4 Days of Fun in the Sun: Oceanside Adventure

Discover the beauty of Oceanside without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Visiting Oceanside on a limited budget can still be a great experience. Head to the beach to enjoy the gorgeous shoreline and soak up the sun. Take a stroll through the Oceanside Farmer's market to enjoy local food and crafts. Check out the California Surf Museum to learn about the area's history and an important part of its culture.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Beach Bumming

  • Check-in at Best Western Oceanside Inn, a budget-friendly hotel with a pool and hot tub
  • Hit the sand at Oceanside Beach, where surfers and sunbathers flock
  • Enjoy a beachside lunch at Beach Break Cafe, known for their fresh seafood tacos
  • Rent bikes from Wheel Fun Rentals and cruise the beach trail, taking in the scenic views
  • Catch the sunset at the Oceanside Pier, a historic landmark that stretches 1,942 feet into the ocean
  • Wind down the night with a cold beer at the Belching Beaver Brewery, a local haunt with a laid-back vibe
Day 2

History and Culture

  • Start the day with breakfast at the Breakfast Club Diner, a retro eatery with hearty portions
  • Visit the Oceanside Museum of Art, showcasing contemporary art from regional artists
  • Explore the Mission San Luis Rey, a National Historic Landmark depicting California's Spanish colonial history
  • Grab lunch at LTH, an Asian fusion restaurant with eclectic delights like ramen burgers and poke bowls
  • Take a stroll through the Farmer's Market, held every Thursday with fresh produce and artisanal goods
  • End the day with a performance at the Star Theatre, a charming venue showcasing local talent and community events
Day 3

Adventure Time

  • Start the day with a hearty breakfast at the Beach Plum Kitchen, a farm-to-table spot with delicious brunch dishes
  • Head to the SoCal Surf School and catch some waves with a surfing lesson
  • Take a break for lunch at Local Tap House & Kitchen, a gastropub with craft beers and hearty fare
  • Spend the afternoon kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding on Oceanside Harbor with OEX Dive & Kayak
  • Enjoy dinner at Bagby Beer Company, a lively brewery with wood-fired pizzas and a spacious outdoor patio
  • End the night at the Sunset Market, a weekly street fair held every Thursday with food and entertainment
Day 4

Nature Calling

  • Start the day with breakfast at the Privateer Coal Fired Pizza, a waterfront spot with stunning ocean views
  • Visit the Buena Vista Audubon Nature Center, a sanctuary for birdwatching and nature walks
  • Take a hike in the nearby Guajome Regional Park, with numerous trails and a peaceful lake
  • Enjoy lunch at Legacy Brewing Company, a cozy brewery with a wide selection of craft beers and tasty pub grub
  • Visit the California Surf Museum, showcasing the rich history of surfing culture in the state
  • End the day with dinner at Rockin' Baja Lobster, a seaside restaurant with delicious seafood and festive ambiance.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Oceanside, United States by plane is to fly into San Diego International Airport and then take a taxi or shuttle service to Oceanside, which is approximately a 45-minute drive away.

Car

The best way to get to Oceanside by car is to take Interstate 5 south from Los Angeles or north from San Diego. Oceanside is located approximately halfway between the two cities, so the drive should take about an hour from either direction, depending on traffic.

Train

There is a train station in Oceanside, so the best way to get there by train is to take Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner train, which runs between San Luis Obispo and San Diego. The train stops at the Oceanside station, which is conveniently located in the downtown area.

Boat

There is no commercial boat service to Oceanside, but there are several marinas in the area where you can dock your boat. The Oceanside Harbor is the most popular marina, and it provides easy access to the downtown area and nearby beaches.

Bus

Greyhound Bus Lines and other bus companies provide service to Oceanside, so the best way to get there by bus is to take a bus to the Oceanside Transit Center, which is located in the downtown area. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to your final destination.

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