Romancing Oceanside

Romancing Oceanside
Oceanside, California

If the holiday season is all about family time, the beginning of the new year signals the season of romance. With miles of beach for strolling, a wide range of oceanfront and ocean view accommodations for any budget, and unique activities that draw on the beauty of its coastal setting no matter what the weather, Oceanside, Calif. is a natural getaway for couples.

“Oceanside offers couples an authentic, non-commercial coastal experience that is relaxing, exciting and highly personal,” says Leslee Gaul, CEO of Visit Oceanside. “It’s all the things you want in a romantic getaway- beautiful scenery, delicious food and fun activities that can be enjoyed in unique ways to suit couples’ personalities.”

A Room With A View
When it comes to romance, ocean view accommodations are in demand and Oceanside has many options in all price ranges. Among the stand-outs is the two-year old Wyndham Oceanside Pier Resort, which is directly across from the famous Oceanside Pier and offers panoramic views of the coastline. Many units feature kitchens and living areas, and all guests have access to exclusive, deluxe sky lounges on the 7th floor with breathtaking views and cozy nooks perfect for cuddling up and enjoying a bottle of wine together. At the harbor, the new Holiday Inn Oceanside Marina is a contemporary, value-priced choice within walking distance of harbor shops, restaurants and beaches. For a deluxe experience, BeachFront Only offers a selection of high-end beach cottages with rooftop Jacuzzis and other plush amenities that consistently earn top rankings from travelers.

Romantic Moments
A stroll along the sandy beach is always a popular choice for lovers, but Oceanside offers many more activities for couples in search of creating special memories. One of the more unique offerings is an electric boat harbor cruise. Couples can rent the small water craft and cruise quietly around the harbor with a picnic lunch. A paddle out on rental surfboards (no surf skill required) during the day or at sunset is another way to enjoy the spectacular natural setting with a loved one. For those who prefer to stay dry and warm, a romantic stroll through the city’s downtown sunset market offers an opportunity to pick up fresh flowers, local-grown produce and unique mementoes created by local artisans. 

Intimate Dining
Oceanside has several new dining venues that offer romantic settings and delicious menus. Just across from the pier, 333 Pacific specializes in ocean views, seafood and martinis and is an elegant venue for any special occasion. For an edgier vibe, the award-winning Harney Sushi is eco-friendly and hip with a menu and wine list that has earned numerous accolades. At the Harbor, the new Lighthouse Oyster Bar and Grill offers a rooftop patio with amazing views of sail boats and sunsets and a menu with a fresh, modern seafood theme.

About Oceanside
Centrally located in the heart of the beautiful Southern California coastline, Oceanside is considered the gateway city between metropolitan San Diego and Los Angeles. A classic Southern California beach town, Oceanside’s central location offers visitors an ideal place to stay and experience California’s casual spirit. With 3.5 miles of sandy beach, a quaint New England-style harbor, California’s longest wooden pier and a stellar year-round climate, Oceanside is an ideal place for enjoying active pursuits including surfing, kayaking, boating, fishing, bike-riding and more. The city also boasts a number of important cultural attractions including Mission San Luis Rey (The King of Missions), the California Surf Museum and the Oceanside Museum of Art.

About Visiting Oceanside
To assist with every aspect of visitor travel needs, Oceanside is home to one of the state’s official California Welcome Centers and the Visit Oceanside Conference and Visitors Bureau. With just one stop, visitors can find local, regional and state maps, purchase discount tickets to major attractions, make hotel reservations or shop for the perfect California keepsake. The Visit Oceanside CVB/California Welcome Center Oceanside is conveniently located just off Interstate 5 at 928 North Coast Highway. 

For more information, please call (800)350-7873 or visit www.visitoceanside.org.