San Marcos, CA

San Marcos, CA, is a charming and picturesque city known for its beautiful natural surroundings, thriving brewery scene, and rich history in Southern California. Life in San Marcos is characterized by outdoor adventures, nights out on the town, and a strong sense of community that attracts people from all around the state.

Whether you’re looking on Redfin to buy a house or rent an apartment in San Marcos, here are all the reasons why San Marcos is quickly becoming one of the most sought after housing markets in Southern California, and why you’ll love living there.

1. Outdoor recreation opportunities

One of the unique features of San Marcos is its location in close proximity to several popular outdoor destinations in Southern California. San Marcos is a great place to live for those who love outdoor recreation. For example, the city is just a short drive away from the beach communities of Carlsbad and Encinitas, where residents can enjoy swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. San Marcos is also located near several state parks and natural reserves, including Torrey Pines State Reserve, which features hiking trails and stunning ocean views.Other outdoor recreation opportunities in San Marcos include Lake San Marcos, which offers boating and fishing, and the nearby San Diego Zoo Safari Park, which features a variety of wildlife exhibits and educational programs.

2. Access to renowned schools

San Marcos’ education system emphasizes on career technical education (CTE). The city has partnered with local businesses and industry leaders to provide students with hands-on learning opportunities in fields such as healthcare, engineering, and information technology. This approach to education helps prepare students for success in the workforce and is a key reason why San Marcos is considered a great place to live. The San Marcos Unified School District serves students in the area and has received high marks for academic achievement and student engagement.

3. Great shopping and dining options

San Marcos has a variety of shopping centers and local restaurant options to choose from. The city is home to the popular San Marcos Grand Plaza, which features a mix of retailers and restaurants. In addition, there are several other shopping centers throughout the city, including the Nordahl Marketplace and the San Marcos Town Center. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual meal or a fine dining experience, San Marcos always has something to bring to the table.

4. Access to quality healthcare

San Marcos is home to several highly known healthcare facilities, including Palomar Health Medical Center and Scripps Coastal Medical Center. With a focus on patient-centered care and advanced medical technology, these facilities offer comprehensive healthcare services to residents of San Marcos and the surrounding areas. Whether you need routine medical care or specialized treatment, you can trust that you’ll receive top-notch care in San Marcos.

5. Big brewery scene

San Marcos’ thriving brewery scene has made it a hub for craft beer enthusiasts. Breweries such as Rip Current Brewing, Mason Ale Works, and Dos Desperados Brewery have won national awards for their beers and offer a wide variety of brews. For example, Rip Current Brewing’s Breakline Bock won a gold medal at the 2018 Great American Beer Festival, while Mason Ale Works features a stylish tasting room and upscale pub fare. They also host events and food trucks, making them popular among locals and tourists. The city’s brewery scene is just one of the many reasons why San Marcos is a great place to live.

6. Rich history

San Marcos has a rich history that dates back to the early 1800s, when it was a ranching community. The city’s architecture and landmarks are reminders of this history, including the historic Rancho de Los Quiotes, which was built in 1840 and is one of the oldest buildings in the area. The city also has a historical museum, which houses exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of San Marcos’ past. Visitors can explore the museum’s collection of artifacts, including old photographs, documents, and tools used by early settlers. Additionally, the city hosts historical walking tours that showcase the rich history of the area.

7. Strong agricultural scene

San Marcos has a strong agricultural heritage, with many farms and orchards still in operation today. This gives residents the opportunity to buy fresh, locally grown produce and support small, local businesses. The city hosts a weekly farmers market, where visitors can purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, and other locally made products. Additionally, the city’s vineyards and wineries offer tours and tastings, giving residents a chance to learn about the winemaking process and sample locally made wines.

8. Vocational climate

San Marcos enjoys a mild climate year-round, with an average temperature of 71 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes it a great place to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, golfing, among many other fun things to do outdoors. The city has several golf courses, including the beautiful Lake San Marcos Executive Golf Course, which features stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The city’s mild weather also makes it an ideal location for those who want to enjoy an active lifestyle in a comfortable climate.

9. Community events

San Marcos hosts a range of cultural events throughout the year, including concerts, art exhibitions, and food festivals. The city’s annual Spring Festival, held in April, features live music, carnival rides, and food vendors. In the summer, the city hosts the San Marcos Summer Music Fest, which showcases local musicians and bands.

To get all the latest news and details on these events check out San Marcos’ Community Event Calendar. The city also has a thriving arts scene, with several galleries and studios that showcase the work of local artists. The city’s ArtWalk, held in the fall, is a popular event that showcases the work of local artists and provides an opportunity for visitors to purchase original artwork.

10. Sustainable lifestyle

San Marcos has a strong commitment to sustainability and green living. The city has implemented numerous environmental programs to promote sustainability, such as offering rebates for installing solar panels, encouraging residents to use public transportation, and implementing water conservation measures. The city also hosts events and workshops to educate residents on sustainable living practices, such as composting and reducing waste. For those who prioritize living a sustainable lifestyle, San Marcos offers a welcoming community with a strong emphasis on environmental responsibility.

If you are represented by an agent, this is not a solicitation of your business. This article is for informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional advice from a medical provider, licensed attorney, financial advisor, or tax professional. Consumers should independently verify any agency or service mentioned will meet their needs. Learn more about our Editorial Guidelines here.

Are you planning a day trip to the beach from San Marcos, California? Luckily, there are several fantastic beaches near San Marcos that you can visit. In this article, we will highlight the top beaches in the area, including their addresses, distance from San Marcos, unique highlights, accessibility, and interesting history.

Located in Carlsbad, Tamarack Beach is the closest beach to San Marcos, located only 9 miles away. The beach boasts a beautiful wide stretch of golden sand and is an ideal location for swimming, surfing, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. Tamarack Beach is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and parking is available for a fee in the adjacent parking lot.

Moonlight State Beach in Encinitas is a beautiful sandy beach that features picnic areas, fire pits, and a playground. This beach is perfect for families with kids and is only 11 miles away from San Marcos. The beach is a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and beach volleyball, and parking is available for a fee in the adjacent parking lot.

Cardiff State Beach, also known as San Elijo State Beach, is located in the beautiful coastal community of Cardiff-by-the-Sea. The beach is famous for its long, wide beach, and its famous surf break known as Cardiff Reef. The beach is only 12 miles from San Marcos, and parking is available for a fee in the adjacent parking lot. Visitors can also explore the nearby beachfront restaurant and bar, Bull Taco.

Del Mar City Beach is a beautiful stretch of sandy beach located in the heart of Del Mar, approximately 16 miles from San Marcos. The beach is known for its excellent surfing conditions, and visitors can enjoy surfing, swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops nearby. Parking is available for a fee in the adjacent parking lot.

La Jolla Cove is a beautiful beach located in the upscale community of La Jolla, approximately 23 miles from San Marcos. The beach is famous for its clear waters, and visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The beach also features a sea cave, which is accessible by kayak or snorkel. Parking can be challenging, but there are several parking lots and street parking available.

In conclusion, San Marcos, California, is a perfect location to explore some of the best beaches Southern California has to offer. Each of the beaches listed above offers its unique highlights, accessibility, and interesting history, making them a must-visit on your next trip to the area.

Old California Restaurant Row in San Marcos was once a popular destination for North County families. But these days, the site has more vacant spaces than open businesses, after being sold in 2020 by the family of the row's creator, Jim Eubank.

“My feeling is that the previous owners really let the place go, which is why a developer came through in the first place and saw an opportunity to tear it down and start fresh," said Erin Harper, the owner of Old Cal Coffee House.

Harper said her five-year lease was supposed to be up for renewal in 2021, but instead, “There was no offer of a new lease. It kind of rolled into month to month. That's when we figured out their plans weren’t to work with us or preserve us, we weren’t being told anything," Harper said.

In June 2022, the new owner, identified as Elizabeth Papera, teamed up with developer, Lennar Homes, to build a mixed use development on the site, with 202 housing units, 10,400 square feet of commercial space, and a 1.5 acre park.

Renderings provided to the City of San Marcos show a contemporary design, far removed from the Row's current old California architecture.

To achieve the new look, many of the buildings will need to be demolished. The restaurants that will stay include Buffalo Wild Wings, Fish House Vera Cruz and Cocina del Charro. But other businesses, like Harper's, will be displaced, and their owners now have to rethink their long term goals. For Harper, that means relocating her coffee shop and rebranding.

“Old California Coffee House is directly tied to old California Restaurant Row," Harper said. "And without Restaurant Row, to me the name just kind of sounds like old coffee.”

Harper already has a new name for her business: Ascend Coffee Roasters. But she has yet to settle on a new location.

Jim Hadley, the owner of 55 Yard Line Sports Bar, is also rethinking his plans.

"This was gonna be our retirement. We were gonna run it real good and when we call it quits... sell, and take our money and retire. So now that's out the window," Hadley said.

Hadley’s lease will be month to month after February. He said he has about a year and a half to figure out his next steps.

"It's just defeating to see this property in general go away. We've been in the town for 31 years, so we've seen it grow. This was the epicenter... and to see it disappear, it's sad," he said.

Hadley said he understands the town is progressing, but he doesn't think the infrastructure is set up for that growth.

"San Marcos Boulevard is terrible to drive on... (and) the 78, forget about that. And it's just getting more and more," he said.

San Marcos Mayor Rebecca Jones recognizes the traffic concerns, as well as the need for housing.

She says she also talked with the developer about preserving history, telling them,"Yes, we need housing. However, it's important to remember that this is something that the community really cherishes, as far as the quality and the history of San Marcos. Because truly, Restaurant Row was part of what has put San Marcos on the map."

She says the city expected changes for the site when it got rezoned for mixed-use development more than a decade ago. "Not that it would change right away, but that it would change at some point in time," she said.

We reached out to Lennar Homes multiple times to ask about the project, especially for details about the housing plans, but no one from the company was available for an interview.

Whatever is in those plans, Erin Harper at the Old California Coffeehouse says she hopes they keep some of the elements that make Restaurant Row so unique.

"I'm hoping that they'll really preserve the character and what people love about Restaurant Row because of the wood beams, the tile work. This isn't just some run-of-the-mill, cookie cutter, development. This place has a lot of character and I think we need to work to preserve that. As well as the hard working business people here," Harper said.

Work is expected to start in the spring on an environmental impact report for the development.

San Marcos, CA, has become a highly sought-after destination in the past decade, thanks to its stunning natural landscapes and laid back culture. It’s no wonder that many people are migrating to this Southern California gem. In fact, data from Redfin’s San Marcos housing market report shows that the city is a high demand market, drawing in a diverse range of residents seeking to buy or rent property in the area. With several fun and unique attractions that set it apart from other cities in the region, there are many reasons to consider living in San Marcos. Let’s explore some interesting facts about San Marcos that may just inspire you to move and discover all this wonderful city has to offer.

1. San Marcos is a Gateway to Southern California’s Wine Country

San Marcos is a city that provides easy access to some of the best wineries in North County San Diego. Twin Oaks Valley Winery and Highland Valley Vineyards are just a couple of the popular wineries located within a short drive of the city. Both wineries offer wine tastings, events, and scenic settings that attract locals and visitors alike. With over 100 wineries throughout San Diego County, the region is known as Southern California’s “Wine Country.”

The Mediterranean-like climate and diverse terroir provide the perfect environment for producing delicious wines that appeal to wine enthusiasts of all levels. San Marcos is a gateway to this vibrant wine culture, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that make it an ideal destination for wine lovers.

2. Cal State San Marcos Cougars is the pride of San Marcos’ College sports scene

While San Marcos does not have any dedicated professional sports teams, the city is home to the Cal State San Marcos Cougars, whose NCAA Division II athletics program includes 13 sports teams. The university’s sports events draw large crowds of enthusiastic fans, with the men’s and women’s basketball games being particularly popular. In fact, the university’s sports programs have become such a source of pride for the community that locals often refer to the Cougars as the city’s “unofficial” sports team.

3. San Marcos is a hub to explore California’s most popular destinations

San Marcos is an ideal location for those who want to be close to the action of Southern California. Just 35 miles south of San Marcos is San Diego, a popular destination known for its sunny beaches, world-class attractions, and vibrant culture. San Marcos is also just a short drive from Disneyland in Anaheim, which offers thrilling rides and magical experiences. Additionally, the beach cities of Carlsbad and Encinitas are just a few miles west of San Marcos, offering residents easy access to some of the most beautiful beaches in California.

4. You can hike over 63 miles of trail

San Marcos has a vast network of hiking trails that offers a wide range of terrain and scenery. The trails wind through rolling hills, natural preserves, and along picturesque lakes and creeks. In particular, the city’s section of the Pacific Crest Trail is a popular destination for hikers looking for a challenging and rewarding experience. The trail stretches over 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada and offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Pacific Crest. San Marcos also offers guided hikes and educational programs for visitors who want to learn more about the local flora and fauna. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner, San Marcos offers a variety of hiking options for all skill levels.

5. San Marcos is known as the “Valley of Discovery”

San Marcos is home to an abundance of fossils and artifacts that have been found throughout the city, earning it the nickname “Valley of Discovery.” The city’s rich geological history dates back millions of years, with evidence of prehistoric animals such as mammoths, mastodons, and saber-toothed cats that roamed the area. In addition to prehistoric finds, numerous Native American artifacts have been discovered throughout San Marcos, including tools, pottery, and burial sites, providing insight into the city’s early inhabitants.

The most significant discovery was made in 1978 when a construction crew uncovered the remains of a Columbian mammoth, which is now on display at the San Diego Natural History Museum. The city takes great pride in preserving its history and regularly hosts events and activities to showcase these discoveries, including guided tours of archeological sites and exhibits at local museums.

6. Palomar College Arboretum boasts over 50 acres of botanical gardens

The Palomar College Arboretum is a hidden gem in San Marcos, featuring over 50 acres of botanical gardens and a diverse range of plant species from around the world. The arboretum was founded in 1956 and has since been a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk through the gardens, which includes themed sections such as the Desert Garden, Australian Garden, and Butterfly Garden. The arboretum also hosts educational programs and events, making it a valuable resource for the community. The best part is that admission to the arboretum is free, making it an accessible and enjoyable experience.

7. Tony Hawk grew up in San Marcos

Tony Hawk, one of the most well-known skateboarders in the world, spent his formative years in San Marcos. He attended San Marcos High School, where he developed his passion for skateboarding. Hawk has credited his upbringing in San Marcos with shaping his life and career. In fact, he has even donated money to the The Skateboard Project, which helps to maintain and improve local skate parks. Today, Hawk remains a beloved figure in the San Marcos community and his legacy continues to inspire young skateboarders in the area.

8. The Double Peak Park is the highest peak in North County

Double Peak Park, which is located at an elevation of 1,646 feet, offers panoramic views of San Marcos and the surrounding areas. On a clear day, visitors can see as far as the Pacific Ocean to the west and the mountains to the east. The park features a hiking trail, picnic areas, a playground, and a large amphitheater for events and performances. It’s also a popular spot for stargazing and watching the sunrise and sunset. The park is named after Double Peak, a distinctive feature of the local landscape that was used as a navigational landmark by early settlers in the region.

9. Grand Fall Festival and Street Faire draws thousands of visitors each year

The Grand Fall Festival and Street Faire in San Marcos is a highly anticipated annual event that takes place in downtown San Marcos. It typically occurs in late September and features a wide range of entertainment options, including live music from local and regional bands, food vendors offering delicious cuisine, and a classic car show that displays some of the most stunning vehicles from across the region. Locals say this is a must attend San Marcos event every year.

In addition to the entertainment options, visitors can browse through a diverse array of booths selling handmade crafts, jewelry, artwork, and other unique items. The festival offers fun activities, such as carnival games, face painting, and a variety of other activities. The festival is known to draw thousands of visitors from all over the region, making it a great opportunity for residents to meet new people and enjoy the community’s vibrant culture.

10. San Marcos has a diverse dining scene

San Marcos is known for its diverse dining scene, offering a variety of options ranging from classic American fare to ethnic cuisine. A must-visit restaurant is Old California Mining Co. Steakhouse, where diners can enjoy classic American steaks in a rustic setting. For those looking for international cuisine, the city offers a range of options such as Italian at Bella Vita, Mexican at Cocina del Charro, and Thai at Ruen Pair. Whatever your taste buds desire, San Marcos is sure to have a restaurant to satisfy your cravings.

If you are represented by an agent, this is not a solicitation of your business. This article is for informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional advice from a medical provider, licensed attorney, financial advisor, or tax professional. Consumers should independently verify any agency or service mentioned will meet their needs. Learn more about our Editorial Guidelines here.

Nestled in the heart of North County San Diego lies the beautiful city of San Marcos, California. Known for its natural beauty, perfect climate, and friendly residents, San Marcos offers a variety of benefits for those who choose to call it home. From unique restaurants and shops to outdoor activities and stunning parks, there is something for everyone in this charming city. In this article, we'll explore some of the top benefits of living in San Marcos.

One of the top benefits of living in San Marcos is the abundance of outdoor activities available. The city boasts over 63 miles of trails, including the popular Double Peak Trail, which offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding hills. In addition, San Marcos is home to several parks, including the award-winning Hollandia Park and the family-friendly Walnut Grove Park, which features a splash pad and playground. For those who enjoy golf, San Marcos is home to several beautiful courses, including St. Mark Golf Club and Twin Oaks Golf Course.

San Marcos is a food lover's paradise, with a variety of unique restaurants and cafes to choose from. For a delicious brunch, head to Urge Gastropub & Common House, which offers bottomless mimosas and an extensive menu. If you're in the mood for pizza, head to Old California Mining Co. for their famous BBQ chicken pizza. Other popular spots include Phil's BBQ, Cocina del Charro, and The Bellows.

San Marcos is home to several local boutiques and stores, making it a great destination for shopping. For unique clothing and accessories, check out The Roost Boutique or The Dressing Room. For home decor, head to The Cottage in the Village. San Marcos is also home to the popular shopping center, Grand Plaza, which features several major retailers, including Walmart, Kohl's, and Home Depot.

For those interested in arts and culture, San Marcos offers several museums and events. The California Center for the Arts, Escondido is a cultural hub that features several theaters, a museum, and a conference center. The museum showcases contemporary art, while the theaters host a variety of performances, from concerts to Broadway shows. San Marcos is also home to several annual events, including the San Marcos Spring Festival and the San Marcos Christmas Parade.

San Marcos, California, is a hidden gem in North County San Diego, offering a variety of benefits for those who choose to call it home. From outdoor activities to unique restaurants and shops, there is something for everyone in this charming city. With its perfect climate and friendly residents, San Marcos is a great destination for anyone looking for a laid-back lifestyle. If you're considering a move to San Diego, be sure to add San Marcos to your list of top cities to check out.