Dance Classes in Del Mar

The Dance Academy Del Mar offers dance classes in Del Mar for students of every age, from toddlers to adults, just minutes from the coast at Del Mar Highlands Town Center. Our studio brings ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, acro, and more to Del Mar families in a warm, personal setting where every dancer is known by name.

Founded by Ms. Francine Garton, who brings over 25 years of award-winning experience, The Dance Academy Del Mar is among a select few RAD-certified studios in the San Diego region. Our faculty includes a former Bolshoi Ballet soloist and a Guinness World Record holder, so Del Mar dancers train to a genuinely professional standard close to home.

Students follow a structured pathway: Baby & Me creative movement for the youngest, RAD-certified ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, contemporary, and acro, plus a full adult program for beginners and returning dancers. Across more than 15 styles, every child can discover the one that truly sparks their passion.

Choosing a studio is a heartfelt decision, and Del Mar families want a place where their child feels joy and belonging. Small class sizes mean every student is genuinely seen and supported, so the very first class already feels like somewhere they belong.

Why Del Mar Families Choose The Dance Academy Del Mar

Del Mar families have plenty of choices, and The Dance Academy Del Mar stands apart for reasons that go well beyond a class list:

  • Royal Academy of Dance certification: we are among a select few RAD-certified studios in the San Diego region, with a globally respected ballet syllabus, formal RAD exams, and internationally recognized credentials.

  • Faculty with real professional experience: our instructors include a former Bolshoi Ballet soloist and a Guinness World Record holder — working and former professional artists, not only trained teachers.

  • A complete pathway for every age and goal: from Baby & Me at 18 months to advanced Ballet Academy training and adult classes, every dancer has a structured route to grow.

  • Real performance experience: students take the stage in three professional productions a year, building confidence, teamwork, and stage presence that reach far beyond the studio.

A Studio Minutes from the Del Mar Coast

Families across Del Mar, from the village to the racetrack neighborhoods, reach The Dance Academy Del Mar in just a few minutes. Located at Del Mar Highlands Town Center, 12843 El Camino Real in Carmel Valley, the studio offers a convenient, easy drive with ample on-site parking — so dance fits comfortably into a busy Del Mar family's week, before or after school.

Dance Programs for Every Age

Our programs serve dancers from 18 months through adulthood. The youngest begin with Baby & Me and Toddlers & Tiny Tots; dancers train in RAD Ballet, Pre-Pointe & Pointe, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Contemporary, and Acro; Stretch & Strength supports every discipline; and Adult Dance Classes welcome all levels. Explore the full class list to see levels, schedules, and what each program works toward.

Performance Opportunities

Dancers here do not just train, they perform. Students take the stage in three professional productions each year — the Spring Ballet, the Summer Recital at the Poway Center for the Performing Arts, and a full-length Nutcracker with guest artists. These productions give Del Mar dancers real stage experience and milestones to work toward at every level.

Start Dancing in Del Mar

From the Del Mar coast, our Carmel Valley studio is just a short drive up the hill — and your child's first class is one step away. Ready to join us for class? CLICK HERE to create an account. Then, log in and select “find drop ins” to find your class!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • We welcome students as young as 18 months through our Baby & Me program, with parent participation. Toddlers & Tiny Tots classes begin at age 3, making The Dance Academy Del Mar one of the few studios offering structured children's dance classes for very young learners near Del Mar.

  • The RAD ballet program is an internationally recognized ballet curriculum developed in the UK. It provides a structured, progressive approach to classical ballet, with the option to sit formal exams for globally recognized certifications. The Dance Academy Del Mar is among a select few RAD-certified studios in the San Diego region.

  • Yes. The Dance Academy Del Mar welcomes students at every level, absolute beginners included. Every class is structured to meet students where they are and build from there, in a supportive, encouraging environment.

  • Students can participate in the Spring Ballet, the Summer Recital at the Poway Center for the Performing Arts, and the annual Nutcracker production. These productions are professionally staged and give students meaningful stage experience each year.

  • Yes. The Dance Academy Del Mar offers adult classes across multiple styles, including contemporary, jazz, tap, and stretch and strength. Our adult programs are designed for all levels and focus on artistry, fitness, and personal enjoyment.