Welcome to Del Mar
Del Mar's coastline draws surfers, swimmers, and anyone who simply wants to watch the Pacific from the sand. The racetrack at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club gives summer visits a distinctive energy, with horse racing drawing crowds from across the region. Resorts in Del Mar tend to sit along the bluffs or near the beach, making it easy to move between the shore, the shops on 15th Street, and the trails above the water.
How to find the best resort deal in Del Mar
Love how easy it is to compare flights with us? The same clever search engine is an expert at tracking down deals on resorts and rooms too. Follow these tips to find the best rates fast.
Book in advance
The earlier you book, the better off you are. You're more likely to find a cheaper price on a resort and have more choice.
...Or bag a last-minute Del Mar resort deal
While prices usually increase closer to your dates of travel, some hotels lower their rates at the last minute to keep rooms from sitting empty. This generally happens more outside the busy season.
Flexible on dates? Say hello to better rates
If your dates aren't set in stone, compare different seasons or months to find cheap resorts in Del Mar. Midweek stays are often a little more affordable than weekends, so even small changes can make a real difference.
Go all-inclusive
All-inclusive resorts in Del Mar keep things simple by bundling activities, drinks and meals into the room rate. They're a good option if you plan to stay mostly on site and want to know what you're spending each day. Check if this type of stay is offered before booking.
Show discounted resorts only
Cut straight to the deals by turning on the 'Only show hotels with discounts' filter. It finds properties with special offers without the endless scrolling.
When to visit Del Mar
High and low season in Del Mar
Summer is peak season in Del Mar, roughly June through August, when the weather is reliably warm and the beaches are at their best. Visitor numbers are high during this period, so booking accommodation early is smart, especially around major racing dates at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club. The combination of good conditions and a lively atmosphere makes it the most popular window for a reason.
Fall and winter bring noticeably fewer visitors to Del Mar, and you'll generally find better availability and lower rates. The weather stays mild compared to much of the country, though some beach days can be overcast or cool. It's a practical time to visit if you prefer a quieter experience and don't mind that some seasonal offerings may be scaled back.
Del Mar is best known for its summer thoroughbred horse racing season at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, one of the most recognised events in the area. Beyond racing, local event listings shift throughout the year, so checking the official Del Mar visitor resources or the city's tourism pages before your trip will give you the most current picture of what's on.
Events in Del Mar
Del Mar Thoroughbred Club Racing Season: Horse racing at the Del Mar Racetrack is a serious local tradition. You'll find live races, seaside views, and a crowd that genuinely loves the sport. It's a full day out, not just a spectacle.
San Diego County Fair: This large fair takes place at the Del Mar Fairgrounds and draws visitors from across the region. You can expect live music, food, rides, competitions, and plenty of local flavour. It's one of the bigger fair experiences on the West Coast.
Del Mar Concours d'Elegance: Classic and vintage cars take centre stage at this car show held in Del Mar. Collectors and enthusiasts bring rare vehicles that are genuinely worth seeing up close. It's a relaxed event with a knowledgeable crowd and a strong local following.
Check local tourism boards before your trip for the latest event details.
Best 4-star Del Mar resorts
You'll find around three 4-star resorts in Del Mar, each delivering a relaxed coastal vibe without skimping on comfort. Expect well-appointed rooms, attentive service and amenities that make it easy to settle in. It's the kind of stay where you can genuinely unwind, with the Pacific Coast energy right outside your door.
Omni la Costa Resort & Spa Carlsbad gives you the laid-back resort experience without the high-end bill. With a golf course, valet parking and a sauna, it has everything you could ask for from a quality 4-star resort.
Best luxury 5-star resorts in Del Mar
The best resorts in Del Mar bring together coastal elegance and refined comfort in a setting that feels relaxed but polished. With around three 5-star options available, you're likely to find features like oceanview suites, spa facilities and curated dining experiences that reflect the area's unhurried, sun-soaked character.
Settle into luxurious living at Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa. Offering car rental options, a restaurant, a beauty salon and more, everything feels tailored toward a more indulgent trip.
Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas stands out among Del Mar's 5-star resort stays. Valet parking, a spa and a pool bar are part of what makes this place feel more elevated.
Best family-friendly Del Mar resorts
Family time doesn't have to strain your budget at Guesthouse Hotel at La Valle. This 3-star resort combines value with features that make getting away with the kids easier, such as Wi-Fi and a lounge.
Want to make the family getaway feel a little extra? Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa combines a high-end feel with family-friendly conveniences like a safe deposit box and air conditioning. Guests score this Del Mar resort over 4 out of 5 overall.
The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe is also one to consider. This 4-star option includes air conditioning and a golf course and is consistently rated highly for its cleanliness.
Best spa resorts in Del Mar
Escape the everyday with a spa getaway to Guesthouse Hotel at La Valle. This 3-star stay brings the zen, with hairdressing services and a tennis court for you to enjoy.
Need more than just a spa day? Stretch it into a spa stay at Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa. A fitness centre and a steam room are among the amenities at this 5-star resort.
Put the to-do list to one side and slow right down at The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe. Along with a spa to soak your stresses away, the wellness side of this 4-star stay includes bathrobes and an outdoor swimming pool.
Best resorts in Del Mar for couples
A popular choice with couples, Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas is a 5-star getaway that keeps the focus on the two of you. Make the most of every moment together with amenities like a sauna and room service.
It's easy to fall for Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines, with guests giving it a rating of more than 4 out of 5 overall. A fireplace and a wedding facility help make this 4-star option a good one to add to your shortlist.
L'Auberge Del Mar Resort and Spa is among the best resorts in Del Mar when romance is on your agenda. Rated 5 stars, it features massage services, a sauna and extras geared toward couples.
Best pool resorts in Del Mar
Some trips are built around keeping busy. Others are built around swim breaks. At Holiday Inn Express & Suites LA Jolla – Windansea Beach by IHG, pool time is the main event. Other amenities at this 2-star resort include air conditioning and a golf course.
Villa L'Auberge is another resort built for lazy days by the water. This 3-star stay comes with an indoor swimming pool and an outdoor swimming pool.
