Hotels in Del Mar

Del Mar: Where Coastal Serenity Meets Vibrant Culture

Escape to Del Mar, California, where coastal charm meets luxury living. Nestled along the stunning Pacific shoreline, Del Mar Beach beckons with its golden sands and breathtaking sunsets. Explore the quaint Del Mar Village, filled with boutique shops, gourmet dining, and vibrant art galleries. Thrill-seekers can catch exhilarating horse races at the iconic Del Mar Racetrack or enjoy seasonal festivities at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. With its picturesque landscapes and laid-back atmosphere, Del Mar is the perfect retreat for romance, relaxation, and unforgettable ocean adventures. Experience a slice of paradise just minutes from San Diego.

Discover great hotels in Del Mar

Del Mar offers a variety of hotel accommodations, from luxurious oceanfront resorts to charming beachfront hotels. Enjoy stunning views, proximity to the beach, and upscale amenities that enhance your coastal getaway. Whether seeking a romantic retreat or a family-friendly stay, Del Mar has plenty of beautiful options to explore. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Del Mar:

1. Winners Circle ResortOpens in a new window: This 3.0-star hotel is ideal for leisure travelers seeking a family-friendly experience in Del Mar. With a focus on comfort, it offers amenities such as a children's pool and a ping pong table, creating an engaging atmosphere for younger guests. Families appreciate the thoughtful services designed to enhance vacation experiences, ensuring a memorable stay filled with fun and relaxation.
2. Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Del Mar/Solana BeachOpens in a new window: Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Del Mar/Solana Beach is a vibrant 3.0-star hotel that caters to adventure-seeking leisure travelers. Directly accessing the beach, it offers a variety of adventure sports and recreational activities, including snorkeling and windsurfing. The hotel's business center and multiple meeting rooms add convenience for those combining leisure with work, while the variety of amenities and activities cater to those looking for unique experiences in a stunning coastal setting.
3. Holiday Inn Express Solana Beach-Del Mar by IHGOpens in a new window: As a cozy 2.5-star hotel, Holiday Inn Express Solana Beach-Del Mar by IHG provides an inviting atmosphere for leisure travelers drawn to beach experiences. With direct beach access, guests can easily immerse themselves in sun-soaked days and water activities. Adventure sports options like hiking and biking nearby make it a perfect spot for those looking to explore the outdoors while enjoying a relaxed, beachside environment.

Top locations to stay in Del Mar

In La Jolla, Encinitas, and Cardiff-by-the-Sea, visitors can enjoy stunning coastal beauty and vibrant beach culture. La Jolla offers breathtaking sea views and upscale dining, while Encinitas is known for its surf culture and laid-back atmosphere. Cardiff-by-the-Sea features charming boutiques and a relaxed vibe. For first-time visitors, La Jolla is the best choice for its iconic attractions and amenities.

1. La JollaOpens in a new window: La Jolla is a stunning coastal community known for its picturesque beaches and vibrant marine life. It’s perfect for travelers looking to soak up the sun, explore tide pools, or enjoy a leisurely day at the beach. The scenic La Jolla Cove offers breathtaking views and is a popular spot for kayaking and snorkeling. Art enthusiasts can explore the local galleries, while shoppers can indulge in boutique shopping along Girard Avenue. Don’t miss the chance to visit the iconic La Jolla Shores for a more relaxed beach experience or catch a sunset at the cliffs.
2. EncinitasOpens in a new window: Encinitas is a laid-back beach town that embodies the Southern California surf culture. With its beautiful beaches, including Moonlight Beach, it’s a great place for sunbathing, surfing, or simply enjoying a beach bonfire. The town is also known for its charming downtown area filled with unique shops and cafes. For those who enjoy nature, the San Elijo Lagoon offers scenic walking trails and birdwatching opportunities. The local farmers market is a must-visit for fresh produce and local crafts, making Encinitas a perfect blend of beach relaxation and local culture.
3. Cardiff-by-the-SeaOpens in a new window: Cardiff-by-the-Sea is a small, picturesque coastal community that’s ideal for a peaceful getaway. Known for its beautiful beaches, like Cardiff State Beach, it's a great spot for sunbathers and surfers alike. The town has a relaxed vibe, with local shops and eateries offering a taste of the area’s charm. The nearby San Elijo State Beach is perfect for camping and beach activities, while the scenic coastal trails provide breathtaking ocean views. If you’re looking for a quieter experience with a strong sense of community, Cardiff-by-the-Sea is a delightful choice.

Things to do in Del Mar

Del Mar enchants visitors with its stunning coastline and scenic hills, offering sun-soaked beaches for relaxation and thrilling ocean activities like surfing and kayaking. Stroll through charming village shops, enjoy vibrant festivals, or experience the excitement of horse racing. With outdoor parks and rolling landscapes, there's something for everyone to enjoy!

• Torrey Pines State BeachOpens in a new window – Discover the stunning scenery at Torrey Pines State Beach, where cliffs meet the ocean, creating a breathtaking backdrop for a day of fun. Take a leisurely walk along the sandy shores, explore the nearby trails that wind through unique coastal landscapes, or simply relax while soaking up the sun. This national park offers a bit of everything for nature lovers and beachgoers alike.
• La Jolla CoveOpens in a new window – Dive into the charm of La Jolla Cove, a picturesque bay perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The turquoise waters are home to vibrant marine life, making it an ideal spot for underwater exploration. Stroll along the scenic coastline, snap photos of the iconic sea lions basking in the sun, and enjoy the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
• La Jolla BeachOpens in a new window – Experience the laid-back vibe of La Jolla Beach, where soft sands invite you to unwind. Whether you're building sandcastles, playing beach volleyball, or just enjoying the surf, this beach is a great spot to spend the day. Don’t forget to check out the nearby dining options for a delicious seaside meal.
• Moonlight State BeachOpens in a new window – Make your way to Moonlight State Beach, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and wide sandy stretches. This beach is perfect for picnics, beach games, and even evening bonfires. With ample amenities like volleyball courts and picnic tables, you can spend a fun-filled day relaxing and enjoying the beautiful California sun.

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

1. Book for the cheapest times: If you're looking for an affordable getaway, consider visiting Del Mar in January, November, or December, when hotel prices are lower. To fully experience the area's rich history and culture, a stay of at least 3 to 4 days is recommended. During your visit, you can enjoy budget-friendly activities such as horseback riding, horseracing, and relaxing on the beach. Additionally, you can explore local excursions, participate in festivals, dine at charming cafes, and indulge in some shopping—all great value for money options in this beautiful coastal town.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Del Mar, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay updated on flash sales and special promotions, helping you seize opportunities to save. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window feature in the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, so you're more likely to see the best options available. With these tools, you could be the first to know about price drops or new room availability for your spontaneous getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors like the hotel’s location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on your stay at a Del Mar hotel. If you’re in search of something special, boutique hotels can provide a more personalized experience and sometimes 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 on the higher side, we’ll recommend alternative dates that could help you find a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city center usually tend to be more expensive, but thanks to Del Mar's excellent public transportation options, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel further out that remains well-connected. If you're interested in exploring alternative, less crowded neighborhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, you can often find great value for your money. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.
5. Become a Member: Join for free and unlock exclusive savings on your next stay in Del Mar! Enjoy discounted rates at over 100,000 hotels worldwide, only available to members. As you advance through our membership tiers, you’ll gain access to exciting perks such as complimentary room upgrades (when available) and food and beverage discounts at select VIP Access properties. Don’t miss out on these fantastic benefits—book your next getaway today!

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.