Brief History

Meaning “of the sea”, or “by the sea”, the Spanish translation of Del Mar is a perfect description of this peaceful seaside community. Where the Turf Meets the Surf. Incorporated in 1959 as a city, Del Mar is the smallest municipality in San Diego County.

One of San Diego’s finest suburbs, Del Mar can best be described as a beautiful hideaway tucked in the Northwestern area of San Diego County. Theodore Loop founded Del Mar in 1882, in what he referred to as “the most attractive place on the entire coast”. Eventually finding its legs under the direction of the South Coast Land Company and its Stratford Inn, Del Mar soon became a prominent place for Hollywood stars on vacation. Some of the more noticeable residents of Del Mar have included Desi Arnaz and Lucille Ball during their marriage in the 1950’s and 60’s, and author Michael Crichton of Jurassic Park fame.

A very relaxed and unhurried pace is what you will find in this peaceful community. With about 2.1 miles of coastal living, most of Del Mar can be easily seen without much need for a car. Its vast open spaces and lack of high rises can be attributed to the community’s desire to preserve open space.

Schools

Del Mar is home to some of the finest schools in the nation, and has received a ranking of 10 out of 10 on greatschools.net, which bases its ratings on the public school test results. Additionally, DMUSD is growing quickly, from 2 schools in 1992 to eight schools in 2007, with more expansion coming. This is a direct result of the growing population in the Del Mar/Carmel Valley area. With the most recent renovations to the oldest schools in the summers of 2000 and 2001, parents can be assured that their students are learning in the most optimum environments possible.
Part of the San Diego Unified School District
Public

High Schools

• Torrey Pines High School – tp.sduhsd.cnet
   
• Canyon Crest Academy

Middle Schools

• Earl Warren Middle School
   
• Oak Crest Middle School
   
• Diegueño Middle School
   
• Carmel Valley Middle School

Elementary Schools
 

• Del Mar Heights Elementary School
   
• Del Mar Hills Elementary School

Private

• Winston School of San Diego (4-12) – thewinstonschool.com
   

Entertainment
 

Home to the San Diego Fair (held annually from June to July), and the world famous Del Mar Thoroughbred Club’s horse races (which runs from July to September), The Del Mar Fairgrounds is one of San Diego’s major attractions for almost the entire summer season. It also hosts many other conventions and shows almost every weekend. It is a major San Diego attraction almost year-round.

For those that want to stray away from the Fairgrounds, and explore some of Del Mar’s lesser known attractions, Del Mar offers a plethora of options. From fine dining at renowned restaurants such as Pacifica Del mar, to the nightlife options such as Jimmy O’s on 15th street, there is plenty to do if you just want to relax in Del Mar. For your musical needs, the Belly Up Tavern hosts many great smaller bands, and occasionally has had larger acts, such as Jason Mraz, Michael Buble, and even Foreigner. Additionally, downtown San Diego is just a short drive away!

Restaurants

Fine Dining

Jake’s Del Mar – jakesdelmar.com – Located right on the beach in beautiful Del Mar, Jakes is known for not only their delicious food (try the swordfish, it is definitely a must!), but the amazing views and atmosphere. The friendly wait staff will definitely make you feel right at home, and the delicious selections will not disappoint. For the indecisive, the Mixed Seafood Pot is definitely a variety lover’s choice. Be forewarned, however, as parking can be scarce due to the restaurant’s popularity.

The Poseidon – theposeidonrestaurant.com – Featuring a large menu of seafood, land fare, and vegetarian items, the Poseidon has something for everyone. The ambiance of the restaurant is definitely an amazing attraction, and features a large and gorgeous outdoor dining patio, allowing people to enjoy the ambiance of Del Mar’s beautiful beach. Located near Jake’s, do not expect ample parking during busier hours.

Pacifica Del Mar – pacficadelmar.com – If seafood is your fancy, then Pacifica Del Mar is where you want to be. With accolades such as Best Seafood by AOL City Guide, one of San Diego’s 10 Most Popular Restaurants by ZAGAT, a San Diego Union-Tribune SDRA Gold Medallion Award recipient, you can be assured that you will only be receiving the finest in food while dining at Pacifica Del Mar. From lobster to rib eye to salmon, choices aplenty abound for the most demanding of tastes.

Casual Dining

IL Fornaio – ilfornaio.com – If Italian is what you’re in the mood for, try out Il Fornaio, a Del Mar favorite that features some of the most savory Italian favorites packed in an invitingly warm atmosphere. Do yourself a favor and dine here during the sunset; the beautiful views are absolutely amazing! Featuring some of the most scrumptious Italian favorites, including pizzas, pastas, you can always expect outstanding food and service!
 

Bully’s Restaurant – bullysdellmar.com - Since 1967, Bully's has been known for superior quality, exceptional value, and, of course, friendly service. Featuring its fabulous prime rib, fresh seafood, steaks, ribs, sandwiches and more, Bully’s is definitely going to have something for everyone. Open until 12:00am daily, you can definitely enjoy Bully’s later than you would most restaurants.

En Fuego Cantina & Grill – enfuegocantina.com – At En Fuego, which has been Del Mar’s spiciest spot for traditional Mexican dishes and fresh seafood for over ten years, you won’t have any problem feeding your spicier side. The restaurant’s authentic interior is complete with south-of-the-border embellishments so amazing; you wouldn’t be surprised to see a four-piece mariachi band playing up front. Notable menu items include the pan-seared snapper with roasted chilies and avocado, and the slow-roasted chicken leg served with red Chile mole. And En Fuego would not be complete without its mouthwatering carne asada quesadilla. With various desserts available, such as bread pudding, flan, and its special Bacardi brownies, it will definitely be difficult to resist the sweet temptation

Demographics

• Total Population: approximately 4,427
   
• Median Age; 44.3 years old
   
• Average Income: $155,017
   
• Crime Risk: Total Crime Risk of .04 (National Avg. = 1, 2 = twice Nat. Avg.)
   
• Less than 30 minutes away from Lindbergh Field
   
• Average Home Selling Price: $1,489,196