Del Mar, California

Located right on the coast, Del Mar Village offers the best of beachside living without sacrificing urban sophistication. Residents love the ease of this intimate community. Imagine living steps from sandy beaches, able to unwind easily everyday thanks to a sweet smelling breeze and the relaxing lapping of waves over the shore. You’d be feeling pretty chill, too, right? The quiet tree-lined streets wind by a mix of architectural styles, ranging from quaint beach cottages to contemporary luxury homes.

But don’t think this neighborhood lacks exciting activities. Del Mar Village is home to the world-renowned Del Mar Race Track. Here, you can get lost in the lively atmosphere of a horse racing venue that attracts sport lovers from around the world. Also a short distance from residences is the Del Mar Plaza and downtown area, where you can splurge on a fine dining experience, find the perfect gift at an upscale boutique or just sip a great cocktail while enjoying the views. You’re sure to see someone you know, whether you’re grabbing groceries or attending an art festival. As a gathering place for locals, the downtown area helps knit a strong sense of community.

Del Mar Heights sits on a hillside, offering residents unique and striking views of the Pacific Ocean. Like other parts of Del Mar, here serenity and tranquility abound. Housing options range from custom-built homes to spacious estates. Residents enjoy easy access to entertainment and attractions, like those found at Del Mar Highlands Town Center. Also nearby, Torrey Pines State Park Natural Reserve attracts hikers looking to explore the coastal wilderness via the reserve’s scenic trail system. Also notable is the neighborhood’s connected community. Intentional gatherings in the form of neighborhood picnics and community festivals encourage neighbors to socialize and bond through shared experiences. The most frequently mentioned drawback of this neighborhood is the higher price point compared to other neighborhoods in Del Mar, and the hilly terrain that may impact accessibility for some.

On the south side of Del Mar, Del Mar Terrace stands out for its sense of privacy and peacefulness. Looking at the map, you see that the area is surrounded by nature on three sides: Los Penasquitos Lagoon to the south, Pacific Ocean to the west and an extension of the Torrey Pines State Reserve to the north. This serene setting, however, does not mean it isn’t bustling with activity in certain areas, like along Carmel Valley Road which borders the neighborhood to the south. Here, residents find plenty of restaurants and entertainment, in addition to the relatively close by Del Mar Plaza and Del Mar Fairgrounds.

Driving through Del Mar Terrace, you see everything from A-frames to enormous architectural masterpieces. Homes here are unique. Topographical challenges like sandstone cliffs, varying lot sizes and the area’s interesting history of slow, uneven development made it so. Tree-lined streets have maintained their 1913 charm, and a popular walking loop at the highest point of the neighborhood adds enjoyment to this already very walkable area.

Popular with families and individuals alike, this neighborhood’s well-established charm and distance from busy freeways make it the perfect spot for those looking for calm surroundings that are a short drive from entertainment options.

In Del Mar Woods, luxury meets laid back coastal living. Residents enjoy sophisticated and distinct homes and townhomes within this exclusive, gated community. Upscale amenities include a private pool, tennis courts, and a clubhouse. Beautifully manicured green spaces and safe walking paths pair nicely with the natural beauty of the coastal landscape. Not to mention, residents enjoy great proximity to the beach. For individuals and families looking to be set apart from the greater Del Mar community, this private neighborhood may be perfect for their next home.

As the name implies, this neighborhood stands apart for its coastal heritage. First established as a seaside resort in the 19th century, the charm and historical architecture of the area sit beautifully preserved just steps from the pristine beaches that first attracted developers to this spot. Here you’ll find an array of home styles, including Spanish Colonial and Cape Cod-inspired houses mixed amongst updated modern marvels.

In Olde Del Mar, residences strike a balance between nostalgia and modern elegance. Find your zen walking amongst tree-lined streets and landscaped gardens, or enjoy a lively night out in the vibrant downtown area filled with boutique shops, art galleries, popular restaurants and eclectic cafes. Because it has so much unique character and larger lots to offer, you’ll see home buyers spend $3 million for a home they plan to remodel or $6-7+ million for something more move-in ready. As you get closer to the ocean, home prices skyrocket above $7 million. Luckily, because this neighborhood is on the hilly side, you don’t have to be right next to the ocean to get those highly sought-after ocean views.