Family Reunions Archives - Visit Oceanside https://visitoceanside.org/tag/family-reunions/ Destination Marketing Organization for Oceanside, CA Tue, 23 Apr 2024 18:37:53 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 https://visitoceanside.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/favicon-32x32-1.png Family Reunions Archives - Visit Oceanside https://visitoceanside.org/tag/family-reunions/ 32 32 The History of St. Malo in Oceanside https://visitoceanside.org/blog/history-of-st-malo-oceanside-california/ Mon, 27 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://osiddevelopment.flywheelstaging.com/history-of-st-malo-oceanside-california/ Over several decades many residents and visitors alike have often wondered who lived beyond the gate at the end of Oceanside’s South Pacific Street. An impressive entrance allowed but a sneak peek into beautiful homes with unique architectural features.

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Photos By: Oceanside Historical Society, Aerial 9 Media & Garret Milligan

The History of St. Malo

Contributing Writer: Kristi Hawthorne, Historical Photos Courtesy Of: Oceanside Historical Society

Over several decades many residents and visitors alike have often wondered who lived beyond the gate at the end of Oceanside’s South Pacific Street. An impressive entrance allowed but a sneak peek into beautiful homes with unique architectural features.

Kenyon A. Keith, a wealthy resident of Pasadena, purchased 28 acres of oceanfront property in 1928. The following year he began developing a colony with custom built homes that were designed to resemble a French fishing village, St. Malo. Residency was by invitation only and limited to family and hand-selected friends.

The St. Malo Subdivision begins at Eaton and South Pacific Streets. However, the St. Malo community, also extends on either side of the 2000 block of South Pacific Street. As homes were constructed, and continue to be built, they are kept to a strict standard of architectural style and materials, built and weathered to appear as if they have been there for decades.

The entryway or St. Malo Gate was designed by architect William McCay. Keith wanted an imposing entrance to the St. Malo Beach community and built it to represent “a sense of place.”

Oceanside’s Secret Hideaway of the Rich and Famous

St. Malo homes weren’t just weekend hideaways for the wealthy, wanting to escape from the city, they often “summered” there. Owners brought a full staff, with maids and cooks as most homes were built with “servants’ quarters.”

Homes were fondly described by owners as “storybook cottages” or “chalets.” Nicknamed “Pasadena on the Rocks”, St. Malo offered a private beach, playground, 3 tennis courts, a volleyball court and a clubhouse cabana. Activities included exclusive cocktail parties, barbeques and trips to the Del Mar Races. Close friends of the owners were allowed to rent or even borrow houses for social gatherings and vacations.

Although Oceanside residents were not likely privy to the comings and goings of colonists, their activities were posted in the society pages of the Los Angeles Times that featured headlines such as: “St. Malo is Favorite for Pasadena Folk”; “St. Malo Beckons Social Set”; “St. Malo Beach Hums with Activity.” The social columnists promoted the exclusivity of St. Malo, but provided the names of the socialites and families that were staying there, along with their activities and other gossip. They boasted that St. Malo parties were better than any in Hollywood.

While newspaper articles attributed the location of St. Malo as in or near Oceanside, some attempted to place the community nearer tonier locales such La Jolla or Del Mar. However, in 1950 the City of Oceanside annexed the St. Malo subdivision, at the owners’ request, which at the time had grown to 24 homes.

The heyday of St. Malo was from the 1930s and 1960s. Owners included Desaix Myers, a mining engineer; Dr. John Dunlop, pioneer orthopedic surgeon; Karl G. Von Platen, lumber magnate; Attorney Steve Halsted; Lamar Trotti, writer and film producer; W. John Kenney, Asst. Secretary of Navy; Frank Butler, screenwriter; songwriter Nacio Herb Brown; Hugh Darling, mayor of Beverly Hills; painter Marge Wilman. Another wealthy “colonist” was Alice Pillsbury Forsman, daughter of the co-founder of the Pillsbury Mills. St. Malo was such a way of life for most, even when they passed away their obituaries mentioned their affection of their St. Malo home away from home.

Other notable residents were film director Jason S. Joy and author Ben Hecht. Joy’s St. Malo home was referred to as “La Garde Joyeuse” and included an outdoor bowling alley and volleyball court. Hecht, whose prolific works include “Scarface”, purchased his St. Malo home in 1950. While living in Oceanside, he wrote a children’s book about a cat who roamed the streets of Oceanside. He said in an interview that he often wrote from his den overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Homes within the colony sold for $57,000 (and up) in the 1940s, however, ownership was contingent upon “membership” and the approval of Kenyon Keith.

Over the years visitors have included Harpo Marx and James Maytag, (Maytag appliances). The most famous and royal visitors were none other than England’s Prince Phillip and Princess Anne, who stayed at St. Malo while attending events during the Los Angeles Olympics in 1984.

No longer quite as exclusive, new families mingle with the more “established” residents. While St. Malo is no longer a secret, it still remains private and the homes behind the gated entrance and those who live there, still evoke a bit of mystery.

 

About the Writer

Kristi Hawthorne has been a resident of Oceanside since 1983, began volunteering for the Oceanside Historical Society in 1987 and has served on the board of the Oceanside Historical Society for over 30 years and as president since 2002. She conducts Downtown History Walks for the public each year and presents regular historical programs at the Oceanside Public Library. She is known as the “historian” of Oceanside, writing a history book entitled “Oceanside, Where Life is Worth Living.” Kristi has been an avid supporter of Oceanside, proud to live and work in the City which she loves and has raised a family with her husband. Her blog, Histories and Mysteries, provides readers an in-depth look at people, places and events in our City’s history.

Check out Kristi Hawthorne’s “Histories and Mysteries” blog

 

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]]> Downtown Oceanside Historical Landmarks https://visitoceanside.org/blog/downtown-oceanside-historical-landmarks/ Tue, 17 May 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://osiddevelopment.flywheelstaging.com/downtown-oceanside-historical-landmarks/ With its origins dating back to 1888, the City of Oceanside has survived through some of the roughest times in the United States history ultimately blossoming into the vibrant and authentic city we know and love today. Our history is not all lost however, Oceanside still has numerous landmarks dating back well over a century that continue to contribute to the magic that makes our downtown so great. Check out these five special and historically significant landmarks that help make Oceanside, Oceanside.

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Downtown Oceanside Historical Landmarks

 

Those who visit Oceanside today are greeted by a bustling downtown that is both walkable and inviting with its mixture of distinct, vintage and modern aesthetics. With visuals ranging from the Star Theatre’s large iconic neon sign towering over the sidewalk to the more contemporary Oceanplace courtyard, to the fun and eclectic neighborhood atmosphere of South O, there is no shortage of diversity. Oceanside’s unique character goes far beyond its downtown variety however, the best-kept secret about our humble beach city is that it has a rich and fascinating history that continues to be unearthed, brought to light and honored in the downtown more and more!

A Blast From The Past

Oceanside’s origins date clear back to the 1800’s, with its incorporation on July 3, 1888. Starting off as a meager coastal town in close proximity to Mission San Luis Rey, Oceanside developed fairly rapidly opening both the Oceanside Library and Oceanside High School before 1910; with the Oceanside Pier already on its third iteration. In addition to the city projects, locals were establishing their own roots by building their businesses in this new city they called home. Fast forward over a century and Oceanside is doing better than ever, with new developments located alongside buildings dating back to the 1880’s! These historically significant, story-telling buildings are standing proud throughout downtown Oceanside and you’d often be hard pressed to pick them out among the crowd of neighboring structures. Fortunately the City of Oceanside and the Oceanside Historical Society have taken important steps in preserving and honoring these pieces of history. You can even go on your own self guided tour to see Oceanside’s historical gems using the provided map at the bottom of this page.

More: History of Tourism in Oceanside

Though there are many more to see than just these, the following downtown landmarks hold special historical value to the City of Oceanside. Both visitors and locals alike should take the time to visit these places, take in their history, and honor these time capsules as well as recognize Oceanside’s unique system of incorporating the history while continuing to look forward towards the city’s future.

 
 

The Graves / Top Gun House

 

One of the more recognizable historical landmarks in downtown Oceanside is the Graves House, or as most know it, the “Top Gun House.” Built in 1887 by Dr. Henry Graves, this Queen Anne Victorian cottage is one of the oldest houses still standing in Oceanside today. Located on its oceanfront location, this home is significant for a number of reasons. First and foremost the building has folk Victorian architecture which, as John Daley Vice President of the Oceanside Historical Society notes, is extremely rare by the beach. In addition, of those similar buildings that exist it is the best one of its kind in San Diego County making it very special historically. The other significance has to do with it being featured in the cult classic blockbuster movie Top Gun.

Almost a century after being built, the Graves House was selected to be the home of character Charlotte ‘Charlie’ Blackwood, the love interest of Tom Cruise’s character Maverick in the 1986 mega film Top Gun. The house got plenty of screen time in the film and has become a favorite tourist spot to visit, so much so a fence was built around it to help preserve the 130+ year old building. As time has passed, nature took its toll on the Graves House which resulted in mini-restorations and improvements over the years to keep it standing. 

 

The Graves or Top Gun House illustrates a perfect example of Oceanside’s unique attitude towards not only maintaining those remaining buildings from the city’s early years, but going beyond that and incorporating them as special additions to Oceanside’s downtown landscape for the foreseeable future. With construction of the Seabird Resort and Mission Pacific Hotel, the Top Gun House was carefully lifted and relocated so that it could be restored to it’s former glory, and given new life within the completed resort grounds as the HIGH-Pie Dessert Shop.

 
The Graves House Location:
 

As the new home of HIGH-Pie, the house maintains its original blue Victorian cottage exterior, with billowing sheer curtains on the windows lining an outdoor porch with a hanging swing. Tara Lazar and her creative team embraced the history and the true American military and film nostalgia with a fresh touch of “New Americana.” The renovated interior is adorned with bold, retro signage, Victorian era panels and an upholstered fireplace. Fun design touches such as Top Gun set photos, historical imagery of both Oceanside and the Graves House, vintage furniture and more. The serving counter has deli-style display cases and shelves, and pies are featured on a Willy-Wonka-esque conveyor belt. 

 
 

The Schuyler Building

 

A perfect example of a hidden gem in plain sight is the Schuyler building, a once-prominent fixture in the early days of Oceanside which has since been relegated to a row of other similar looking buildings….that is, until now!

Built in 1888 by John Schuyler, this originally two-story building was home to the Schuyler Hardware store, a historically significant business that enabled more development to take place in the early years helping pave way for the fantastic growth we see today. Back in its original state, the Schuyler building stood proud with its brick exterior and large over-sized ceilings, and over most of its life up until fairly recently, the building continued to retain most of its prowess. Slight changes did occur, like being converted to a three-story building by reducing the ceilings, and various businesses such as a cash grocery store that occupied the building in the 1930’s also added their own touch.

The building seemed little more than an eyesore to many in the downtown area but in 2017 the Aldrich family purchased the former hotel with eyes to refurbishing and repurposing it as a boutique hotel. Thomas Aldrich, project manager and his sister Lauren Sweeton, hotel manager, are the great-great grandchildren of John and Jeanie Aldrich who came to Oceanside in 1926 from Connecticut. The early Aldrich’s purchased a large two-story house at 615 Second Street (now Mission Avenue), and opened a boarding house referred to as Aldrich Manor. As renovation of the Schuyler building began, the stucco was painstaking removed, slowly exposing the original brick exterior which had been hidden for decades. Emerging was the painted ad of grocers Contreras & Gelpi on the eastside of the building, along the roofline the faded words “Rooms”, harkening back to its day as a boarding house and hotel.

 
 
Schuyler Building Location:
 

Historic names were considered but it seemed fitting to give it its own identity and the decision was made to call it “The Brick Hotel.”  The restoration became a rebuilding project that spanned a five-year period and included earthquake retrofitting which required building a modern steel structure inside of the existing brick walls. 

The Aldrich Family, in Oceanside for nearly 100 years, continues their legacy and early roots in the hospitality business. Their collective vision for this building has transformed and revitalized the block on which it sits. When completed, it will be modernly updated, both inside and out while retaining much of its historic charm and character. The Brick Hotel will offer ten beautifully appointed suites, as well as a restaurant and oyster bar on the ground floor, and a rooftop bar providing panoramic views of the city.

 
 

The Bunker House

 

The Bunker House is another building in downtown Oceanside with a past that dates back to the 1800’s. Built a few years prior to the Schuyler Building in 1886, this large two story structure was built by Theodore Bunker and was declared the ornament of the town at the time by the San Diego Union. Despite going through many hands, the building lived on eventually being named the Travelers Hotel in 1947 by its owner Ralph Rogers.

 
 

The Bunker House was many things, it was used for town hall meetings, dances, church services, it was a music store leasing jukeboxes, and even a brothel in the 70s. This building’s unique past has adapted and changed with it’s community and is one of the three only standing brick buildings in Oceanside. The Bunker House Lounge, who operates the building now, hopes to bring the community together again to eat, drink, socialize, enjoy live music, and create new stories to add to this beautiful building’s vibrant history.

 
 
Bunker House Location:
 

The Bunker House serves as the subject of a wonderful juxtaposition between the rows of modern vacation rentals located across the street and Oceanside’s humble beginnings in which such a building was considered the crown jewel of the town. Standing proud closely resembling the original exterior facade, this historical landmark helps keep Oceanside’s initial character at the forefront and helps to ground the city in its roots as it naturally progresses forward as the premier beach destination.

 
 

The Fin Hotel

 

The Fin Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, formerly the Dolphin Hotel, originally opened its doors in 1927 and was a popular hotel for celebrities of the day during the 1930s and 1940s. Fast forward to May 2018, after undergoing extensive renovations, the property reopened as a luxe boutique hotel blending Oceanside’s history with the modern surf culture. 

With a modern and clean decor, this 27-room property also retains much of the building’s original character including multi-colored, mosaic tile flooring in the lobby, a grand wooden-railed staircase, and elegant tiffany windows.  

 
The Fin Hotel Location:

 
 

The Oceanside Pier

 

The most visible but often overlooked historical landmark in the downtown neighborhood is the Oceanside Pier. Like the other historical sites mentioned, the first iteration of the pier was built in the late 1880’s. The first version was built by the American Bridge Company entirely out of wood reaching a reported 1,200 feet out from the shore. Not long after its completion, a storm in 1890 destroyed nearly all of the pier requiring a major rebuild. This rebuild eventually took place in 1894 utilizing iron pilings to strengthen the pier with an extension added on in 1896, but eventually that too was destroyed by heavy storms in 1902. It wasn’t until 1926 that the fourth pier was built, which famously drew over 20,000 people from all over Southern California to celebrate the grand opening. For the entirety of the pier’s life storms have taken a toll, but regardless of the damage done the pier has always been rebuilt as a testament to the strength and steadfastness of the City of Oceanside.

 
 
Oceanside Pier Location:

The sixth version of the pier opened in 1987 at a cost of $5 million dollars and is what you see today. The pier currently measures 1,942 feet long making it one of the longest wooden piers on the West Coast. The pier, in all of its iterations, has always helped shape Oceanside’s image as the place to go if you want to enjoy great weather and the beach. Unlike neighboring beach cities, visitors and locals alike can walk far out over the Pacific Ocean to watch surfing and sea life from a unique vantage point, and even fish without needing a permit. These advantages have always been intrinsic to Oceanside since 1888 when the first pier was built, which makes this landmark one of the most historically significant gems in the City of Oceanside.

 
 
 

Roberts Cottages

 

Roberts Cottages is a community of individually owned cottage residences located in Oceanside. The vacant property was initially purchased by A.J. Clark in 1925. A few years later, he secured a permit to build 24 beach cottages for a projected cost of $25,000. The cottages were designed and built by the Whiting-Mead Company and were completed in July 1928. Around this time, Oceanside was on its way to reaching new heights in development and growth. Detached garages in the rear of many downtown homes were converted to small houses or apartments to accommodate the growing population. Trailer parks that were once used by tourists and summer visitors now were used as permanent homes due to the housing shortage. 

In 1941, Harry and Virginia Roberts acquired the iconic double row of (mostly) pink cottages and gave them their present name. They passed through a few owners until 1952 when H. D. and Rush Forquer took over. The Forquers attempted to sell all the cottages as a single unit and failed, however, real estate agent Wilma Stakich suggested that the 12-by-24 foot cottages be sold individually to various owners. This was supposedly one of the first times this type of condo concept was used in the state of California. 

These quaint buildings represent an important part of Oceanside’s history. They are remnants of a time when Oceanside figured prominently on motor Route 101 running directly through the city, as well as being walking distance to the railroad and thus attracting many part-time residents from Los Angeles. Today many of them are available for week long rental.

The above image showcases Cottage City in the 1930’s at 600 N Strand. Even though it looks similar, this is not the current Roberts Cottages! Cottage City was built with wood and Roberts Cottages are built with stucco.

 

Learning Oceanside History

“Tan Your Hide in Oceanside”

Oceanside Historical Society Website and Social Media

Oceanside facts and trivia, a city timeline, historical books and more are all available on the Oceanside Historical Society website. Following along with their Instagram is also a great way learn something new about Oceanside and engage with O’riginal Osiders.

Self-Guided History Walk 

Walk around and experience the history on your own! Download the Oceanside Historical Walking Guide for a map and list of points of interest along the way.

A special thanks to the Oceanside Historical Society for providing historical facts and photographs featured in this blog.

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]]> Traveling with a Group? Incentive Program Available https://visitoceanside.org/blog/traveling-with-a-group-new-incentive-program-available/ Wed, 01 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://osiddevelopment.flywheelstaging.com/traveling-with-a-group-new-incentive-program-available/ Are you planning a family reunion, meeting, wedding, or even a team building excursion? See if your group qualifies for the NEW Oceanside group travel client rewards program. With the "Pick a Perk" program, your group has a chance to receive special incentives or sponsorships for booking your upcoming trip in Oceanside, CA. Let our local, group travel experts help you create a unique itinerary for your special occasion.

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Oceanside Perks

TRAVELING WITH A GROUP? OUR INCENTIVE PROGRAM IS NOW AVAILABLE.

Oceanside is more than just a leisure vacation destination, our North County San Diego location is the perfect place to escape for your next group outing, whether it is a family reunion, meeting, incentive travel opportunity, or team building adventure. The best part is that all of this fun can be had at a tremendous value!

Visit Oceanside now has a client rewards program called “O’side Perks” where the group can receive special incentives including gift cards or sponsorships for booking their upcoming group travel in Oceanside, CA.

The activity opportunities are endless. Your group can go on a fun bike ride along the coast or out to Mission San Luis Rey.  Want to spend the day out on the water?  Your group is invited to go whale watching from Oceanside Harbor or even take a group surf lesson– how fun would that be?!?!?

Now that we have sold you on the many reasons why you HAVE to visit Oceanside, it is time to seal the deal with the new “O’side Perk” incentive program and get you to BOOK your stay with us in Oceanside. Here are all of the promotional details…

How long is the incentive program available?

The “O’side Perk” incentive program is available for reservations starting now but may end at any time.

How does the “O'side Perk” program work?

The “O’side Perk” program offers incentive rewards to groups of 10 rooms or more for staying in Oceanside. 

It is important to note that the O’side Perk incentives are only available for new business booking in Oceanside, not repeat groups; blackout dates may apply.

What are the lodging and meeting space options in Oceanside?

Groups can choose from over 1,500 rooms in Oceanside ranging from beachfront resorts to 10-bedroom vacation homes and long-term stay options. The city offers numerous meeting and event venues that include traditional function space as well as one-of-a-kind museums, historical buildings and private estates. Among the more unique gathering places are the historic Star Theater, California Surf Museum’s “secret spot” patio, tropical inspired Botanica estate, scenic Beach House Winery in the South Morro hills agriculture district and the 15,000 square foot Bagby Beer Company.

What types of activities are available for my group?

Oceanside offers groups a variety of things to do for team building and local exploration. Luxury whale watching excursions are available year-round from Oceanside Harbor, as are water sports including SUP, kayaking and surfing.

If you are looking to take it up a notch, check out the Oceanside team building and group activities page which features groups opportunities including navy seal boot camp and indoor skydiving with iFly Oceanside. 

Oceanside is the foodie hot spot in San Diego!  Your group can enjoy dining at one of our delicious, farm-fresh restaurants or even explore one of the city’s 10 craft breweries, wineries, or San Diego’s only meadery.

Other exciting group activities include coastal bike rides, coastal-inspired dining, indoor rock climbing, birding, art tours, historical walks and more.

Tell us what your group is looking to experience and one of our local, group travel experts will be able to create a unique itinerary just for you!

Learn more about the Oceanside “O’side Perk” Incentive Program.

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]]> Best Season for your Oceanside Family Reunion https://visitoceanside.org/blog/best-season-for-your-oceanside-family-reunion/ Tue, 12 Jan 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://osiddevelopment.flywheelstaging.com/best-season-for-your-oceanside-family-reunion/ Are you planning a family getaway or family reunion and need help deciding when is the best time of year for your group to visit? Check out our list of seasonal events and activities perfect for entertaining the entire family.

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Oceanside is the perfect destination for families looking to get away together. With year round temperatures averaging in the 70s, sunny and warm is predicted for your family reunion or group family vacation. We’re often asked, “When is the best time for a family reunion in Oceanside?” The answer is; there is never a bad time to visit Oceanside. We have outlined a list of someo of our favorite events and things to do by season so you can decide what is best for your group. 

 

Love the fun feature photo by Marcy Browe Photography? Read about this group at the end of the article.

 

Spring

Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers. If a light rain is in the forecast, it’s usually expected between late winter and early spring, but that doesn’t slow us down. We’ve even put together this fun Rainy-Day schedule of what to do indoors. When the skies are clear, the sun will be warm with cool breezes to keep you smiling.

  • Flower Fields (March-May) – The nearly fifty acres of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers that make up The Flower Fields  in Carlsbad, are in bloom for approximately six to eight weeks each year.
  • Earth Festival (April) – Check out eco-friendly vendors, a kids’ eco zone, and handcrafted up-cycled gift ideas.
  • Beach Soccer Championships (May) – Cheer on players of all skill levels, including professionals from around the world, at this festive soccer tournament on the sand in Oceanside Harbor.

Summer

It’s easy to think that the summer and the beach go hand-in-hand- because they do!  With school out and temperatures on the rise, summer is one of the most popular seasons for people to visit Oceanside. The sidewalks and the beaches are bustling with locals and out-of-towners looking for a little relaxation and fun in the sun. It is no surprise that the majority of family reunions occur between Memorial Day and Labor Day. If you thrive in the hustle and bustle environment, you’ll find that there are endless outdoor activities and events for groups to enjoy. Since this is such a popular time to travel, lodging prices tend to be a bit higher and there are usually minimum stay requirements.  

  • San Diego County Fair (June/July) – The largest County Fair in the United States with over 1.6M visitors each year. The fair includes a fun concert series, rides, food vendors, and classic midway games.
  • Comic-Con (July) San Diego Comic-Con International is a multi-genre entertainment and comic convention held annually in downtown San Diego that draws over 100,000 attendees. Didn’t get coveted tickets? No problem! LOTS of FREE stuff to see and do around the event, including just walking around and taking in the spectacle. You can even take the train from Oceanside to San Diego.
  • Oceanside Harbor Days (September) – A two-day festival that includes a pirate village, nail ‘n’ sail competition, and military displays.

FALL

Ah… fall… In Oceanside, you’re bound to see clearer skies, a relief from monsoonal moisture, and plenty of warm temperatures still to be had. The crowds have returned home to start the school year, clearing the beaches for your whole crew to soak up the rays. In November and December, chances are you’ll catch one of those famous spectacular SoCal sunsets or maybe even spot the infamous San Diego Green Flash!

  • Dia De Los Muertos (October) – The Day of the Dead cultural celebration honors loved ones that have passed and features traditional dancing and decorated altars. Oceanside’s festival is one of the largest in San Diego County.
  • Bike the Coast (November) Explore the Southern California shoreline by bike during this annual event. Routes range from an easy kid friendly ride of 7 miles, all the way up to a 100 mile ride.
  • Fall Festival at Heritage Park (November) The Friends of Oceanside Parks and Recreation hosts this free family friendly event that includes a chili cook-off, music, food and vendors booths. The “chili tasting” is $5 per person. The North County Model Railroad Society will be open for viewing as well as the “Trains For Kids” room.

WINTER

Snowed in? Come experience chilled out O’side where not even the average overnight temps dip into the freezing zone. You’ll find some of the best lodging deals this time of year and wide-open beaches to enjoy! And while Whale Watching is a year-round activity off our shore, the coveted gray migration occurs from November – April. Many school aged kids will have several weeks off over the holiday break as well as 3 and 4-day weekends that coincide with President’s Day.

  • Holiday Tree Lighting (December) – Kick off the holiday season during the city of Oceanside’s annual tree-lighting ceremony.
  • Parade of Lights (December) – Wave to fishing boats, sailboats, and dinghies dressed in their holiday swag as they circle the harbor.
  • Whale Watching (December-April) While whale watching is year-round in Oceanside, the Gray Whale migration happens from December-April. 
  • Surfing Contests (January – May) – Your little groms will love watching local amateur surfers battle it out on the waves. Check out Oceanside’s local surf spots, group surf lesson opportunities, and of course- a list of year-round surf contests.
  • Oceanside Film Festival (February) This film festival features a variety of cinematic works from independent filmmakers. Every year they present a carefully assembled block of surf themed documentaries as well as a family-friendly drama and comedy block.

For current dates of all events, please visit our Oceanside Event Calendar.

Undecided On What Date to Choose?

Select a date that coincides with a family milestone or day that’s special to your family. Does anyone have an upcoming big wedding anniversary, a grandparent’s or elder’s birthday, a wedding or graduation, an ancestor’s birthday or date of immigration, a retirement party, a memorial or celebration of someone’s life, a birth, or an ethnic or religious holiday. Anniversaries are a great reason to unite the entire family. Mark the occasion by renewing your vows with “Say I Do Again” Vow Renewal services. 

We're Here to Help Plan your Family Reunion!

Visit Oceanside’s list of area special event and banquet venues, vendor referrals, and local accommodations is the one stop shop for event information. This guide includes Oceanside’s venues categorized by type and includes capacity details, contact information and catering options. The guide also includes group dining locations along with activities and excursions for your entire group to enjoy together! 

Marcy Browe Photography writes: “The Miller Family really got into the spirit when they showed up for their photo shoot on the beach in Oceanside. As soon as I saw all of them gathered in their red, white and blue attire I knew this was going to be a really fun family photo session. And it sure was!! This entire family came to Oceanside for the holiday week and they stayed right on the beach. We captured their family photos at the Oceanside Harbor, and it was so fun to see cousins and aunts and uncles and grandparents and siblings all having a great time together. They were totally willing to get goofy and make silly photos. I love the silly shots as much as the posed shots, and I’m glad they were up for it!! I honestly think these are one of the nicest groups of people I’ve ever met, I wanted to keep hanging out with them after the shoot was done!!”

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]]> Holiday Away: Calm the Commotion with the Ocean https://visitoceanside.org/blog/holiday-away/ Sun, 03 Nov 2019 00:00:00 +0000 https://osiddevelopment.flywheelstaging.com/holiday-away/ Stressed out just thinking about the upcoming holidays? This year, why not use up your remaining vacation days and consider Oceanside for a beach holiday getaway for a fun and festive family reunion, and leave the planning to us.

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Holiday Away: Calm the Commotion with the Ocean

Stressed out just thinking about the upcoming holidays? This year, why not use up your remaining vacation days and consider Oceanside for a beach holiday getaway for a fun and festive family reunion, and leave the planning to us. Your family is most likely already gathering for the holidays, so why not suggest giving the gift of time together in lieu of presents? There is so much hustle and bustle around this time, that you forget to slow down, breathe and connect with one another. We’ve put together some ideas on ways to bring your group together and enjoy each other’s company.

What to expect when traveling to Oceanside
during the holidays?

Expect warm clear days and cool evenings with wide-open sandy beaches. Our family friendly destination was rated by USA Today as having one of the most ideal climates. With high temperature averages in the 60s in November and December, there is 0% chance of snow but 100% chance of sand. November and December sunsets are as spectacular as any of the best holiday light displays. Our town holds several annual holiday events and our shopping opportunities will please those that enjoy searching for the perfect hidden gem. The best thing about traveling to Oceanside in the off-season is no traffic, little crowds, and better hotel and lodging rates. It’s a win, win, win!

Family Lodging

Having accommodations with space for friends and family to convene is key when planning a multi-generational vacation. Look for resorts offering pools, hot tubs, BBQ and picnic areas, game rooms or kid’s activity centers. Another important amenity for some extended stays may be fully equipped kitchens so family meals can be prepared and enjoyed together. Choosing a hotel within walking distance of either Oceanside Harbor or Downtown Oceanside will make exploring restaurants, shopping, and entertainment easier and convenient. Read More about Lodging in Oceanside

Meals for the Masses

Why spend all your time in the kitchen when you can leave the cooking to the professionals? Several Oceanside restaurants are open Thanksgiving Day, Christmas and New Years. Hunter Steakhouse offers a turkey dinner with all of the fixings while 333 Pacific offers a less traditional three-course menu and has private group dining rooms for a cozy group gathering. 

See what’s open during the holidays!

If the thought of getting your entire group to a restaurant for a sit-down meal causes your blood pressure to rise, then how about having it catered? Anything But Ordinary Catering can custom create a menu that is sure to please your crowd, however, if your holiday wouldn’t be the same without traditional Italian cooking, then contact Mangia e Bevi Modern Italian Kitchen for home-style authentic cuisine that will even have your Nonni proclaiming “squisito!” Be sure to check with your hotel or vacation rental on their rules about bringing in a caterer.

Tasting devilishly celestial by SoCal design, Oceanside’s sugar chefs serve pastries encompassing a universe of sweets. You really won’t know where to start because the choices are dizzying. Regulars have even remarked how O’side’s pastry masters beat the stuff made in Paris. Petite Madeline Bakery and Bistro have a wide selection from Tarts to Yule Logs and Macaroons to Macarons. Call ahead for holiday ordering.

A few other local favorites include:

 

San Diego County is well known for its variety of local breweries and Oceanside is a key player within the craft beverage movement. Taprooms are also a big part of the local brew scene, featuring rotating regional beers and hosting tap take over events inviting customers to experience the different regional beer flavors. Our biggest growth is in our wine tasting options and the ability to taste and then purchase local award winning wines. Get out to our agricultural district of South Morro Hills to check out the growing operation at Beach House Winery. Be sure to give yourself time to explore what Oceanside has to offer and then select your favorite to serve to your family.

Holiday Parties in Oceanside

Whether planning an employee party, a client event, or a customer mixer, planners are tasked with creating holiday events that draw people in during this busy time and show the company’s appreciation. With budgets getting smaller as well as people’s attention spans, we wanted to put together some unique and o’riginal ideas for your Oceanside holiday party.

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]]> 3 Days of Fun in the Sun! https://visitoceanside.org/blog/oceanside-three-day-itinerary-perfect-for-groups/ Thu, 04 Oct 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://osiddevelopment.flywheelstaging.com/oceanside-three-day-itinerary-perfect-for-groups/ There is just sooo much to do!!! Check out this 3-day itinerary perfect for families and groups to have a fun-filled time during your next visit to Oceanside. To create a custom itinerary for your group, contact the Visit Oceanside Group Travel Department.

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3 Days of Fun in the Sun!

Oceanside has made a name for itself as a fantastic travel destination thanks to its stunning natural beauty, great year-round weather, large beaches, iconic pier and picturesque harbor. Those attributes compounded with a bustling downtown, booming culinary and arts scene, and packed event calendar means there truly is no shortage of things to do in Oceanside. 

With so much to experience, we know it can be a difficult task to narrow down your plans so we’ve created this 3-day itinerary, highlighting some of the fantastic things you can explore and experience in Oceanside over three days.

If you are traveling with a group for a corporate retreat, reunion, wedding or special event, check out the tips below each itinerary item for ideas on how you could create a customizable experience for your group. For assistance creating your group’s custom itinerary, please contact the Visit Oceanside Group Travel Department.

More: Best Season for your Oceanside Family Reunion

Day 1 – Tuesday

Start your Oceanside experience off on the right foot by making your first stop at the California Welcome Center Oceanside. The Welcome Center’s knowledgeable team of volunteers and staff will be able to answer any questions you might have about your upcoming stay in Oceanside, as well as offer discounted attraction tickets and plenty of fun O’side souvenirs and keepsakes! After grabbing some O’side swag don’t forget to purchase discounted whale watching tickets with Oceanside Adventures for the following day’s activities.

Group Experience: Members of your group can explore the Visitor Center while picking up attraction information and local gifts to commemorate their stay. Bus groups are invited to stop by the Welcome Center for special Motorcoach Driver Incentives.

Next, grab a bite to eat at one of the many fantastic restaurants in downtown Oceanside or near the next stop on the itinerary, Golden Coast Mead Oceanside Tasting Room. Within walking distance to the tasting room are several dining options for you to choose from, including: Enzo’s BBQ, Guahan Grill or One Love Island Cuisine.

Have you ever tried mead? If not, you are in for a real treat. Mead is a honey-based alcohol alternative to beer, wine, and cider. Golden Coast Mead is open daily for tastings and has cheese plates available for purchase, courtesy of The Miller’s Table.

Group Experience: For an elevated tasting experience, make prior arrangements to have a local caterer or food truck provide culinary delights for your group. 

Once you’ve had your fill of refreshing mead, check-in to your Oceanside hotel or vacation rental. It’s now time to relax with friends, family, or coworkers while enjoying a cool ocean breeze. Be sure to scope out a good vantage point before the sun goes down, you don’t want to miss one of Oceanside’s famously stunning sunsets.

Day 2 – Wednesday

After enjoying breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, head on over to the charming South Oceanside business district. There you will find unique and eclectic local retail shops, craft coffee, and creative gifts.

Group Experience: Head over to SoCal Bikes and book a guided bike tour. If this sounds like too much work, they do have e-bikes too. 

After all of the shopping and cycling, I am sure you have quite the appetite! No need to get “hangry” there are loads of fantastic lunch spots within walking distance.  A few to check out would include: The Privateer Marketplace & Wine Bar, Panca Peruvian Cuisine & Rotisserie, The Privateer Coal Fire Pizza, PCH Sports Bar & Grill and Anita’s Mexican Restaurant. 

After indulging in a delicious lunch, take a short drive over to Oceanside Harbor where the group can take a picturesque walk through the quaint New England-style Harbor Village before embarking on a whale watching cruise. Whale watching trips from Oceanside Adventures are held daily at 12pm and 2:30pm, taking approximately two hours to complete. Depending on the time of year, sea life sightings can include Gray Whales, Minke Whales, Humpback Whales, Blue Whales, Fin Whales, Killer Whales, and all species of Dolphin.

Group Experience: Private charters including wine cruises, sunset cruises, team-building cruises, whale watching tours and more can be booked with Oceanside Adventures hosting groups up to 45 passengers.

More: Whale Watching in Oceanside

Once back on dry land, shake off those sea legs and take a short walk over to Harbor Beach where numerous large pavilions are located, perfect for gathering around and discussing the incredible sightings you just witnessed! For the more adventurous, consider walking out onto the jetties located at either end of Harbor Beach to get a unique perspective and beautiful view of the beach, ocean, and the Oceanside Pier.

To close out Day #2, head back into Harbor Village and enjoy a picturesque dinner at Lighthouse Oyster Bar & Grill, located just steps away from where you boarded the whale watching catamaran. Menu items include fresh seafood, steaks, salads, fish tacos and more, as well as a daily happy hour from 3pm-6pm.

Day 3 – Thursday

On your last day in Oceanside you have to visit the iconic “King of the Missions,” Mission San Luis Rey. The mission was founded on June 13, 1798, one of the last missions built in California, and is the largest of the 21 missions in the state!

After taking in the beautiful facade and grounds, head into the Mission San Luis Rey Museum, open Monday-Friday from 9:30am-5pm and Saturday-Sunday from 10am-5pm. The museum features an extensive collection of artifacts from Native American, Spanish, Mission, Mexican Secularization and American Military periods. 

Group Experience: Private group tours of the mission can be scheduled ahead of time by calling (760)757-3651, ext. 170. Tour stops can include the soldier barracks, the lavanderia (or washroom), the quadrangle, the historic church, and cemetery.

More: Unique and Unexpected Things to do in Oceanside

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, enjoy lunch at the San Luis Rey Bakery and Restaurant for authentic Mexican dishes and delicious traditional Mexican pastries!

Continue to experience the vibrant local culture by heading back to downtown Oceanside and visiting the Oceanside Museum of Art. There you will be pleased to find numerous artistic and cultural exhibits. 

Group Experience: A 45-60 minute docent-guided tour of the Oceanside Museum of Art can be scheduled for groups of 10 or more by visiting OMA Group Tours or calling (760) 435-3727. An additional art workshop can also be arranged to commemorate the experience.

Just a short walk down Pier View Way will lead you to the next cultural jewel, the California Surf Museum. Oceanside is proud to be the home of the renowned California Surf Museum, which features an incredible collection of historical surfing artifacts, surf-related displays, and captivating athlete exhibits, currently featuring Bethany Hamilton and Kelly Slater. The museum regularly closes at 4pm, but on Thursday’s they are open until 8pm in coordination with the weekly Sunset Market.

Group Experience: Personalized California Surf Museum tours tailor made for your group can be scheduled in advance by calling (760) 721-6876.

The picture-perfect ending to your Oceanside visit is to experience the famous Sunset Market. Every Thursday evening from 5pm-9pm, four blocks of downtown Oceanside transform into an open-air festival complete with a wide variety of incredible food vendors, eclectic shopping, arts and crafts, live entertainment, and more. Its best to walk up and down each row of vendors, letting your nose and eyes help guide you to find your perfect culinary treat. 

More: What to Eat at the Oceanside Sunset Market

This itinerary was created for a group of up to 45 people. Pricing and availability will vary based on the number of participants. For details on this 3-day group experience or to create a custom group experience, please contact the Visit Oceanside Group Travel Department.

“If you are looking for an outstanding resource for a trip to Southern California by all means contact Visit Oceanside.  They helped with an RFP for hotel rooms and had many suggestions to activities for my tour group.  They are knowledgeable about what is available in the area plus offered ideas that dovetailed into my goals for the group. The area is full of interesting and unique activities that are not cookie cutter!  Wine made from honey, candle and leather goods class, visit to California Surf Museum, coastal wine cruise, and tour of the Mission San Luis Rey to name a few.  Meal options abound such as Lighthouse Bar & Grille in the Harbor, lunch and milkshakes at Café 101 a 50’s diner, and international food trucks at the Sunset Market. Visit Oceanside will make sure that your group remembers Oceanside and their time in California!”
– C. Tripod, Owner and Tour Planner of Tripod Vacations

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