We all know the turf meets the surf at Del Mar—sing it with us! But did you know the famous racetrack is celebrating its 80th season this year? As we trot into opening day on July 17, impress your friends with factoids about the iconic oval.
1. Robert Kardashian and Kris Jenner first met at the track.
In 1973, 17-year-old Kris crossed paths with 28-year-old Robert, forever changing the history of lip kits and reality TV.
2. The $25,000 winner-take-all prize of the event that put Del Mar on the map—a storied 1938 race between Seabiscuit and Ligaroti—now equates to some $445,000.
Seabiscuit bested Ligaroti by a snout.
3. The nation’s only seaside racetrack was founded by crooner Bing Crosby.
4. Del Mar became the leading track in the country in 1989.
It saw an average of more than $7 million a day, according to the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club—more than $15 million in 2019 dollars.
5. The rarefied environs of the track have served as an aesthetically pleasing set for many TV shows.
None other than The Bachelor, Entourage, Little People, Housewives of Orange County, and—look who made their way back to Del Mar—Keeping Up with the Kardashians.
6. The track went from real dirt to synthetic dirt to real dirt again.
In 2007, synthetic racing surface Polytrack was installed to help reduce injuries to horses and jockeys. However, dirt made its comeback eight years later after a debate over the effectiveness of the controversial synthetic material.
7. CEO Joe Harper received the thoroughbred industry’s highest honor, the Eclipse Award of Merit, this past January.
He won for his outstanding lifelong achievement and contributions to the field. “It’s got my name on it, but it’s got Del Mar’s soul in it,” he said in his speech.
8. The track took on a new slogan in the 2000s: “Cool as Ever.”
As the Instagram Era scrolls on, Del Mar is becoming less about the horses and more about the social scene, fashion, and of course, that photo finish for your feed.
9. With new types of bets added last season, there are now 17 ways to wager.
When you’re thinking of wagering in the classic Win, Place, Show routine, try the recently-added early Pick Four or late Pick Five bets.
10. The annual Opening Day Hat Contest has five categories, and a Michelin-starred grand prize.
Categories include Best Racing Theme, Most Glamorous, Most Outrageous, Best Fascinator, and Best Flowers. The grand prize winner earns a one-night stay at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar with a dinner for two at Michelin-starred Addison.
11. Opening day averages more than 40,000 attendees each year.
Grab your flowery hats and cigars, folks! This year’s extravaganza is only a few strides or—excuse us—furlongs away.
11 Things You Didn’t Know About the Del Mar Racetrack
Mark your calendars for October 2–7, 2024, and prepare to indulge in a week-long celebration of San Diego’s vibrant food and wine scene at the 2024 Del Mar Wine + Food Festival!
Now in its second year, San Diego’s premier food and wine event will feature a diverse array of bites, sips, and experiences. Attendees can look forward to sampling world-class cuisine from local restaurants, mingling with celebrity chefs, and savoring some of California’s finest wines and craft beverages.
Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town, the Del Mar Wine + Food Festival offers something for everyone—from casual tastings to high-end dining experiences. Not sure where to start? Click the links below each question for more details, including event schedules, participating chefs, where to see celebs, and ticket information:
Listen: Del Mar Wine + Food Festival Chefs on Happy Half Hour
Last year’s exclusive lineup featured some of our favorite chefs and food people. This year, some of our faves return for the big event. Learn more about a few of those returning guests on Happy Half Hour with host Troy Johnson:
Returning for its second year, the Del Mar Wine + Food Festival is back to make a splash in the San Diego food scene once again. Get in on some of the best restaurants and wine in the area, with faces both new and familiar to the festival. Check out our list or the DMWFF website for all to know about this quintessentially San Diegan affair.
When is the Del Mar Wine + Food Festival?
The Del Mar Wine + Food Festival takes place October 2-7, 2024, with the Grand Tasting October 5-6. Doors open for VIP ticket holders and early entry at noon, general admission opening at 1 p.m.
Where is the festival located?
The event is held at Surf Sports Park, formerly the Del Mar Polo Fields, at 14989 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, CA 92014.
What are the different ticket options?
General Admission
One-day general admission tickets are priced at $165, while the two-day pass goes for $265. Both options grant you unlimited food and drink during the Grand Tasting from the festival’s selection.
Early Entry General Admission
Get in ahead of everyone while still having all the wide selection offered at general admission using the early admission tickets. Priced at $225 for one-day tickets and $375 for two-day passes, you gain an extra hour for first dibs and to meander the grounds before the crowds come.
VIP Tickets
At $425 for a one-day ticket and $775 for a two-day pass, the VIP tickets offer access to a special VIP-only area, as well as more food and drink vendors to choose from. More details on the VIP experience will be announced closer to the date of the festival.
What food vendors will be there?
With a multitude of vendors and options for tasting, many top restaurants in San Diego will be featured at this event, including Civico 1845, Deckman’s Restaurant Group, Finca, Jolie, Kingfisher, Little Frenchie, Lola 55, the Marine Room, Marisi, Nolita Hall, Rosemarie’s Burgers, Tacos 1986, and many more. See the complete list here.
VIP Exclusive Food Vendors
Amalfi Llama
Ambrogio by Acquerello
Azuki Sushi
Crudo
Deckman’s
Kinme
Marisi
Puesto
The Fishery
Warung Rie Rie
What wineries and drink vendors will be there?
No day in a field by the sea is complete without the perfect selection of fine wines right at your fingertips. DMWFF will be featuring several wineries and breweries, including Adobe Road Winery, Bianchi, Calera, Doffo Winery, Domaines Ott, Hahn, Henebery Spirits, Library Collection Wine, Melograno, Solento Organic Tequila, Tap Truck, and many more. See the complete list here.
VIP Exclusive Wineries
Austin Hope Wines
Booker
Caymus Vineyards
Cuvaison
Daou
Fraiche Wine Group
J. Lohr Vineyards and Wine
Ramey Wine Cellars
Whispering Angel
Courtesy of Del Mar Wine + Food Festival
What VIP experiences are available for purchase?
There are 12 VIP experiences for purchase that are separate from the Grand Tasting. Tickets for these events range from $125 to $600.
Wednesday, October 2
San Diego FC Hosts Tacos, Tortas + Tequila at Monarch Ocean Pub
Are the same food vendors and wineries available both days?
Most food vendors and wineries will be at the Grand Tasting on both days. However, we do recommend you check the event’s itinerary online for more information on vendor schedules.
What to eat, see, and do in the beachside neighborhood filled with labradoodle-owning joggers and surfers on a first-name basis with their kombucha dealer
Del Mar is a small beach town—just one where Bill Gates is your neighbor. The 2.2-square-mile stretch of hilly coastline boasts multi-generational families with weighty last names, clusters of cottages set on tree-lined streets, mom-and-pop shops with diehard patrons, the local pride that comes with a population of less than 5,000… and the looming specter of new development.
Even though its list of famous residents can sometimes read like an Illuminati roster, Del Mar has always been a classic coastal community at heart. No matter how many celebrities call it their summer home, the town’s tapestry—a mix of early-bird surfers, college professors, rooted families, retired inventors, rare Torrey pines, and lots of dogs—remains tightly woven. This town has been booming, thanks in part to Monarch Ocean Pub helping transform Del Mar Plaza from a sleepy shopping mall to a full-on scene. It’s where residents have gathered together again since the pandemic.
Del Mar Historical Society president Larry Brooks says that because half of the town’s residents are part-time, many of the million-dollar homes sit empty. But with new billion-dollar development, affordable housing requirements, and more short-term rentals on the way, a vibe shift is on the horizon, troubling local groups determined to hold onto Del Mar’s provincial spirit.
Photo Credit: Becka Vance
Things to Do in Del Mar
Meatballs at Beeside Balcony
While Vafiadis can’t resist breakfast at the beloved Harry’s Coffee Shop, she likes to venture off the beaten path for lunch. The meatballs at the Mediterranean-inspired Beeside Balcony are her current go-to. “It’s a shareable plate,” she says. “But I don’t share.”
Beach Walks to Torrey Pines
Surfboards are as common as cars in Del Mar, but Vafiadis prefers to explore on land via a nice, long beach walk. She starts on 17th Street and makes her way down to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, a pleasant route for people-watching and seashell-hunting.
Sunset Drinks at Monarch Ocean Pub
While there are no bad views in Del Mar, Monarch Ocean Pub’s third-story vantage is hard to beat. “I credit Monarch with really reviving this town more than anything,” Vafiadis says. “The energy up there is so wonderful.” She likes their grapefruit slushies—and that she can see Stratford Square from where she’s sitting.
Del Mar Wine + Food Festival
Debuting in 2023, the annual Del Mar Wine + Food festival taking place in October brings together some of the best chefs and food and drink makers in southern California for a six-day event featuring immersive culinary experiences and sold-out dinners across San Diego. From celebrity chefs to TV personalities and exclusive VIP events during the week, it’s one of the best culinary events of the year.
Photo Credit: Becka Vance
Facts About Del Mar
Start saving for that seaside abode—luxury real estate agent Mike Cady says that the average cost of a 1,200-square-foot home near the beach in Del Mar is between $3 and $5 million.
In their infamous 1963 bop “Surfin’ U.S.A.,” Del Mar is the first stop on the Beach Boys’ rundown of all the top surfing locales in Californ-I-A.
Sunday mass at St. James Catholic Church was like a red carpet event in the 1960s. Jimmy Durante, Desi Arnaz, and Lucille Ball often attended, while Bing Crosby and Pat O’Brien served as ushers.
Tony Robbins once lived in Del Mar’s only castle. Designed by local architect Richard Requa, the five-bedroom home was built in 1927 for $150,000 (almost $3 million today) and features six fireplaces and a lookout tower.
To make ocean swimming safer, wealthy cattleman Colonel Jacob Taylor built a 198-foot pool at the bluffs’ base in the 1880s that filled with seawater at high tide. Some original pylons are still visible at low tide near 11th Street.
Photo Credit: Becka Vance
Local Tips for Del Mar
For as physically small as it is, Del Mar offers a surprisingly full itinerary—especially if you’re betting on the next Seabiscuit or taking a fried food tour through the fairgrounds. But you don’t need to wait for a major event to visit. The residents’ dedication to maintaining their town’s idyllic topography and coastal charm makes even the most mundane pastimes feel like something out of a movie montage.
One of those residents is KC Vafiadis, chairman of the Del Mar Village Association and daughter of longtime developer Jim Watkins. She grew up watching her dad bring the local economy back to life with projects like the L’Auberge Del Mar. While she’s understandably biased toward the spots steeped in her own family history (particularly the historic Stratford Square that she now runs), she has more than enough love for the rest of Del Mar to go around.
Courtesy Del Mar Wine + Food Festival
What’s Next for Del Mar
Several projects that will reshape the town’s landscape are in the works, with some replacing timeless favorites. Hillstone Restaurant Group (HRG) is constructing a 3,300-square-foot spot on Camino del Mar in the former site of the beloved Bully’s North. A rep from HRG confirmed it’s slated to open as a new Honor Bar location in early 2025. Valley Farm Market and The Cottage should also soon arrive on the town’s local business scene.
Jen Grove, executive director of the Del Mar Village Association, hopes that by continuing to attract San Diego–grown businesses, Del Mar can stay true to its small-town roots. “We’ve had a lot of change,” she says. “I think what people would like to see is just continuing to support what we have. Because what we have is really good.”
But the most controversial modification to the community’s landscape isn’t happening at the street level. The San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) is working to relocate the rail line from Del Mar’s coast (which is threatened by eroding cliffs) onto a more stable inland route via a tunnel with a $4 billion– plus price tag that would potentially run underneath the town’s main thoroughfare. Residents are concerned about construction disruption and potential impacts on property values. But Brooks, who’s also a retired engineer, believes that as long as SANDAG doesn’t dig up the main drag of Camino del Mar, locals’ fears are mostly (though not totally) unfounded.
“It’s going to impact a couple of people on the north end, probably,” he says. “But the south end is a piece of cake. They’ve got all kinds of places [the train] can come out and not bother anybody.”
Though longtime residents can be resistant to change, 93-year-old Watkins views these new developments as the culmination of the vision he originally outlined in his 1969 economic report titled Why Del Mar.
“Del Mar is where it should be,” he says. “My focus was on business revitalization, and essentially that’s done. Now the idea is just keeping the character of the community.”
Emily Blackwood is a freelance journalist based in San Diego, CA. She covers entertainment, wellness, travel, home, food, culture—all the things that make life interesting, tantalizing, and just the right amount of weird. Her work has been published in SELF, HuffPost, and YourTango. You can learn more at emily-blackwood.com.
Today’s seniors are more connected than ever, with a renewed focus on retirement as a time of discovery and enriching experiences. The ultimate reward for a retirement well-earned is the wisdom to appreciate it all, and what better place to enjoy that unique perspective than Vi at La Jolla Village, in the heart of San Diego.
All-access pass to good living.
As a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), Vi provides access to a connected and fulfilling community while making it easy to plan for future care, should the need ever arise. With a care plan in place, residents enjoy greater financial predictability and long-term value, freeing them to focus on making the most out of retirement.
Resort-style amenities at the epicenter of a cultural hub like San Diego offer a retirement experience unlike any other. Paired with exceptional dining, spacious accommodations and dedicated staff, the best of maintenance-free living is all around. And with the introduction of Vista 360 Well-Being, Vi’s panoramic approach to wellness, there are more ways than ever for residents to access it all.
The harmony of mind, body and community.
Courtesy of Vi at La Jolla Village
The key to longevity is striking the right balance in maintaining an active lifestyle with an active mind in a fulfilling community. With newly renovated community spaces and restaurants, Vista brings a variety of opportunities for residents to elevate their well-being through Vi-exclusive “Signature Experiences.”
Vista Enrich takes an evidence-based approach to brain vitality, keeping residents at the forefront of cognitive health through exergaming (exercising + gaming), nutritional plans and informative workshops. It is also home to The Brain Vitality Studio, an innovative facility dedicated to cognitive fitness that has garnered national recognition.
Vista Discover invites residents into stimulating educational experiences, from chef-led cooking demos and guided wine tastings to lectures at local universities and intimate lectures following cultural outings.
While Vista Enrich focuses on brain health and Vista Discover engages residents intellectually, Vista Explore cultivates a sense of adventure through curated travel and local excursions. But broadening one’s horizons doesn’t always require a plane ticket. One recent event brought a taste of the world right to the community: an onsite “jazz cruise” featuring live music and global cuisine served at a series of themed “ports” all within the community’s own ballroom.
“Location, location, location”
Courtesy of Vi at La Jolla Village
One of the biggest perks of life at Vi at La Jolla Village is its proximity to just about everything. With easy access to transportation and local attractions just steps away, residents can explore and engage with their community at their own pace.
“There are trolley and bus stops within a 5-minute walk that will get you to the beach, UCSD Campus, medical appointments, downtown La Jolla or San Diego, et cetera. We rarely use our car,” said resident Tom Yager.
With the best of San Diego just steps away, residents don’t just live in the city, they live within reach of everything that makes it special.
The best of all worlds.
Courtesy of Vi at La Jolla Village
At Vi at La Jolla Village, retirement isn’t a chapter to slow down; it’s an invitation to discover more. Tailored community experiences created by Vista, paired with the vibrant pulse of San Diego just outside the door, mean that residents don’t have to choose between security and adventure, connection and independence. They get all of it.
This is what an all-access pass to good living looks like: the comforts of an elevated lifestyle, a community built for growth and a city made for discovery – all in one place.
To learn more about Vi at La Jolla Village or for details on available floor plans, visit ViatLaJollaVillage.com/SDM.
Join this virtual series for a special viewing and discussion about Walt Disney’s Carolwood Barn in Griffith Park, Los Angeles. Learn about Disney’s great love for trains and hear from two volunteers at Walt’s Barn on the story behind the amusement park’s mine train. The series is part of the museum’s 40th anniversary campaign, raising money to commemorate its grand opening in 1981.
Watch the reggae rock band Iration perform music from their latest album, Coastin’, which debuted at no. 2 on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart. The live show, Coastin’ at the Drive-In, will be the band’s first in-person, socially distanced concert.
2260 Jimmy Durante Boulevard, Del Mar
Salt Hot Pilates instructor and owner Betsy Blumenfeld teaches at the Intercontinental Hotel
The Intercontinental Hotel’s on-site restaurant, Vistal, is hosting a Pilates and happy hour combo from 3 to 5 p.m. on December 5. The event is complimentary (the ticket price is only to cover Eventbrite fees) to celebrate the restaurant’s new happy hour menu. But first, get your sweat on with Salt Hot Pilates instructor and owner Betsy Blumenfeld on the hotel’s terrace overlooking the bay. Then, reward yourself with $7 happy hour specials and White Claws to sip. Masks are required and social distancing guidelines will be enforced.
Mission Fed ArtWalk’s 36th annual show is going virtual. The monthlong celebration of the arts will feature nearly 100 local, national, and international artists; discussions; activities for the little ones; and plenty of opportunities to purchase original works for your own personal art collection. The activities will be hosted by ArtReach San Diego, a nonprofit dedicated to providing workshops and classes to schools without an arts program.
Shop gifts from San Diego’s community of over 80 vintage and handmade vendors at Liberty Station’s Art District. The collective’s very first event will host guests with a California Dreamin’ theme and plenty of unique finds to shop for you and your loved ones. Masks are required and social distancing guidelines will be enforced.
Head to the drive-in at Cal State San Marcos for an evening celebrating the works of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr. The live performances, accompanied by bands like the D. Ben-jamin’ Horns, will cover the Rat Pack’s most notable hits, like “The Best Is Yet to Come” and “My Funny Valentine.”
This coastal city has a small-town feel with big-name chefs, shopping, and views
This Month in Del Mar
Racing season runs Wednesdays through Sundays, with events like the chili cook-off on August 3 and Pacific Classic on August 25. Pacifica Del Mar and Prepkitchen Del Mar will throw Del Mar Plaza’s first dinner under the stars, August 29.
NEW: Sublime Tavern
Open since July, the menu by exec chef Josh Richard—fresh from Roppongi—specializes in gourmet comfort food and offers 55 craft beers on tap, plus 27 wines by the glass. 3790 Via de la Valle
NEW: El Agave
This #1 king-of-the-hill spot formerly occupied by Epazote, then Flavor Del Mar, will be El Agave in September, with 1,000-plus tequilas available for tasting. 1555 Camino Del Mar
NEW: Secret Pantry
The Peruvian market from Café Secret specializes in gourmet fare like vegan tamales and Peruvian tamales, plus foods from all over South America. 1416 Camino Del Mar
Whole Foods at Flower Hill Promenade
Whole Foods at Flower Hill Promenade
NEW: Flower Hill Promenade
This strip mall is getting a major foodie upgrade with Cucina Urbana spinoff Cucina Enoteca, Matt Gordon’s Sea & Smoke, the new Whole Foods in-store bar Trifecta Tavern serving 24 craft beers on tap, and cheese paradise Venissimo now offering wine. 2720 Via De La Valle
Armstrong Garden Centers
For tonight’s dinner party, pick up a $15 color bowl that includes various flowers like the pink and white vincas, at their peak right now. 2840 Via de la Valle
Rusty Del Mar Surf Shop
This native SD brand has its own surf classic. Pick up a hat or tee on your way to the beach. 20115th Street
Powerhouse Park
Powerhouse Park
Powerhouse and Seagrove Parks
These adjacent greens are popular for birthday parties and also host a twilight concerts series (August 13, September 8). Pre-order a ready-made picnic dinner from Pacifica. Coast Boulevard
Spa L’Auberge
Spa L’Auberge
Sbicca cocktail
Sbicca
Spa L’Auberge
This month’s special is the 80-minute Moor Mud Wrap for aching muscles ($165; regularly $185); next month’s is a couple’s treatment that involves Chardonnay and an al fresco bubble bath ($360 per person). 1540 Camino Del Mar
Sbicca
Everyone from Wine Spectator to Trip Advisor has bestowed awards on this humble classic specializing in California cuisine. 215 15th Street
Gerhard
In the Plaza, this is one of the only boutiques in SD that carries high-end designer names like Nina Ricci, Lanvin, L’wren Scott, and Sonia Rykiel. 1555 Camino Del Mar
Board & Brew
Board & Brew
Board & Brew
Local favorites at this beloved neighborhood sandwich place include the Turkado and Tom’s Choice. 1212 Camino Del Mar
Crêpes and Corks
The Swiss-Italian owner presents sweet, savory, and gluten-free crêpes for low-key Euro-style sidewalk dining. 1328 Camino Del Mar
Growing up, Laika Nur, MD, Scripps Clinic sports medicine specialist, loved watching beach volleyball when the Association of Volleyball Professionals tour came to her hometown of Chicago. A talented volleyball player herself, she remembers sitting in the stands all day, and once, even got a couple autographs. Years later, Dr. Nur was attending a professional event focused on women’s sports, and the discussion turned to a new professional women’s volleyball league. The general manager and coaching staff for San Diego’s team, the Mojo, happened to be in attendance, and Dr. Nur took the opportunity to ask them if they needed a team doctor. Flash forward to the Mojo’s inaugural 2024 season, when Dr. Nur officially became the team physician. Click here to read more about Dr. Nur and how she incorporates lessons she learned on the court into her practice.
For more nutrition, wellness, and healthy living tips, sign up for the San Diego Health newsletter here.
