Spending time outside is part of everyday life in Del Mar. Whether you’re a longtime local or considering a move to the area, exploring the natural surroundings is one of the best ways to connect with the lifestyle. From sunrise hikes to sunset dinners with a view, this guide breaks down how to enjoy a full day of outdoor activities in Del Mar.
Morning: Start With a Walk Along the Coast
There’s no better way to begin your day than by taking in the salty breeze and ocean views along the Del Mar Beach Trail. This well-maintained path runs parallel to the sand and is ideal for a relaxed walk or light jog. You’ll pass locals walking dogs, surfers heading to the water, and early risers grabbing coffee on the go.
For those who want to walk a little farther, the path connects to Powerhouse Park, a local favorite that offers picnic tables, grassy open space, and panoramic ocean views. It’s a perfect spot to stretch, breathe, and enjoy the sound of the waves before the day gets busy.
Late Morning: Hike the Torrey Pines State Reserve
Just a few minutes south of Del Mar, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve offers some of the most iconic coastal hiking in Southern California. While technically in La Jolla, it’s a local favorite for Del Mar residents and easily accessible for a mid-morning adventure.
Choose from several trails that range in difficulty, most of which offer cliffside views of the Pacific. The Guy Fleming Trail is a short, scenic loop that’s ideal for casual hikers, while the Beach Trail takes you down to the sand for a closer connection to the coastline. Native plants, rare Torrey pine trees, and seasonal wildflowers make this area feel both wild and welcoming.
Whether you want a brisk hike or a leisurely nature walk, this is one of the most popular outdoor activities near Del Mar, and for good reason.
Lunch: Eat Outside With a View
After working up an appetite, head back into the heart of Del Mar for a lunch that doesn’t require sacrificing the view. Jake’s Del Mar, located right on the beach, offers a refined but relaxed dining experience where you can enjoy fresh seafood, crisp salads, and California wines, all while watching the surf roll in.
Prefer something more casual? Grab a to-go order from Board & Brew, then take your sandwich down to Seagrove Park for a picnic-style lunch with ocean breezes and shade from the palms. It’s laid-back, local, and exactly what a coastal afternoon should feel like.
Afternoon: Paddle Out or Cruise the Coast
Del Mar’s surf scene may be mellow, but it’s definitely part of the culture. If you’re comfortable, rent a surfboard or stand-up paddleboard from a nearby outfitter and get out on the water. Del Mar’s beach breaks are great for intermediate surfers, especially in the afternoons when the tide shifts.
Not into surfing? Try a bike ride along the Coast Highway. The route from Del Mar through Solana Beach and Encinitas offers ocean views, coffee stops, and plenty of people-watching. It’s a great way to experience the rhythm of coastal life without ever leaving the bike lane.
Late Afternoon: Explore the Village
After time on the water or the road, take it slower with a stroll through Del Mar Village. This walkable downtown district is full of boutique shops, galleries, and local cafés. Grab a coffee, browse coastal home décor stores, or unwind with a book in the shady corners of the Del Mar Plaza, where you’ll still catch glimpses of the ocean from nearly every angle.
Locals love the mix of upscale and approachable here; whether you’re shopping for something special or just enjoying a quiet moment, it’s a perfect way to transition into evening.
Sunset: Dinner With a View
As the sun dips lower, cap off your day with a sunset dinner. Poseidon Restaurant offers front-row ocean seating and a menu that highlights local seafood. Watch the sky shift from gold to pink while enjoying a cocktail or glass of wine; it’s the kind of view that reminds people why they move here in the first place.
If you're in the mood for something more elevated, Viewpoint Brewing Co. (just inland from the lagoon) offers a different kind of outdoor experience. With a view over the San Dieguito River and a rotating menu of craft beers and seasonal fare, it’s a favorite for locals who want something a little less traditional but just as memorable.
Bonus: Seasonal Outdoor Events
Depending on when you visit, you might find live music in the park, art walks, or seasonal farmers markets happening throughout the town. The Del Mar Farmers Market (every Saturday) is a great place to grab fresh flowers, handmade goods, and organic produce, all while enjoying live entertainment and a relaxed community vibe.
During summer, the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club comes alive with races and outdoor events, a unique part of the area’s cultural history that blends sport, socializing, and seaside charm.
Explore Del Mar Living with Amy Green
Del Mar is more than a place to live; it’s a place to live well, especially when you embrace the lifestyle outside your front door. From sunrise hikes and seaside lunches to boutique shopping and sunset dinners, spending a full day outdoors here offers the perfect blend of activity and ease.
If you're thinking about making a move and want to explore real estate in this incredible coastal community, connect with Amy Green. With deep local expertise and a passion for helping clients find not just a home, but a lifestyle, Amy is your go-to resource for everything Del Mar has to offer, inside and out.
