In need of revitalization in my opinion. This could be a major component of Oceanside’s growing charm for tourists and locals alike. Unfortunately, the Harbor is hidden away far from Oceanside’s Pier and«downtown» area with Mission and Tremont streets. The restaurants and shops here seem touristy and outdated. The overall views can be impressive, but the whole compound is tiny especially compared to Dana Point Harbor. Parking is across a street and through a small tunnel, so any access here requires near death from oblivious motorists. Poor layout.
Jason E.
Place rating: 1 Oceanside, CA
Christmas Boat Parade was a big let down. Advertised as 7 – 9 but more like 7– 7:30. Show up at the beginning or don’t waste your time
Daniel K.
Place rating: 3 Oceanside, CA
The Oceanside harbor is a great place to relax. There are shops to fit everyone’s tastes, benches to slide into and read a book, grassy areas to sit and stretch out while you watch the harbor traffic, and of course there is always the beach near by. Fire pits, showers, picnic tables, and restrooms are all near by making a trip to the beach almost hassle free. One of my favorite areas to visit at the harbor is the San Luis Rey River area which ends just shy of reaching the ocean. Yes, at one point the river flowed all the way to the sea and I think it is disappointing that its flow was changed for the sake of business but at lest the current area is protected and wildlife can still use it. On any given day, sea birds, shore birds, and fresh water fowl can be seen enjoying the area. Of the routine personalities that can be found at the harbor, my favorite to see is the bubble guy. He can be found near the harbor village in the evenings doing his art and creating giant soap bubbles for the kids. The only concern that I have for this area is the parking. There is a large free parking lot just to the east of the harbor village, but all other parking is pay only and limited. Make sure that you get there early to claim a stop as all of the parking fills up quickly.
Jay V.
Place rating: 5 Temecula, CA
Great place. Easy parking in the back parking lot behind Joe’s Crab Shack. You have to walk through a tunnel where vehicles drive through to get there, but its nothing major. Great little shops and restaurants along the way to the beach. Harbor is full of activity, with boats, people paddleboarding and kayaking, fishing, etc. The beach is nice, with lots of activity, body surfers and regular surfers, people picknicing under the covered gazebos, walking, etc. Relaxed beach. One of my favorites.
Tinie T.
Place rating: 4 San Marcos, CA
Gorgeous spot to be near the boats and water! I’ve come here to walk my dog and even take a friend’s two-person kayak out on the water.(We paddled out to the ocean.) If you want to be outdoors in a gorgeous setting, this is a great spot to visit. It’s pretty romantic and relaxing!
Ej F.
Place rating: 5 Woodland Hills, CA
I love the Oceanside Harbor. There’s lots to do, from biking, beaching, boating to boozing. Great selection of restaurants and bars, beautiful scenery, fantastic people watching, There is a beach soccer tournament held there in May or June every year, and hot soccer guys come from all over the world to play in it. I highly recommend this.
Michael C.
Place rating: 4 Tustin, CA
A great place to stop off for a break from driving from L.A. and O.C. to San Diego, or vice versa. Renews the spirit in 20 minutes, and you are on your way. Conveniently located off the 5 Freeway just north of Highway 76. A much better place to stop that that generic restroom rest stop with the masses, a few miles north. Of course there are restrooms here, too. Be glad that most people just drive right on by. Minimal effort, maximum effect. Very cool.
