Del Mar, California
Del Mar, California, is a top spot for outdoor adventures, boasting some of the best trails and outdoor activities. The Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a must-visit, offering scenic hiking trails with views of the Pacific Ocean, rare Torrey Pine trees, and unique rock formations. The difficulty of the trails ranges from easy to moderate, making it suitable for all fitness levels. Additionally, the San Dieguito Lagoon is a popular attraction, featuring bird-watching and walking trails alongside a peaceful river. For beach activities, Del Mar City Beach is ideal for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. These outdoor attractions make Del Mar a prime location for a variety of outdoor activities.
Top Spots in and near Del Mar
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Coronado, California
Explore Bayview Park
5.0Even though I am quite familiar with this spot, I doubt that most San Diegans have sat in the benches at this little park to take in the sunset, sunrise, or spectacular views of downtown San Diego. I'm absolutely positive that most out-of-towners have no idea that this little gem exists. I want t...Read more -
Escondido, California
Camp at Dixon Lake
2.1 mi / 295 ft gainDixon Lake is Escondido's best kept secret! A man-made reservoir located right next to Daley Ranch, Dixon Lake offers overnight camping, boat rentals, fishing, and hiking, along with picnic areas, a kids park, and more. The campground is open year-round and is located next to the lake with a lof...Read more -
Oceanside, California
Kayak the Oceanside Harbor
Sea kayaking from the Oceanside Harbor public kayak launch is one of the best ways to experience the Oceanside coast and the Pacific Ocean. There is ample parking along North Harbor Drive with the public kayak launch well-marked on the street. You can paddle around the harbor or you can go out pa...Read more -
Coronado, California
Coronado Central Beach
5.0Coronado Central Beach in San Diego is a 1.5-mile-long, wide sandy beach set against the backdrop of the iconic Hotel del Coronado. It’s popular for swimming, surfing, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The flat terrain is ideal for skimboarding and walking, attracting families who often spend the ent...Read more -
Coronado, California
Coronado Beach
4.6Photograph the iconic and historic Hotel Del and Coronado Beach on Coronado Island. The Del is a beautiful Victorian resort, which is the second-largest wooden structure in the United States. The Del offers amazing photo opportunities during sunset and during sunrise when it is beautifully backli...Read more -
San Diego, California
Cabrillo Sea Cave (CLOSED)
3.4From the park entrance, follow the park road down to the tide pools parking area. From the parking area, follow the trail down to the cliffs, and head north. If it is high tide, this route will be inaccessible, so be sure that you are visiting this area at low tide. Follow the cliff as it wraps a...Read more -
San Diego, California
Explore Cabrillo National Monument
4.8Cabrillo National Monument is named after Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, the first European explorer to reach America's Wet Coast. There are many knowledgable rangers in the park who are eager to share interesting historical facts. Activities in the park include hiking: the Bayside Trail offers 2 mile...Read more -
Oceanside, CaliforniaGuajome Regional Park Trail
5.04.48 mi / 233 ft gainGuajome Regional Park Trail is a loop trail that takes you by a lake located near Vista, California.Read more -
San Diego, California
Bayside Trail
4.51.99 mi / 397 ft gainThe Bayside Trail features beautiful spring wild flowers and is accessible year-round. The trail is wide with a few rest stops and benches along the way. The trail is breezy, much cooler than many trails inland, featuring ocean views throughout the duration. This monument commemorates the landi...Read more -
San Diego, California
Point Loma Tide Pools
4.5Begin by making your way towards the Point Loma Naval Base. Continue along that road as far as it goes and you will come to the Cabrillo National Monument. Upon entering the park you will have to pay a fee to get down to the tide pools. It is $5 per car or $3 per person if you choose to walk in. ...Read more -
Escondido, California
Clevenger Canyon South West Trail
5.04.39 mi / 1099 ft gainClevenger Canyon South West Trail located in San Diego is a moderately challenging 4.4-mile round-trip hike with expansive views of the San Pasqual Valley and surrounding peaks. Located near the northern edge of the Clevenger Canyon area, the trail takes you through open, exposed terrain with ste...Read more -
Lakeside, California
Hike the Oakoasis Open Space Preserve
2.5 mi / 300 ft gainStarting at the trail-head, head down towards the oak-lined ravine marking the beginning of the hike. With trees already growing back from the 2003 fire, these sections of the trail are nice and shady, and quite relaxing. About 1 mile in you will start to see the San Vicente Reservoir to your lef...Read more -
Lakeside, California
El Cajon Mountain
4.611.07 mi / 3337 ft gainThis challenging trek is a great way to get in shape for that spring or summer trip to the Sierras. You may have heard others tell you how tough the hike is and they're not kidding. You'll be gaining 4100 feet over the 12 miles to the peak and back. If you have the time and the energy, you should...Read more -
Coronado, California
Silver Strand State Beach
5.0A day at the Silver Strand State Beach is a must, playing in the surf and searching for seashells. Parking can be challenging, as all beaches on Coronado Island are very busy. I recommend coming early in the morning and planning to stay all day. Lots of food options are close to every be...Read more -
Chula Vista, California
Mother Miguel Mountain
5.04.1 mi / 919 ft gainAt the summit, your work will be rewarded with stunning views from downtown San Diego all the way to Mexico. You can also see the surrounding mountain peaks and the Sweetwater Reservoir. This is a great hike to do at sunset - but bring a headlamp / flashlight for the hike back down. This trail ...Read more -
Fallbrook, CaliforniaLos Jilgueros Preserve Trail
4.01.25 mi / 72 ft gainLos Jilgueros Preserve Trail is a loop trail that is good for all skill levels located near Fallbrook, California.Read more
