Del Mar Hotels

Where the Shore Meets Serenity: Discover Del Mar's Coastal Charms

Del Mar, California enchants with its pristine, historic beach and breathtaking oceanfront deck, where the gentle sea breeze complements sunlit days. The renowned Del Mar Racetrack adds a touch of excitement, while the picturesque coastline invites leisurely strolls. This coastal gem offers a perfect blend of relaxation, luxury, and sporting thrills, making it a must-visit destination for discerning travellers.

Discover great hotels near Del Mar

Del Mar, California offers a delightful range of hotel accommodations, from stylish oceanfront hotels to charming beachfront motels. Many properties boast stunning ocean views and easy access to the beach, perfect for enjoying sun-soaked days and picturesque sunsets. Ideal for relaxation and coastal exploration, Del Mar's hotels cater to various preferences and budgets. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels near Del Mar:

1. Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Del Mar/Solana BeachOpens in a new window: This inviting 3.0-star hotel boasts a guest rating of 8.2 and offers direct access to the beach, making it an ideal choice for leisure travellers seeking adventure and relaxation. With adventure sports options nearby such as mountain biking, snorkeling, and surfing, guests can immerse themselves in the vibrant coastal lifestyle. The property’s charm is enhanced by its welcoming atmosphere and attention to detail, highlighted by the clean pool area. Travellers appreciate the great location, friendly service, and comfortable accommodations, ensuring a memorable stay.
2. Holiday Inn Express Solana Beach-Del Mar by IHGOpens in a new window: This budget-friendly hotel, rated 8.0, is perfectly positioned just a block from the beach, making it a fantastic option for those who value both location and affordability. With a focus on adventure, the hotel provides nearby hiking and biking opportunities for active guests. Recent upgrades promise an even more enjoyable experience, complemented by clean and accommodating rooms. The convenient access to electric vehicle chargers and friendly staff enhances the overall appeal, making it a delightful choice for adventurous travellers.
3. San Diego Marriott Del MarOpens in a new window: Rated 8.6, this 4.0-star hotel is a refined destination for discerning leisure travellers. Nestled in the heart of the biotech area, it offers a beautiful setting and a range of adventure sports, including kayaking and fishing. The hotel features pristine rooms and excellent dining options, ensuring a delightful experience. Guests appreciate the cleanliness and aesthetic appeal of the property, alongside the convenience of ample parking. With its modern design and exceptional amenities, this hotel is a standout choice for those seeking a luxurious getaway.

Where to stay near Del Mar

In La Jolla, Encinitas, and Solana Beach, visitors can experience stunning beaches and vibrant local culture. La Jolla is renowned for its picturesque coves and excellent dining options. Encinitas boasts beautiful gardens and a laid-back surfing vibe, while Solana Beach offers lively music and theatre scenes. For first-time visitors, La Jolla is the best choice, combining natural beauty and attractions.

1. La JollaOpens in a new window: La Jolla is a stunning coastal gem known for its breathtaking sunsets and beautiful beaches. This area boasts attractions like La Jolla Cove, where you can enjoy swimming and snorkelling alongside sea lions. La Jolla Beach is perfect for sunbathing and surfing, while the nearby Mission Bay offers a range of water activities. Nature lovers will appreciate the scenic coastal paths and birdwatching opportunities. With excellent seafood dining options, you'll find plenty of spots to enjoy fresh catches after a day of exploring. Staying in La Jolla means you'll be in the heart of these natural wonders, making it an ideal choice for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
2. EncinitasOpens in a new window: Encinitas is a vibrant beach town that perfectly captures the laid-back California lifestyle. Known for its beautiful gardens and surf culture, it's a fantastic place for those who love the ocean. Moonlight State Beach invites visitors for sun-soaked days, while the San Diego Botanic Garden offers serene strolls among stunning flora. Foodies will enjoy the local cafés and seafood spots, especially during sunset. With LEGOLAND® California just a short drive away, there’s fun for the whole family. Encinitas provides a relaxed atmosphere, making it a great choice for a beach getaway with plenty of charm.
3. Solana BeachOpens in a new window: Solana Beach offers a delightful coastal experience with a mix of cultural attractions and beach activities. Known for its lively arts scene, you can catch live music or explore local galleries. The beaches here are perfect for surfing or simply relaxing by the waves. The area hosts various festivals throughout the year, adding to the vibrant community spirit. For those who enjoy horseback riding, the nearby trails provide a unique way to explore the coastline. With a welcoming atmosphere and a range of outdoor activities, Solana Beach is a lovely option for a laid-back seaside retreat.

Things to do in Del Mar

Del Mar beckons with its sunny beaches and sparkling sea, offering delightful seaside strolls, invigorating water sports, and vibrant festivals. Enjoy a day at the racetrack or glide along the boardwalk, making it an ideal coastal retreat for a blend of relaxation and lively activities.

• Flower Fields of CarlsbadOpens in a new window – Step into a vibrant floral wonderland at the Flower Fields of Carlsbad. This stunning garden is filled with rows upon rows of colourful blossoms that create a picturesque landscape, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a family outing. Capture the beauty of nature and take some memorable photos amidst the blooms, especially during the spring season when the flowers are in full bloom.
• Windansea BeachOpens in a new window – For a quintessential beach experience, head to Windansea Beach. Known for its scenic views and gentle waves, this beach is ideal for sunbathing or enjoying a refreshing dip. The unique rock formations along the shore make for great exploration, and you can often find surfers riding the waves, adding to the lively atmosphere.
• Crystal PierOpens in a new window – Take a leisurely walk along the Crystal Pier, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. This iconic pier offers a great spot for fishing and watching the sunset. As you stroll, you'll observe the charming cottages built on the pier, adding a unique character to this coastal gem.
• La Jolla CoveOpens in a new window – Discover the beauty of La Jolla Cove, a serene bay known for its sparkling waters and abundant marine life. This spot is perfect for kayaking or snorkelling, allowing you to get up close with the vibrant underwater ecosystem. The surrounding cliffs provide a stunning backdrop, making it a favourite for photography enthusiasts.
• Moonlight State BeachOpens in a new window – Enjoy a family-friendly day at Moonlight State Beach, where soft sand and gentle waves await. This beach features picnic areas, volleyball courts, and a playground, ensuring plenty of activities for everyone. It's an excellent spot for a relaxing beach day, with opportunities for swimming and sunbathing under the Californian sun.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Del Mar

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Del Mar is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For a budget-friendly getaway, a stay of at least 3 to 4 days is recommended to thoroughly explore the area's significant landmarks and cultural attractions. Visitors can enjoy activities such as horseback riding, horseracing, and beach outings, as well as rollerskating, excursions by the sea, local festivals, and an array of dining and shopping options in charming cafes. This timeframe offers great value for money, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Del Mar.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Del Mar, begin by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may find reduced rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. It's beneficial to enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to stay updated on flash sales and special promotions, ensuring you don't miss potential savings. Additionally, Smart Shopping is a useful comparison tool available via the app, allowing you to compare hotel prices and amenities, so you're more likely to book the best option before it’s gone.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate due to various factors, including the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates may help you find a better deal on your stay at a hotel in Del Mar. For those seeking a distinctive experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised touch and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is somewhat higher, we’ll suggest alternative dates that may be more affordable to assist you in securing a good value.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city centre generally tend to be pricier, but thanks to Del Mar's excellent public transport links, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel situated further afield that is still well-connected. For those keen on exploring alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often great value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Del Mar

Del Mar experiences its lowest average temperature in February, at 56.8°F (13.8°C), while August to September are the hottest months, with an average temperature of 71.6°F (22.0°C). December is usually the wettest month. June to August are the peak travel months in Del Mar, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by no rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by no to light rainfall and sunny to mostly sunny conditions.