Del Mar, on the coast just south of Solana Beach, is probably best known for the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club with horse racing from the middle of July to the first part of September.  The county fair is also held on the grounds from mid June through July 4th.  Downtown Del Mar offers upscale shopping boutiques, fine dining and a pleasant place to stroll - all with ocean views.  One of my favorite places to hike is Torrey Pines State Reserve which is on the southern border of Del Mar.  Not to be missed is Jake's Del Mar - a great place to watch the waves crash while enjoying excellent food.  Homes in Del Mar are mostly custom and over a million dollars, with a few condominium developments as well.  For more information on Del Mar go to www.delmar.ca.us, www.delmarchamber.org, www.dmtc.com, www.torreypine.org, and www.jakesdelmarrestaurant.com.   Don't forget to check out my Community Links page to see more ideas on what to do in North San Diego County.