All You Need to Know About the Del Mar Horse Racing Season
North County San Diego is known for its beautiful beaches, wellness-centric activities, and world-class restaurants. Another enormous draw for visitors and locals alike is the Del Mar horse racing season! Below, we’ve compiled everything you need to know about this festive time of year. For even more fantastic local recommendations:
Your Ultimate Guide to Del Mar Horse Racing Season
When Does the Season Start and End?
There are two “seasons” for horse racing here in North County San Diego. The first season takes place in the summer (August through September) and the second in the fall/winter (November through December). Each season brings slight variation in the racing schedule, so be sure to check the Del Mar horse racing season calendar before planning your trip around a race!
During a season, races run five days weekly except Monday and Tuesday. Between Wednesday and Sunday, you can expect races to occur at 2:00 p.m. Friday is the only exception—on this day, the first post is at 4:00 p.m.
Why Horse Racing?
If you’ve ever heard of the legend of Seabiscuit, that’s the only reason you need to add this heart-pumping attraction to your itinerary! This tradition began in Del Mar back in 1937, when Bing Crosby greeted the event’s first guests. One year later, famous equine Seabiscuit won by the tip of his nose. Every year, the races at Del Mar feature the nation’s top jockeys, trainers, and horses. It’s time you experienced the nostalgia, magic, and fun in the sun for yourself!
What You Need to Know Before Visiting
General admission for adult visitors between Wednesday and Sunday costs $6 for the Stretch Run. For Clubhouse entry, the price is $10 per person. Keep in mind that prices are typically higher for visitors on opening day. For Stretch Run tickets, expect to pay $15. For Clubhouse tickets, expect to pay $30. Some of the additional options available to visitors include reserved seating, trackside dining, and box seating. Be sure to check out these options as you plan your visit!
Other Fun Events in the Area to Check Out
Whether you visit in the summer or the fall/winter Del Mar horse racing season, you’ll discover plenty of other fun things to do in the Encinitas area. Here are some of the best:
SUMMER EVENTS:
FALL/WINTER EVENTS:
- Encinitas Holiday Street Fair
- Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo
- Garden of Lights.
Rejuvenate Your Senses and Uber Over to the Race Track!
The best way to take advantage of the Del Mar horse racing season is to stay at The Inn at Moonlight Beach in Encinitas! Just a short train or Uber ride away, our family-owned inn is truly unlike any lodging experience you’ll ever encounter. It’s the first hospitality building in the world undergoing the WELL Building Standard™ certification. Our thoughtful architecture and flourishing gardens make for a truly unique, elegant retreat just blocks away from the beach, historic landmarks, and restaurants in downtown Encinitas. Thanks to the clean air, purified water, circadian lighting, nutritious food, and on-site spiritual wellness activities, discovering your healthiest self begins here. We offer a variety of gorgeous Sublime Suites perfect for your next getaway!
