Welcome to Del Mar, a charming coastal gem in Southern California known for its breathtaking beaches, vibrant lifestyle, and of course, the historic Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, the home to the 2024 Breeders’ Cup World Championships. Opened in 1937, this oceanside racetrack draws visitors from all over to watch world-class racing while also enjoying everything that San Diego has to offer.

In between those big race days, unwind by strolling along the stunning coastline, visiting a wide array of museums, or grabbing a bite while enjoying ocean breezes. With a perfect blend of beaches, shopping, and more, the area around Del Mar has something for everyone.

Del Mar truly is where the turf meets the surf. (Eclipse Sportswire)

Things to Do

Of course, Del Mar’s proximity to the beach makes those areas around the track a must-see for visitors. The nearby coastline areas offer opportunities to go paddleboarding in the Pacific Ocean, try your hand at riding waves, or take in a sandy sunset walk.

Ride a roller coaster at LEGOLAND!

If theme parks are your jam, the San Diego area offers several that will please the young people and the young at heart in your group. Drive 20 minutes up the coast to Carlsbad to visit Legoland, where you can go digging in Dino Valley and go on the LEGO Factory tour, where you get to see how a LEGO break is made. From Del Mar, drive south to spend a day at Sea World San Diego where you can get up close and personal with a beluga whale, pet a penguin, or get your heart pumping on one of five roller coasters.

Speaking of animals, the famed San Diego Zoo is 25 minutes south of the racetrack, a short drive to see species from a variety of natural habitats and climes, including friends from Down Under. The Zoo’s Safari Park in Escondido also offers visitors opportunities to experience rhinos, cheetahs, and more as they tour the park and learn more about its conservation efforts.

The Zoo is just one part of another San Diego iconic destination: Balboa Park. The 1200-acre park features 16 museums, beautiful gardens, and other attractions for everyone in your group. Go hands-on at the Fleet Science Center, relive more than five decades of popular culture memories at the Comic-Con Museum, or take in six millennia’s worth of art at the San Diego Museum of Art.

After the day’s racing, take in some great live music at venues like The Sound, The Music Box, and Belly Up. Whatever your musical tastes, chances are you will find a beat you can move to at one of these great locations.

Places to Eat

When you are ready to refuel after taking in the sights and sounds around Del Mar, find a coterie of spots to satisfy whatever cuisine floats your boat. From breweries to racetracker favorites, the area is guaranteed to have something that will appeal to every taste.

Start your day with breakfast at places like the Liquid Bean Café, the Nectarine Grove, or Ki’s Restaurant. With your choice of coffee and smoothies plus wraps and other goodies, enjoy the local flavors as you prepare for the day ahead.

Plenty of places to grab a drink in Del Mar. (Eclipse Sportswire)

For your midday meal and later, this part of San Diego offers a cascade of cuisines to choose from. Check out Tamarindo or Tony’s Jacal for savory Mexican flavors or try local beers at Board and Brew and its menu of sandwiches and beers or check out Viewpoint Brewing Company for its shareables and craft brews. The Del Mar area also features its share of eateries with both surf and turf options. Restaurants like Ranch 45, Market Restaurant + Bar, and Poseidon have menus with options for those who want to taste the best that nearby ocean waters have or maybe dine on some locally sourced beef and other proteins.

If you are looking for more high-end fare to celebrate a special occasion like the Breeders’ Cup, Jake’s offers surf and turf options like ceviche, scallops, and filet mignon while Steak 48 has caviar, Wagyu beef, and more exclusive options.

Blend your shopping and eating experiences at the Del Mar Plaza, Flower Hill Promenade, or One Paseo. Each of these locales features a range of restaurants to choose from as well as shops and other places to experience what this part of southern California has to offer. Get a taste of the food and fun that brings fans to Del Mar every year.

Of course, you have traveled all of this way to experience the best of the best that this year’s racing has to offer, to see 2024’s equine superstars while also celebrating the people behind them. If you want to extend your racetrack experience to dinner, check out The Brigantine, Pamplemousse Grille, or Red Tracton’s Steakhouse. All offer menus rich with options for any diner while also giving fans a chance to see winning jockeys, trainers, or owners as well.

Make your reservations as soon as possible to secure your spots.

Enjoying Your Stay

As you plan your visit to Del Mar and the Breeders’ Cup, bear in mind the logistics of getting around the area while you are there.

Logistics and attire are two things to consider at Del Mar. (Eclipse Sportswire)

First, San Diego’s public transportation system is not as robust as some areas, so relying on rideshare services like Uber or Lyft or renting a car will make getting around much easier. Del Mar has a designated area for rideshares, saving you the headache of parking at the racetrack. If you plan to spend several days in the area, renting a car will offer you the most flexibility.

November in San Diego means layers whether you are at the racetrack or touring the San Diego Zoo. Because the racetrack is close to the ocean, mornings will be cooler with a layer of mist that burns off as the sun comes up. Those cool starts to the day will give way to afternoon temperatures in the 60s and 70s. Incorporate layers like a jacket or a wrap into your Breeders’ Cup Friday and Saturday outfits to ensure comfort whether you are loving the sun or the shade.

Taking in this year’s Breeders’ Cup at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club is a chance to blend world-class horse racing with the best eats and treats that Southern California has to offer. From savoring fine cuisine at the area’s renowned eateries to taking in the breathtaking coastal scenery, you’re sure to find activities and experiences that will make your trip to “where the surf meets the turf” an unforgettable one.