Oceanside

The 3rd largest city in San Diego County and the northern most coastal city, Oceanside offers 3.5 miles of some of Southern California's widest and sandiest beaches.  Not surprisingly, watersports are highly popular here, especially surfing, sailing and fishing. In keeping with its character as a thriving beach community, Oceanside is home to several attractions that center on the Pacific Ocean including the Oceanside Municipal Pier, the longest all wood pier on the west coast; the Oceanside Harbor and Marina, offering a variety of watersports like jetskiing, scuba diving, boat rentals, and whale watching excursion; and the California Surf Museum showcasing surfing-related memorabilia and exhibitions. Because of its proximity to Camp Pendleton, the nation’s busiest marine base, Oceanside has strong ties to the local military and a unique sense of patriotism.   Covering almost 50 square miles, and offering some of the most perfect weather in the nation, this thriving community has something to offer everyone, from student to retiree.