Welcome to San Marcos!
The dream location for outdoor enthusiasts
A fifteen-minute drive west to the Pacific Ocean, San Marcos is a peaceful, friendly community where you’ll often find families and young couples settling down. Centrally located to world-class beaches and infamous piers, there’s no better place to live if you’re looking for a quiet lifestyle yet still want access to bustling attractions.
In San Marcos, you’ll find gorgeous Spanish-style homes with sprawling lawns and impeccable landscaping. You’ll have a breeze looking for your forever home with access to so many great options.
What to Love
- Exceptional school district
- Wide selection of outdoor activities, including hiking, swimming, and fishing
- A short drive to world-class beaches
Local Lifestyle
San Marcos offers residents a dense suburban feel where residents are often strolling the streets on the hunt for a new activity to partake in. It’s an ideal location for families to live thanks to its excellent school district and plentiful outdoor activities. It’s also a great spot for young couples to make their home, as there are tons of fantastic restaurants to dine in, trails to hike, and lakes to swim at.
Dining, Shopping & Entertainment
In San Marcos, you’ll find tons of amazing restaurants along Restaurant Row, such as the local favorite Fish House Vera Cruz where you’ll indulge in fresh seafood and craft cocktails. Mama Kats welcomes you with open arms and traditional American eats, with homemade classics like biscuits and gravy and freshly made pies. For some more American fare, The Bellows is a farm-to-table restaurant with dishes made entirely from sustainable foods. Enjoy lakeside dining at the exceptional Amalfi Cucina Italiana, an Italian restaurant that’s got everything from hand-tossed pizzas to hand-rolled pasta.
San Marcos also has a furniture quadrant known as Furniture Row where both brand names and small-owned boutiques reside. Find everything from modern decor to Scandinavian furnishings at Ashley HomeStore, a well-known chain that has everything you’ll need to spruce up your space. Get signature home pieces at the Antique Village where everything is restored to its former glory. And if you’re looking for a shopping center that’s got clothing, accessories, and home goods, the Grand Plaza is home to high-end designer brands and casual dining options.
Things to Do
San Marcos has tons of outdoor activities for residents to enjoy, one being the Double Peak Park. Recorded as the highest point in North County, you’ll enjoy a challenging climb and unbeatable ocean views at the top. Sunset Park is home to several sports courts, a disc golf course, and a dog park for your furry friends to enjoy. For an afternoon activity, bring your friends and family along for some fun under the sun. Every wine aficionado will love the Sunshine Mountain Vineyard, where you’ll test dozens of flights of wine and breathtaking views of the valley. And for beer lovers, don’t forget to check out Rip Current Brewing.
Discovery Lake is one of a couple of lakes in San Marcos and a fantastic place to stretch your legs and let your dog run. At Lake San Marcos, get out on the water with one of many rental boats and putter along the shorelines. Once you’re done, end your excursion at one of many lakeside restaurants that offer fresh seafood and delicious cocktails. Jack’s Pond is another great place to visit, where your kids can climb the playground, you can fish, and everyone can enjoy the calm, peaceful environment.
Schools
San Marcos is home to several excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include:
