Photo By: Mariposa Ice Cream
Ice Cream Shop Hop
5 SWEET STOPS IN OCEANSIDE
When the sun is shining, and the ocean breeze fills the air, there’s no better way to cool down and indulge in a delicious treat than with a scoop of ice cream. Oceanside, with its year-round sweet treat weather, is home to some incredible ice cream shops that are sure to satisfy. Explore just five of the many ice cream stops, where delectable flavors, creamy textures, and delightful experiences await!
mariposa ice cream
Nestled underneath the Oceanside Pier, Mariposa is a charming ice cream spot that caters to all those passing by and hitting the beach. This beloved local gem is known for its artisanal approach to ice cream making. With a focus on using high-quality, natural ingredients, their handcrafted small-batch ice creams are bursting with delightful flavors. Mariposa prides itself on being family-owned, with the family settling in Oceanside in 1906! The shop’s friendly smiling staff are a welcomed treat, aside from Grandpa Pete’s recipes.Â
Little Fox cups & Cones
Little Fox Cups and Cones is a standout newcomer in South O, known for its homemade ice cream crafted from local ingredients in partnership with farms like Cyclops Farms, D’Aquisto Farms, Seas Greens Microgreen and Go Greens!. With nearly 20 rotating flavors available in scoops, flights, and pints-to-go, there’s always something new to try. Must-try flavors include Fig’get About It, made with vin santo fig compote, vanilla cream, and cheesecake pieces, and SO, SO-CAL featuring Mraz Family Farms (yes, like Grammy Award-winning Jason Mraz) avocado cream, Black Market Bakery brioche cream, citrus olive oil, and chili sea salt. They also offer unique treats like ice cream tacos (an ode to Choco Tacos) and ice cream cakes.
fugu Roll Ice Cream & taiyaki
Located on Mission Avenue, Fugu is a dessert experience in the heart of Downtown. This vibrant shop focuses on bending the idea of traditional ice cream to create treats you have to capture a photo of. Their specialty is rolled ice cream, where they drizzle fresh cream (or non-dairy goodness) onto an icey flat plate and your “iced cream” is instantly ready to be scrapped and served. Doesn’t get fresher than that! You can also choose a taiyaki, which is a fish-shaped Japanese cone with filling in the tail, ice cream inside and toppings from fruity pebbles to mango. Â
Handel's Homemade Ice cream
Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream has swiftly become an Oceanside institution. Known for their premium ice cream, Handel’s offers an extensive menu of over 40 flavors, ensuring there’s something for everyone. From classic options like Mint Chocolate Chip and Butter Pecan to unique creations like Graham Central Station and Buckeye Peanut Butter, each scoop is bursting with rich, creamy goodness. Handel’s commitment to high quality and lower price make it a must-visit spot along the Coast Highway. Be sure to check out our latest collaboration with O’side inspired flavors celebrating the city’s unique and lively culture.
nana & pop pop's sweet shoppe
If you’re searching for a nostalgic, old-fashioned ice cream parlor experience, look no further than Nana & Pop Pop’s Sweet Shop. Tucked within the Oceanside Harbor Village, this family-owned o’riginal shop has been serving Oceanside since 1999. Step inside and be transported back in time, surrounded by vintage memorabilia and a fully stocked candy shop. Nana & Pop’s offers a range of flavors like Kona Coffee, Rocky Road, Black Cherry and much more. Don’t forget to treat yourself to their delicious milkshakes and banana splits for the ultimate ice cream indulgence.
In the pursuit of sweet, cold treats, there are a few notable spots offering a refreshing twist to the conventional ice cream shop experience. At Aqua Cafe, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: a unique dessert creation called Aqua Frost, made with natural and organic ingredients infused with the picturesque setting of Tyson Street Park on The Strand. Meanwhile, 1022 Cafe & Gelateria takes you on a journey with their handcrafted, locally sourced, high-quality gelato, offering a multitude of flavors in a chic, modern ambiance. See why San Diego is buzzing about this must-visit authentic gelato stop. Nooni Cafe offers another flavorful detour, presenting an array of shaved ice treats at their outdoor oasis in South O.Â
