The Best Oceanside Beach to Fit Your Vibe
By Suzanne Davis
With three miles of sandy shoreline, Oceanside’s beaches offer a little something for everyone — whether you want to squeeze in a morning run, surf a swell, lounge on a beach towel, wade in the Pacific Ocean, or take a barefoot stroll. Though connected in one long, sandy strip, as you move along the coast, the beach’s look and feel changes to offer a variety of activities and atmosphere.
Situated just steps from the beach near the Oceanside Pier, Mission Pacific is perfectly situated to soak up the sand, sun, and sea.
Now, the question is: Which is the best Oceanside beach for your vibe?
THE BEST BEACH FOR SURFERS AND OTHER SPORTY TYPES: HARBOR BEACH
When Team USA needed a spot to practice for the 2021 Olympic Games, they came here. As the largest and sandiest beach in Oceanside, it’s the ideal spot for, say, surfing your heart out — like an Olympian. Surfing not your thing? There’s plenty of room to simply lounge in the sun or take advantage of the harbor location by renting kayaks, heading out on a sail or deep-fishing boat, or fish from the jetties.
After you get your heart rate up, cool down at the Lighthouse Oyster Bar & Grill in Harbor Village where you can savor oysters on the half shell (along with plenty of other freshly caught seafood options) while sipping on a wide selection of wines. 1.2 miles north of Mission Pacific along S. Pacific St.
THE BEST BEACH FOR VACATIONERS: PIER VIEW NORTH BEACH AND PIER VIEW SOUTH BEACH
Ready for beach time but don’t want to stray too far from the hotel? Straddling the iconic Oceanside Pier, just a block from Mission Pacific, sits a long stretch of sand just waiting to be strolled. Here, you can walk along the wide beaches or the storied pier, which has stood proudly in these waters since 1888, catch a wave, and then easily explore Oceanside’s welcoming downtown streets. While the southern sands are popular for surfing and boarding, especially during the summer when there always seems to be a contest going on, the beach north of the pier tends to be quieter and more relaxed. Just steps out from Mission Pacific’s front door — you can’t miss it!
THE BEST BEACH FOR SWIMMERS: BUCCANEER BEACH
Small but mighty, Buccaneer Beach is known for being a haven for swimmers and bodyboarders during the summer, with the water directly in front of the lifeguard tower closed to surfing. Another Buccaneer Beach perk? Early-rising locals flock to The Buccaneer Cafe for some of the best organic coffee and espresso in town, which you can sip as you watch waves crash on the sand. If you had a long night, consider ordering the Red Eye — a double shot of espresso within a drip coffee — and don’t miss the kalua pork breakfast tacos. 1.5 miles south of Mission Pacific along S. Pacific St.
Ready to explore? Before you head out to find your perfect beach in Oceanside, be aware that none of the beaches are dog-friendly, although you can walk your dog along The Strand, Oceanside’s beachfront road, and enjoy other pet-friendly activities nearby. While many beach options are within walking distance from Mission Pacific, public parking is also available at public lots and in metered spaces along the beachfront road.