Visit Oceanside
Visit Oceanside, the gateway to San Diego, is a classic beach community. Oceanside’s coastline offers some of the best sandy beaches along the coast in San Diego. There is unlimited water sports, recreation, and shopping. The historic Oceanside Pier is one of the longest wooden piers on the West Coast. It spans 1942 feet in length and offers a view of the marina that sits along the northwest border of the city. Enjoying a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle, visitors will experience the casual spirit that made Southern California’s beach culture legendary.
With over 3.5 miles of beautiful beaches, Oceanside is the ultimate place for sunning, surfing, playing, and relaxing. Sports fishing, whale watching, kayaking, and jet skiing are available out of the quaint, Cape-Cod style Oceanside harbor. Every Thursday evening Oceanside’s Sunset Market features live entertainment, delicious gourmet food, arts and craft fairs, and a farmers’ market.
Things To Do in Oceanside:
1. Farmers Markets – There are two farmers’ markets offered in Oceanside, one in the morning and one at night. The Oceanside Certified Farmers’ Market and Fair is every Thursday from 9 am to 1 pm year-round on the corner of Coast Highway and Pier View Way. Certified vendors sell fresh produce, flowers, seafood, and natural food products. Oceanside’s Sunset Market is more popular and is every Thursday as well, from 5 pm to 9 pm. Vendors sell everything that they do at the morning market, but there are more unique vendors, entertainment, and a children’s play area.
2. Whale Watching– Come out for an awe-inspiring adventure of Dolphin and Whale Watching at Oceanside Adventures. The trips are 2 hours and are great for families, couples, private parties, and corporate events; for anyone and everyone who loves the ocean or the wildlife. Their vessel is a new 50 foot beautifully equipped, one-level, fast Catamaran built by Cooper Marine in Florida. This US Coast Guard inspected Catamaran is perfect for optimal viewing during the San Diego whale watching season; there is both covered and noncovered areas and seating throughout. Get up-close and personal with the marine life we may see minutes away from Oceanside Harbor.
3. Beaches – Oceanside has beautiful beaches and this city has eight to choose from. Harbor Beach, located at S. Harbor Drive near Towers 12,14, and 16, is the largest beach in Oceanside. It’s also one of the widest in San Diego County. Ideal for jogging, sunbathing plus a popular spot for surfing. There is also a jetty on each end making it perfect for fishing. Amenities include a snack bar, fire pits located at the north end, daytime and overnight RV camping (hookups not available), a playground, and a picnic area with a cabana. Events that happen at Harbor Beach are Oceanside Harbor Days in mid-September and the Oceanside Harbor Parade of Lights in December.
4. Oceanside Pier – Oceanside Pier is the longest wooden pier in the western United States at 1,954 feet. It is a popular fishing spot with no license required. Plus there’s Ruby’s Diner at the end for a great dining experience. There are great views of surfers, the coastline, and the mountains as a backdrop. On a clear day, you’ll be able to see La Jolla, the Coronado Islands, and Catalina Island. A parking lot is available near the entrance to the pier, and metered parking is available on Pacific Street.
5. California Surf Museum – The California Surf Museum (CSM) was founded in February 1986 and has been riding a constant wave of locals and visitors throughout San Diego. CSM’s ongoing exhibits preserve surfing heritage by guiding you through its past decade-by-decade. From 1700s Hawaii to the surf explosion of the 1960s. All the way up to the powerful influence extreme sport plays in our culture today. Surfboards, bathing suits, trophies, and other significant memorabilia are placed around the museum. Check it out to visualize surfing’s adrenaline-filled ride into history.
6. Mission San Luis Rey – Founded in 1798, Mission San Luis Rey, is located at 4050 Mission Avenue. Mission San Luis Rey is called “King of the Missions” and offers something for everyone. Educators, history buffs, children, and all curious minds will discover a part of San Diego history not easily forgotten. Mission San Luis Rey is the largest of our 21 missions. It is ranked first among the Seven Wonders of San Diego County North. The mission is also home to a community of Franciscan Friars.