Oceanside is in the heart of Southern California, where the mountainous desert meets the sea, and endless adventure opportunities await. In Oceanside, our days are filled with sun, sand, and surf, and the nights are dominated by epic meals at award-winning restaurants. With seemingly eternal sunshine and the ocean at our doorstep, you’ll have a hard time not spending your entire days outside during your visit. To learn about our favorite local activities and adventures, continue reading below for Our Favorite Outdoor Activities in Oceanside.

Outdoor Activities in Oceanside

Paddle out for a Surf

Oceanside is home to the most consistent waves in San Diego County. Between the pier, the harbor, and the various sand bars up and down the beach, we make a good argument for the best surf in Southern California. Oceanside has a wave for every level of surfer, from elite pros to beginners. Surfing is hands down our favorite of the many available outdoor activities in Oceanside. To learn more about Oceanside surfing, click here.

Stand Up Paddleboard in the Oceanside Harbor

Explore the Oceanside Harbor from the water and get a workout in the process. The harbor is great for stand-up paddle boarding, as it is protected from incoming swell. You’ll be surrounded by beautiful sailboats and the resident seals and seagulls that call the harbor home. Head to Oceanside Boat Rentals to find stand-up paddleboard rentals near the harbor. If stand-up paddle boarding isn't your thing, rent a kayak instead. Nothing beats spending the day on the water, which is why paddling the harbor comes in at number two of our favorite outdoor activities in Oceanside.

Run, Walk, Bike, or Skate the Strand

The Oceanside Strand stretches for 1 mile along the shoreline and is ideal for walking, running, biking, or skating. The Strand starts at Breakwater Way and heads south underneath The Oceanside Pier, where it continues as a pedestrian-only path. Your stay at the Greenroom gives you access to our beach cruisers, which are ideal for a relaxing bike ride down the Strand. Enjoying the Strand is an easy, hassle-free outdoor activity in Oceanside. Check out our other amenities here.

Fish from Oceanside Pier

With several beaches for fishing and, of course, the iconic Oceanside Pier, Oceanside is a paradise for Anglers. Fishing from the pier allows anglers to access different depths and ocean zones simultaneously. Cast out at the beginning of the pier, and you’ll likely reel in croakers and guitarfish. If you try your luck midway down the 1,942-foot pier, you’ll likely hook stingrays and halibut. If you walk all the way to the end of the pier and cast out in the deepest waters available, you’re likely to catch bonito and mackerel. You don’t need a fishing license to fish from the Oceanside Pier.

Go Deep Sea Fishing

With miles of open ocean at our doorstep, deep-sea fishing is an easy day trip from our Oceanside hotel. Several fishing charters operate out of the Oceanside Harbor and offer short-day trips and extended multi-day charters. The Oceanside SEA Center and Helgren’s Sportfishing are two great options for fishing charters in Oceanside. A fishing license is required, but both outfitters supply gear and tackle. In the deep Pacific off the coast of Oceanside, you may hook sea bass, bonito, mahi-mahi, halibut, and barracuda.

Oceanside is the ultimate destination for adventure in Southern California. You’re sure to fall in love with our coastal community, whether you’re looking for surf, sun, nightlife, or a combination of them all. To book your stay and learn more about what to do in Oceanside, head to our website.