Del Mar Track Season Trifecta

As the old Bing Crosby song goes, there’s a “smile on every face and a winner in each race where the turf meets the surf down at old Del Mar.” Crosby knew this to be true since he was there to greet the first fan through the gate as the Del Mar Turf Club opened in 1937.

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Three Luxury Resorts Offer the Perfect Place to Relax in Between Races at the Del Mar Turf Club

Since then, visitors from all over the world have made the annual pilgrimage to Del Mar for the summer track season, which kicks off mid-July and runs through Labor Day. Three nearby resorts offer the perfect combination of first-class amenities, fine dining and luxury for a pony-filled getaway.

L’AUBERGE DEL MAR

A stone’s throw from the beach, L’Auberge Del Mar has become equally known for its stunning ocean views as it has for its over-the-top Opening Day Party. Minutes from the track, this beach-chic resort is located in the heart of Del Mar Village, which means you can spend a few days without ever getting in your car. Book in advance for some off-track dinners at Jake’s Del Mar and Pacifica Del Mar for superb ocean view sunsets.

1540 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014
858.259.1515  |  LAubergeDelMar.com

RANCHO VALENCIA RESORT & SPA

The hot air balloons floating overhead during summer are often the main conversation starter at this resort nestled in Rancho Santa Fe. Southern California’s only Relais & Châteaux property, Rancho Valencia is a Mediterranean-inspired sanctuary surrounded by lush gardens and olive groves. With luxe guest casitas, exceptional dining and a soothing spa, it’s no wonder this award-winning tennis resort is consistently ranked as one of the world’s best.

5921 Valencia Circle, Rancho Santa Fe, CA  92067 
858.756.1123  |  RanchoValencia.com

FAIRMONT GRAND DEL MAR

Hidden, even to locals, The Grand Del Mar (newly christened as a Fairmont property) is the grand dame of San Diego. Set within Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve, the resort is reminiscent of an old-world palace and boasts the only 5-diamond restaurant in town, Addison. This elegant property represents exclusivity at its finest, with PGA-certified instructors giving one-on-one golf lessons on a Tom Fazio-designed course.

Be sure to make reservations at Addison and indulge in the chef’s tasting menu with wine pairings. You will be delighted with a difficult-to-count number of courses, all served in unison by a perfectly choreographed team.    

5300 Grand Del Mar Court, San Diego, CA 92130
858.314.2000  |  TheGrandDelMar.com

Racing is conducted Wednesday through Sunday throughout the summer with first post at 2 p.m. on all days except Fridays when it shifts to 4 p.m. Save money on admission by joining the Diamond Club to receive 50% off admission every day.

Photos courtesy of L’Auberge Del Mar, Rancho Valencia and Fairmont Grand Del Mar

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