Last updated on September 3rd, 2025
Looking for the best hotels in Del Mar for families?
With its stunning coastline and charming village atmosphere, Del Mar is one of San Diego’s most picturesque seaside towns and the perfect place to go if you are looking for a laid back beach vacation. Known as the place “where the turf meets the surf” (courtesy of the lyrics of a Bing Crosby song), Del Mar is located just north of La Jolla, about 30 minutes from downtown San Diego.
The area has a relaxed but upscale vibe, and the beaches are among the best in Southern California.
As a San Diego travel expert, I’ve gathered details on the top Del Mar hotels right here. Whether you’re looking for a luxury resort with sweeping ocean views or a cozy inn close to the beach, these nine hotels in Del Mar offer something for every family.
Top 3 Picks: Best Del Mar Hotels for Families
If you are just looking for a quick list of the very hotels in Del Mar, I am here to help! Here are our top three recommendations.
► Del Mar Beach Hotel is a newly renovated hotel located right on the beach, with waterfront restaurants nearby and easy beach access.
► Fairmont Grand Del Mar is located a few miles inland, but is the best place to go for an upscale stay. It has several amazing pools, restaurants, family-friendly activities, and truly luxurious rooms.
► Best Western Premier Hotel Del Mar delivers the best of both worlds – a great location near Del Mar Village and the beach without the luxury price tag.
Keep reading for more details on these great places to stay in Del Mar, plus many more options to help you plan the perfect San Diego vacation.
Family-Friendly Del Mar Hotels
Here is a list of the best hotels in Del Mar, including some of each property’s notable amenities to make choosing where to go for your beach getaway easy.
1. L’Auberge Del Mar
L’Auberge Del Mar Hotel At-A-Glance
- Beach access via a private walking path
- Use of complimentary beach cruisers
- Use of complimentary beach gear
- Heated pool and hot tub with ocean views
- Two lighted championship tennis courts
- A short walk to shop and restaurants in Del Mar Village
- 5,000 square foot Spa L’Auberge
- Valet parking only
Perched above the Pacific, L’Auberge Del Mar is a luxury resort with a laid-back vibe that welcomes families with open arms. While it’s often considered a romantic getaway, the resort also caters beautifully to families who want luxury paired with beachy fun.
We’ve been lucky enough to stay at this beautiful coastal California hotel numerous times, and it is always a lovely experience. It’s an upscale, boutique hotel with 121 guest rooms and suites, each featuring elegant furnishings and marble bathrooms.
The hotel’s position at the top of the cliffs makes for amazing ocean views, however the walk back up the hill after a day at the beach can be tiring – especially you have little kids in tow.
L’Auberge Del Mar offers beach butler service, including umbrellas, towels, and chairs. (This premier service is one of the reasons we have included this hotel on our list of best oceanfront resorts in San Diego!) For kids, the heated pool at L’Auberge Del Mar is a huge hit, while parents can unwind at the full-service spa or dine on coastal cuisine at the on-site restaurant, Adelaide. The found the food to be fantastic, and the views from the restaurant are amazing, as well.
► Want more info? Read our full L’Auberge Del Mar review.
Hotel Information & Reservations
- 1540 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar
- (858) 386-1336
2. Del Mar Beach Hotel
Del Mar Beach Hotel At-A-Glance
- Directly across from the beach with easy access
- Recently renovated and restored beach hotel
- Heated outdoor pool and hot tub
- Spacious rooms with ocean views and balconies
- Walking distance to Del Mar Village
- Steps away from several beachfront restaurants
For families who want a classic beach getaway with easy access to the sand and surf, Del Mar Beach Hotel offers an ideal blend of comfort, charm, and convenience. While L’Auberge Del Mar offers sweeping ocean views from the top of the cliffs, Del Mar Beach Hotel is located right at sea level across from the beach.
This oceanfront boutique hotel is just a short stroll to Del Mar’s lively village, offering the best of both worlds and making this hotel a perfect spot for families who want to soak up the coastal vibe.
Rooms here are bright, airy, and spacious, with many offering ocean views. The hotel has a heated outdoor pool and hot tub, ideal for relaxing after a day at the beach.
Though it’s smaller than some of the luxury resorts, the Del Mar Beach Hotel’s friendly atmosphere and prime location make it a fantastic family-friendly choice for those who want to spend most of their time on the beach. The offer full use of beach gear, including boogie boards, towels, chairs, and beach umbrellas.
Hotel Information & Reservations
- 1702 Coast Blvd., Del Mar
- (858) 400-8800
3. Hilton San Diego/Del Mar
Hilton Hotel At-A-Glance
- Outdoor heated pool with kid-friendly areas
- Fire pits for evening family fun
- On-site dining with a kid’s menu
- Near Del Mar Fairgrounds and freeway access
- Short drive to the beach and Del Mar Village
Conveniently located adjacent to the Del Mar Fairgrounds and close to all the many fun things to do in Del Mar with kids, this Hilton is a great mid-range option for families who want to be near the beaches and also have easy freeway access to attractions like the San Diego Zoo, LEGOLAND, or SeaWorld San Diego.
Guest rooms at Hilton San Diego/Del Mar are modern, clean, and spacious, and the hotel’s large outdoor heated pool (with a kids’ wading area) is perfect for splashing around. Families will appreciate the on-site restaurant, Coastal Kitchen, with kid-friendly options, as well as the fire pits, where you can roast s’mores in the evenings.
Hotel Information & Reservations
- 15575 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar
- (858) 792-5200
4. Fairmont Grand Del Mar
Fairmont Grand Del Mar At-A-Glance
- Four heated pools
- Kids’ club and daily family-friendly activities
- On-site equestrian center and horseback riding lessons
- 5-star world-class spa
- Pickleball and tennis courts
- Luxurious yet welcoming to children of all ages
When it comes to hotels in Del Mar, the Fairmont Grand Del Mar is the grandest of them all.
Located just five miles from the coast and set beside the breathtaking Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve, the Fairmont Grand Del Mar is an ultra-luxury resort ideal for families seeking an elevated experience. Award-winning service, amenities, and design deliver at every turn. The resort’s sprawling Mediterranean-style property offers plenty of room to explore. Amenities include a championship golf course, four heated pools, horse stables, a 5-star spa, and exquisite dining options.
Fairmont Grand Mar is among the most popular San Diego resorts for families because of its Explorer’s Club, a year-round kids’ club with lots of amenities and fun activities. My son was a little older when first stayed at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar, so he didn’t spend any time at the Explorer’s Club. But we did have an amazing time going horseback riding at the resort!
Fairmont Grand Del Mar features 249 guest rooms and 31 suites, all with private balconies and beautiful views of the resort’s gardens, golf course, or pools.
We stayed in a deluxe king room, which had a large balcony and lovely view of the golf course. At 550 square feet, standard rooms are larger than those at most other hotels. The marble bathroom featured dual sinks, upscale toiletries, and thick linens. They also have deep soaking tubs, a separate shower, and long marble counters. If you are traveling with kids, these spacious bathrooms are especially nice!
► Read our full Fairmont Grand Del Mar review.
Hotel Information & Reservations
- 5200 Grand Del Mar Way, San Diego
- (858) 314-1930
5. Hotel Indigo San Diego Del Mar
Hotel Indigo At-A-Glance
- Modern, spacious rooms with flexible sleeping options
- Outdoor pool and hot tub
- On-site seafood restaurant with kid-friendly menu
- Close to Del Mar Fairgrounds and beach access
For families who appreciate modern style and convenience, Hotel Indigo San Diego Del Mar is a trendy yet comfortable choice just a few minutes from the beach. This boutique hotel offers vibrant décor inspired by the coastal surroundings and plenty of thoughtful amenities designed to make family stays easy and enjoyable.
Rooms are spacious with flexible layouts, perfect for families needing extra space or kids’ sleeping arrangements. The outdoor pool and hot tub provide a refreshing break after a day exploring nearby attractions. On-site dining options include Bluewater Grill, known for fresh seafood and kid-friendly menus. Plus, the hotel’s location near the Del Mar Fairgrounds means easy access to events and seasonal activities.
Families love Hotel Indigo for its blend of style, comfort, and proximity to the best of Del Mar and greater San Diego.
Hotel Information & Reservations
- 1540 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar
- (858) 386-1336
► Check Rates & Availability for L’Auberge Del Mar
6. Les Artistes Inn
Les Artistes Inn At-A-Glance
- Artist-themed rooms with creative décor
- Unique, peaceful setting
- No pool
- Walking distance to Del Mar Village and the beach
- Great for older kids and artsy families
If you’re a family looking for something quirky and unforgettable, Les Artistes Inn is a unique, art-inspired hideaway just a few blocks from the beach. Each of the hotel’s 12 rooms is uniquely themed after a famous artist (think Monet, Van Gogh, and Frida Kahlo), and the property is full of whimsical sculptures, fountains, and mosaics. Les Artistes Inn features outdoor seating areas and stone walkways where you can stroll through the gardens.
While it doesn’t have traditional resort amenities like a pool or restaurant, the charm and walkability of the inn more than make up for it. You’re minutes from Powerhouse Park, the beach, and Del Mar Village.
Hotel Information & Reservations
- 944 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar
- (858) 755-4646
7. Wave Crest Resort
Wave Crest Resort At-A-Glance
- Condo-style units with kitchens
- On-site pool and hot tub
- Walkway to beach
- BBQ grills and picnic areas
- Great for longer stays or large families
Located on the cliffs high above the beach, Wave Crest Resort is a lesser-known gem that offers cozy condo-style accommodations ideal for families who want a bit more space to spread out and a kitchen. Think of it as living at the beach more than just staying at a hotel.
Located on a bluff overlooking the coast, Wave Crest Resort features one and two-bedroom units with kitchens and living areas, perfect for longer stays. A full kitchen means you’ll be able to cook your own meals or stock your fridge with drinks, snacks, and picnic items.
► Travel Insight
One thing to be aware of is that the Pacific Surfliner train tracks run right between the resort and the beach. The train does not come by very often and it’s kind of cool to see, but it’s important to know in advance that the view – while beautiful – includes train tracks.
Wave Crest Resort’s pool and hot tub are family favorites, and the beach is just a short walk away. With free parking, BBQ grills, and laundry facilities, Wave Crest Resort gives families all the comforts of home in a stunning beach location.
Hotel Information & Reservations
- 1400 Ocean Avenue, Del Mar
- (858) 201-4087
8. Hampton Inn San Diego/Del Mar
Hampton Inn At-A-Glance
- Free breakfast buffet
- Affordable rates
- Small outdoor pool
- Complimentary beach shuttle
- Easy access to freeways and San Diego attractions
There are lots of great places to stay at the beach on this list of family-friendly hotels in Del Mar, but if you’re just looking for comfortable, clean, and wallet-friendly accommodations, Hampton Inn San Diego/Del Mar is an excellent option for families who want to be near the village without the luxury price tag.
Hampton Inn is a reliable chain hotel with big rooms and a convenient location just 10 minutes away from the beach and Del Mar Village. Since Del Mar can be pricey (especially during peak season) I wanted to include a more budget-friendly option on this list, and Hampton Inn fits the bill! My favorite thing about this hotel is the sprawling hot breakfast buffet served every morning – included with your stay!
Hotel Information & Reservations
- 11920 El Camino Real, Carmel Valley
- (858) 248-4514
9. Best Western Premier Hotel Del Mar
Best Western At-A-Glance
- Affordable rates in a high-end area
- Outdoor heated pool and hot tub
- Gardens and a gazebo
- On-site café for easy meals
- Short walk or quick drive to Del Mar beaches
It’s very rare to find what most people consider a budget hotel in a beach town with sweeping ocean views, but Best Western Premier Hotel Del Mar delivers an excellent option for families who want to enjoy the charm of Del Mar without the luxury price tag. The hotel is located less than a mile from the beach and within walking distance to Del Mar Village shops and kid-friendly eateries.
Rooms are modern and comfortable, many with balconies or patios. The hotel also features a lovely outdoor heated pool surrounded by palm trees, plus a hot tub for relaxing after a day of beach fun or sightseeing. There’s also an on-site café serving breakfast and lunch, a great convenience for families who want a quick bite before heading out to explore.
While it doesn’t offer the bells and whistles of a beach resort, the affordability, location, and solid amenities make this Best Western hotel in Del Mar a smart choice for families on a budget.
Hotel Information & Reservations
- 720 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar
- (858) 755-9765
Map of Hotels in Del Mar
To help you visualize where these best hotels in Del Mar for families are located, here is an interactive Google map!
Final Thoughts: Del Mar Hotels for Your San Diego Beach Vacation
Whether your family is looking for artistic charm, five-star luxury, or a beachfront escape with all the conveniences of home, Del Mar offers a range of hotel experiences perfect for making lifelong memories. With so many family-friendly attractions nearby and a peaceful vibe that sets it apart from busier beach towns, Del Mar is truly one of San Diego’s best-kept secrets for family vacations.
Save These Hotels in Del Mar for Later!
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