Historians tell us that "going to the ocean side" was once a common refrain among pioneer families who lived in or near the San Luis Rey River Valley, about 35 miles north of San Diego. So when a new town in the area needed a name for incorporation in 1888, it seemed it already had one.
Today the pleasures of going to Oceanside include more than a walk on the beach—one of the widest in San Diego County—or a visit to the remarkable Mission San Luis Rey de Francia. Renewed civic pride in the last 25 years has created new pockets of interest.
Occupying more than a block, the Oceanside Civic Center rises like a Post-Modernism-meets-Morocco confection. Its tiled fountains and sculpture are worthy of a stroll. Nearby, the Oceanside Museum of Art (704 Pier View Way; 760/721-2787) is housed in a historic early modernist arched building designed by San Diego architect Irving Gill. A stunning quilt show hangs there this month.
On Coast Highway, you'll encounter the Longboarder Cafe (228 N. Coast Hwy.; 760/721-6776), popular with locals for breakfast and lunch. Step across the street to the California Surf Museum (223 N. Coast Hwy.; 760/721-6876) with its jam-packed collection of historic boards and other memorabilia. From there, walk to the Oceanside Pier and continue 1,954 feet to its end, looking down on world-class surfers or stopping to admire other walkers—some of whom are known to carry iguanas or parrots on their shoulders. Ruby's Diner (1 Pier View Way; 760/433-7829) is a good waterfront stop for refreshment and views.
Much of the land near the pier stands vacant, although plans call for half of it to be developed over the next two years. But as you head north to explore more of the city, you'll encounter Oceanside Harbor at the end of Pacific Street, with its parklike walks along the marina slips, and Cape Cod–style shopping and dining village. To the south, don't miss historic 101 Cafe (631 S. Coast Hwy.; 760/722-5220), open since 1928, and Buena Vista Lagoon, where the Audubon Society Nature Center (2202 S. Coast Hwy.; 760/439-2473) draws bird-watchers from far and wide. This month, look for migratory bay and marsh ducks dipping, diving, and dunking among the cattails.
Travel planner
WHERE: Take I-5 to Mission Ave.; go west to Coast Hwy. The pier is at the foot of Pier View Way.
CONTACT: California Welcome Center: 928 N. Coast Hwy.; www.oceansidechamber.com, (800) 350-7873, or (760) 721-1101.
