Overall Score: 6.3/10
Summary
Overall, Del Mar Beach gets a rating of 6.3/10. Del mar is a beautiful beach town with lots to be enjoyed due to the immense high quality amenities and activities available. Its enjoyable for families and singles alike and for relaxing or activities. It really does have it all. The main factors that lowered the score were the limited parking and the crowdedness that can occur. However, if you're able to enjoy a day here, especially at non peak times, there's lots to be enjoyed!
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Notable Mention
Please note that there are many different areas of the beach and different factors coming into play as some areas will be more crowded than others. Overall, Del Mar is a very nice area to enjoy a beach day.
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Scale
1 - Worst Case Scenario
10 - Best Case Scenario
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Continue reading below for an in-depth analysis of Coronado Beach and an understanding of each score. If you have any questions or think something should be added, feel free to comment below or send us a message via chat!
Parking
Navigating beach parking in Del Mar can pose a significant challenge due to there being limited street parking and few parking lots. For street parking, there are a lot of short term spots that have 15-minute or two-hour limits, making it difficult to secure all-day parking.
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During the summer months, weekends have a surge in visitors, making it more difficult for street parking. Even if you manage to find a spot during peak times, the distance to the beach may be a considerable walk. While paid lots are available, they can be relatively expensive for those planning an extended beach day.
To optimize the chances of securing a spot, it's advisable to arrive before 10 am on weekends, though even then, finding street parking can be a tough task during peak hours.
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Rating = 4/10 - Parking by the beach in Del Mar can be difficult during peak times, but when there isn't reasonable, free street parking available, there is typically paid parking available.
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Crowds
The beach in Del Mar tends to get very crowded, and its small size becomes even more limited during high tides. This can create a sense of congestion and limited space, especially during peak hours.
For those seeking a quieter experience, walking further south by the cliffs might offer a solution, as there aren't typically crowds there. However, it's worth noting that this area constitutes an even smaller stretch of beach, and it lacks amenities and nearby conveniences.
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Rating = 4/10 - It's difficult to find stretches of beach that aren't crowded, especially during high tides or in areas without having to walk far.
Amenities
Del Mar beach caters to a variety of beachgoer needs with its convenient amenities. For those in need of facilities, there are multiple bathrooms right off the beach, along with convenient showers for a quick rinse. The beachfront is adorned with restaurants, allowing visitors to enjoy a meal with a scenic view. Additionally, shops and water sport rentals are within a 15-minute walk, offering opportunities for both shopping and engaging in various water activities.
The central Del Mar area complements the beach experience with a lovely grassy area on the cliffs where people can spend the day. Benches and a playground nestled against the cliffs add to the recreational options, providing a well-rounded and enjoyable environment for beach enthusiasts of all ages.
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Rating = 8/10 -There are plenty of amenities available for use right off the beach and even more available within just a short walk.
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Safety
Del Mar is generally considered a safe area, and beachgoers can enjoy a sense of security with vigilant lifeguard patrols ensuring water and beach safety.
The community experiences relatively low incidents , contributing to an overall safe environment. While enjoying public spaces with larger crowds, it's always advisable to be aware of your surroundings, as a general safety practice.
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***Please note that the ocean is unpredictable and there can be strong currents anywhere on the beach at any time. Be sure to take necessary precautions before getting in the water and always ask a lifeguard if it is safe if you are unsure.
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Rating = 8/10 - This beach is practically as safe as it could be, but there can always unforeseen elements when in nature.
Beach Cleanliness
The beach in Del Mar offers a pleasant experience, although the quality of the sand can be a bit variable at times. When the tide recedes after rising, some areas of the entire beach may exhibit hard or mushy sand, which might not be as desired. However, despite these occasional variations, the overall cleanliness of the beach remains relatively high, contributing to a positive and enjoyable atmosphere.
Visitors can still appreciate the nice feel of the beach, with its scenic views and generally well-maintained surroundings, making it a suitable destination for those seeking a clean and inviting coastal environment in Del Mar.
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Rating = 6/10 - The beach isn't the most expansive and is heavily trafficked, making the narrow stretches more susceptible to other elements taking away from a clean feel at times.
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Water Quality
The Water Quality at Del Mar is generally the same throughout. It is generally safe to swim in the water, meaning the levels of bacteria in the water do not exceed the recommended amount. The water is tested by the City of San Diego every six days and posted on this website: County of San Diego Beach Water Quality (sdbeachinfo.com). It never hurts to check the status before going to the beach to make sure it's safe.
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It is important to note that after rain, it is recommended to wait at least 72 hours before getting back in the water due to increased contaminants and sewage going in the ocean.
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Rating = 7/10 - Typically clean, unless there is a storm. Be sure to avoid areas by river mouths and such in those cases.
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Activities
Del Mar offers a plethora of activities, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy along its captivating coastline. From the thrill of surfing and the refreshing simplicity of swimming to the challenge of paddle boarding and the excitement of boogie boarding, the beach provides a diverse range of water-based activities.
For those seeking a more social experience, beach volleyball and various beach games are readily available, adding a lively and communal aspect to the coastal atmosphere.
The array of options makes Del Mar an action-packed beach, yet remarkably, it retains a relaxing and enjoyable ambiance, catering to a wide spectrum of beachgoers and their individual preferences for seaside entertainment.
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Rating = 7/10 - There's a solid amount of activities available to enjoy, offering more than a lot of SD beaches, but it can feel like there is limited space to enjoy some of the activities.
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Del Mar
Sleep, Eat, Play, & Relax In the Water, On The Water, or Near the Water!
This site only includes information and experiences relating to everything in, on, or near the water. When in San Diego, why not experience the beach and beautiful waterfront as much as possible!? From dining experiences to accommodation options, we have everything you need to start planning your waterfront vacation in Del Mar.
Check out the best beachfront accommodation and ocean views on Del Mar!
See all the waterfront dining options available to you and pick where in Del Mar you want to eat, grab drinks, and see the blue water!
Look at all the activities available in Del Mar and enjoy the ocean by trying something new or doing your favorite activity!
Accommodation
Del Mar
Between both vacation rentals and hotels, Del Mar has quite a few options to stay in on the water! See below for the different waterfront options available when staying in Del Mar.
Disclosure: This section features several affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission if you purchase through these links. However, not all links posted are affiliate links. Click here to learn more.
Vacation Rentals
Staying in vacation rentals from sites like VRBO, Airbnb, Homestay, etc. can be a more costly option in Del Mar, but might be best if you are travelling in a large group and there is no budget for your stay. There are rentals in Del Mar with views of the water, but it can be difficult to find for a reasonable price as many of the houses are lived in, so there isn't much competition and it's a highly sought after area.
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Hotels
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L'Auberge Del Mar - This luxury beach hotel sits right in the heart of Del Mar and is within a short walking distance to restaurants and shops as well as the beach. It has expansive views of the ocean, a pool, spa, and a fitness center.
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Wave Crest Resort - This hotel is located on the bluffs over looking the ocean, and it is a quick walk to the beach. There are unobstructed ocean views from the hotel and it also has a pool overlooking the ocean as well.
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Del Mar Beach Hotel - This hotel is located directly on the beach and offers your basic accommodations. This is the only hotel in Del Mar where you can step directly onto the beach from the hotel, so you can't beat this location!
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Hotel Indigo San Diego Del Mar - This hotel is located several blocks back from the ocean, but offers views of it in the distance, which can be enjoyed from their outdoor patio. This hotel also offers a pool and is a nice property with multiple options for outdoor seating.
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There are other hotels located in or near Del Mar that are near shops and restaurants, but don't provide views of the ocean or beach. Check out Expedia or Hotels.com to see what else might be available.
Waterfront Dining
Del Mar
Del Mar has a nice amount of waterfront dining options to choose from overlooking the ocean. See below for a list of restaurants, cafes, and more right on the water.
Disclosure: This section features several affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission if you purchase through these links. However, not all links posted are affiliate links. Click here to learn more.
Oceanfront Dining
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Jake's Del Mar - This seafood restaurant is located directly on the beach and is open for lunch and dinner. The views from here don't get much better!
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Poseidon Restaurant Del Mar - This waterfront restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, and has outdoor seating in the sand directly on the beach. If you're looking to be close to the water, this is about as close as you can get!
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Monarch Ocean Pub - This restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and sits on top of a hill offering views of the ocean in the distance. They have indoor and outdoor seating available.
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Il Fornaio Del Mar - This Italian restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and has views of the ocean in the distance. There is both indoor and outdoor seating available.
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View from the patio at Jake's Del Mar
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Shimbashi Izakaya - This Japanese restaurant is open for lunch until 2pm then reopens for dinner at 5pm. You can enjoy views of the ocean in the background from their patio.
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Pacifica Del Mar - This is an upscale, seafood restaurant located on a hill with views of the ocean. They are open for lunch and dinner.
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Del Mar Pizza - This is a popular spot in Del Mar for pizza. You can see the ocean from their outdoor patio, or you can grab some food to go and be at the ocean in mere minutes enjoying an unobstructed view.
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Sbicca - This restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and offers views of the ocean from their terrace.
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Beeside Balcony - This restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and has outdoor seating available. You can see faint views of the ocean in the distance from this restaurant.
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There are several other restaurants and cafes located in Del Mar, but I only included the ones offering views of the water. There are places near many of these restaurants in the central Del Mar area that offer dining, but not with ocean views.
Activities & Tours
Del Mar
Del Mar has several activities available to do on the water or with views of the water. See below for a list of activities available near the ocean.
Disclosure: This section features several affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission if you purchase through these links. However, not all links posted are affiliate links. Click here to learn more.
Ocean-Related Activities/Tours
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Water Sports - Surfboards, boogie boards, SUPs, Kayaks, and more are available to rent to enjoy in the ocean. Additionally, many companies offer private and group surf lessons, so you don't have to brave the water alone if interested in catching some waves!
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Professional Beachfront Picnics - Want to have a romantic lunch or dinner? How about a group picnic with friends at sunset where everything is taken care of for you? Enjoy a luxurious picnic on the beach from one of the many companies offering this service.
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Bonfires - Nothing better than enjoying a bonfire on the beach after the sun goes down to end the day! There are several companies that will set everything up for you and all you'll have to do is show up.
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Don't forget you can always enjoy beach games such as volleyball, spike ball, and more when at the beach!
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Transportation
Del Mar
The best way to get around Del Mar is by car, foot, or bike. See below for more information.
Disclosure: This section features several affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission if you purchase through these links. However, not all links posted are affiliate links. Click here to learn more.
The best way to get around depends on what you plan to do, where you're staying, and the time of year. During busy times such as 4th of July, there is limited parking so using your car is probably the worst way to get around, especially at peak times.
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If you are flying into the San Diego airport, I recommend renting a car so that you can explore other areas too. There are many rental car companies to choose from at the airport.
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Walking or biking between your vacation rental or hotel to the beach and to restaurants is a great option if you can handle it.
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Overall, I believe it's best to have a car, as that gives you freedom to explore other areas without having to worry about public transport or lyfts/ubers. As long as you keep in mind where you are going and the parking situation, you should be fine. If exploring other areas nearby such as La Jolla, downtown, etc., you might have to pay to park if it is crowded.
