Oceanside is the ultimate discovery destination for visitors. It is the quintessential California beach town, home to wide, sandy, picture-perfect beaches, charming bungalow neighborhoods, a yesteryear pier and a boardwalk vibe – plus it has all the cool, new bells-and-whistles today’s travelers covet, interpreted through a unique lens that is 100 percent Oceanside. Our diverse and eclectic community stands apart on the Southern California coast, and it stands apart as a destination of true O’riginality.

For the artist, Oceanside offers gorgeous coastlines, charming cityscapes, peaceful lagoons, rolling hills with lush flora and fauna, and the historic Mission San Luis Rey, among other visual splendors to capture on canvas or media of your choosing. We take our art seriously and were recently designated one of 14 California Cultural Districts and that’s why we couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome you here to the Oceanside Plein Air Festival.

En plein air (French for “outdoors”) or plein air painting is a painting completed in the field, on location, and “in the moment.” All skill levels are encouraged. Any artist may participate, and no membership required.

The public is welcome and encouraged to check out the events and watch the painting action in person.

Click for more information including painting locations, festival events, and lodging specials or to register for the event.