Road Trip To The Coast
It’s time for a change of scenery…or better yet, it’s time to take the scenic route! Start your drive on California’s iconic Coast Highway 101 to Oceanside, located conveniently between San Diego and Los Angeles. With laid-back vibes, legendary surf breaks, vibrant culinary spots, colorful public art, and unique attractions, O’side is the perfect place to park the car and make unforgettable vacation memories.
The First Stop
Let us be the first to welcome you! Swing by the California Welcome Center, located directly off the Coast Highway, 76 Expressway and 1-5 Interstate. As a group of O’siders ourselves who stay, play and live in the city, we’re ready to answer any questions you may have regarding your itinerary while you’re in town. You’ll be greeted by a fresh coastal-inspired boutique space, an exhibition featuring Tony Hawk’s board, The History of Skateboarding, a 1977 Volkswagen Beetle photo-op, California Surf Museum installation, a surf mural by Myles McGuinness, and so much more! With knowledge on restaurants for any taste, excursions for all interests and lodging recommendations suitable for your party, it’s a stop worth making to ensure your stay in Oceanside is tailored to your needs!
Drive the Historic Coast Highway
Roll down the windows, turn up the music, and hit the road- this is one drive you’ll want to savor. Historic Highway 101 is one of California’s most iconic road trip routes, winding through some of the state’s most beloved coastal communities.
Oceanside marks the beginning of the highway’s journey through San Diego County and offers a captivating blend of old and new. In recent years, Oceanside’s section of Highway 101 has experienced a renaissance, with acclaimed restaurants, breweries, boutiques, and attractions breathing new life into former car dealerships, grocery stores, gas stations, and other historic commercial spaces.
Along the way, you’ll discover landmarks that tell the story of Oceanside’s past, including The Brick Hotel, which dates back to the 1880s; the Victorian, a charming yellow Victorian house that has housed a variety of local businesses; 101 Café, a classic diner and the oldest continuing operating café along the route; and Surf Bowl, the city’s beloved retro bowling alley that has been bringing family fun to generations of visitors and residents alike.
As you cruise through town, keep an eye out for the Historic Highway 101 markers and make a pit stop at the Oceanside Historical Society. Oceanside played an instrumental role in securing state recognition for the roadway’s natural, historic, cultural, and scenic significance – a distinction that helps preserve and celebrate this iconic California route for future generations.
Fuel Up Your Tank…With Food
You better come hungry! Oceanside is packed with culinary experiences that make it a true food-lover’s destination. From chef-driven restaurants and locally sourced menus to cozy breakfast spots, oceanview dinners, and innovative plant-based dining, there’s something for every palate. If you’re looking to sip something new, clink your glass at a Vineyard by the Sea or try what’s on tap at one of our many O’side Sips spots. If you’re looking to stretch your legs while enjoying the dining scene, book a unique Carla & Linda’s Walking Food Tour,or sample your way through the beloved Sunset Market, where more than 200 vendors bring the flavors of O’side to life each week.
For even more foodie inspiration, check out the Oceanside Dining Guide.
Try A New Set of Wheels
Give your car mileage a rest and trade four wheels for two! Ride the Strand lining 1.5 miles of breathtaking beach views for the ultimate summer fun! Conveniently rent beach cruisers and surreys from Wheel Fun Rentals, traditional bikes from SoCal Bike, Fat tire scooters from Ride O’side or zippy e-bikes from Mostly E-Bikes during your stay! If you want to explore beyond the coastal Strand, ride the beautiful San Luis Rey River Trail pathway.
More info: Oceanside Bike Map
Cultured Pit Stops
Cruise the iconic Coast Highway and turn your road trip into a series of cultured pit stops in O’side. Since 1888, Oceanside’s Always O’riginal spirit has welcomed artists, makers, and creatives, shaping a coastal city filled with vibrant murals, world-class museums, historic landmarks, street markets, and live events worth pulling over for.
Camp the night away
Paradise By The Sea RV Resort offers a professional staff, full-hookups, free WiFi, unparalleled cleanliness and access to miles of beautiful, sandy beaches. Just walk out the beach gate onto the flat, level walkway…and in less than 250 yards you will be able to paddle out on your board.
Guajome Regional Park is a developed 33-site campground offering partial hook ups, a caravan pavilion, shade and afternoon ocean breezes. Two day use areas with new playgrounds, a basketball court and lots of green lawn are ideal for picnicking or just relaxing.
Oceanside RV Park invites you to step into their spectacular closeness to the beach and near-perfect climate. Always catering to their guests, the park has many onsite amenities including full hook-ups (30 AMP), free WiFi, privacy fences, laundry and pool with spa.
Hotels & Vacation Rentals
Not the camping type? No problem. Oceanside offers a wide range of hotels and vacation rentals perfect for road trippers looking to unwind by the coast. Stay just steps from the beach, explore our walkable downtown, and find family-friendly and pet-friendly accommodations to fit every travel style. Before you book, be sure to check out our latest lodging deals and special offers to make your Oceanside getaway even more rewarding.
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