San Marcos

Tourist places in San Marcos, San Marcos Travel Info

San Marcos City Overview

San Marcos is a city in the North County region of San Diego County, California. It is known as the "Valley of Discovery" and is home to California State University San Marcos and Palomar College. The city offers a mix of educational institutions, parks, and lakes.

Location and Climate

San Marcos is located inland from Carlsbad and Encinitas. It has a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters. The city is surrounded by rolling hills and is close to the ocean, benefiting from coastal breezes.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit San Marcos is in the spring and fall when temperatures are mild. Summers can be warm, ideal for lake activities. Winters are cool and green.

Best Ways to Get Around

A car is the most practical way to get around San Marcos. The SPRINTER light rail line serves the city with multiple stations, connecting to other North County cities. BREEZE buses also operate in the area.

Top 5 Things to Do

  1. Hike Double Peak Park: Climb to the highest point in coastal North County for 360-degree views of the ocean and mountains.
  2. Visit Lake San Marcos: Enjoy boating, fishing, or dining at the marina of this private lake (public access to facilities available).
  3. Explore Discovery Lake: Walk or fish at this scenic lake featuring trails, a dock, and a splash pad nearby.
  4. Check out the Craft Breweries: San Marcos is part of the "Hops Highway" and is home to renowned breweries like The Lost Abbey and Port Brewing.
  5. Shop at Antique Village: Browse through thousands of antiques and collectibles at this large antique mall.