Del Mar, California, is a charming coastal town located just north of San Diego. It's a hidden gem that's often overlooked by tourists, but it's a must-visit destination for anyone searching for a laid-back and relaxed vacation.
HIT THE LOCAL BEACH
If you come to Del Mar, you've got to hit the beach! And there's no better place to surf the waves or dip your toes in the sand than at Torrey Pines State Beach. This beautiful stretch of coastline is a bit more secluded than other beaches in town and is known for its rugged, towering sandstone cliffs that rise up from the water's edge and warm to a golden hue in the late afternoon sun. If you're lucky, you can catch a glimpse of a peregrine falcon soaring overhead hunting for its next meal. Several of these noble birds nest in the cliff's hollowed-out nooks and are best visible at low tide.
Looking for a bit more physical activity? Then head to the top of those golden sandstone cliffs to the Torrey Pines State Reserve, a 2,000-acre nature reserve that is also home to the Torrey pine, one of the rarest trees in the world. A paradise for hikers, the reserve boasts more than eight miles of trails that wind through ruddy, sagebrush-covered canyons all with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean below.
For a short hike with a big payoff try the Guy Fleming Trail, a quick and easy, flat loop with two panoramic overlooks. But if you're looking for a bit more of a cardio workout, start at the State Beach parking lot and head up Torrey Pines State Park Road to the Visitor's Center. From there, hike down the Beach Trail, a rustic 3/4-mile trek with open vistas of the canyons and the Pacific. Once you hit the beach, stroll back along the water for another 3/4-miles until you arrive once again at the parking lot. Remember to time your expedition during low tide when there's sufficient sand between the cliffs and waves as the area is prone to rock slides.
SHOPPING AND DINING IN THE VILLAGE
But this beach town isn't just about the ocean. Del Mar Village is awash in surf shops, artisan gift shops, as well as restaurants and coffee shops offering everything from locally-sourced produce to hand-crafted cocktails and delicious seafood. Don't miss Carolyn's Designer Resale, a consignment shop offering second-hand and designer women's clothing, Rusty, a standout surf shop packed with the latest beach fashions and surf equipment, or the Frustrated Cowboy stocked with (what else?) a variety of western wear for men and women.
Hungry? Make a reservation at Pacifica Del Mar, a seafood-centric spot with a covered outdoor dining room with spectacular ocean views. The menu features a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including pan-seared scallops, ahi tuna tartare, and lobster risotto. For a more casual atmosphere, head over to Jake's known for their Hula Pie, a decadent dessert of macadamia nut ice cream in a chocolate cookie crust. Literally steps from the beach, Jake's has a pure beach vibe and is a great spot for lunch, dinner or brunch.
WHERE TO STAY
If you want to stay just steps from the sand, then book a room and the white clapboard Del Mar Beach Hotel. Located at the water's edge just north of the Del Mar Village, the rooms are contemporary in style (aka: coastal-chic). But if you're looking for something more upscale than you can't go wrong with L'Auberge Del Mar, a luxury resort right in the center of the village that offers magnificent views of the Pacific as well as on-site dining, outdoor pool, and spa services.
REMEMBER THE GOOD TIMES
We love Del Mar and are sure you will too. And to remember the good times, order up your own Torrey Pines State Beach poster. This is an original design, printed to order, and is available in six sizes to fit any room in your home.