San Diego’s iconic Del Mar Racetrack kicks off its 86th summer season on August 1, with the start of summer racing action culminating in the high-stakes $1 million Pacific Classic on August 30 Nestled against the Pacific, Del Mar is known as “Where the Turf Meets the Surf,” offering a stunning setting that perfectly blends coastal charm with the thrill of horse racing—a legacy tracing back to Bing Crosby himself Axios.
Experiencing Opening Day as an RV Adventurer
Gear up early: gates open at 11 :30 AM, with the first race at 2 :00 PM. Tickets begin around $10 for general admission (though Opening Day runs about $73), and kids and active military attend free. Consider booking a nearby RV spot at Campland on the Bay or San Elijo State Beach for easy access. To avoid race-day parking hassles, use rideshare or community shuttles that depart from RV-friendly sites.
Once at the track, savor the ambiance: fine hats, linen suits, and high-stakes competition under sunny skies. RVers can transform the day into a weekend getaway—enjoy local seafood in Del Mar village, stroll the cliffs, or spend the evening by the bay. And don’t miss the Pacific Classic on August 30—a thrilling endcap to the month’s racing excitement
