Oceanside

Ride the swells, stroll the famous pier, take in harbor views and enjoy new bites and brews in this booming beach city just a 30-minute drive north from San Diego. New hotels and condos have sprung up in the area in recent years, along with a white hot dining and shopping scene. Locals and visitors may not only choose casual flip-flop eateries, but white tablecloth destinations, wine bars and beer tasting rooms. Shoppers can find locally made goods at the downtown Thursday farmers and sunset markets, as well as vintage-themed retail, trendy swimwear and eco-friendly products in South "O" — the eclectic community along South Coast Highway sporting unique stores, bars and restaurants.

At the city's historic wooden pier — California's longest stretching out to 1,942 feet — enjoy everything from fishing to strolling and taking in the spectacular coastline and miles of white sandy beaches. One of Oceanside's top attractions, the pier is flanked by the city's iconic oceanfront one-mile road known as The Strand. A must-do for locals and visitors, The Strand is perfect for cycling, skating, walking, and running. Rent a bike or surrey near the pier and enjoy the ride; or surf the waves, followed by a picnic on the sand and a spectacular sunset. Other recreational pursuits include cycling along the nine-mile San Luis Rey River Trail and hitting the links at scenic hilltop golf courses.

At Oceanside's picturesque New England-style harbor, check out sport-fishing or whale-watching excursions, rent a boat, kayak or dine outdoors along the marina. Pedestrians can also walk around the waterfront and watch vessels come and go. The expansive beach fronting the harbor is also a great place watch world class surfing, sunbathe, play volleyball, and catch Independence Day fireworks.

One of the city's most popular cultural attractions is the historic Mission San Luis Rey, a majestic jewel of early California history located in east Oceanside. Known as the King of the Missions, it is the largest of the 21 missions that flourished in the 1700s and 1800s. The Mission is open daily to the public in the Franciscan tradition of heritage and hospitality. In addition to an interpretive museum, facilities include: a retreat center with day and overnight programs for spiritual renewal and multi-function meeting spaces; a cemetery open to all people; and the historic church.

Major Oceanside events include the Independence Parade, MainStreet Oceanside's Farmers and Sunset Markets, the Super Girl Surf Pro competition and festival, the Oceanside International Film Festival, the Taste of Oceanside, Oceanside Harbor Days, the Ironman Triathlon, Race Across America and the Oceanside Tree Lighting.

Visiting from out of town or treating family or friends to some coastal fun? Take the scenic north-south COASTER commuter train, serving eight stations between Oceanside and downtown San Diego, or the east-west SPRINTER hybrid rail, connecting Oceanside, Vista, San Marcos, and Escondido, serving 15 stations along the Highway 78 corridor.

Whether a day trip, weekend getaway, summer vacation or simply staycation, Oceanside has so much to offer. Take time to enjoy this cool coastal escape!