Located between San Diego and Los Angeles, Oceanside is a vibrant, booming community of 175,000 residents. This community boasts miles of pristine shoreline and crystal-clear surf waters, an explosive culinary scene, and a culture steeped in Southern California history and personal expression. From the dramatic murals scattered around town to the diversity of cultures represented in every restaurant, shop, and cozy neighborhood, Oceanside is a popular destination for tourists and an ideal location to call home.

 

Once home to the largest Mission in California, Oceanside was founded in 1798 when the Spanish established the Mission San Luis Rey. While Oceanside is rich in its historical roots influenced by Spanish and Mexican origins, its neighborhoods are fairly recent. Housing developments began to boom post-WWII and during the 1970s, with many large luxury condominiums and apartments built in early 2010. Construction continues to flourish in this area, expanding living spaces and updating amenities. Oceanside offers an eclectic mix of the old and the new, making it an architectural paradise along the west coast.

 

 

 

 

Residents of O’side have a lot going on. From restaurant hopping and shopping to relaxing on one of the many beaches, Oceanside has it all and has no shortage of things to do. This sprawling waterfront community is home to a welcoming and relaxed group, with many young professionals, artists, and families making up a majority of the population. No matter your interests, you can find your tribe in Oceanside — whether out on the waves or seated at an upscale, waterfront restaurant, there is something for all to love in O’side.

 

 

Over the last few years, the culinary scene in Oceanside has exploded with new, diverse restaurants and unique flavors. A few local favorite destinations include the Flying Pig Pub and Kitchen, a farm-to-table and made from scratch kitchen, offering traditional American cuisine with a twist. Hello Betty, also located on Mission Avenue, is a seafood restaurant that embodies the spirit of SoCal living in a bright, hip, coastal atmosphere. Enjoy a cold beer on the rooftop lounge, and don’t leave without tasting their incredible tacos.

 

Wrench and Rodent Seabasstropub is a space for culinary exploration and collaboration and specializes in unique seafood dishes crafted by Chef Davin. With a background in Japanese and French culinary styles, Wrench offers explosive flavors from a diverse range of species. Enjoy their creative menu and eclectic atmosphere.

 

There is truly nothing better than walking to your local farmers market for fresh produce, meat, and homemade goods. Oceanside Sunset Farmers Market features 200 local merchant stands to peruse, live music, and gourmet goodies from around the world every Thursday. A family-friendly event and shopping destination since 2007, the farmers market brings in thousands of people to experience the best of Oceanside living and build connections with neighbors from all over the city.

 

Located across the street from the Oceanside Library are the Artist Alley Galleries, an outdoor (and indoor) section of town sprinkled with colorful murals and eclectic art shops and galleries. Local artists from all mediums showcase their work along the Alley, and it’s a beautiful spot to explore your creativity and gain inspiration. 

 

 

Standing 1,942 feet long, the Oceanside Historic Wooden Pier is an iconic member of the O’side community. The pier, built in 1888, serves as the backdrop for all major community events in Oceanside, like surf competitions, the annual IRONMAN triathlon, and concert series in the amphitheater. It’s also the perfect spot in the neighborhood to experience the gorgeous sunsets of the Pacific!

 

Oceanside Harbor is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the busy beach scenes, but once you discover its beauty, you’ll want to visit every day! Choose from kayak, paddleboard, and jet ski rentals, book a whale-watching cruise, or stroll the boutique shops in Harbor Village.

 

Founded in 1986, the California Surf Museum is a can’t-miss destination for surfing enthusiasts. The museum features a permanent collection highlighting the iconic California surf scene through the years and includes wooden boards, rare collections, and memorabilia. Another top Oceanside destination is the former Spanish Mission, the Mission San Luis Rey Parish, California’s largest Mission. Known as the “King of Missions,” this parish offers culturally diverse events and weekly mass in English and Spanish in its expansive and visually stunning building. The Mission is also open for historical tours through the parish and the grounds all year long.

 

 

Oceanside is served by the Oceanside Unified School District, home to many excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include: