33 Things to do in Oceanside, CA For a Memorable Vacation (2024)

Hello there! It’s Nasiba coming to you live from Oceanside in California.

Oceanside welcomed me with open arms and made me feel at home. I planned this trip sometime last year, and seeing it finally materialize was a high for me. One of the things I was excited to do here was visit LEGOLAND California! I’m unapologetically a baby when it comes to Legoland.

Between me and you, Legoland is the only reason I wanted to visit Oceanside. However, I found more exciting things to do, which I’ll share with you shortly.

But first, Legoland California. This theme park has attractions that are geared toward adults. I was not attracted to those. The child in me wanted those that are meant for children. Don’t judge me. You should try them too and you’ll understand where I’m coming from.

Anyway, some sections did not allow adults without children. Guess what I did? I was the girl asking strangers if I could take one of their kids on the rides. Fortunately, I found a nice family who allowed me to have their daughter for the day. She gave her consent. We had the time of our lives!

Here are some other activities that are worth your while in Oceanside.

Oceanside is a city in San Diego County located on California’s South Coast.

It is characteristic of a beautiful coastline and beaches, which make it an ideal surfing destination.

Oceanside has a lot of stunning attractions that draw tourists from all over the world.

If you plan to visit the city, we have compiled the best things to do in Oceanside.

Here you can explore the best San Diego resorts to stay in with family.

We hope that this list will help you make your trip memorable.

33 things to do in Oceanside

1. Oceanside Pier

Rating: 4.7★

Entry ticket: Free entry

Address: Pier, Oceanside, CA 92054

• It is 1,942 ft. long
• It is the lengthiest wooden pier on the western coastline of the United States
• Originally built in 1888

Why you should go: The Oceanside Pier is one of the most renowned landmarks in the city.

It is a popular fishing spot that attracts local and tourist fishing enthusiasts. 

Things to do: You can take a walk on the pier’s wooden walking board to admire the ocean’s beauty and surfers. 

You can also bring a fishing rod with you and try your luck at fishing.

• It is 7 minutes away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

2. Oceanside Harbor Beach

Rating: 4.7★

Entry ticket: $10 – $15 per person

Address: Oceanside Harbor Beach, N Pacific St, Oceanside, CA 92054

• It is the largest beach in Oceanside
• Offers breathtaking views of the ocean
• It offers a wide range of beach activities

Why you should go: Oceanside Harbor Beach is a popular attraction for its breathtaking ocean views and beach activities. 

It features shops and restaurants.

Things to do: We recommend Harbor Beach for your list of things to do in Oceanside, owing to its serenity and beauty.

You will enjoy activities such as swimming, paddleboarding, surfing, beach football, beach volleyball, and more. 

• It is 8 minutes away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

3. Oceanside Sunset Market

Rating: 4.7★

Entry ticket: Free entry

Address: 401 Pier View Way, Oceanside, CA 92054

• Established in 2007
• The best place to meet locals and other tourists

Why you should go: Oceanside Sunset Market is a weekly market that brings together sellers, buyers, and live entertainment. 

Food and other goods are sold, as live music and other forms of entertainment take place.

Things to do: Visit the market and explore what’s on offer as you enjoy some local music and entertainment.

Eat some fresh food and drinks.

• It is 5 minutes away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

4. Buena Vista Audubon Society and Nature Center

Rating: 4.7★

Entry ticket: Free entry

Address: 2202 S Coast Hwy, Oceanside, CA 92054

• Located in Southern Oceanside on Buena Vista Lagoon
• Established in 1988

Why you should go: The Buena Vista Audubon Society and Nature Center is dedicated to preserving native plants and wildlife in San Diego. 

The center aims to teach generations how wildlife and plant life was back in the day. 

Things to do: Visit the center and enjoy a quiet picnic as you walk around the gardens and beautiful nature trails. 

It is a perfect spot for both children and adults. 

• It is 9 minutes away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

5. Hello Betty Fish House

Rating: 4.3★

Entry ticket: Free entry

Address: 211 Mission Ave, Oceanside, CA 92054

• It serves SoCal delicacies
• It overlooks the ocean

Why you should go: Hello Betty Fish House is an outdoor-indoor eatery that serves the best margaritas and tacos. 

It covers two floors. On the first floor, which is indoor, is a series of photos on the walls.

On the second floor, on the rooftop, you are treated to beautiful views of the blue ocean. 

Things to do: Visit the eatery to enjoy different South Californian dishes and sip some margaritas while chasing the sunset on the rooftop.

• It is 7 minutes away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

6. Buccaneer Beach

Rating: 4.7★

Entry ticket: Free entry

Address: 1530124900, Oceanside, CA 92054

• It is the smallest beach in Oceanside
• It is also called the Children’s Beach
• Family-friendly beach

Why you should go: Buccaneer Beach is located near Buccaneer Park and serves as one of the activities to do while visiting the park.

It is small in size but is a suitable spot to take your children to enjoy water activities.

Things to do: As part of the fun your children will have in Buccaneer Park, take them to the beach to have fun in the water. 

• It is 8 minutes away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

If you love to visit more parks with family and friends, we recommend you to read our list of national parks in California!

7. The Privateer Coal Fire Pizza

Rating: 4.6★

Entry ticket: Free entry

Address: 1706 S Coast Hwy, Oceanside, CA 92054

• Popular pizza joint in Oceanside 
• Family-owned business
• Uses coal fire to cook its pizzas

Why you should go: If you would like to know how pizza cooked in an oven using coal fire tastes like you should have The Privateer Coal Fire Pizza!

Some reviews state that the pizza even tastes better than any Italian pizza.

Things to do: Visit the pizza joint and enjoy mouthwatering pizza cooked in just four minutes.

Yes, four minutes. The joint uses fresh vegetables sourced from local farms.

• It is 7 minutes away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

8. Legacy Brewing Company

Rating: 4.5★

Entry ticket: Free entry

Address: 363 Airport Rd, Oceanside, CA 92058

• It was established in 2013
• It serves craft beer

Why you should go: Legacy Brewing Company serves handcrafted beer in different flavors and keeps guests entertained through live music and other performances. 

Things to do: For your evening and night plan in this lovely city, make sure to include Legacy Brewing Company on  your bucket list.

It is a good place to relax after a long day exploring the city. 

• It is 1 minute away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

9. Sailing Blue Waters Charters

Rating: 5.0★

Entry ticket: $150 per hour for up to 6 guests – 2 hours minimum per session

Address:  1950 N Harbor Dr, Oceanside, CA 92054

• Takes you on an adventurous sailing excursion
• Private sailing charters

Why you should go: If you love cruising or sailing, you should check out Sailing Blue Water Charters.

They will take you on an unforgettable excursion where you are likely to see whales, seals, and dolphins.

Things to do: Spend two to six hours in a private yacht cruising the ocean. If you want to catch the sunset in the waters, you can sign up for a sunset excursion. 

You can book the yacht for a private event like a birthday party, wedding, or engagement party.

10. Prince of Peace Abbey

Rating: 4.8★

Entry ticket: Free entry

Address: 650 Benet Hill Rd, Oceanside, CA 92058

• It is a pilgrimage site
• It was established in 1958

Why you should go: Prince of Peace Abbey sits on a hill overlooking the city.

It is was founded by Roman Catholic monks and is a popular spot among religious and spiritual people. 

Things to do: Visit the Prayer Walk, which is the section open to the public and have a spiritual or religious encounter.

The monastery is open to guests who would like to stay overnight. 

There is a library and a gift shop as well.

• It is 4 minutes away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

11. Beach House Winery

Rating: 4.7★

Entry ticket: $15 tasting fee per person – includes 6 wines of your choice

Address: 1534 Sleeping Indian Rd, Fallbrook, CA 92028

• An award-winning winery in Oceanside
• It was established in 2010 by George and Kim Murray

Why you should go: If you want to experience a taste of the city’s wine, you should have the Beach House Winery of things to do in Oceanside. 

Guests enjoy sipping different wines from this winery located on top of a hill with amazing ocean views.

Things to do: If you are looking for an afternoon plan, you should spend your time at the winery in its spacious and elegant tasting rooms. 

Wine tasting takes place on Saturdays and Sundays.

• It is 15 minutes away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

Looking for more thrill in California? Why not visit and find out what to do in Huntington Beach!?

12. Wrench and Rodent Seabasstropub

Rating: 4.7★

Entry ticket: Free entry

Address: 1815 S Coast Hwy, Oceanside, CA 92054

• A seafood eatery
• It was opened in 2013
• Owned and run by Davin and Jessica Waite

Why you should go: Wrench and Rodent Seabasstropub serves seafood made using locally sourced ingredients.

They also make the best sushi in town prepared by Chef Davin Waite who owns the eatery with his wife.

Things to do: Enjoy some fresh delicacies in a beautiful eatery that features Mexican and Victorian décor. 

• It is 7 minutes away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

13. The Coaster

Rating: 4.5★

Entry ticket: Between $2 – $13 depending on class, and single/round trip

• A commuter train that operates between Oceanside and San Diego

Why you should go: The Coaster takes guests on a 41-mile train ride from the city to San Diego.

You can use it to travel to other areas in between. 

Things to do: Take a Coaster ride and enjoy scenic views of the Coastal towns and landscape along the way. 

• It is 7 minutes away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

14. Beach Break Café 

Rating: 4.7★

Entry ticket: Free entry

Address: 1802 S Coast Hwy, Oceanside, CA 92054

• A popular breakfast joint
• It sits on the South Coast Highway

Why you should go: Beach Break Café is famous for its huge and sumptuous American breakfast portions accompanied by a big slice of coffee cake. 

It is the ideal spot to have your breakfast in Oceanside before you start your day. 

Things to do: Visit the café to enjoy a delicious breakfast and admire the surf-inspired décor which fills the premise’s walls. 

• It is 7 minutes away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

15. Oceanside Broiler

Rating: 4.3★

Entry ticket: Free entry

Address: 1325 N Harbor Dr N, Oceanside, CA 92054

• It is located in Oceanside Harbor Village
• A waterfront dining restaurant

Why you should go: The Oceanside Broiler is a restaurant and bar that offers seafood, steaks, and other delicious dishes.

You can accompany these with a drink of your choice. 

It is built next to the water with its patio right on top of the water. 

Things to do: If you want a restaurant where you can enjoy a meal while taking in the breathtaking view of the ocean.

• It is 7 minutes away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

16. Fratelli’s Italian Kitchen

Rating: 4.6★

Entry ticket: Free entry

Address: 3915 Mission Ave Ste 12, Oceanside, CA 92058

• Family-owned Italian restaurant
• It was established in 2011

Why you should go: If you enjoy Italian cuisine, you should make sure to visit Fratelli’s Italian Kitchen.

It is a friendly and beautiful eatery that serves Italian dishes like lasagna and baguette sandwiches.

Things to do: Visit the eatery to enjoy your lunch or dinner while exploring Oceanside.

There is also a wide selection of Italian, local, and international wines on offer.

• It is 4 minutes away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

17. Breakwater Brewing Co.

Rating: 4.3★

Address: 101 N Coast Hwy, Oceanside, CA 92054

• It was established in 2008
• It is located in downtown Oceanside

Why you should go: Breakwater Brewing Co. is a restaurant and brewery that offers food and handcrafted beer.

It offers over 18 distinct crafted beers. 

Things to do: The joint is perfect for an evening plan after a long day exploring the city of Oceanside.

You can eat a meal of your choice accompanied by a beer from their wide selection.

• It is 5 minutes away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

18. Harney Oceanside Lounge

Rating: 4.4★

Entry ticket: Free entry

Address: 301 Mission Ave, Oceanside, CA 92054

• Offers Japanese cuisine
• Award-winning sushi restaurant

Why you should go: If you are a foodie, you should have Harney Oceanside Lounge as a restaurant option of coolest things to do in Oceanside.

The eatery offers the best sushi and other sumptuous Japanese dishes. 

Things to do: Visit the lounge to eat and explore its wall art as you listen to some soft music.

The eatery is famous for sushi and offers over 35 varieties. 

There is a waterfall on the premises that creates a meditative and soothing ambiance. 

• It is 6 minutes away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

Planning a trip to other parts of California soon? You’ll love our lists detailing the fun list of what to do in Palm Springs,CA0, things to do in Malibu,CA, and fun things to do in San Jose!

19. Oceanside Tyson Street Park

Rating: 4.6★

Entry ticket: Free

Address: 121 S Pacific St, Oceanside, CA 92054

• It is also known as Tyson Street Beach
• It is located near the Oceanside Pier

Why you should go: Oceanside Tyson Street Park is a family-friendly leisure park located right next to the beach.

You can bring your kids here to enjoy fun activities at the playground.

Things to do: Enjoy a wide range of activities for adults and children while having the most beautiful view of the ocean. 

There are picnic tables and resting benches all around the park.

• It is 8 minutes away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

20. Heritage Park Village Museum

Rating: 4.5★

Entry ticket: $9.95 for adults (16+), $4.95 for children (3-15)

Address: 220 Peyri Dr, Oceanside, CA 92058

• Established in 1976
• Features historical buildings and memorabilia

Why you should go: Heritage Park Village Museum is a historical site that takes guests back in time into the early 20th century through buildings and other artifacts. 

Things to do: If you are looking for a historical experience, you should include the Heritage Park Village Museum in your schedule.

You will learn about the city’s culture and history. 

• It is 5 minutes away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

• It is closed for the season and will reopen in May 2024.

If you have more time, why not check out Catalina Island, Bakersfield, and Lake Tahoe? If you plan the trip, here are some things to do on Catalina Island, some best things to Do in Bakersfield, and explore best of what to do in Lake Tahoe!

21. Guajome Regional Park

Rating: 4.5★

Entry ticket: Free entry, Parking fee – $3, Camping is at an extra cost

Address: 3000 Guajome Lake Rd, Oceanside, CA 92057

• Located within Oceanside’s Coastal community
• A recreational park

Why you should go: Guajome Regional Park is a perfect place to take your family to enjoy a relaxed afternoon in nature.

It is dotted with trees, green grass lawns, ponds, a lake, picnic tables, benches, and nature trails. 

Things to do: If you want a place where you can have some quiet time to bond with nature, this serene park is the place for you.

You can hike the beautiful trails or enjoy a picnic overlooking the beautiful compound.

• It is 7 minutes away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

If you interested of more camping spot in California, Why not checking best Catalina Island Camping!

22. Mission San Luis Rey

Rating: 4.6★

Entry ticket: $5 for adults, $3 for children

Address: 4050 Mission Ave, Oceanside, CA 92057

• The largest Mission in California
• Established in 1798 as a Spanish Mission

Why you should go: Mission San Luis Rey is a National Heritage Site that has a museum section that showcases its history. 

It also acts as a spiritual and religious site.

Things to do: If you are into religious or spiritual practice, It offers private retreats.

• It is 7 minutes away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

23. California Surf Museum

Rating: 4.7★

Entry ticket: $7 for adults (13+), $5 for students, military and seniors (62+), free for children under 13

Address: 312 Pier View Way, Oceanside, CA 92054

• Established in 1986
• It is a surfing resource center

Why you should go: If you are interested in learning anything about surfing, including its history, the California Surf Museum will give you all the information you need. 

Things to do: Explore this museum to learn the history of surfing and equip yourself with surfing knowledge. 

• It is 5 minutes away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

24. Oceanside Museum of Art

Rating: 4.6★

Entry ticket: $10 per person, $5 for seniors (65+)

Address: 704 Pier View Way, Oceanside, CA 92054

• Established in 1997
• Dedicated to the celebration of art and culture

Why you should go: The Oceanside Museum of Art is dedicated to preserving art and culture.

It consists of exhibits that showcase art by local and international artists. 

Things to do: Explore the museum’s permanent and temporary exhibitions to appreciate Oceanside’s talented artists. 

• It is 5 minutes away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

25. Oceanside Strand Beach

Rating: 4.8★

Entry ticket: Free entry

Address: Strand Beach, The Strand N, Oceanside, CA 92054

• Stretches for 1 mile

Why you should go: Oceanside Strand Beach is located along the beach and runs for one mile.

It is a popular spot for cycling and beach walks on the designated walkway. 

Things to do: Visit the beach to enjoy various beach activities like swimming, surfing, paddle boarding, and more. 

It is ideal for both adults and children.

• It is 5 minutes away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

26. Orfila Vineyards, Tasting Room, and Kitchen

Rating: 4.5★

Address: 221 N Cleveland St, Oceanside, CA 92054

• Eatery and winery
• Located in downtown Oceanside 

Why you should go: Orfila Vineyards Tasting Room and Kitchen is famous for its brand Orfila wines.

It is an award-winning winery that also has a restaurant section that serves delicious cuisines prepared by an experienced chef. 

Things to do: Explore their list of wines to understand why they have been recipients of awards over the years.

Unlike many wineries that require guests to bring their own food, this business has its own kitchen and serves delicious dishes.

• It is 6 minutes away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

27. GoJump Oceanside Inc.

Rating: 4.6★

Entry ticket: Between $179 and $199

Address: 480 Airport Rd, Oceanside, CA 92058

• Skydiving company in Oceanside

Why you should go: If you love to have a thrilling experience every once in a while, you should include GoJump Oceanside INC on your schedule of things to do in Oceanside.

It offers the best skydiving services in the city.

Things to do: Get your adrenaline rush on by participating in a skydiving session.

You will enjoy the beautiful city and ocean view from the sky.

• It is 1 minute away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

28. Top Gun House

Entry ticket: free

Address: 480 Airport Rd, Oceanside, CA 92058

• Also known as Graves House

Why you should go: Top Gun House is named after the famous Top Gun movie.

It is the house in which the movie was filmed and thus how it got its name. 

Things to do: Movie fanatics come here to take photos and explore the house in which their favorite movie was shot.

I bet you would want to see it in real life too. 

• It is 1 minute away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

29. iFLY Indoor Skydiving

Rating: 4.8★

Entry ticket: From $59.95 per person per flight

Address: 3178 Vista Way, Oceanside, CA 92056

• Indoor skydiving facility

Why you should go: When it comes to thrilling activities to enjoy with kids, you can have iFLY Indoor Skydiving on your best things to do in Oceanside. 

Things to do: Guests will enjoy a flying experience in the state-of-the-art wind tunnels.

It is ideal for people of all ages and all experience levels.

• It is 8 minutes away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

30. LEGOLAND California

Rating: 4.5★

Entry ticket: $89.99 per person per day – Theme park only, $99.99 per person per day – Theme park plus aquarium

Address: One Legoland Dr, Carlsbad, CA 92008

• It is located in Carlsbad
• Established 1999

Why you should go: LEGOLAND California is a theme park with a wide range of thrilling activities for adults and children.

It is located in Carlsbad, less than 20 minutes away from Oceanside city.

It is one of the most recommended places to visit for guests who are vacationing in Oceanside. 

Things to do: Visit LEGOLAND with friends, family, or children and enjoy various activities ranging from roller-coasting to water rides. 

• It is 13 minutes away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

31. Emerald Isle Golf Course

Rating: 4.5★

Entry ticket: $15 to $30 per day

Address: 660 S El Camino Real, Oceanside

• 18-hole golf course

Why you should go: Golf lovers should have Emerald Isle Golf Course on their list of things to do in Oceanside.

It is set on a lush green landscape with a beautiful lake. 

Things to do: Whether you are a beginner or an expert, visit this stunning golf course and test your golfing prowess.

It is ideal for golfers of all levels of expertise. 

• It is 5 minutes away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

32. Petite Madeline Bakery

Rating: 4.7★

Entry ticket: Free entry

Address: 223 N Coast Hwy, Oceanside, CA 92054

• Located on the Coast Highway
• Popular for its American Breakfast servings 

Why you should go: The Petite Madeline Bakery offers lunch and breakfast.

It is famous for serving a large amount of American Breakfast and its handcrafted pastry. 

Things to do: You can have this eatery as an option to have your breakfast before starting to explore the city. 

You can also drop by for lunch. 

• It is 4 minutes away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

33. Libby Lake Park

Rating: 4.1★

Address: 504 Calle Montecito, Oceanside, CA 92057

• A recreational park 

Why you should go: Libby Lake Park is a stunning recreational park that features picnic tables, walking trails, a lake, a skate park, and a playground. 

It is ideal for a family picnic especially if you have children.

Things to do: Enjoy a quiet picnic overlooking the lake or take a nature walk as you take in the beauty of the park. 

Your children can enjoy fun activities at the designated playground.

• It is 7 minutes away from Oceanside Municipal Airport.

If you enjoy sea walk, lakes and Islands, feel free to navigate our site we have many to share with enthusiastic travelers.

Have you been to Legoland (anywhere) before? Do you do kids’ rides too? Let me know about your experience. As Sam says, Legoland awaits! See you on the next adventure.