Escape to Oxnard: A 5-Day Adventure on a Budget

Explore the beauty of Oxnard without breaking the bank!

21 June 2023

A trip to Oxnard on a limited budget will offer a great mix of affordable outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Explore the beautiful beaches and hiking trails, visit the historic district and enjoy local cuisine. Opt for budget-friendly accommodations like camping or staying at a hostel to make the most of your trip.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
  • Check into the affordable Embassy Suites Mandalay Beach Hotel & Resort.
  • Head to Silver Strand Beach for some sun, sea, and surf. Rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the Channel Islands.
  • Grab fish tacos and a margarita at Waterside Restaurant & Wine Bar. The views of the harbor will blow you away.
  • Stroll the Channel Islands Harbor Village and grab a scoop of mint chip at Coastal Cone Ice Cream.
  • Start the day with breakfast at Anacapa Brewing Company. Try their massive burrito or avocado toast.
  • Take a whale watching tour with Channel Islands Whale Watching. Spot humpbacks, dolphins, and even blue whales if you’re lucky.
  • Visit the Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center to learn about the rare wildlife on the islands.
  • Enjoy authentic Mexican food at La Dolce Vita, a hole-in-the-wall spot with huge portions and reasonable prices.
  • Take a sunset stroll along Oxnard State Beach and watch the sky light up.
  • Grab a quick breakfast at The Red Tandem Café, a charming spot with outdoor seating and delicious pastries.
  • Visit the Downtown Oxnard Farmers Market for fresh produce, crafts, and live music. Try some juicy strawberries or a crunchy apple.
  • Check out the Heritage Square for a taste of Oxnard’s history. Tour the Victorian homes and check out the vintage cars.
  • Head to The Collection at Riverpark for some shopping and dining options. Try The Cheesecake Factory for lunch.
  • Catch a movie under the stars at Plaza Park. Bring a blanket and some popcorn.
  • Have brunch at Eggs N Things, a popular spot with omelets and pancakes. Try the pineapple pancakes.
  • Take a wine tour with The Ojai Vineyard located in the scenic Ojai Valley. Sample some Syrah and Chardonnay.
  • Head to Herzog Wine Cellars for a kosher wine tasting experience. Try some of their award-winning wines and enjoy their picturesque grounds.
  • Cap off the day with classic Italian fare at La Dolce Vita Ristorante. Order the linguine alle vongole or the chicken piccata.
  • Have a breakfast burrito from Mary’s Secret Garden, a vegetarian spot with plenty of options.
  • Head to Lake Casitas Recreation Area for hiking trails and fishing. Rent a paddleboat or kayak to explore the lake.
  • Visit the WWII Aviation Museum to see vintage airplanes and learn about American history.
  • Enjoy some al fresco dining at Ragin’ Waters, a casual eatery serving up burgers and more. Grab a beer and relax in their outdoor seating area.
  • Make your way back to the Embassy Suites Mandalay Beach Hotel & Resort and enjoy a nightcap at the bar. Take in the ocean views and reflect on your adventurous 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.

More travel plans

Escape to Oxnard: A 5-Day Adventure on a Budget

A trip to Oxnard on a limited budget will offer a great mix of affordable outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Explore the beautiful beaches and hiking trails, visit the historic district and enjoy local cuisine. Opt for budget-friendly accommodations like camping or staying at a hostel to make the most of your trip.

Escape for a Long Weekend in Oxnard

Oxnard offers scenic beaches and stunning sunsets, making it an ideal destination for a romantic getaway. Couples can indulge in delicious seafood at local restaurants and take a boat excursion to Channel Islands National Park for a unique experience. With its laid-back atmosphere and charming coastal vibe, Oxnard sets the stage for a memorable and romantic trip.

Oxnard Odyssey: Sandy Toes and Ocean Sunsets

Explore the picturesque city of Oxnard located on the Southern California coast for a wonderful family-friendly trip. Spend leisurely days at the beautiful beaches, such as Silver Strand or Hollywood Beach, building sandcastles, flying kites, or simply basking under the warm sun. Embark on a thrilling whale-watching excursion at Channel Islands Harbor, where kids can witness majestic marine life up close, creating unforgettable memories for the whole family.

Coastal Adventure: 4 Days in Vibrant Oxnard

Oxnard is a beautiful coastal city with plenty of activities to offer visitors traveling on a budget. Visit Silver Strand Beach, a free and secluded beach where you can surf or paddleboard. Take a hike at the nearby Ventura River Preserve, where you can enjoy stunning views of the mountains and river without spending a dime. Lastly, stroll through the charming downtown area where you can try affordable cuisine from local restaurants.