🐎 How to Get to Del Mar From San Diego [2025–2026 Guide]
Del Mar is ~20 miles from San Diego. Driving takes 25–35 minutes ($5–$10 gas). Coaster commuter trains run 30–40 minutes ($5–$6). Buses take 50–70 minutes ($2.50).
Del Mar, a seaside village in North County San Diego, is famous for its beaches, upscale dining, boutique shopping, and the Del Mar Racetrack/Fairgrounds. Located just north of La Jolla, it’s easy to reach from San Diego by car, commuter train, or bus. This 2025–2026 guide explains all travel options, costs, and times to make your trip smooth.
🚗 Driving From San Diego to Del Mar
Driving is the fastest and most flexible way to reach Del Mar.
-
Distance: ~20 miles (32 km).
-
Route: Take I-5 North from downtown San Diego; exit Via de la Valle or Del Mar Heights Road.
-
Duration: 25–35 minutes, longer during rush hour or special events (e.g., San Diego County Fair, horse races).
-
Gas Cost: ~$5–$10 round trip, depending on vehicle efficiency.
-
Parking:
-
Street parking: Free in some beach areas, but limited.
-
Paid lots near Del Mar Beach & Fairgrounds: $10–$20.
-
✅ Best option for flexibility, families, or carrying beach gear.
🚆 Coaster Commuter Train
A scenic and affordable alternative to driving.
-
Route: The NCTD Coaster Train runs from downtown San Diego’s Santa Fe Depot to Solana Beach Station (2 miles from Del Mar).
-
Duration: 30–40 minutes.
-
Cost: $5–$6 one way ($12 day pass). Kids under 5 ride free.
-
Final Leg:
-
Shuttle or rideshare (Uber/Lyft): $8–$12, ~10 minutes.
-
Free summer shuttles (during Del Mar Racetrack season) often run between Solana Beach station and the fairgrounds.
-
✅ Excellent choice during high-traffic events—stress-free and scenic coastal views.
🚍 Bus Options
The cheapest but slowest way to reach Del Mar.
-
Route: MTS Bus 101 runs along the coast between downtown San Diego and Oceanside, with stops in Del Mar.
-
Duration: 50–70 minutes from downtown.
-
Cost: $2.50 one way ($6 day pass).
-
Experience: Frequent stops, but convenient for those staying in coastal communities.
✅ Great for budget travelers without a car.
🚖 Rideshare & Taxi
-
Uber/Lyft: ~$35–$50 one way from downtown San Diego, depending on traffic.
-
Taxi: Slightly more expensive ($45–$60).
-
Duration: 25–40 minutes.
✅ Good choice if traveling in a group and don’t want to worry about parking.
🌞 Best Time to Travel
-
Summer (June–August): Popular for beaches, Del Mar Fair, and horse racing; expect heavier traffic.
-
Fall (September–November): Warm weather, fewer crowds, great for relaxed beach visits.
-
Winter & Spring: Cooler, quieter, perfect for coastal walks and whale watching.
-
Events Impact: Plan ahead for traffic and parking surges during the San Diego County Fair (June–July) and Del Mar Thoroughbred Racing Season (July–September, November).
📝 Travel Summary Table
| Travel Mode | Duration | Cost (per person) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driving (San Diego → Del Mar) | 25–35 mins | $5–$10 gas + $10–$20 parking | Fastest and most flexible. |
| Coaster Train (Santa Fe Depot → Solana Beach + transfer) | 30–40 mins | $5–$6 | Scenic, easy; short rideshare needed. |
| Bus (MTS Route 101) | 50–70 mins | $2.50 | Budget-friendly, slower with stops. |
| Rideshare/Taxi | 25–40 mins | $35–$60 | Direct, no parking hassle. |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How far is Del Mar from San Diego?
About 20 miles; 25–35 minutes by car.
Q2: What is the fastest way to get to Del Mar?
Driving is fastest, though the Coaster Train is reliable during heavy traffic.
Q3: Can I take a train directly to Del Mar?
No, the nearest station is Solana Beach (2 miles away), with shuttles and rideshares to Del Mar.
Q4: How much does the Coaster train cost?
$5–$6 one way; $12 day pass.
Q5: When is traffic worst to Del Mar?
Summer weekends and special events (County Fair, horse racing season) have the heaviest traffic.
✅ This 2025–2026 San Diego to Del Mar guide explains driving, train, bus, and rideshare options so you can easily plan your visit to this coastal gem in North County.