Del Mar is a small upscale town located along the coast, just east of Carmel Valley in San Diego, California. With its scenic views and inviting community, it’s easy to see why anyone would want to visit or purchase a home in Del Mar. Here are six reasons why people fall in love with and move to this beautiful city.
1. A Rich History
This stunning beach town was first settled in the 1880s by a railroad official, Theodore M. Loop, and his wife Ella. Ella named the land Del Mar — which means “of the sea” in Spanish — after Bayard Taylor’s poem “The Fight of Paso del Mar.” In 1885, “Colonel” Jacob Taylor purchased the land from another homesteader and Del Mar was officially founded. However, the city wasn’t officially incorporated until 1959.
Taylor was savvy- he predicted that if he could build a compelling enough town, visitors would flock and some of them would become residents. He built small homes in the Del Mar real estate landscape, then added a schoolhouse, observation tower, train depot, and a water system. Taylor was also behind the first resort to exist on the shores of Del Mar - the Casa Del Mar. For decades now, Del Mar has been a prime vacation destination for folks who want to pair intriguing history with access to gorgeous beaches and year-round good weather.
2. Torrey Pines State Reserve
The Torrey Pines State Reserve contains fifteen hundred acres of natural beauty, and is one of the wildest pieces of land along the California coast. The reserve overlooks Torrey Pines State Beach, with its rocky cliffs supporting the paths on which visitors walk. Several types of wildlife and flora populate the reserve - at times, it’s even possible to view whales from the cliffs. Near the south end of the beach is Flat Rock, a massive rock that shoots straight down into the ocean. With a small on-site museum, panoramic overlooks, and ample walking trails, Torrey Pines is a lovely attraction and compelling reason both to visit and invest in a Del Mar home.
3. Pristine Beaches
Del Mar’s beaches are a large reason why both residents and tourists flock to this California gem. Del Mar City Beach is one of California's best beaches and is packed with surfers, pristine sand, and nearby amenities. Powerhouse Park and Beach is also a popular destination. With over two miles of gorgeous beaches, Del Mar is ideal for those who want to spend their days catching rays or engaging in fun water activities.
Buyers who are considering purchasing a primary home or a vacation home in the city of Del Mar or in the neighboring area of Carmel Valley, love that homes here are just 22 miles from downtown San Diego. It’s perfect for those who love beach town living, but who also commute to the city for work or for fun activities like visiting the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, Little Italy or the Gaslamp Quarter.
4. Del Mar Events
So many events, so little time! The city hosts Twilight Summer Concerts at Powerhouse Park and a Solstice Fair in June, where locals celebrate the beginning of summer. Del Mar is also home to the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, which hosts live horse racing during the summer and fall, drawing massive crowds. Attendees can enjoy placing bets, eating at on-site restaurants, or indulging in people-watching as they sip on the track’s signature Del Margaritas.
The San Diego County Fair, formerly known as the Del Mar County Fair, is also a major draw to the area. The annual fair boasts nearly 40 food vendors and 280 street vendors. For the kids, the fair offers pony rides, a magician, petting zoo and racing pigs. Along with music, food, and live entertainment all month long, iconic rides such as the Ferris Wheel offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean to the West and Carmel Valley to the East.
5. Proximity to Employers, Shopping and Dining
Another consideration for residents of Del Mar is the city’s proximity to Carmel Valley, Sorrento Valley and La Jolla which are located just minutes away. With nearby shopping, dining and award winning schools, residents have access to a multitude of services. Opportunities for employment abound, especially in the computer, technology, higher education, biotech, internet, and aerospace industries. According to Niche, Del Mar is rated second among the best San Diego suburbs for young professionals. If you are planning to purchase a house in Del Mar, you can rest assured that everything you need is close by.
6. The Del Mar School System
Before browsing Del Mar homes for sale, you might want to know more about its schools. If you have school aged kids and are searching for award winning schools, then look no further. The area falls within the boundaries of the Del Mar Union Elementary School District and the San Dieguito Union High School District. In general, education in the city of Del Mar is a priority - the teachers and staff at the local schools are dedicated to nurturing their students into well-rounded individuals.
It’s clear that the city of Del Mar in San Diego, CA is a special place to live. Originally designed as a beachfront retreat, this small town still embodies a resort-like feel while offering its residents an array of entertainment with the ocean as its playground. Imagine walking to the beach, hearing the sound of crashing waves at Torrey Pines, or watching the sunset on the patio of one of Del Mar’s finest eateries - life doesn't get much better than this!
Ready to take the plunge and explore homes for sale in Del Mar or homes for sale in the neighboring community of Carmel Valley?
Reach out to one of our trusted agents at Harden Wright & Associates for expert guidance.
As an award winning real estate team, Harden Wright & Associates has sold more than 800 homes throughout San Diego. With 40+ years of experience and extensive knowledge of Del Mar, Carmel Valley and the San Diego real estate markets, our team at Harden Wright Associates is ready to help you find your dream home, vacation home or investment property.
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