San Diego Beaches: Del Mar North Beach

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The small town of Del Mar sits on 3 miles of Pacific Beach shoreline.  There are 3 distinct beach areas in Del Mar.  Del Mar North Beach is known as the dog-friendly beach.

• Beach Type: Large sandy beach
• Access:  Directly from street
• Parking:  Free street parking
• Facilities: None
• Good For: People with dogs, laying out in the Sun, younger children, scenery, swimming, family day at the beach, tide pools, volleyball
• Not Good For: Parking

From Labor Day to June 15^th, Del Mar North Beach allows dogs to run free without leashes.  In October 2018, this rule was extended south to Del Mar City Beach between 25^th and 29^th Avenue.  This is why the North section of Del Mar is also known as Del Mar Dog Beach (not to be confused with Dog Beach in Ocean Beach).

Del Mar North Beach starts at 29^th Street in Del Mar right in front of the Del Mar Fairgrounds. The river-like entrance to the San Dieguito Lagoon provides a clear distinction between Del Mar North and Del Mar City Beach.  However, a significant portion of Del Mar North Beach lies south of the river.  The dog off-leash zone now extends to 25^th Street.

Parking is free, but limited.  There is street parking on Camino Del Mar, but it can be scarce.  The side streets south of the river have more parking opportunities.  However, note the river separates the north side of the beach from the south side.

When we go to Del Mar North Beach we prefer the north side of the river.  This side has volleyball courts, a large grassy area and a large beach area.  There are also bluffs and tide pools.

The bluff area right by Del Mar North Beach has a trail to what is called North Bluff Preserve.  This provides a nice scenic view, but the lower rocks are also fun to explore.  At low tide you will find tide pools right at the border with Del Mar Shores in Solana Beach.

Except for the parking we actually prefer Del Mar North Beach over Dog Beach in Ocean Beach.  We don’t have a dog, but our kids get so excited seeing the dogs running free, that they ask to go here with their dog-owning friends.

To see our guide to San Diego Beaches go here.

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Del Mar City Beach is directly to the south

Del Mar Shores and Seascape Surf in Solana Beach are directly to the north

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