A coastal gem that feels like it’s been heavily polished over the last several years, Oceanside effortlessly blends beach-town charm with a burgeoning foodie and things-to-do scene. From its iconic pier and swim-and-surf worthy beaches to its hidden culinary treasures—and everything in between—Oceanside is having a well-deserved moment, that by all accounts, is here to stay. This guide highlights some of the must-visit spots that make Oceanside shine.
24 Suns
Oceanside Restaurants, Bars, and Coffee Shops
Allmine
An elevated take on Italian-inspired cuisine, Allmine showcases masterfully crafted artisanal pizzas, handmade pastas, and thoughtfully curated natural wines. With careful attention to ingredients—like imported Italian flour for their signature pizza dough—and making nearly everything in-house, from rich sauces to house-cured sausages and creamy burrata, every dish reflects a commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
119 S Coast Hwy.
Communal Coffee
Communal Coffee offers a wide selection of coffee, teas, fresh pastries, and cafe bites all set against a boho-chic space with creative energy, and plentiful indoor and outdoor seating. A favorite for those working remote, as well as business and friend meet-ups.
602 S Tremont St
The Rooftop Bar at Mission Pacific Hotel
The ultimate lounge for breathtaking ocean views and vibrant sunsets, The Rooftop Bar at Mission Pacific Hotel also features a stellar drink and food menu. With its stylish ambiance, creative cocktails, and shareable bites, it’s a must-visit for a chic coastal experience in Oceanside.
201 N Myers St.
The Lobby Tiki Bar & Grill
A new addition to the historic Brick Hotel, The Lobby Tiki Bar & Grill is a vibrant tiki-inspired vibe with Instagram-worthy drinks, and island-infused American cuisine. Don’t miss the Tiki dancers during Friday’s dinner service.
408 Pier View Way
Valle
One of the rare Michelin-starred restaurants in San Diego, Valle showcases the flavors of Baja California through elevated, modern Mexican cuisine with an extensive wine list highlighting Valle de Guadalupe wines. The multi-course experience is ripe for a special-occasion set amongst a breathtaking ambiance—with ocean views as the cherry on top.
222 N Pacific St
Rose Cafe
Head to Rose Cafe for breakfast, lunch or a little of both with their popular brunch menu and enjoy tasty bites in a charming and cozy setting. They offer a surprisingly large and diverse menu whether you’re popping in for a quick coffee, or fixing for a full on meal.
1902 S Coast Hwy
Merenda
Merenda is an authentic European-inspired wine bar with a diverse wine list and selection of light bites, including a build-your-own charcuterie experience with a choice-of cheeses and meats.
1931 S Coast Hwy
Matsu
A refined and modern Japanese omakase style experience, Matsu uses seasonal ingredients and meticulous techniques to offer a five-star dining experience. Helmed by chef/owner William Eick, his menu blends tradition with innovation and the food is as much art as it is delicious.
626 S Tremont St
Wrench and Rodent Seabasstropub
An Oceanside staple since 2013, Wrench and Rodent Seabasstropub is sustainability-driven sushi-forward spot is known for inventive flavors and a daily-changing menu, with a focus on responsibly sourced ingredients. The eclectic vibe makes for an effortlessly cool setting.
1815 South Coast Hwy
Dija Mara
Blending Balinese flavors with modern California cuisine, Dija Mara offers bold, umami-rich dishes. With a stylish, laid-back atmosphere and a well-curated natural wine list. It’s a worthy visit for adventurous and spice-loving foodies.
232 S Coast Hwy
The Plot
The Plot features an elevated earthy vibe with outdoor dining in a garden-setting complemented by its inventive plant-based dishes. Artfully crafted sushi rolls are popular, as well as the brunch, where the vegan chicken and waffles and the bold and bountiful Bloody Mary, are a crowd favorite.
1733 S Coast Hwy.
Little Fox Cups & Cones
Little Fox Cups & Cones makes creative ice cream concoctions with a host of inventive flavors, and tried-and-true classics. While they dish out traditional cups and cones of ice cream, they also have their popular ice cream taco, ice cream cakes and other goodies. As a bonus they cater to all dietary needs with a few seriously good vegan options. Everything is made in house, from scratch.
1940s S Freeman St
24 Suns
In an unassuming strip mall, 24 Suns is a shining culinary achievement. Two former Michelin three-star restaurant chefs have taken over an old dive bar, and turned it into a chef-driven culinary experience with a focus on modern Chinese cuisine.
3375 Mission Ave.
Flying Pig Pub & Kitchen
Get your comfort food fix North County-style at the Flying Pig Pub & Kitchen. Owned and operated by food industry veterans Roddy and Aaron Browning for over 14 years, this Oceanside staple is a go-to for Southern fare including pork chops, grits, and mac ’n’ cheese. After a fried feast and drinks, stroll over to the pier just three blocks away.
509 Mission Ave.
Things to Do in Oceanside, CA
Raw Rhythm Ceramics Studio
A creative space dedicated to the art of pottery and ceramics, Raw Rhythm Ceramics Studio offers classes and workshops suitable for all skill levels. The studio also provides monthly memberships for those seeking a regular space to hone their craft.
607 Vista Way
Comedy at the Privateer Marketplace & Wine Bar
Every Tuesday at 7:30 p.m., Privateer Marketplace & Wine Bar hosts a comedy night featuring a mix of local and touring comedians in an intimate setting. Get there early to grab a table since seating is first come, first served. You can enjoy full food and drink service while laughing steadily through the show.
1706 S Coast Hwy
Oceanside Farmers Market
The Oceanside Farmers Market is held every Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and features fresh local produce, flowers, artisan baked goods, organic fare and locally made dips and sauces. Can’t make the morning time? Don’t worry, in the evenings, from 5-9 p.m., the market turns up the volume and features live music and up to 240 food and retail booths across five city blocks.
Pier View Way & N Coast Hwy
Oceanside Pier
Stroll down the pier and watch surfers carve through the breaks below, or catch a stunning sunset at the Oceanside Pier, the longest wooden pier on the West coast. After your stroll, pop across the street to the Top Gun House, a historic landmark featured in the iconic film. The home has been converted into a pie shop which sells gluten-free treats and sweets.
928 N Coast Hwy
Oceanside Museum of Art
The Oceanside Museum of Art houses a dynamic mix of contemporary exhibitions, highlighting local and regional artists across various mediums. With ever-changing installations and engaging events, it’s a cultural experience for the arts-minded.
704 Pier View Way
Goat Hill Golf Course
Goat Hill Park golf course is a laid-back, scenic course known for its welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner, you can enjoy stunning coastal views and a fun round of golf in the beautiful SD sunshine. Or, simply check out the driving range to hit some balls while you sip local brews.
2323 Goat Hill Dr
Buena Vista Audubon Society Nature Center & Trail
Perched along the Buena Vista Lagoon Ecological Reserve, Buena Vista Audubon Society Nature Center & Trail makes for a nice stop to see a variety of local taxidermied birds and wildlife—plus other interactive things to see and touch. Then, take the 1/4 mile nature trail that loops around a portion of the lagoon to observe a variety of native plants and wildlife.
2202 S Coast Hwy
Oceanside Beach
A prime spot for sunbathing, swimming and surfing, Oceanside beach (known to locals as “The Strand”) is a great family-friendly spot for enjoying a day outdoors. Enjoy lunch at one of the nearby picnic tables or grill up your favorite summertime eats on public barbecues while there. Or, take the kids to one of a few small parks located around the beach.
The Strand
Oceanside Adventures – Whale Watching Tour
Oceanside Adventures’ whale watching and boat tours, offers guests the chance to spot various sea life, like dolphins and sea lions aboard a 50-foot catamaran. The tour departs from Oceanside Harbor year-round, providing an intimate and educational way to experience marine life, with informative and knowledgeable staff to guide your excursion.
256 Harbor Dr S
Oceanside Shops & Boutiques
Municipal
A new addition to Oceanside, Municipal is a lifestyle apparel brand co-founded by Hollywood actor Mark Wahlberg offering stylish, high-performance clothing for active living. Its flagship store also features the popular LA-based Urth Caffé, serving organic coffee, teas, and fresh bites, with plenty of space and comfy seating to lounge around.
1722 S Coast Hwy
Surf Ride Boardshop
A staple in Oceanside’s surf community since 1974, this family-owned shop has a great selection of surfboards, wetsuits, and other surf gear. Surf Ride Boardshop also has plentiful mens and womens apparel, swimsuits, and beach-related accessories. Don’t miss the sale room where you can snag surf gear and apparel for ridiculous reduced prices.
1909 S Coast Hwy
Captain’s Helm
A vintage clothing boutique, Captain’s Helm features everything from curated, old-school classic apparel to more modern secondhand finds. Plus you’ll also find a few newer items like candles, and other accessories. Stop in next door to Captain’s Grounds coffee shop for tasty drinks and bites.
1832 S Coast Hwy
Sea Hive Marketplace
Sea Hive Marketplace is a charming indoor marketplace featuring curated housewares and goods from local artisans and unique vintage finds, as well as jewelry and clothes. Whether you’re searching for a gift or home decor, this spot is a must-visit for one-of-a-kind treasures.
1555 S Coast Hwy
Estate Sale Warehouse
A perfect place for vintage lovers, Estate Sale Warehouse hosts an ever-changing collection of antique furniture, home decor, and collectibles. Discover rare finds and timeless pieces at this eclectic shopping destination.
1719 S Coast Hwy
Sonora Refillery
Sonora Refillery is an eco-friendly boutique dedicated to reducing waste with refillable household and personal care products. Bring your own containers and refill them with soaps, lotions, shampoos, conditioners, and other natural goods.
1012 S Coast Hwy
Always Hungry Grocery & Goods
A downtown specialty grocery, Always Hungry Grocery & Goods is stocked with locally sourced, organic, and artisanal foods. From fresh produce to gourmet snacks, this shop is a haven for food lovers seeking high-quality, thoughtfully curated ingredients.
110 N Myers St
Plantplay Gardens
Plantplay Gardens features a carefully curated selection of indoor plants, succulents, and unique pottery. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or a beginner, they have everything you need to bring greenery into your space.
1839 S Coast Hwy
