Carmel Valley, just east of the beaches at Del Mar and Torrey Pines, was designed as a master planned community with parks and recreation areas set aside, as well as many walking, biking and running trails.

As of 2010 this small coastal community has a household population of just over 36,000. In addition to Torrey Hills, it now includes the semi rural neighborhood of Del Mar Mesa, and the Spanish architecture themed Pacific Highlands Ranch. Given its top ranked schools, ample parks and open space, and close proximity to high tech work centers and the beach, Carmel Valley serves as one of the most desirable places to raise a family in San Diego County.

Carmel Valley Condo Complexes: Andalucia,  Arbor lakes, Cambria, Camino Villas, Canyon Ridge, Carmel Point, Chateau Village, Coral Cove, Crest Del Mar, Del Mar Villas, East Bluff, Elysian, Groves, Halcyon, The Heights, The Lakes, La Plage, Martinique, Montemar, Pacifica, Palermo, Palmilla, Pelagos, Pell Place, Sunstream.