Location: Oceanside
Top Things to do in Oceanside
Countries
Top 8 Museums in Oceanside, California (CA)
Oceanside is a seaside oasis of recreation and beautiful beaches. Centrally located between San Diego and Los Angeles, Oceanside is frequently referred to as “the hub of Southern California.” From here, it’s easy to access a variety of amusement parks and family activities such as Disneyland, Legoland, Sea World and the San Diego Zoo. If you’re looking to educate as well as entertain, you won’t be disappointed. Take your kids to visit Mission San Luis Rey. Founded in 1798, Mission San Luis is often called “The King of Missions” and includes picnic grounds and a gift shop in addition to a museum. Also check out the California Surf Museum or the Oceanside Museum of Art. With more than six miles of frontal beach roads, Oceanside allows you to jog, bike or skate to your heart’s content. Bike the San Luis Rey River Biking trail or take part in private o group surf lessons from a local surf school. Get your sea legs on and check out one of the many boat rental companies for a trip out to sea you won’t soon forget – go deep sea fishing, diving or whale watching. For the golf lover, Oceanside is a veritable paradise! With six courses in or near Oceanside, you’re sure to find a public or private course to fit your game - try Oceanside Municipal Golf Course, Emerald Isle Golf Course or Pendleton Marine Golf Course.
Restaurants in Oceanside
1. Mission San Luis Rey
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 617 reviews
Founded in 1798, Mission San Luis Rey de Francia, known as the "King of the Missions," is a National Historic Landmark. The largest of all the 21 California missions, it is home to a community of Franciscan Friars and is open daily to the public in the Franciscan tradition of heritage and hospitality. Facilities include a Retreat Center with day and overnight programs for spiritual renewal, multi-function meeting spaces, a Cemetery open to all people, Mission Gift Shop, Historic Church and interpretive Museum.
Reviewed By bk2508
Well worth a visit, very informative, amazing site and a wonderful little gift shop also. We did the walk through by ourselves but the guided tour would be incredible.
2. California Surf Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 189 reviews
Founded in 1986, the California Surf Museum mission is to preserve surfing heritage. The museum hosts a variety of cultural events from book signings to lectures, to movie nights to concerts. But the museum is most known for the wonderful rotating exhibits about surf and skateboard culture, art, and history. The whole family is welcome and you don't have to surf or skateboard to enjoy the museum.The California Surf Museum has been featured in Smithsonian Magazine, National Geographic, the BBC, the American Pickers "California Dreamin'", Hawaiian Airlines commercial, PBS "Getting Away Together" and many more. Don't miss the outdoor Secret Spot and Bethany Hamilton's surfboard while you are here. Also, shop the Museum Store for unique gifts and souvenirs. Joining as a member is a great way to get involved in volunteer opportunities and to support the museum on an annual basis. Hope to see you soon!
Reviewed By jeffjames559 - Phoenix, United States
Came through downtown Oceanside and checked out the history of surfing. Really a worthwhile stop for people who are in the area interested in learning more about surfing. Thanks to Tom for the stories about surfing on the visit.
3. North County Model Railroad Society
4. Oceanside Museum of Art
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 83 reviews
Reviewed By cnd324 - Omaha, United States
We enjoyed the two exhibits, Sidewalk Activism and Artists' Alliance Biennial, that were here in February. Both were quite thought-provoking! The staff was very friendly and helpful, especially the young woman in the gift shop, which was one if the best museum shops I've been to in in awhile. Many beautiful and unusual items by local artists on display there.
5. Artist Alley Oceanside
6. Heritage Park Village Museum
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 30 reviews
Founded in 1976 as part of the nation's bicentennial celebration, Heritage Park Village Museum provides a look into the history and culture of Oceanside in the mid-1890's. When you first enter the beautifully landscaped park, you'll be greeted by our large, lovely gazebo sitting front and center, perfect for events such as weddings, concerts, and more. You'll also encounter well-known Oceanside landmarks, such as Libby Schoolhouse, "The Blade" newspaper printing office, and the train depot, where an impressively detailed model of 1950's Oceanside awaits you. COST: FREE! DONATIONS WELCOMED and help pay for preservation the Museum and its artifacts.
7. Gypsy Soul Dreaming
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
Reviewed By StefanieMD_69 - Souderton, United States
What a wonderful place, owned and run by a local woman who hires local people! She puts her heart and "Gypsy Soul" into every piece of jewelry she makes. The classes; once the COVID regulations pass again, are wonderful fun, and until then she provides kits that you can buy to have your own home party/class. Love the staff, love the treasures, stop into this off the beaten path hidden gem!
8. Muramid Mural Museum
Overall Ratings
3.0 based on 2 reviews
