The Pier

is the ultimate O’side icon.

Keepin’ it real since 1888.

1,954 feet of amazing views and vantage points.

If you can tear your eyes away from the stunning horizon, the best people watching—in a town full of great people watching—may well be at Oceanside’s historic wooden pier. Jutting far beyond the breakers, it’s an iconic photo backdrop, a stage for artists and performers, a deep-water access point for amateur anglers, and an ideal perch for catching the elusive green flash at sunset.

Amphitheater
Oceanside Pier Amphitheatre
Art
Oceanside Museum of Art
California Welcome Center
California Welcome Center
Landmarks
Civic Center and Library
Museums
California Surf Museum
Train Stations
Oceanside Transit Center

Stunning on film, even better in person.

Play Video

A steadfast symbol of the O’side spirit.

First built in 1888, the Pier was destroyed by raging seas in 1890, rebuilt between 1894-1896, and destroyed again in 1902. The structure you see today dates to 1987, and its opening drew tens of thousands from all over SoCal to celebrate. Strong and indominable, it’s a testament to the strength of Oceanside.

Drop your line like a local.

The bait shop at mid Pier has rod rentals, fishing tackle, bait, and snacks—basically everything you need to cast your line but luck. In shallower waters you may reel in such locally abundant species as sand bass, butterfish, and halibut, while in deep water, anglers go for mackeral, bonito, kelp bass, rockfish, and even barracuda.

Spot tell-tale whale spouts.

High above the waves and well beyond the breakers, at the tip of the pier you’re in prime territory for spotting whales and dolphins. While dolphins (and seals and sea lions) frolic in the surf below, note denizens of the deep like humpbacks and blue whales when they spout billowy plumes from their blowholes.

Celebrate and listen to live music.

Originally built in 1919, in 2012 the amphitheater at the foot of the pier was dedicated in loving memory of O’sider and former San Diego Charger Junior Seau. Today it hosts concerts (The Black Keys and the Yeah Yeah Yeahs played in 2009) and citywide cultural celebrations like Juneteenth and Cinco de Mayo.

Where to Park

The pier is a short walk from downtown O’side where you’ll find metered parking on North Cleveland, North and South Myers, Pier View Way, and The Strand, as well as some free parking on Seagaze and the 24-hour lot on North Tremont.

Keepin' It Real in o'side

February 24, 2024

Oceanside Events to Not Miss this March

Springtime is already here, can you believe it? Oceanside is not only bursting with life, but also with great events and activities taking place throughout the month. From Brewbies Beer Festival to Art Workshops, Surfing Championships & more, now is the time to visit!

February 16, 2024

O’side Sips Cocktail Trail

Discover the city’s top-notch mixology scene, hidden gems, and must-try concoctions that will elevate your Oceanside experience. Immerse yourself in the O’side Sips Cocktail Trail to uncover the perfect libation to complement your seaside adventures. Cheers!

February 5, 2024

10 Places to Propose in Oceanside, CA

Planning to get engaged? Explore 10 places to propose in Oceanside, along with fun ideas on how to make that special moment even more romantic and memorable.
Visitor Guide 2024 with shadow

What's New in O'side? Check out Our 2024 Visitor Guide To find out.

Oceanside Visitors Guide 2023

Sharing some O'side love with our Visitor guide.

Follow us on Social Media

Use the hashtag #VisitOceanside

Get Inside O'side

Facebook
LinkedIn
Twitter
Pinterest
Email