Oxnard Odyssey: A Family-Friendly Adventure on a Budget
Discover family fun in Oxnard, where golden beaches meet endless adventures!
19 July 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Oxnard, United States offers a delightful family-friendly trip with its beautiful beaches and numerous outdoor activities. Explore Channel Islands Harbor, where kids can enjoy boat tours, water sports, and even dolphin encounters. Don't miss a visit to the kid-friendly California Strawberry Festival, where you can enjoy live music, delicious food, and fun activities for all ages.
Travel plan
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- Check into the fabulous Hampton Inn Channel Islands Harbor, where friendly staff and cozy rooms await.
- Spend a sunny morning at Silver Strand Beach, building sandcastles with the whole family.
- Grab a burger at Mrs. Olson's Coffee Hut, a local gem serving up juicy patties with a side of surf-inspired charm.
- Explore the Channel Islands Maritime Museum, a treasure trove of nautical history that'll have kids and adults awestruck.
- Treat your taste buds to some authentic Mexican cuisine at La Dolce Vita, where the sizzling fajitas and margaritas dance on your tongue.
- Embark on an unforgettable boat tour to Channel Islands National Park, a hidden paradise brimming with wildlife.
- Hike the Scorpion Canyon Trail, a scenic marvel with stunning ocean views and captivating flora.
- Dive into underwater wonderlands as you snorkel in the crystal-clear waters surrounding Santa Cruz Island.
- Enjoy a picnic lunch on the island, surrounded by nature's beauty and the delightful chatter of adorable island foxes.
- Head back to Oxnard and indulge in some delectable seafood at Sea Fresh, where fish tacos and clam chowder reign supreme.
- Start your day with a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Channel Islands Harbor, admiring the bobbing boats and dreamy scenery.
- Take to the waters on a kayak or paddleboard rental, soaking in the serenity and spotting playful seals.
- Get artsy at the Carnegie Art Museum, which showcases a diverse collection of contemporary California artists.
- Savor an ooey-gooey grilled cheese sandwich at The Best Sandwich Shop, a local institution that takes comfort food to another level.
- End your trip on a high note at Fresh and Fabulous Cafe, devouring their famous homemade pies and desserts before bidding Oxnard adieu.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Oxnard, United States by plane is to fly into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and then take a shuttle or drive to Oxnard, which is approximately 60 miles away.
Car
Driving is the easiest way to get to Oxnard. If you're coming from Los Angeles, take the US-101 highway north for about an hour until you reach Oxnard. Alternatively, if you're coming from Santa Barbara, take the US-101 south for about 40 minutes.
Train
Unfortunately, there are no train stations in Oxnard, so taking a train is not an option.
Boat
Unfortunately, there are no options to get to Oxnard by boat as the city does not have a port or marina.
Bus
Taking a bus from major cities like Los Angeles or Santa Barbara is a convenient way to get to Oxnard. Greyhound and Amtrak both offer regular services to Oxnard Transit Center, located in the center of the city.