Volunteer Corner:

Summer Tips From the California Welcome Center

As natives to San Diego County, we are often asked for personal recommendations on a number of things in and around Oceanside from those visiting the area; with so much to see and do we don’t blame you! One fantastic resource we have here in Oceanside is the California Welcome Center, a one-stop-shop for information, recommendations, discounted attraction tickets, fun local merchandise, and more! At the Welcome Center there is a wealth of knowledge available, with 60+ volunteers that operate our front desk and encounter these questions every day of the week. Many of our volunteers are longtime residents to the area as well, and have accumulated this knowledge from years of experience! With such a great resource it must be shared, so join us as we launch our new series Volunteer Corner, bringing you tips and recommendations from our volunteers manning the California Welcome Center.

What is your favorite summertime activity in Oceanside?

“Walking around the Harbor and the Pier, then grabbing an Ice Tea at Succulent Cafe” – Maureen M.

“Kayak in the harbor, walk on the Strand with a friend, take photos of the surfers and hike at Guajome Regional Park” – Bobbi S.

“Walk south of the pier and listen to the rocks clink as the wave goes back. Then it’s time for a fish taco underneath the pier at The Tin Fish.” – Lynn M.

“Wake up early and be out the door by 7am, a sweatshirt on, grab a delicious coffee at Loose Leaf Tea Bar on Mission Ave, walk to the beach two blocks away. Breathe refreshing ocean air, watch the surfers and listen to the seagulls. While I’m at it, I look for “Charlie”, the iconic pelican who hangs out by the Oceanside Pier Bait Store.” – Lydia P.

“Visiting Buccaneer Beach as it is small and holds Buccaneer Cafe, or driving out to Beach House Winery in Oceanside and Myrtle Creek in Fallbrook” – Marianne M.

“I enjoy attending some of our special citywide events such as Race Across America, Pow Wow San Luis Rey, and my favorite Supergirl Pro! It’s also a great time of the year to beat the heat and go inside spots like the Oceanside Museum of Art and California Surf Museum.” – Veronica V.

What is your favorite summertime activity in San Diego?

“Wine tasting in Ramona, it is a beautiful drive out there and gets you away from the city. My favorite wineries in the area are Edwards and Chuparosa, some require appointments or are only open on the weekends so that is something to double check. Sometimes we end up doing dessert in Julian. A slice of apple pie at Mom’s with Cinnamon ice cream on the side.” – Ruth S.

“We like to take our bikes down on the Coaster from Oceanside to San Diego- Santa Fe Depot. Get off, and ride over to the ferry to Coronado. Taking a scenic ride around the island, we like ending with a snack and beverage at the Hotel del Coronado. Fun day!” – Pat S.

Tips for the summer to visitors:

“Oceanside is very walkable- Restaurants, shops, boating, fishing all at your fingertips” – Dave G.

“If you are still looking for things to do, check out Liberty Station, my favorite spot in there is Buona Forchetta restaurant.” Liberty Public Market is 25,000 sq. ft. filled with art, food, and shops surrounding San Diego’s bay community. – Teri F.