OCEANSIDE HARBOR FUN GUIDE

from The May/June issue of the Osider Magazine 2022

COASTAL • Orfila Vineyards Tasting Room & Kitchen

It's 2022 and there’s so much to do!

WORDS: ELIZABETH SCHWARTZE PHOTOS: ZACH CORDNER

It’s looking a lot like summer, and that means plenty of beach time for Oceanside locals and visitors. Oceanside Harbor and its beach are quintessential Oceanside and a beacon of all things great about living in and visiting our picturesque cityby-the-sea. The harbor was dedicated and officially opened in 1963, and shortly thereafter its “Cape Cod” Harbor Village opened for business in 1964.

For almost 60 years, Oceanside Harbor has provided innumerable ocean-loving fans with memories. The nearly two-miles of sidewalk that hugs the harbor perimeter is perfect for a run, stroll, or bike ride with benches and picnic tables to provide a day of fun. The sea lion dock is a must-see (and hear)! Check out all there is to do at Oceanside Harbor in 2022!

DINING

There’s nothing like enjoying views of the Pacific Ocean, while dining with friends and family—the sight of the blue waters, the smell of salt air, and the sounds of sea life and beachgoers. There’re plenty of dining options available at Oceanside Harbor. Most of the stores and restaurants are family-owned, and have been harbor establishments for years (or decades), so patrons truly support the locals when perusing the harbor for food, gifts, and adventures.

Tony’s Sports Bar & Grill is the perfect place to catch a game or have a casual meal with friends. Tony’s is a neighborhood favorite. Tony’s Sports Bar & Grill 274 Harbor Drive (760) 433-8466 tonysintheharbor.com @tonysoceanside

Nautical Bean Coffee Co.

The perfect spot to grab a cup of coffee and a light bite to take on the beach and check the surf. Since 1994, John Alvarez has caffeinated harbor patrons. Nautical Bean Coffee Co. 240 Harbor Drive (760) 722-4851 nauticalbean.com @nauticalbeancoffee

Lighthouse Oyster Bar & Grill

A locals favorite for fresh seafood and a picturesque setting. The Lighthouse is a family-owned restaurant that supports many fellow local businesses. It’s named after the iconic lighthouse it’s attached to at the harbor. Lighthouse Seafood Market is located below the restaurant, and is grab-n-go for locally-sourced, fresh seafood.

Lighthouse Oyster Bar & Grill 262 Harbor Drive South (760) 433-1900 lighthouseoceanside.com @lighthouseoceanside

Dominic’s Italian Restaurant

A family-owned Italian restaurant that is a must for all locals and visitors. Named after its owner, Dominic’s has been serving delectable Italian food and authentic pizza since 1999.

Dominic’s Italian Restaurant 268 South Harbor Drive (760) 754-1881 dominicsoceanside.com @dominicsattheharbor

D’Vino Cafe and Wine Bar

For harbor patrons that just want a memorable glass of wine (or tasty beer), D’Vino Cafe and Wine Bar is the perfect location. Tucked away next to Dominics At The Harbor, with the same ambience, their wine and beer paired with a sweet dessert is the perfect combination for making memories. D’Vino Cafe and Wine Bar 268 South Harbor Drive (760) 754-1881

Dominic's

Harbor Fish & Chips

For over 50 years, this family-owned fish & chips restaurant has been a staple in harbor-front dining. They utilize original homemade-from-scratch recipes for their tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, and famous coleslaw to complement their tasty fish and french fries. Their entire menu is familyfriendly, budget-friendly, and simply delicious.

Harbor Fish & Chips 276 Harbor Drive (760) 722-4977 harborfishandchips.net

Rockin’ Baja Lobster Coastal Cantina

The Puerto Nuevo-style seafood restaurant offers a lively, fun-filled, and delicious dining experience at the Harbor. It’s always a party at the Puerto Nuevo-style cantina that provides endless yummy seafood and drinks. Rockin’ Baja Lobster Coastal Cantina 258 Harbor Drive (760) 967-6199 rockinbaja.com @rockinbajalobster

Stratford At The Harbor

Breakfast and lunch at the Harbor? Yes! Delicious breakfast and lunch favorites are served up in the family-friendly welcoming restaurant where “everyone feels like a local.” The perfect way to start your day! Stratford At The Harbor 280 Harbor Drive South (760) 453-2073 stratfordattheharbor.com @stratfordharbor

Nana and Pop Pops Sweet Shop

It wouldn’t be a complete trip to the beach without ice cream. Luckily, the family-owned and operated Nana and Pop Pops has been serving ice cream and sweets since 1999. Their handmade fudge and caramel apples are a family favorite with a variety of hard-to-find candy, and sodas.

Nana and Pop Pops Sweet Shop 280 Harbor Drive South (760) 722-1723 osidesweets.com

Joe’s Crab Shack

The landmark building at the harbor is none other than Joe’s Crab Shack! This lively restaurant chain offers a beautiful and unique view of the Harbor. The menu offers something for everyone—especially, delectable seafood. Joe’s Crab Shack 314 Harbor Drive (760) 722-1345 joescrabshack.com @joes_crabshackoceanside

Oceanside Broiler

The newest restaurant on the waterfront is away from the main buildings, but located just steps from the water. The Oceanside Broiler outdoor patio is a stunning dining location in a casual, beach-vibe atmosphere with a surf ‘n’ turf menu. The “broiler” in its ideal setting—the perfect spot to dine and relax.

Oceanside Broiler 1325 Harbor Drive North (760) 722-3474 oceanside-broiler.com @oceansidebroiler

Harbor Pelican Deli Mart & Fish Market

Located at the North Jetty, the Harbor Pelican is a hidden gem of a convenience store with its casual food and fresh local fish. This family-owned business offers fish as fresh as it gets. “Fresh fish straight from the boat.” It’s a must-stop for Harbor goers and campers, alike.

Harbor Pelican Deli Mart & Fish Market 1380 North Pacific Street (760) 722-5853 harborpelican.com @harborpelicandeliandfishmarket

SHOPPING Amrcn Photo

In the core of the iconic lighthouse is a newly opened photography and design store. It’s a beautiful, quaint space with the perfect gift from Oceanside. Amrcn Photo 260 Harbor Drive South amrcnphoto.com @amrcn_photo

San Diego Tees

There’s plenty of beach shirts, sweatshirts, and beach accessories directly on the path to the beach with San Diego Tees unique shopping kiosks. Their Mexican pullovers are a trend that’s a hit for locals and visitors.

Wave Original

Every style under the sun has an Oceanside designation at the Wave Original. The season’s latest and greatest can be purchased, along with a wide-variety of gifts with “Oceanside” perfectly placed for Oceanside’s best memorabilia and wear. Wave Original 270 South Harbor Drive (760) 433-1001 @wave_original_beachwear

Harbor Gift Shop

This cute store is full of treasures for every person on a Christmas present list. It’s a great place to pick up some unique shells, beach apparel, cards, and gifts galore. There’s truly something for everyone on the list. “A fun shopping experience for both locals and tourists.” Harbor Gift Shop 278 Harbor Drive (760) 722-6131 @harborgiftshop

Beach/Surfing

Harbor Beach is the most popular beach in Oceanside. The long stretch of sand between Harbor Drive and the scenic Pacific Ocean hosts beach days, picnics, soccer tournaments, junior lifeguard camps, surf camps, surf competitions, fire rings, and world-famous surf breaks. Harbor beach regularly hosts scholastic and professional surf competitions. Keep an eye out because the beach will get very busy on June 3rd-5th when the Beach Soccer Championships returns to harbor beach! That’s right—events are back!

Please note: No glass, smoking, alcohol, or dogs are allowed on the beach.

SOME POINTS OF INTEREST Playground

The playground located at North Jetty roundabout is a locals favorite. There are two separate structures. One structure is for two to five year olds. The other structure is for five-plus years. The bathroom is conveniently located adjacent to the playground.

Recreational Vehicle Parking

There are recreational vehicle (RV) camping spots without hookups, but with restroom access also located near the North Jetty. There’s a daily fee, but there are no advanced reservations. Camping spots are on a first-come, first-served basis with a five-day limit in a 30-day period.

Boat Ramp Access

The public can utilize the free boat launch at the launch ramp for sea-worthy vessels. There’s also a boat washdown area. Across from the boat launch are paid parking spots suitable for trucks & trailers.

Fire Rings

There are fire rings available for the public on a first-come-first- served basis. The Harbor has no curfew on the fire rings, but noise ordinance regulations must be followed. Get to the beach (very) early on a busy summer day to snag one!

Surfing Lessons

Harbor Beach hosts the North and South Jetty that offer gentle beach breaks, making the Harbor an ideal location to learn to surf. There are a few vendors set up to help locals and visitors learn to surf or improve their skills at the harbor. Learn to Rip Surf Lessons (760) 579-1791 learntoripsurflessons.com @ltrsurf Surfride Surf Camp (760) 433-4020 surfride.com/surf-camp @surfride Whitlock Surf Experience (760) 994-0506 whitlocksurfexperience.com @whitlocksurfexperience

SAILING/WATER ACTIVITIES

Oceanside Yacht Club/Boat Rentals

Home to over 900 boat slips—boat cruises at the Harbor are an unforgettable way to experience the Pacific Ocean. There are a few liveaboards that enjoy the Harbor on a permanent basis, but most of the boats are used for day cruising adventures. Watching the boats leave the Harbor channel is a fun activity easily viewed from the North Jetty.

The Oceanside Yacht Club

Since 1963, Oceanside Yacht Club provides a sailing membership experience “Oceanside style.” Think of fun and inclusive versus elite and exclusive—and all are welcome! Their most successful programs are Learn To Sail (LTS) for all ages. Their youth Learn To Sail program (eight to seventeen years old) is offered throughout summer with multiple sessions to register. Don’t delay because classes fill up! Keep an eye out for 4th of July’s Yankee Doodle Dingy Parade. In December, OYC hosts the annual Holiday Parade of Lights. Between races, and regattas, the OYC is super busy, but their members love to have fun, too, with summer dinners, dances, Monday Night Football, and group cruise—OYC is fun for all. So stop in to learn more.

The Oceanside Yacht Club 1950 North Harbor Drive (760) 722-5751 oceansideyc.net

Oceanside Boat Rentals

Getting on the water is easier than ever with Oceanside Boat Rentals. Located in the midst of the Harbor Village, the public is welcome to rent water vessels for every need. Choose between in-harbor power boats, covered electric boats, kayaks, and stand up paddle boards (SUP). The vessels can be rented for one or two hours, and renters must be at least 21 years of age. Oceanside Boat Rentals 256 South Harbor Drive (855) 690-0794 boats4rent.com/oceanside @boatrentalsofamerica

Oceanside Outrigger

For locals, Oceanside Outrigger Canoe Club is a fun group to join for exercise and community. With their own storage facility near the boat launch basin, the beautiful outrigger canoes make their way into the harbor, and with experience, out to the open ocean. There’s a newcomers program, inviting everyone to experience outrigger paddling. No previous experience is required—just swim skills, and waterproof clothing are needed to start.

Oceanside Outrigger oceansideoutrigger.org @oceanside.outrigger

DEEP SEA FISHING & FISHING PIER Helgren’s Oceanside Sportfishing

Founded in Oceanside Harbor in 1978 by Richard and Caroline Helgren, the business is still familyowned and operated to this day. Their fleet includes three vessels: Electra, Oceanside 95, and Sea Trek. Helgren’s offers full-day, half-day, and overnight fishing trips. Bluefin tuna is a popular catch. “Whether you’re casting out for the first time, or you’re a pro fisherman, you’re sure to have a fun and productive deep sea fishing trip with us.”

Helgren’s Oceanside Sportfishing 1395 North Harbor Drive, Suite A (760) 722-2133 helgrensportfishing.com @helgrensoceansidesportfishing

Ken’s Custom Reel

Located at 1451 North Harbor Drive, Ken’s Custom Reel is a local fisherman’s paradise. Ken’s offers reels, tackle, live bait, and professional expertise when it comes to fishing in and around Oceanside with service and repair on all reels. “Come in and check us out, bring your reels to be serviced and pull up a stool and stay a bit.” Ken’s Custom Reel 1351 Harbor Drive North (760) 967-7335 @kens_custom_reel

Oceanside SEA Center

Oceanside Sport-Education-Adventure (SEA) Center provides locally-owned and operated sea adventures with a fleet of five boats: Sea Star, Chubasco II, Pronto, Blue Horizon, and Southern Cal. Their fishing trips include half day, threequarter day, and full day excursions. Along with expertly-guided daily fishing trips, and marine life education, OSC also offers a wide variety of fishing bait and tackle, rod & reel, and accessories at their storefront located at 315 Harbor Drive South. Fishing licenses are available for purchase. The expert crew will even help clean your fresh catch—for a small fee. In season, Oceanside Coastal Expedition offers whale watching from the same building. Oceanside SEA Center 315 South Harbor Drive (760) 450-0403 oceansideseacenter.com oceansidecoastalexpeditions.com @oceansideseacenter

VLADIMIR MEDVINSKY

Fishing Pier

The small harbor fishing pier is a wooden manmade structure ideal for those learning to fish. Since it’s man-made, no fishing licenses are required. It’s located in the heart of the Harbor with picnic tables nearby for a fun family-friendly day of fishing. But watch out! It’s very close to the sea lion dock, and they’ve been known to steal a fish or two.

WHALE WATCHING

Oceanside Adventures

Located directly across from the iconic lighthouse, Oceanside Adventures offers year-round luxury whale and dolphin tours. Each two-hour tour is aboard the beautiful 50-foot, one-level catamaran, and is suitable for all ages. Each trip is narrated by a captain surveying the horizon, and listening to radio chatter to deliver visitors to any sealife roaming nearby in the expansive Pacific Ocean. Oceanside Adventures also offers monthly wine sunset cruises, private charters, and burials at sea.

Oceanside Adventures 256 South Harbor Drive (760) 277 – 3737 oceansidewhalewatching.com @oceansidewhales

Parking

There’s ample free parking, especially in the free parking lot just east of the train tracks at 401 Riverside Drive. There’s a mix of free, two-hour meters, and hourly parking fees, so be mindful of the signage. For paid parking, hourly or day permits must be purchased from a yellow kiosk. If parking fees are required, the rule is 1. Park 2. Pay 3. Display (on the dashboard) 4. Enjoy! Parking enforcement is fastidious, so pay attention—they will ticket!

Have fun and enjoy Oceanside Harbor! We’ll see you out there!