Stay Archives - Visit Oceanside

Oceanside International Film Festival 15th Anniversary Q&A

Veronica Voorhees — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 21:05:21 +0000

oceanside international film festival

Celebrating 15 Years of Independent Film by the Sea

Every February, the Oceanside International Film Festival (OIFF) transforms this laid-back surf town into a cinematic hub where Hollywood creatives, indie filmmakers, and local dreamers come together to celebrate storytelling. We caught up with the festival team—Lou Niles (Executive Director), Sterling Anno (Co-Director of Programming), and Carly Starr Brullo Niles (Artistic Director & Co-Director of Programming)—to talk film, community, and what makes OIFF a true reflection of Oceanside’s creative soul.

Q: Tell us a bit about yourselves. How did each of you get involved with OIFF?

Lou: I’ve been Executive Director since 2018, curating the festival through my background in music, film, and surf culture. Outside OIFF, I co-host 91X Loudspeaker, a legendary local music show that’s been championing the San Diego scene for over 37 years.
Sterling: I’ve worked in the film festival world for 16 years, from San Diego Underground to Horrible Imaginings. I joined OIFF back in 2011 and have watched it evolve into something truly special for the community.
Carly: I’ve spent three decades in Hollywood as a producer, director, and writer. As OIFF’s Artistic Director and Executive Director of KOCT Television, I love bringing my industry connections and passion for storytelling home to Oceanside.

Q: How has the festival evolved over the years?

The festival began 15 years ago under the Oceanside Cultural Arts Foundation. Our team took the reins in 2017 and later formed a dedicated nonprofit to grow OIFF into an internationally recognized destination for filmmakers and film lovers. What started as a grassroots event has evolved into a world-class festival, attracting award-winning films, rising directors, and even Hollywood icons—many of whose works have gone on to earn critical and industry acclaim.

Q: The surf and skate block is a fan favorite. Any standout moments?

There have been so many! Our on-stage talk with surf filmmaker Taylor Steele was unforgettable, The Tony Alva Story celebrated a hometown legend, and Big Wave Guardians—written by Oceanside Surf Museum president Jim Kempton—was a true community favorite bringing together surfers and lifeguards. In a city built on surf culture, the surf film block always brings fun energy.

Q: You have deep roots in the music world. How does that show up in the festival?

Music and film are inseparable for us. We’ve hosted composer Jason Hill (Mindhunter) who gave us an inside look at his process for creating iconic film and TV scores, screened the Jason Mraz–produced The Opener, and featured documentaries like I Am Alright that explores mental wellbeing in the music businesses.

Q: How does OIFF reflect Oceanside’s unique arts culture?

Oceanside’s creativity runs deep—from the beaches to the backstreets. OIFF brings those voices together, blending global stories with homegrown talent. With local art installations, afterparties downtown, and surf culture front and center, the festival feels like an authentic extension of the city itself.

Q: Any partnerships that have been especially meaningful?

When Animal Kingdom was filming in Oceanside, Warner Bros. and TNT gave us exclusive access to debut the latest episodes at the festival. Over the years, the cast and crew became an annual highlight, sharing behind-the-scenes insights and participating in special panels for the show’s passionate fanbase.

Q: What sets OIFF apart from other regional film festivals?

We bring a touch of Hollywood sparkle to the coast! Our 20-year reunions for Blue Crush—with Kate Bosworth, Sanoe Lake, and a virtual cameo from Michelle Rodriguez—and Stephen King’s Thinner at the Star Theatre were unforgettable. We love creating those moments where fans can connect with film legends in a relaxed, beachside setting.

Q: What can audiences look forward to this year?

Four action-packed days of independent film from around the world, live Q&As, special opening and closing nights, an awards ceremony, and afterparties that extend the fun. It’s equal parts culture, creativity, and coastal cool.

Q: Why plan a visit around OIFF?

Because Oceanside’s creative energy is contagious. Beyond the festival, visitors can explore vibrant galleries, sip craft cocktails, dine farm-to-table, and stroll the beach at sunset—all within one of California’s 14 designated cultural districts. Once you experience OIFF, you’ll understand why so many people come for the films and stay for the vibe.

The post Oceanside International Film Festival 15th Anniversary Q&A appeared first on Visit Oceanside.

Swell Plates Series Itinerary

Veronica Voorhees — Wed, 15 Jan 2025 17:38:18 +0000

SAVOR THE SEASON

A Journey Through Oceanside’s Swell Plates Series

Oceanside’s culinary scene is swell seasoned, perfectly complementing the Season of Swellness this winter. The Swell Plates Series happening January 15 – February 13 highlights the best of Oceanside with farm-to-table dining, fresh seafood, and immersive art experiences. Celebrate creativity, connection, and coastal charm in every bite and moment.

Art Meets Appetite – A Feast for the Senses

Morning:
Begin your Oceanside adventure at the Oceanside Museum of Art. Explore Transformative Currents: Art and Action in the Pacific Ocean (through February 5, 2025), celebrating the fusion of art and environmental awareness.
Afternoon:
Immerse yourself in the creative vibe of Oceanside’s downtown arts district. Discover galleries, boutique shops, and striking street art that showcase the city’s cultural heartbeat. Make sure you stop by The Beauty of the Sea Will Always Be With Me by Skye Walker.
Dinner:
Indulge at 24 Suns, where the Transformative Currents dish—featuring bycatch choux farci, cheung fun, and abalone mole—transforms a meal into a work of art.

Fields, Flavors, and Coastal Charm

Morning:
Kick off the day with a scenic walk along the Oceanside Pier, enjoying panoramic ocean views and spotting surfers catching waves.
Lunch:
Experience eco-friendly innovation at The Plot, Oceanside’s plant-based gem. Delight in their zero-waste creations, like Kale Stem Marrow or Carrotfish & Chips.
Afternoon:
Venture into South Morro Hills, Oceanside’s lush agricultural heartland. Explore local farms, pick up fresh produce, or simply enjoy the picturesque scenery.
Dinner Options:
- Dija Mara: Explore bold Southeast Asian flavors with dishes like the Local Seafood Laksa, a comforting coconut curry showcasing fresh seafood.
- allmine: Celebrate Oceanside’s farm-to-table heritage with seasonal delights like the Burrata Farm Salad, featuring winter vegetables and botanical herbs.

Harbor Harvest and Waterfront Wonders

Morning:
Dive into Oceanside’s maritime roots at the North County Fishermen’s Market (Sundays only). Meet local fishermen, learn about sustainable practices, and take home the freshest seafood.
Lunch:
Savor the flavors of the sea at Lighthouse Oyster Bar & Grill, a harbor-side gem. Enjoy fresh oysters, clam chowder, or shrimp tacos with unbeatable marina views.
Afternoon:
Explore the vibrant Oceanside Harbor. Stroll along the waterfront, browse quaint shops, or embark on a harbor tour for a relaxing coastal experience.
Dinner:
End your culinary journey at Wrench & Rodent Seabasstropub. Relish their Fisherman’s Special, a creative masterpiece featuring the day’s freshest local catch from the market.

Stay at a Swell Place

Save 15% At Club Wyndham Oceanside Pier Resort

Save up to 15% off your stay of two or more nights at Wyndham Oceanside Pier Resort. Promo code: AFFIL.

Save 15% At Best Western Oceanside Inn

Save 15% off regular rates at Best Western Oceanside Inn when booking online using this special link.

Save 10% at Blue Skies a Private Mini-Resort

Enjoy a 10% discount with code: visitoceanside Escape from your everyday life to this dreamy Southern California oasis designed for family getaways, group vacations or creative retreats.

Save 10% At Super 8 by Wyndham

Enjoy 10% off bookings at Super 8 by Wyndham Oceanside Downtown.

Save 20% At Springhill Suites by Marriott Oceanside Beach

Guests are invited to take advantage of a 20% savings off of regular rates at SpringHill Suites Oceanside Beach when they book online at the special link.

$100 Dining Credit At The Brick Hotel

Book a 2-night stay via The Brick Hotel website and use code BRICK100 to receive a $100 gift card, valid at both on-site restaurants Cococabana and The Lobby Tiki Bar. PLUS COMPLIMENTARY: welcome drinks, morning coffee at Succulent Coffee, fitness offerings – including yoga on the rooftop and a F45 class at F45’s Oceanside Pier location. Valid for NEW reservations only. Cannot be applied retroactively to existing bookings. Can not be combined with other promotions.

The post Swell Plates Series Itinerary appeared first on Visit Oceanside.

Oceanside’s Gold Medal Itinerary

Veronica Voorhees — Wed, 25 Sep 2024 20:04:00 +0000

oceanside's gold medal itinerary

Check out these award-winning experiences

Discover why Oceanside is making waves as a top travel destination! Our gold medal itinerary showcases the best of O’side with an award-winning stay, dining, and must-do activity.

stay

MISSION PACIFIC BEACH RESORT

Photo By: Jordan Younis

Named one of the top resorts in the U.S. by Travel & Leisure, this beachfront haven offers stunning ocean views and world-class amenities. Mission Pacific Beach Resort is also home to our Michelin-starred Mexican dining experience, Valle.

Relax

SUNNY'S SPA

Voted one of USA Today’s 10 Best Spas, Sunny’s Spa at the Seabird Ocean Resort offers the ultimate escape for relaxation and rejuvenation.

DINE

VALLE, DIJA MARA, HERITAGE BBQ, BLADE 1936, THE PLOT

Michelin-Recognized Restaurants:

- Valle: Experience world-class dining at this Michelin-starred gem, every dish is a work of art inspired by the Guadalupe Valley.
- Dija Mara: Savor the vibrant flavors at this Bib Gourmand-awarded spot, known for its creative Southeast Asian cuisine.
- Tanner’s Prime Burgers: From Michelin-starred Chef Brandon Rodgers, brings fine-dining expertise to juicy USDA prime burgers, crispy tallow fries, and indulgent treats like a chocolate chip ice cream sandwich.

Blade 1936: Savor AVPN-certified Neapolitan pizza, one of only two in San Diego.

The Plot: Featured in Tasting Table’s 20 Best Restaurants in San Diego and Veg Out’s list of the Most Sustainable Vegan Restaurants in the U.S.

drink

BEER & SPIRITS

American Single Malt Whiskey

Tropical Terps IPA

Silver Rum

Try the Tropical Terps IPA at Belching Beaver Brewery, a gold medalist at the 2023 Great American Beer Festival. The GABF is one of the largest and most prestigious beer competitions in the U.S., showcasing thousands of beers from breweries nationwide.

Pacific Coast Spirits’ American Single Malt earned the prestigious Double Gold Medal at the 2023 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Double Gold is awarded only to spirits rated Gold by every judge, recognizing exceptional quality.

Clever Fox Rum claimed Double Gold at the 2023 Sips Awards International Spirits Competition for their Silver Rum, a testament to its top-tier status, as rated by consumers.

The post Oceanside’s Gold Medal Itinerary appeared first on Visit Oceanside.