San Marcos Neighborhood Guide
San Marcos is a dynamic North County city that blends established communities, new master-planned neighborhoods, and a growing scene for food, craft beer, and outdoor adventure. CSU San Marcos brings a fresh college town feel to the area with its beautiful campus and impressive growth. San Marcos has also seen surge in new construction and with it, new economic and real estate opportunities, in recent years.
Is San Macros the right fit for your next home?
1. San Elijo Hills
Location:
South San Marcos, a master-planned community in the hills south of San Marcos Blvd.
Why People Love It:
Village center lifestyle, top schools, parks, trails, and panoramic views.
Highlights:
Community events, shopping plaza, parks, schools, hiking, and family-friendly streets.
Things to Do:
Hike Double Peak Park
Movie nights in the town square
Shop/dine in the village center
Bike/hike miles of trails
2. Lake San Marcos
Location:
Southwest San Marcos, built around a private lake, just east of Carlsbad.
Why People Love It:
Waterfront living, golf, and resort amenities.
Highlights:
Lakehouse Resort, boating, fishing, golf courses, community events.
Things to Do:
Kayak/paddleboard
Golf at St. Mark
Dine lakeside
Summer concerts/events
3. Twin Oaks Valley
Location:
North San Marcos, along Twin Oaks Valley Road.
Why People Love It:
Equestrian properties, rural feel, open space.
Highlights:
Twin Oaks Golf Course, stables, orchards, hiking.
Things to Do:
Horseback riding
Visit local farms
Hike Daley Ranch
Golf or visit nurseries
4. Discovery Hills
Location:
Southeast of Lake San Marcos, just south of San Marcos Blvd.
Why People Love It:
Family-friendly, parks, close to shops and schools.
Highlights:
Discovery Lake Park, trails, established neighborhoods.
Things to Do:
Walk around Discovery Lake
Play at neighborhood parks
Family movie nights
Bike neighborhood paths
5. Santa Fe Hills
Location:
North San Marcos, west of Twin Oaks Valley Road, north of Hwy 78.
Why People Love It:
Affordable homes, mountain views, community parks.
Highlights:
Parks, playgrounds, open space, top-rated schools.
Things to Do:
Hike Ridgeline Trail
Santa Fe Hills Park activities
Community events
Playgrounds/picnics
San Marcos combines urban convenience, family fun, and open space—from lakeside living and vibrant new communities to rural horse country and mountain views.
