Del Mar
Del Mar’s Beginnings
In 1882, the Southern California Railroad began its new route from San Diego to San Bernardino. A man by the name of Theodore Loop, who worked for the railroad, instantly fell in love with what he called “the most attractive place on the entire coast.” He and his wife, Ella, built a tent city on the beach, which Ella called Del Mar after a popular poem titled, “The Fight on Paseo Del Mar.”
Hotel Destination
That same year, Colonel Jacob Taylor also stumbled upon Del Mar. In 1883, he decided to take advantage of the land boom that was taking place and bought 338.11 acres of land for $1,000. Colonel Taylor designed and built a resort named Casa Del Mar, which he thought would become a resort destination for the rich and famous. It briefly thrived before succumbing to bankruptcy, flood, and fire (in that order) by 1890.
Several years later, the South Coast Land Company eventually built a new hotel called the Stratford Inn. From the moment it opened its doors in 1910, the hotel became a focal point of the town and a magnet for Hollywood stars.
Let There Be Light
In the 1920s an event occurred that would change Del Mar forever – the city received electricity from San Diego Gas and Electric. With electricity, residential areas of Del Mar began developing at a record pace.
By 1958, Del Mar residents began to debate whether they wanted the area to continue to be a part of San Diego, or attempt independence through incorporation. In 1959, residents chose incorporation and established a council-manager form of government, which continues today.
Today, Del Mar remains one of the most beautiful destinations along the western coastline. The city is comprised of two square miles of coastal land and has a population of around 4,500.
Schools in Del Mar
Community of Del Mar
Del Mar Chamber of Commerce
Encinitas
Located along six miles of Pacific coastline in northern San Diego County, Encinitas has an approximate population of 60,000 and is characterized by coastal beaches, cliffs, flat-topped coastal areas, steep mesa bluffs, and rolling hills. Our city was incorporated in 1986, drawing together the communities of New Encinitas, Old Encinitas, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, Olivenhain, and Leucadia.
There is a significant flower growing industry in the City and many people claim that Encinitas is the Flower Growing Capital. As the City has developed, it has grown up around the pre-existing flower growers. San Diego Botanical Gardens is a beautiful oasis to visit with an Amazon Rainforest and the largest display of bamboo in the world. The gardens of the Self Realization Center are beautiful and sit overlooking the ocean in a serene garden-like setting.
Golf enthusiasts will enjoy our Encinitas Ranch Golf Course, a championship 18 hole par 72 course with panoramic ocean views. This public facility has five tees available and can be enjoyed by golfers of all abilities.
Downtown 101 is a coastal shopping district over 100 years old featuring historic architecture, quaint shops, sidewalk cafes, and restaurants framed by beautiful flower baskets. The organizations Downtown Encinitas Merchants Association (DEMA) and the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce are a great resource for information on business in Encinitas.
The beaches in Encinitas are outstanding. There are many stretches of beach that lie between Cardiff-by-the-Sea and La Costa. The surfing is unbeatable and many surf contests are held throughout the year in Encinitas. The San Elijo Lagoon Reserve is the largest coastal wetland in San Diego County and is home to nearly 300 different bird species throughout the year.
The natural beauty of our communities, along with temperatures between 40 and 85 degrees year-round, make Encinitas a spectacular place to live.
Schools in Encinitas
Community of Encinitas
Encinitas Chamber of Commerce
Solana Beach
The charming, seaside community of Solana Beach is nestled along the northern coast of San Diego County, and is approximately a 30-minute drive from downtown San Diego. Its main access routes include Interstate 5, Highway 101, Lomas Santa Fe Drive, and Via de la Valle. The City is home to a vibrant train station that serves both Amtrak and the Coaster, one of only three in San Diego County.
The City lives up to its name with temperatures that average 62 degrees in the wintertime and 77 degrees in the summertime. It offers 1.7 miles of coastline for swimming and surfing. Most days you will see locals drop by to watch the sunset at the award-winning Fletcher Cove Park.
The City is a favorite destination for those looking to enjoy the beach, eclectic shops, great dining, golfing, nightlife, and nearby hiking.
Schools in Solana Beach
Community of Solana Beach
Solana Beach Chamber of Commerce