There are few places I’ve visited that have the pristine beauty and calm, palm tree lined streets of Solana Beach. Located north of Del Mar, this coastal jewel boasts crowd-less beaches, delicious local restaurants, and the unique Cedros Design District. Despite being near the Del Mar Fairgrounds, Solana Beach does not get the same swarms of tourists that other beach areas are prone to in San Diego. It’s nestled between two larger, busier beach cities and buffered from high traffic. This is a relief to the local residents who are able to enjoy their beaches year round and find easy parking at their neighborhood stores and restaurants.
Walkability and Transportation
Conveniently Solana Beach has a Coaster station right off of Cedros Avenue so residents are able to walk to the train or park in the parking lot and hitch a ride up to Orange County for an Angels game or down to San Diego for a night on the town. It’s also easy to walk to the beach, Cedros Avenue, or any of the shops and eateries along Highway 101. For the outdoorsy type, there is a lovely hike and bike trail stretching parallel to the 101. Many cyclists make the trip up and down the highway to soak up the beautiful scenery.
Entertainment
Solana Beach has an assortment of bars and restaurants that draw people from all over San Diego. Brigantine is located right on the border of Solana Beach and Del Mar and has amazing views of both Del Mar Dog Beach and the Del Mar Racetrack while Claire’s on Cedros is always buzzing in the morning thanks to their one-of-a-kind pancakes. Lofty Coffee in the heart of the Cedros Design District has some of the most delicious coffee in North County, so be sure to grab a latte while browsing the boutique shops that line both sides of the coffee shop.
Everyday Conveniences and Services
For your everyday needs, Solana Beach has it all. Vons is on the east side of the I-5 along with a 24 Hour Fitness, Starbucks, and Wells Fargo Bank. Sprouts, CVS, and Marshall’s are on the west side of the I-5. This makes picking up your prescription, groceries, or a new outfit a breeze. You are able to get to any store and park within five minutes, something unheard of in other coastal cities. You can avoid long lines and also chit-chat with the Sprouts cashier who recognizes you from your weekly grocery trips.
What I Love Most
San Diego has several beautiful beaches, but Solana Beach is my favorite. Whether I want to go to sushi at Station Sushi, pick up fresh organic produce from the farmers market, or find the perfect gift at a cool shop on Cedros, I know I can get to my destination quickly and easily. During the weekends, you’ll find me descending a set of steep stairs down to a beach that feels private as it’s hidden away from almost everyone but residents. I love to take morning walks through my neighborhood and snap photos of gorgeous flowers while in full bloom. Solana Beach feels so safe and clean and the residents take pride in keeping their city beautiful. I am so thankful I have the opportunity to live in such an amazing place. It absolutely feels like a dream come true.
