S., attracting over a million visitors each year. Features carnival rides, live music, delicious fair food, agricultural exhibits, and contests. Themed differently each year, ensuring a fresh experience with every visit.
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Taste of Del Mar: A must-attend event for food lovers, featuring tasting samples from Del Mar’s top restaurants, wineries, and craft breweries. Includes live music, chef demonstrations, and local artisan showcases.
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Del Mar Farmers Market (every Saturday): A staple in the community, offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and gourmet food from local vendors. Located at the Del Mar Civic Center, providing a relaxed shopping experience with coastal breezes.
Real Estate Market Overview
Del Mar's real estate market has experienced notable trends in recent times, reflecting its status as a desirable coastal community in San Diego County. Here's an overview of the current market dynamics:
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Median Home Price: In November 2024, the median sale price of homes in Del Mar was approximately $4.8 million, representing a 22.1% increase compared to the same month in the previous year.
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Home Price Growth: Throughout 2024, Del Mar experienced significant home price appreciation, with the median listing home price reaching $4.8 million in December 2024, marking an 18.4% year-over-year increase.
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Average Days on Market: Homes in Del Mar sold after an average of 29 days on the market in April 2024, a decrease from 40 days in the same month the previous year, indicating a faster-paced market.
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Sales Price vs. List Price: While specific percentages for 2024 are not provided, the reduction in average days on market suggests that homes were selling relatively quickly, potentially close to or above their listing prices.
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Inventory Levels: In January 2025, there were 47 homes listed for sale in Del Mar, a 27% increase from December 2024.
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Price Per Square Foot: In December 2024, the median listing home price per square foot in Del Mar was $1,600, reflecting the premium value of real estate in this coastal area.