SoCal summer series: What to do, see and eat in Oceanside
Given its location, weather and epic beaches in all directions, Southern California is among the most popular destinations for folks across the Southwest every summer. Over the next few weeks, BOSW is going to close out summer with the definitive guide to exploring SoCal in style. Today’s beachside beauty: Oceanside.
Need more? Read more: 15 Southwest pool resorts to help beat the heat
Why Oceanside should be your next SoCal beach getaway
Nestled along Southern California’s iconic coastline, Oceanside has transformed from a classic beach town into one of the most exciting seaside destinations in the U.S. With its surf-town soul, thriving culinary scene, world-class beaches and abundant water activities, Oceanside offers a quintessential SoCal experience while maintaining an authentic charm that’s all its own.
Affectionately known as “O’side” by locals, Oceanside is home to one of the longest wooden piers on the West Coast, a historic harbor, and a walkable downtown filled with craft coffee shops, art galleries and surf boutiques.
One of Oceanside’s standout features is its slower pace compared to neighboring cities, which creates a perfect balance of beauty and recreation but without all the crowds or hustle.
Best beaches in Oceanside for surfing, sunbathing and scenic views
Oceanside Pier and Beach is the central hub of activity for the city, and a favorite for sunbathing, surfing and people-watching. The historic 1,942-foot pier offers sweeping views and fishing opportunities.
In addition to Oceanside Beach, both Harbor Beach and Breakwater Way are also great options. Located near the marina, Harbor Beach is one of the widest in Oceanside, perfect for families, beach volleyball and picnicking. It’s also great for beginner surfers and is conveniently located near the Oceanside Harbor Village.
Breakwater is ideal for those seeking a quieter place to unwind. With plenty of sand and scenic views, it’s a go-to for long beach walks and peaceful sunset watching.
Where to stay in Oceanside: Top hotels and resorts with ocean views
Oceanside’s hotel scene has evolved dramatically in recent years, offering everything from luxury resorts to chic boutique stays. Two of the biggest and best hotels to debut in recent years are sister properties, The Seabird Ocean Resort & Spa and Mission Pacific Beach Resort.
The Seabird is a great place for families, couples and friends. The rooms are colorful, plush and beachy. The resort is home to the epic Sunny’s Spa & Beauty Lounge, voted No. 2 Best Hotel Spa in the country by “USA Today,” which features authentic, farm-to-sea treatments rooted in efficacy and world-class technique as well as an ocean-view relaxation lounge. Oh, there is also an AI-powered massage robot onsite (yes, really!).
The resort also boasts a glorious pool deck with ocean views on one side and a full bar, game center, and cabanas on the other. Gastronomically, its Piper restaurant shines with farm‑to‑table seasonal cuisine sourced from San Diego’s small farms, served in a warm, homey setting for breakfast, brunch and dinner. The Shore Room offers seaside cocktails and light fare with fire‑pit lounges and stunning Pacific views, especially at sunset. There are also firepits, complete with reservations for s’mores each night!
Directly across from the pier from The Seabird, Mission Pacific Beach Resort combines beach-chic design with high-end amenities. It’s also home to the historic “Top Gun House,” now a whimsical dessert café, and the rooftop bar, The Rooftop at Mission Pacific, known for its sunsets and cocktails.
Oceanside restaurants you’ll love: fine dining, global flavors and local eats
Oceanside’s dining scene, in addition to everything offered at The Seabird and Mission Pacific, reflects its creative energy with a blend of fresh seafood, global flavors and farm-to-table fare.
24 Suns, a boundary-pushing Chinese restaurant led by duo Nic Webber and Jacob Jordan, formerly of San Diego’s only 3-star Michelin restaurant Addison, officially relaunched in January. With a focus on hyper-seasonal, regionally inspired dishes and an innovative cocktail program featuring duck fat-washed cognac, 24 Suns is part of a growing dining hub in inland Oceanside.
Matsu is another wow on all levels, especially for those seeking something romantic or celebratory. Intimate – there are only 48 seats in the eatery – and minimalist by design, the modern Japanese eatery has several dining experiences, but chef William Eick’s tasting menu is truly something to savor.
The seasonal 10‑course menu — sometimes paired with sake or wine — highlights ingredient-driven dishes like cabbage‑gyoza with caviar and sunflower‑cuttlefish plates that evoke artistry and balance without sacrificing on flavor. It is a bucket list dining adventure for the ages!
Other delicious dining destinations include Michelin-starred Valle, which is helmed by award-winning chef Roberto Alcocer; Dija Mara, a hip Southeast Asian-fusion restaurant with Balinese influences; and Harbor Fish & Chips, a classic spot near the harbor that has been serving crispy, golden fish and chips since 1969.
Oceanside water wonders: whale watching, surfing and more
Oceanside’s stunning Pacific waters offer more than just beautiful views. Visitors can dive into a range of exhilarating ocean adventures.
Whale watching: One of the most magical experiences in Oceanside is whale watching. Seasonal migrations bring gray whales, humpbacks and even blue whales through these waters. Oceanside Adventures, based in the harbor, offers luxury catamaran tours with experienced guides who help spot whales, dolphins and sea lions.
Surfing: Lessons and board rentals are widely available, and the annual Super Girl Surf Pro competition every September draws elite surfers from around the world.
Paddleboarding and kayaking: Rentals are available in the Harbor Village, and many local guides offer eco-tours of the coastline and estuaries.
Deep sea fishing: Anglers can head out for a half-day or full-day excursion to catch local favorites like yellowtail, sea bass and rockfish. Helgren’s Sportfishing is a go-to provider for both novice and seasoned fishermen.
For more information, visit visitoceanside.org.
