Oceanside, CA

O’side (as locals affectionately call it) is a destination of discovery where you can explore everything from awe-inspiring sea life through exciting ocean adventures, California history at the “King of Missions,” and surf culture at the California Surf Museum. As a playful and diverse destination, we value personal expression and originality, inviting you to play in a real SoCal beach town and Respect the O’riginals.

Centrally located in the heart of Southern California, Oceanside is perfectly situated between San Diego and Los Angeles, making it easy to visit family-favorite attractions such as LEGOLAND California Resort, Disneyland California Resort, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo.

EVENTS

• A popular and prestigious surfside tradition is the Annual World Bodysurfing Championships, which takes place in August at the Oceanside Pier and Beach. International and U.S. bodysurfers, equipped with only a pair of swimming fins, ride and perform on waves as they compete for the prestigious championship title.
• One of the oldest of the Ironman's, the Ironman Oceanside attracts a large number of professional athletes for the 1.2 mile swim in Oceanside Harbor, a 56-mile bike ride through the Camp Pendleton Marine Corps Base and a 13.1-mile run along the Pacific Ocean.
• Mission San Luis Rey is the setting for the Annual Inter-tribal Powwow, hosted by the San Luis Rey Luiseno Mission Indians. Tribal members from all over the U.S. come to share their culture with the community. One highlight of the event is the fancy and grass dancing competition. The tribes also showcase their artwork, crafts, jewelry and food.
• San Diego County's largest festival of its kind, Dia de los Muertos at Mission San Luis Rey is a day for remembering and honoring deceased loved ones, with over 20 community altars and visitor-created chalk altars. It’s a time of celebration with traditional food and a carnival for the kids.