Oceanside California Activities, Attractions, Things To Do

Oceanside Things To Do

ceanside is Carlsbad's coastal neighbor to the north. The Oceanside Harbor is home to hundreds of boats and yachts. Visit the Cape Cod style shopping area complete with its own lighthouse. There is a nearly 2 mile scenic path around the Oceanside Harbor that is perfect for strolling, skating or jogging.

Oceanside harbor & pier At the Oceanside Harbor you can make arrangements to go on a Whale Watching boat tour, deep sea fishing adventure or take sailing lessons. There are also sailboats, kayaks and Wave Runners available to rent.

The Chart House, Jolly Roger, Rockin' Baja Lobster and Monterey Bay Cannery restaurants all offer wonderful meals with a great view of the boats. You can even watch the commercial fishing vessels motor in with the fresh catch-of-the-day.

Oceanside Harbor hosts Harbor Days in October. Thousands of people take part in all the exciting activities and enjoy the craft fair and food booths. Watch the hilarious "Homemade Boat" races or participate in the Rubber Ducky races.

Oceanside has 3.5 miles of some of the most beautiful beaches in San Diego county. In San Diego where beach sand is a premium, Oceanside is the mother lode! The beaches offer fire rings, Barbecues, children's play grounds, showers and public restrooms.

Enjoy water sports of all kinds and later take a sunset stroll the length one of the longest over-water wooden piers in the United States. At the end of the Oceanside Pier, there is a Ruby's Restaurant with delicious menu items nostalgic of a 1950's diner.

Next to the pier is the Oceanside Beach Amphitheater where concerts and community events are scheduled. The Beach Community Center is next door and offers all sorts of family activities.

Oceanside is home to the California Surf Museum. You'll discover all about the history of surfing through rotating displays of photos, artifacts and memorabilia.

Mission San Luis Rey was built in 1798 and is the 18th in a chain of 21 California missions established by the Spanish Franciscans. This "King of Missions" is the largest mission and was once the largest building in California. Visitors are welcome to explore on their own or take a guided tour. The museum is open from 10 to 4 daily. Mass is still celebrated and visitors are welcome. Mission San Luis Rey is located in east Oceanside just off Highway 76.

There are four public golf courses in Oceanside: Center City Golf Course: (760) 433-8590, El Camino Country Club: (760) 757-2100, Emerald Isle Golf: (760) 721-4700, Oceanside Golf Course: (760) 433-1360 and Vista Valley Country: (760) 758-5275. Learn more about area golfing on our golf course page.

Visit the Oceanside Farmer's Market on Thursdays between 9 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. downtown on Pier View Way between Coast Highway and Ditmar Streets. Certified vendors sell fresh produce, flowers and natural foods. (760) 4512.

The Buena Vista Audubon center features hands-on exhibits on the north side Buena Vista Lagoon off South Coast Highway. There are easy hikes and fun for the entire family. (760) 439-BIRD for more information.