The Best Beaches in Del Mar & Solana Beach

A quieter North County beach with good surf, fewer crowds, and a charming coastal village nearby.

Solana Beach is the beach for people who want a calmer North County experience. Fletcher Cove is the main access point, with a small park, restrooms, and stairs down to the sand. The surf is good for intermediate surfers, and the beach is usually less crowded than Del Mar or Encinitas. The village of Solana Beach is a short walk away, with shops and restaurants for a post-beach meal. The scenery is pretty, with bluffs and a relaxed pace. It is the best beach for visitors who want to avoid the bigger crowds.

Upscale North County beach near the Del Mar racetrack. Clean sand, good surf, and a polished crowd.

Del Mar City Beach is a beautiful stretch of North County coastline with clean sand, consistent surf, and a slightly upscale atmosphere. The beach is divided by the river mouth, and the area near 15th Street is the most popular. The views include the Del Mar bluffs and the racetrack in the distance. The surf is good for beginners and intermediates, and the swimming is safe on most days. Parking can be tricky, but the beach is worth the effort. It is the best beach for a polished North County day with good dining options nearby.

Beautiful beach below Torrey Pines Reserve. Best paired with a hike and a picnic, not a full swim day.

Torrey Pines State Beach is the beach at the bottom of one of San Diego's most beautiful natural areas. The sand is clean, the cliffs are dramatic, and the views extend north toward Del Mar. The best way to visit is to combine it with a hike in the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, then walk down to the water. The beach is narrower than Coronado or Pacific Beach, and the facilities are limited. The surf can be strong, and swimming is best left to strong swimmers. It is the best beach for a nature-focused day rather than a full beach day.