Where Local Musicians Go for Live Music in Oceanside
By Alana Morgan
Oceanside is, of course, known for its beach, but beyond the long stretch of shoreline, the thing that really makes Oceanside special is its community of artisans, chefs, farmers, shop owners, instructors (you can learn how to surf from local pros with big names), and musicians! While this seaside town just north of San Diego is relatively small, it’s still home to an active arts and culture scene with live music wafting through the warm evening air and award-winning musicians.
Local singer-songwriter Shane Hall, for instance, artfully blends blues, soul, and Americana and is a key fixture in O’Side. He recently wrapped up a stint as Mission Pacific’s musician in residence, living at the beachfront hotel as he worked on his latest album.
Naturally, since he’s tapped into the region’s music scene, we asked Shane where to go for live music in Oceanside. Many of the spots below are within walking distance of Mission Pacific, making an evening of music — and maybe a drink or two — an easy, enjoyable way to explore Oceanside during your stay.
POUR HOUSE
First on Shane’s list is Pour House — a spacious venue just a couple of miles south of The Seabird that’s known as much for its comforting bar food and drinks as it is for supporting the local music scene. With a stage welcoming everyone from international artists, to popular San Diego bands, to up-and-coming Oceanside artists, Pour House has made a name for itself as a go-to music spot in North County. Check its calendar for the current lineup with several artists set to play almost every night, plus trivia and open mic nights.
COOMBER CRAFT WINES
The intimate and inviting Coomber Craft Wines Oceanside Tasting Room serves up delicious flights paired with live music from a broad, ever-changing lineup of local artists, like Swingin’ Johnsons, Marco Savoia, and Daring Greatly. All are welcome here, including pets, and encouraged to bring your own meals or snacks to enjoy all with the music.
THE SHORE ROOM
Right across the street from Mission Pacific, The Shore Room features a variety of local musicians jamming every Sunday from 5-8 p.m. Sit outside on the patio as you take in ocean views, craft cocktails (some of the best in town), and live tunes. It’s the perfect way to wind down the weekend.
ORFILA TASTING ROOM
Wining and dining is made even better with live music every Thursday through Sunday evening at Orfila Tasting Room. Offering featured acoustic artists, the tasting room also serves up light bites to full meals.
THE JAZZY WISHBONE
The Jazzy Wishbone is the place in Oceanside for soulful sounds starting at 7 p.m. or 7:30 p.m. almost every night. Half a mile away from Mission Pacific, it’s easy to soak up the scene and some good music, then stroll back to the hotel.
MISSION AVENUE BAR AND GRILL
A friendly neighborhood eatery, Mission Avenue Bar and Grill also runs live music starting at 6:30 p.m. from Sunday through Thursday on its heated and covered patio. (Make sure to come hungry and fill up on its ‘comfort-inspired New American cuisine’ and impressive drinks menu, which features solely made-in-California beer and wine, as well as a selection of spirits distilled in San Diego County.)
As the weather heats up in Southern California, so does Oceanside’s music events. Ask the concierge during your stay where else you can catch local live music in Oceanside.
