Oceanside is a beach town with over 3 miles of coastline and which spreads inland in the San Luis Rey Valley. Our beaches are some of the widest and sandiest, our pier the longest wooden one in Southern California. We're home to historic Highway 101 and Missiion San Luis Rey. The city is a water sports haven centered at the beaches, pier, and small craft harbor. We boast one of the best climates in the world with year long high's averaging 66 - 78 degrees F and lows averaging 49 - 67 F, making it easy to do just about anything, any time.
Fun Things to do IN Oceanside and Carlsbad
Oceanside Beaches- boogie board, surf lessons, walk the strand. Oceanside California has 3.5 miles of sandy beaches ready for you out the back door.
Bike Rentals - Scooter Bug - 3840 Oceanic Drive, Ste. 504 - 760-295-9547
Surf Lessons and Wetsuit and Surfboard Rentals are available from many outfitters:
Oceanside Pier - fish, look for dolphins (or whales in the winter migration), or get a bite to eat at Ruby's Diner at the end of the pier - best restaurant view in Oceanside ! The wooden pier in Oceanside first opened July 4, 1927. It is the longest wooden pier on the west coast at 1942 feet. On a clear day take in La Jolla, the Coronado Islands, and Catalina Island, as well as a few dolphins.
Oceanside Harbor & Marina - we love to boat, look at boats, dream about boats - and this is the place to do it. Oceanside harbor is one of the prettiest in southern California as all 900 boats are visible from the scenic roadway that meanders past. There are fishing and whale watching excursions, boat rentals, boat launches, and a fishing pier. Hungry? Get something to eat at Joe's Crab Shack, Rockin' Lobster, Jolly Roger, or Monterey Bay Canners . More in the mood for a cup of coffee or an ice cream? Want some trinkets, souvenirs, or unique gifts? Walk to the quaint New England style small craft harbor from our Oceanside California vacation rental condo and skip the parking headaches and enjoy the stroll.
San Luis Rey River Trail - This Class I bicycle trail is approximately 7 miles long and follows the San Luis Rey River and is relatively flat. This trail is separate from all motorized traffic with no stop signs or lights and is a multiuse trail for cyclists, hikers, runners, and skaters. Not for equestrian use. For a map or more information stop by the CA Visitor's center in Oceanside or email the city. Trail access locations include just behind North Coast Village and Neptune Way. Pelican Place, my vacation rental, has 2 bikes available during your stay.
Oceanside Movie Theaters - Oceanside 16, Regal Cinemas, 401 Mission Avenue, 760-439-1733
Harbor Pelican Deli and Mini Mart - 1380 N. Pacific St., Oceanside, 760-722-5853 - Serving breakfast burritos, sandwiches, biscotti, pizza, salads - all fresh - in the harbor. Reasonable priced and friendly service.
Oceanside Farmer's Market - Thursdays 9 am to 1 pm. On Pier View Way between Coast Highway and Ditmar St.
Callifornia Surf Museum in Oceanside California. 223 Coast Highway, Oceanside; (760) 721-6876 - explore the history of surfing. "One of the best small museums in America."
Heritage Park preserves the heritage of the original City of Oceanside, incorporated in 1888. Close to Mission San Luis Rey. Park includes historic downtown buildings of Old California style main street with a general store, blacksmith, livery, stable, city jail, and other period buildings. Grounds open daily. Buildings open Sunday afternoon. Guided tours in summer. 709 San Diego St., Oceanside, CA 92054 760-433-8297
Nautique - Beach cottage headquarters Visit the store at 220 Wisconsin Ave, Oceanside, or shop online for charming decorative accessories and style for your beach cottage, beach condo, or inland escape! 760-757-3440
Oceanside Museum of Art 704 Pier View Way, Oceanside, CA, 760-721-2787. A jewel of Oceanside. Click for Newsletter
Mission San Luis Rey - is the 18th of the 21 California Missions, and the largest at that. 4 miles inland in Oceanside. Still operated today, the mission has guided and self guided tours, a museum, and gift shop. Have a California 4th grader studying the missions? Why not spend the weekend here in Oceanside when you come to see Mission San Luis Rey? 4070 Mission Avenue, Oceanside, CA 92057 760-757-3651 If you are in CA and have a 4th grade student you can take in Mission San Diego de Acala, and Pala Mission all in greater San Diego County. Famed Mission San Juan Capistrano is only 30 minutes north in Orange County.
Star Theatre - 402 North Coast Highway, Oceanside, CA 92054 - for show and ticket information 760-721-9983 - free parking one half block east on Civic Center Drive - Live theater in Oceanside! Email Star Theatre Now
Grunion Runs - Experience this unique southern California fishing frenzy from March - August. These little fish come right up on shore.
Buena Vista Audubon Society Nature Center Located at the southern edge of Oceanside, and sited on the Buena Vista Lagoon, you'll find a place to view native plants, birds, tracks, and local habitat. Excellent for bird lovers and children. Closed Mondays. 2202 S. Coast Highway, Oceanside; (760) 439-BIRD(2473)
Oceanside Farmer's Market - downtown at Pier View Way and Coast Highway (101) on Thursday mornings 9am - 12:30pm . Here you'll find delicious fresh produce, baked goods, seafood, and arts 7 crafts. Main Street, Oceanside (760)-754-4512. Now join us for Sunset Market - Thursday evenings 5 pm - 9 pm.
Camp Pendleton Marine Base which borders the north side of Oceanside, is the largest of the USMC amphibious training bases. It is also home to a large swath of native chaparral and several endangered species. Two museums on base are available for 1.5hr tours. You will be required to show valid id, proof of insurance, and proof of registration to enter the base. There is also paintball open to the public on the base.(760)725-5569
Guajome Regional Park - Features a lake for fishing, hiking, biking and horseback riding. 3000 Guajome Lake Rd., Oceanside,(858) 565-3600
Joe's Crab shack is a short walk from our vacation rental condo to Oceanside harbor. There is a fun funky atmosphere here which promises to entertain you and the kids - souvenirs too. Fun, but a little pricey for the food. The lobster chowder is the best I've ever had!
Angelos - forget the other fast food chains in America - this is how it was meant to be - you may only need one meal in a day from here - the Gyros and fish sandwich are my personal favorites. Right on coast highway in Oceanside California - near the vacation rental.
Ocean's Eleven Casino (760) 439-6988 (888) 439-6988 (760) 439-5099 121 Brooks St Oceanside, CA 92054 (I-5 East on Mission)/
Lego Land CA is the budding builder's dream amusement park- so very close to Oceanside California- coupons in the Entertainment guide are at the vacation rental. The Dragon rollercoaster is perfect for parents who aren't that fond of roller coasters. Your children can even get their "driver's license" at the Lego Land driving school here.
Carlsbad Premium Outlets - outlet shopping close to Oceanside California- show your AAA card to save. Teens especially like the PacSun outlet here. Parents like the prices.
Carlsbad's K1Speed - largest indoor go kart facility on the west coast. 760-929-6212. Electric for power and safety.
Flower Fields in bloom at Carlsbad Ranch near Oceanside California. The ranunculus blooms are magnificent. Poinsettia garden, rose garden. A nice diversion from the beach and outing near the outlets.
Museum of Making Music - The museum curates public exhibits that relate to the history of American popular music, the manufacture and retail of musical instruments and the history of the music products industry from 1890s to the present day. Carlsbad.
Quail Botanical Gardens - display more than 3000 rare and exotic plants. Encinitas 760-436-3036
California Water Sports - waverunners, wakeboards, watter skis, paddle boats, kayaks, canoes - rentals at Carlsbad's Snug Harbor Marina on the Carlsbad lagoon. - 888-5-lagoon
Childeren's Discovery Museum of North County - Carlsbad. 760-720-0737 - Fun hands on museum for families. Includes life inside a bubble, marketplace, Japanese home.
Biplane, Air Combat, Warbird - flying adventures 800-759-5667, Carlsbad
Oceanside Harbor Boating Outfits
Fishing charters can be arranged for less than 12 people with Capt. Joe at 760-96-0111.
If deep sea fishing is in the plans Helgren's Sport Fishing takes out daily expeditions on their larger boats. 315 Harbor Dr. South 760-722-2133
Azure Seas Oceanside Cruises from Oceanside Harbor cruises for any occasion including birthdays, private parties, weddings, themes, sunset cruises, and Sunday champagne brunch. 256 Harbor Drive S., Oceanside, CA 92054, 1-800-721-8481
Boat Rentals - Oceanside Boat Rentals, 256 Harbor Drive South , Oceanside, CA 92054, (760) 722-0028 - make your vacation truly memorable and get out on the water. Rent a waverunner, kayak, electric boat, power boat, or small sailboat at the harbor right next to North Coast Village
Dreamaker Yacht Charters - 1540-J Harbor Dr. N End Tie - 760-533-0720
Yearley Sail Boats - 1850 Harbor Dr. N - 760-722-4940
Breakwater Yachts - 1351 Harbor Dr. N #B - 760-439-4650
Sea Star Sportfishing - 315 Harbor Dr. South - 760-966-0111
Pacific Coast Bait & Tackle - 2110 S Coast Hwy - 760-439-3474 - to outfit yourself for license free pier fishing
Oceanside Marine Centre - 1550 Harbor Dr. N - 760-722-1833
Captained Sailing Charters: Please be sure to tell these outfits that you were sent by Melinda at BETTER Vacation Rentals, North Coast Village.
Sail Aboard the Luxury Yacht Obsession with Captain Les George. 39' Sloop. Pacific Coast Sail Charters, Oceanside Harbor. Charters to suit your needs 1-6 people. Children welcome. 760-212-2963
Baja Sail - Day Sailing, Sunset Cruises, Private Charters aboard 36' Catamaran - Actively sail the boat or sit back and relax. Daily trips from Oceanside Harbor up to 6 passengers. Affordable: $55 pp for 3 hours.760-804-5788 or 760-613-9384.
Fun East of Oceanside
The San Diego Wild Animal Park is unlike any zoo you have visited before - animals in their natural habitat. This park is my personal favorite for picnics, animal babies, and feeding giraffes. The drive from Oceanside California is so pretty, and short that you will be surprised. Stop along the way for fresh California avocados and fruit at any of the stands.
Temecula wine country - about an hour east of Oceanside. Take the Grapevine Tour and Bus 951-693-5755 for a wine shuttle or private excursion. Be sure to visit Leonesse and Wilson Creek for some of my favorite whites. Or enjoy the San Pasqual Valley south east of Oceanside near the San Diego Wild Animal Park: try Orfila Winery's tours and Bernardo Winery
Antique Gas and Steam Engine Museum - 2040 North Santa Fe Ave, Vista, CA 92083 - 760-941-1791 - east of Oceanside. 55 acres of rolling farm ground with exhibits focusing from 1849-1950.
Julian - 800-848-3336 - apple country. Four seasons of weather, rich with mining history, charm, and good food. A favorite of locals for apple pie and apple picking in the early fall. Julian Pioneer Museum 760-765-0227. Mission Santa Ysabel 760-765-0810
Pala Casino - 877-946-7252 - book some good name entertainers here, and an easy drive from Oceanside.
Harrah's Rincon Casino & Resort - Valley Center - 800-Harrahs
Golf in and Around Oceanside California
Oceanside GOLF
There are five golf courses to choose from during your visit to Oceanside.
PUBLIC Courses:
Center City Golf Course - 2323 Greenbriar Dr.., Oceanside, (760)433-8590 (City Course)
Emerald Isle - 660 S. El Camino Real (760)721-4700 - Executive course, and disc golf too; join the fun!
Oceanside Golf Course - 825 Douglas Drive, Oceanside, (760)757-2100
PRIVATE Courses:
Arrowood Golf, LLC - 5201 Village Drive • Oceanside, CA 92057 • (760) 967-8400 Ted Robinson Jr.'s first solo course!
El Camino Country Club - 3202 Vista Way, Oceanside (760)757-2100
Other Golf Venues Close by or Worth Playing
Showtime Golf can book is a free Golf service to book your last minute or advance tee times at San Diego's finest Championship courses (Torrey Pines requires a fee). 888-806-7667 or 760-471-6023
Torrey Pines Municipal Golf Course 11480 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, (619) 570-1234
La Costa Resort, 800-854-5000
Encinitas Ranch - 760-603-6800
Aviara Resort - 760-603-6800
TENNIS
North San Diego County Tennis Clubs A listing of 30 area tennis clubs. One located in Oceanside: EL CAMINO RAQUET FITNESS & SWIM CLUB, 3202 Vista Way, Oceanside, 760-757-9190
South of Oceanside Featuring San Diego, California
Discount Tickets on San Diego Area Attractions - I've never used San Diego A-Z to buy tickets, but they come recommended from others. I usually go direct to the attraction's websites, AAA, Costco, and do a search on Google.
Ok, I admit it, I like zoos. The San Diego Zoo deserves a day of your vacation, especially in the cooler months. There is a baby Panda that was born recently. This is a huge zoo and you can come back again and again and always see something new. An easy drive, train ride, or bus ride from Oceanside California.
Sea World in San Diego is still a delight, though they are adding "rides" as they compete with all the other amusements that are easy to get to from this Oceanside California vacation rental. Not to be missed includes the Wild Arctic exhibit, sharks, and dolphin feeding time. If you do some planning ahead of time (online) you can get in on some fantastic animal interactions and behind the scenes tours. Check around for discounts as this park is expensive and the children's prices only go up to 9 year's old.
San Diego's Balboa Park It is hear that you will enjoy one of America's best planned public great parks. Balboa Park includes the world famous San Diego Zoo, San Diego Aerospace Museum, San Diego Museum of Art, San Diego Model Railroad Museum, San Diego Museum of Man, and too many other museums, exhibits, and attractions to list here. Follow the link to Balboa Park, and take in more than just the tip of San Diego's art, culture, and history.
Birch Aquarium at Scripps - I've been to a lot of aquariums in my life and though this is not Monterey or New England, this one is a nice diversion. I especially like the sea horses here. 858-534-fish
Cabrillo National Monument - More than just a scenic spot to take in San Diego Bay. Spend some time hear and you'll learn about California history, as well as our role during World War II. Fun hiking for all. 619-557-5450 You can spend an hour or a day here at Cabrillo in San Diego. Important history collides with spectacular vistas of the city, with hidden jewels of coastal hiking trails.
San Diego Padres - Enjoy Major Leaque Baseball at the new Petco Park. Old fashioned baseball in the city, and by the ocean. Can you think of a better way to spend a summer day or evening in San Diego? The only thing better would be if they were playing my team, the Boston Red Sox, in the World Series! Call 619-795-5500 or go online for tickets.
Midway Museum - San Diego Aircraft Carrier. Step abord the USS Midway - the longest serving carrier in the history of the Navy, and step into an important link to San Diego's history and local economy. , (619)544-9600
Seaport Village - San Diego's landmark for waterfront shopping and dining. My favorite thing about Seaport Village is the historic carousel. Imaging my suprise when riding on this carousel that I discovered it's originally from Salisbury, MA
Children's Museum - San Diego. Dedicated to "learning through arts." I visited this museum in their original space more than 12 years ago, and it was fun then. They've since moved to Island Ave. in the heart of downtown. I'm sure their even better. 619-233-8792
Knotts Soak City - 619-661-7373 - wet and wild thrills - located next door to Coors Amphitheatre
Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum - MCAS Miramar, San Diego 858-693-1723 - he only official Marine Corps Aviation Museum in the western US. Includes history of Woman Marines exhibit.
Marine Corps Recruit Depot Command Museum - San Diego 619-524-6719 - Legends of the Corps come alive as the history of the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego is told.
San Diego Natural History Museum - in Balboa Park - 619-232-3821
Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve - Imperial Beach - 619-575-3613- Your tax dollars at work. This used to be a disgrace of pollution - now you can enjoy where the river meets the sea with miles of easy trails for walking and wildlife viewing - with a visitor center.
The Seal Tour - San Diego's most unique tour is presented by Historic Tours of America - You will view San Diego on a boat with wheels from sea and land. This tour features the rich maritime and military history of San Diego. Departs from Seaport Village which is worth a visit in itself if only for the old carousel moved from my native New England's Salisbury Beach. Land only based tours are also available from this company call 619-298-8687 or click on the link for an Old Town Trolley Tour.
Old Town San Diego - historic shops, Whaley House - haunted, theater, artisans, galleries, mariachis, Heritage Park, restaurants. 619-291-4903
Torrey Pines State Reserve (858) 755-2063
Mt. Palomar Observatory This observatory is home to five telescopes including the 200 inch Hale Telescope. Open daily 9 am - 4pm except Dec. 24 & 25.
California Center for the Arts Museum - Escondido. 760-839-4138
Lyric Opera San Diego - now at the restored Mary Birch North Park Theatre - beautiful operas from late September to late February 619-231-0662
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park- over 600,000 acres - a beautiful desert place to visit in spring, fall, and winter. Take a trip to the State Park, hike into a palm oasis, learn about cacti, take in the desert wildlife. Tours available from California Overland at 760-767-1232
Leo Carillo Ranch Historic Park - experience CA ranchero life. Park open to all, structures by guided tour. 760-476-1042
Bates Nut Farm - since 1921. Nuts, 8 acre park, Valley Center 760-749-3333
The Lavender Fields - a bit of France in southern California - Valley Center 760-742-1489
Del Mar Fairgrounds - hourse racing and San Diego County fair - Del Mar - 858-755-1161
Hot Air Balloons - take a drive down to San Diego and you are sure to spy balloons on the way. Take a ride with any of the many companies offering tours: Sunballoon; Panorama Balloon tours; and Skysurfer Balloon (800-660-6809).
Aqua Adventures - kayak lessons, tours, rentals on Mission Bay in San Diego
Scuba, Snorkel, Kayak- non diver and diver experiences, excursions, adventures and certifications at La Jolla Cove. 619-260-1880
Tijuana Mexico- is less than an hour away from Oceanside and makes for a fun trip south of the border. I personally prefer to Park on the US side of the border and walk across if I'm just going to Tijuana to shop or eat. If you are driving, most rental cars are not allowed across.
Other Southern California Fun Things to Do from Oceanside
Los Angeles Area
Get coupons for many attractions locally, in the in condo Entertainment Guide, via AAA, your credit union, or Costco.
Universal Studios - Universal Studios and Citywalk are quite a drive from Oceanside, but if you are visiting for a week or more, and have adolescent or teenage children, it is worth the drive.
TV Tickets, Studio Audiences, TV Tix Be In a Movie are all ways for the Hollywood fanatic to see shows taped for FREE. Sign up to be on their email lists BEFORE you come on vacation. There are shows for kids and adults alike. We've taken the kids and friends to a live taping of a Nickelodeon show, and I recently got to be part of the live audience at "Dancing with the Stars." Be sure to record the show on the DVR and plasma TV back at the Oceanside rental condo before you go so you can try to see yourself on TV!
Six Flags - Magic Mountain - is in Valencia, north of LA and Hollywood. This is easily a 3 hour drive with traffic, but it is THE place for roller coaster fans. Very hot and crowded in summer; much better for our winter guests.
Orange County Area
Orange County is an easy drive from Oceanside and there are many places worth visiting if you are staing for a week or more or have your heart set on something.
Disneyland and California Adventure are Disney's southern California jewels. The drive is straight up the 5N Freeway, approximately 1 hour away. Buy your tickets online for guaranteed admission in busy times, and to avoid the purchase lines. See my Vacation and Travel Blog for visiting tips from a local.
Knotts Berry Farm is a bargain favorite for young, teen, and young at heart. Great coasters, thrill rides, Snoopy and friends, and shopping abound. Discounts are usually available online. If you are visiting in October, Knotts Scary Farm is an experience you'll not soon forget. In Buena Park, a little further up 5N from Disney.
General Travel and Tourism Information for Oceanside, San Diego, and the Surrounding Areas
San Diego.com - As a frugal traveler I especially like their coupons area for restaurants and attractions.
101 Things to do in San Diego"
Vacation Aid - A Valuable Vacation Directory and Information Resource.
There is so much to do while on vacation in Oceanside that I cannot possibly include everything here. Send me your link, and I'll add it!
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