5 Things to Do on an Oceanside Getaway
Expedia.com is sharing five unique experiences you just can’t miss in the heart of SoCal.
When you have dreams of a SoCal summer dancing through your head, a visit to Oceanside is the best cure for your wanderlust. And since the weather is ideal here all year- round, your calendar doesn’t have to read June, July, or August to enjoy a summer-like getaway in the heart of Southern California. Kick off your bucket list-worthy trip with an Oceanside hotel along the coast, then treat yourself to this sun-filled itinerary provided by Expedia.com.
Fish off the Pier
First things first: You don’t need a fishing permit to throw your line in the water from the Oceanside Pier, the longest pier on the West Coast. You’ll find locals and visitors alike testing their angling skills every day, hoping to catch their dinner along with bragging rights to the day’s biggest fish. Halibut and sand bass are among the most common species up for grabs; buy some live bait on the pier to increase your chances of success. Pro tip: Fish the second half of the pier to catch an elusive white seabass or yellowtail.
Shop the Sunset Market
You’ve shopped many farmers markets in your day: This isn’t your first rodeo, so to speak. But the Sunset Market, held like clockwork every Thursday from 5-9 p.m., is something special. Even a seasoned market connoisseur can leave wide-eyed and full-hearted. More than 150 vendors sell everything from fresh bread to locally grown flowers as live music provides the soundtrack to your evening excursion.
Zip Around on an Electric Bike
Rent a set of wheels at Dynamite Electric Bikes, and Oceanside becomes your oyster. Bike riders of all ages can easily handle an electric bike, and your ride will take you to local shopping, farm-to-table eateries, and more. Ride along the coast and soak up unparalleled vistas and then stop for a cold one at a craft brewery. You can also ride out to Old Mission San Luis Rey, the largest mission in California.
Jump out of a Plane
Create a life-changing memory in Oceanside by checking sky diving off your bucket list. While you can jump out of planes all across the country, Oceanside is the only place in Southern California where you can unfurl your parachute along the Pacific coast. On clear days, you’ll be able to spot San Diego and Orange County in the distance.
Meditate Your Stress Away
Not every city offers as many chances for relaxation as it does for blood-pumping fun, but Oceanside manages to accomplish this feat with ease. After your foray into adventure sports, retreat to the Old Mission San Luis Rey for the weekly Quiet Monday session, where you can meditate or read in the garden. At the Prince of Peace Abbey, you are granted the rare opportunity to participate in silent reflection or mass services with the resident monks.
These are just a few of the memorable activities you can enjoy during your weekend trip to Oceanside. The myriad of activities in San Diego and Orange County are also at your fingertips, so explore away!
Written by an Expedia Staff Writer