Family Travel in Oceanside

It’s time for the family to unplug and reconnect, and what better place to do that then Oceanside? With beautiful year-round weather, 3.5 miles of sandy beaches, a Cape Cod-style Harbor, California’s longest wooden pier, the historic Mission San Luis Rey and more, Oceanside is the perfect location for your memorable family vacation. Oceanside is also ideal for families looking to explore more of Southern California thanks to its central location between both Los Angeles and San Diego. Famous attractions such as LEGOLAND California Resort, the San Diego Safari Park, San Diego Zoo, and SeaWorld San Diego are all just a short drive or train ride away in addition to the various other historical landmarks, beaches, vineyards and more located in-between San Diego and Los Angeles.

Planning a Family Reunion or traveling with multiple families? – Let the local destination experts at Visit Oceanside help you save time and money with your family gathering by providing complimentary assistance with your group accommodations, activities for all ages, and event planning. Click here to read more about Group Family Travel.

OCEANSIDE BEACHES

Oceanside is renowned for its wide, sandy beaches; enticing everyone to play in the sun, lounge under an umbrella or paddle out to ride the waves. Each beach location offers its own personality and charm. Discover what Oceanside Beach would be your perfect fit.

OCEANSIDE HARBOR

Oceanside Harbor is one of the most picturesque spots in our city; complete with quaint village, recreational activities and sandy beaches. Locals will boast that Oceanside Harbor is indeed one of the most beautiful harbors on the Pacific Coast. Discover more about the Oceanside Harbor!

Water Activities

SURF & SUP LESSONS

Oceanside is known for its consistent and world-class surf conditions so a trip to our beaches wouldn’t be complete without taking a surf lesson or SUP lesson from one of our local professionals!

Learn all there is to know about the surf culture here in Oceanside.

NAUTICAL FUN

Your water exploration doesn’t have to be limited to just surfing and stand-up paddle boarding! Enjoy an afternoon on the water while you kayak, jet ski, scuba dive or even go sailing! There are unlimited water activities available for you and your entire family to take advantage of right here in Oceanside.

WHALE WATCHING

When traveling to Oceanside, whale watching is a MUST! Every year, gray whales pass through the coastal San Diego waters during the Winter, while blue whales travel during the Summer, giving you the opportunity to see these incredible creatures up close and personal year-round.

Outdoor Adventures

FAMILY BIKE RIDES

Enjoy the beautiful scenery of Oceanside by bicycle! Oceanside is proud to be recognized as one of the only cities in San Diego County designated as a bicycle friendly community by the League of American Bicyclists. Take a ride down one of our bike trails, each known for unique scenery and varying endurance levels.

Fishing Catch from the Oceanside Pier | Oceanside, CA

FISHING WITH THE FAMILY

Did you know that Oceanside is a great place for catching fish? With lovely weather, abundant sea life, large beaches and jetties, and a 1,954 foot long pier to cast from your chances of catching fish are high, and your chances of having fun are even higher! Check out these expert fishing tips before heading out with your family and trying for the big one!

ARTS & CULTURE

The perfect blend of classic and new-age, the Oceanside Arts and Culture scene is not to be missed! Explore the original buildings from downtown Oceanside while visiting Heritage Park or take in a live theatre performance or a new exhibit at one of our venues in the Arts and Theatre District.