Del Mar, Where the Surf Meets the Turf

Del Mar, California - A view from L'Auberge Del Mar Resort And Spa, 1540 Camino del Mar shows the beautiful beaches of Del Mar, where the surf meets the turf, so they say. Del Mar is home to San Diego County Fair and has a long tradition and reputation for its beautiful beaches and great horse racing. Celebrities from around the globe have visited, dined, and watched their favorite horses race at Del Mar Race Track.

Del Mar spans two square miles of coastal land and is known for its beautiful beaches, beautiful people, and Del Mar Thoroughbred Club "where the surf meets the turf." Bing Crosby sang about old Del Mar in a song tribute, and the Golden Age of Hollywood characters such as Jimmy Durante frequented Del Mar's track, making it the place to be and be seen.

Del Mar (Spanish for "the sea") adopted its name from 19th century resident, Ella Loop, who owned a tent city by the beach along with her husband, Theodore circa 1882.

If you are looking for a place to stay while visiting the races, try the L'Auberge Del Mar Resort, the Del Mar hotels at bottom of the page, or stay next door at the Solana Beach Courtyard by Marriott. You can take the Amtrak train or Coaster to Solana Beach (the closest stop to the track) and from there, board the free, double decker bus that takes you over to the track.

Del Mar is located 20 miles north of the City of San Diego near the popular Torrey Pines State Reserve. East of Del Mar is the I-5 freeway and the community of Carmel Valley.

Del Mar and Carmel-by-the-Sea bare only a slight resemblance but they do share those unique Torrey Pines that only grow in a few climates along the California coast. They also share a love of art and you'll find an abundance of a rt galleries in both cities.

Del Mar Plaza located on Camino del Mar is filled with unique shops, galleries, boutiques and dining, and summertime concerts entertain guests visiting the intimate mall showcased with spectacular ocean view dining. Three levels of shopping and dining offer jewelry stores, fashions, gifts, home accessories, fine dining and a gourmet market. Open 7 days a week, restaurants have extended hours.

History: South Coast Land Company launched a resort with its centerpiece Stratford Inn. Theodore Loop and Jacob Taylor were two of the initial investors and promoters of what would one day become an exclusive beach destination and residential area. By the 1920s, housing tracts were rapidly being built as electricity became available to the area. Del Mar incorporated in In 1959 rather than become part of the City of San Diego.

Things to Do: Beaches provide free entertainment, summer concerts, and amenities such as public rest rooms located behind 17th Street and 25th Street lifeguard towers. Events include annual activities such as the Easter Egg Hunt, concerts and tree lighting ceremonies.

James Scripps Bluffs Preserve, Seagrove Park, Torrey Pines State Reserve and Beach and nearby Torrey Pines Public Golf Course as well as Glider Port all sport ocean views while you enjoy outdoor sports.

Del Mar Fairgrounds has events throughout the year including antique fairs, Old West conventions, horse shows, doll shows, and seasonal holiday drive-through parade of lights. 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. in the city of Del Mar, California. delmarfair.com.

Bing Crosby collected the first ticket from the very first customer to enter the grounds on opening day in 1937 and has been associated with the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club since that time. It is now one of the world's most famous race tracks. The grounds that surround the track itself are the home of the Del Mar Fair. The fair is usually the event right before racing season begins from mid June through mid September.

Dog Rules: Dogs are allowed on 6 foot leash October through May between 17th Street and 29th Street beaches but are prohibited June through September. Between of 29th Street and northern City limits - dogs are allowed on 6 foot leash June - September and without leash October through May (but under immediate voice command/control of owner or keeper). South of 17th Street - dogs are allowed on 6 foot leash all the time. Owners/Keepers must clean up after their dogs. Dog waste dispensers available at most beaches.