San Marcos Explore Local With RVshare

Just half an hour north of the busy streets of San Diego, San Marcos offers a slightly more laid-back pace — but just as much excitement to get into if you know where to look. In this article, we’ll guide you through the local gems in San Marco for families, friends, solo adventures and couples alike!

*Note: Some of the suggestions may not be doable due to coronavirus closures, but keep this list handy for when things start opening back up more! Be sure to check individual pages for specific operation details.

What’s the very best part of living in southern California? Well, you might get a different answer depending on who you ask — but definitely one of the best things is the proximity to amazing outdoor spaces. Here are some of the best state and national parks, preserves and beaches in and near San Marcos, CA.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Encompassing more than 930 square miles of the iconic southern California desert, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is a truly epic wilderness — in fact, it’s the largest state park in California! With more than 100 miles of hiking trails to venture and 500 miles of dirt roads, this is truly an outdoor space you could get lost in, both literally and figuratively. (To that end, please be sure you’re prepared before setting out into the wild!0

Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

Just a little more than an hour’s drive from San Marcos, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park is the perfect place to get away from it all — without being very far away at all! Offering visitors almost 25,000 acres of woodland forests to explore, this park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including bobcats, mountain lions, badgers, foxes, and more than 100 species of birds.

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

A different kind of state park, Old Town San Diego State Historic Park preserves the colonial history of this now-bustling and industrialized city. Buildings from the 1820s through 1870s have been restored and refurbished, and include a schoolhouse, a blacksmith shop, and even San Diego’s very first newspaper office. There’s no charge to enter the park or its wide variety of museums and attractions, making this one of our favorite free things to do near San Marcos.

Palomar Mountain State Park

Another sprawling wilderness that’s just an hour away from town, Palomar Mountain State Park is home to some of the best hiking trails in the area as well as campsites, fishing ponds, and more. At almost 1,900 acres in size, Palomar Mountain State Park offers ample room to wander, and is a great place to spend a long weekend out of town (or just to get away for a day!).

Torrey Pines State Beach

Hey, you can’t talk about outdoor recreation in southern California without mentioning the beach, right? Torrey Pines State Beach is one of the closest to San Marcos — and fortunately for folks in town, one of the prettiest along the entire Pacific coast. Tucked at the bottom of imposing and majesting 300-foot sandstone cliffs, this spot is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and simply taking in an incredible California sunset.

You don’t have to venture very far at all from the urban center of San Marcos to enjoy some stunning outdoor adventures. Here are some of the very best hiking trails in and around San Marcos, California.

Double Peak Trail from Discovery Lake

One of the most popular and beloved trails in the San Marcos area,Double Peak Trail from Discovery Lake runs approximately four miles and sees just over 1,000 feet in elevation gain — so it’s definitely a challenging hike, but not one that’s going to completely exhaust you. Offering sweeping views of the city as well as big sky and local flora, this trail is also accessible for dogs and horses!

Copper Creek Loop

Nestled into the Rancho La Costa Habitat Conservation Area, Copper Creek Loop runs a little more than three miles all told and sees about 620 feet in elevation gain, putting it into the moderately challenging category. This trail is perfect for those seeking a nearby-yet-rugged option, and features a waterfall among other beautiful scenery.

San Marcos Hills Loop

A quick and easy jaunt in nearby Lakeview Park, the San Marcos Hills Loop runs just shy of two miles and sees just over 250 feet in elevation gain. So while it’s not perfectly flat, it’s a pretty doable option for beginners — and still offers the opportunity to get some fresh air, exercise, and pretty viewpoints.

Thunder Spring Trail

A three-and-a-half-mile long, moderately-trafficked loop running through Palomar Mountain State Park, Thunder Spring Trail is a great go-to for folks looking for a moderately difficult, but still fairly short and sweet, hike. This trail sees about 764 feet in elevation change along the way and features beautiful wildflowers as well as its namesake spring.

Oak Grove Trail to High Point

Looking for more of a challenge? Oak Grove Trail to High Point is a tough, but worthwhile expedition that runs approximately 13 miles out and back and sees more than 3,400 feet in elevation change — so make sure you’re prepared before you take it on! Accessible year-round, this Palomar Mountain State Park hike is a popular spot to garner breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Don’t forget, this is southern California, and it gets HOT out there. Bring plenty of water!

With so much to explore in San Marcos, you’re definitely going to have to fuel up for the adventure! Fortunately, this town is home to some excellent eateries. Here are some of the very best restaurants in San Marcos, no matter what you’re in the mood for.

Eugenio Italian Ristorante

After a long and storied career as a chef in Los Angeles, Orange County, Hawaii and Carlsbad, Chef Eugenio Martignano opened Eugenio Italian Ristorante, a beloved and cozy Italian restaurant serving up classic comforts in San Marcos. The menu is both traditional and inventive and all the ingredients are wonderfully fresh. The restaurant also offers a wide range of pizzas as well as a noteworthy wine list!

Sushi Huku

Sushi is one of those things where when it’s good, it’s great — but when it’s not, it’s… not. Fortunately, those in San Marco are within a stone’s throw of Sushi Huku, which serves up some of the very best of this Asian delicacy in the greater San Diego area. From classic rolls to specials as well as sashimi and a range of hot dishes, this is a great place to go if you’re looking for an authentic taste of Japanese cuisine.

Mama Kat’s Restaurant

Sometimes, you really just need something hearty and comforting. At Mama Kat’s Restaurant, that’s exactly what you’ll get — from classic, filling skillets to more innovative twists (like breakfast fried rice), this place is well-known as a daytime eatery, though it also offers delicious dinner items as well. Along with its restaurant service, Mama Kat’s is a pie shop… and you definitely want to save some room. From whiskey apple to bourbon peach to triple chocolate cream and classic custard, there’s no shortage of sweet and delicious options here!

Cocina Del Charro

Looking for some authentic (and awesome) Mexican food in San Marcos? Cocina Del Charro is the local go-to — and have been, in north San Diego county, since 1978. From its signature shrimp mini chimichangas to classics like cheese enchiladas and beef tacos, you could eat here for a month and not taste everything. Don’t forget to order a margarita to wash it all down with!

Everbowl

Looking for something a little bit lighter? Everbowl is the local health food spot — but don’t get it twisted; “healthy” isn’t mutually exclusive with “craveable.” Offering customizable bowls of superfoods, including many vegan, vegetarian and plant-based options, this is a great spot when you’re in need of something that’s filling, fueling, and energizing.

Once you’ve dined and done some hiking, you’ve still got plenty more to discover in San Marcos — this area is full of urban delights! Here are some of the top things to do and places to explore in San Marcos, no matter what you’re looking or or who you’re adventuring with.

For Kids and Families

This part of California is chock-full of fun things to do with the fam! Here are a few active options.

Invasion Laser Tag

Maybe it’s been a while since you’ve played laser tag — but chances are, you haven’t forgotten how much fun it can be. Invasion Laser Tag is a local community institution that’s been offering family fun and excitement for years, and they offer some discount specials on a regular basis to make this option even more affordable!

Get Air Vista

Located in the neighboring community of Vista, Get Air is a trampoline park that’ll have the whole family jumping for joy — and yes, mom and dad can get in on the action, too. This location also offers a dodgeball court and foam pit for even more adventures, and it’s a great place to host group events and birthday parties.

At Night

There’s certainly no shortage of fun things to do in San Marcos during the daytime… but after night falls, this city continues to serve up exciting opportunities. Here are a few after-dark options to consider.

AMF Eagle Lanes

Bowling: it’s a sport, but you can do it while drinking a beer and eating a plate of nachos. What’s not to love? AMF Eagle Lanes is the local San Marcos bowling alley and lounge, offering a relaxing and chic place to work on your form while also enjoying good company. Better yet — the menu goes far beyond nachos and beer. Check it out for yourself!

California Center for the Arts

It’s a short drive to Escondido — and an especially worthwhile one given the broad range of programs and events available at California Center for the Arts. Settle into one of the plush seats and enjoy comedy, live music, first-rate shows and more. There’s also an on-site museum which offers a weekly Wine Wednesday event and commonly displays world-class artifacts.

Cinepolis

With locations in Vista, Carlsbad and San Diego itself, Cinepolis is the place to go for movie night — particularly if you’re looking to seriously enjoy yourself. Along with plush seating and stunning picture and sound, these theaters offer a full bar and fine dining. Count this high on our list of things for couples to do in and around San Marcos!

Cheap Things to Do in San Marcos

It’s easy to feel like you’re overspending in southern California — but the good news is, it doesn’t have to be that way. Here are some of our favorite things to do in San Marcos that don’t require much of an investment at all.

A Colorful Universe

Located right in San Marcos, A Colorful Universe is a paint studio that offers you the opportunity to get hands on painting experience on canvas, ceramic and more. Great for artists of all ages, this studio offers wine and paint nights for the adults and birthday parties and events for kids, too. Everyone can benefit from getting in touch with their creativity!

Rip Current Brewing

A beloved local brewery, Rip Current Brewing was founded right here in town back in 2012, and today has become one of the best-known beers in San Diego county. Kid and dog friendly, this brewery location is a great place to gather, taste, and laugh — and there are often food trucks around to ensure you have something delicious to eat alongside your suds.

Free Things to Do in San Marcos

Cheap not quite cutting it? Don’t worry — there are free things to do in town, too! Here are some options.

San Elijo Park and Recreation Center

With both a green space offering playground equipment, a dog park and more, and an indoor recreation center with spaces for family meetings, community events, and church functions, San Elijo Park and Recreation Center is a perfect — and perfectly free — way to spend an afternoon, no matter what you’re up to.

Sunset Park

With a soccer arena, sand volleyball court, disc golf course, dog park, splash pad, and more, Sunset Park is another great local option for those looking to enjoy some outdoor time with their families, friends, or solo — and it’s completely free of charge.

Spas in San Marcos 

Everyone’s in need of some pampering from time to time. Here are some of the best day spas and salons in San Marcos.

Maui Bliss Spa

Offering facials and massages as well as a range of other skin care treatments, body treatments, and retail items for sale, Maui Bliss Spa is a local San Marcos oasis for those moments when you just need some serious “me” time. They also offer spa packages to help ensure you get the most for your money — which is relaxing in its own right.

Alchemy Hair Studio

Sometimes, a new ‘do really can feel like a work of magical transformation — and at Alchemy Hair Studio, you’ll find a wide range of creative professionals ready to help you make the change. From a simple haircut to more complicated styles and all sorts of color treatments, this is the San Marcos spot to walk out feeling like a brand new you.

Best Gyms & Yoga Studios

Staying in shape will help you look good, sure — but more importantly, you’ll feel great, too. Here are the best gyms and yoga studios for those looking for a sweat session in San Marcos.

MOA Fitness

Fitness is best done as a community effort — and at MOA Fitness, you’ll have the support and guidance of high-caliber coaches, and fun, approachable group classes to help you achieve your goals and find your own inner strength. With top-of-the-line equipment and a range of different types of training to choose from, this spot truly offers something for everybody — and every body.

San Marcos Yoga

Yoga may seem intimidating and out of reach for some, but San Marcos Yoga believes and practices in a yoga that’s made for people of all ages and ability levels. Come find your perfect class from their wide range of offerings to get grounded. 

As you can see, there’s plenty to keep you occupied in San Marcos — but if you’re aching for a day trip, there are plenty of options for that as well. Here are a few nearby locales worth the drive. 

Santa Barbara

While almost any part of LA is worthy of a day trip, it’s hard to beat a trip to scenic Santa Barbara. Wander along the iconic pier and enjoy some fair food or a trip up into the sky on the Ferris wheel. Or, skip all of that entirely and just kick back on the beach. You really can’t go wrong either way.

Joshua Tree National Park

Looking for a southern California getaway that’s about as different from the beach as possible? Head east toward Joshua Tree National Park to discover an otherworldly landscape punctuated by alien-looking trees — which, by the way, aren’t actually trees at all, but giant succulents! Just be sure if you take on any of this park’s many hiking trails, you’re prepared. This is the serious desert, and it’s easy to get lost, dehydrated, sunburnt, or all three.

As a final reminder, some of these activities may need to wait until businesses fully reopen from coronavirus closures. However, there is still much to see and experience in San Marcos that you can enjoy today! What are your favorite spots in San Marcos? Send them our way to [email protected] or by tagging us on Instagram @rvshare and using the hashtag #rvsharelocal.