The Oceanside Harbor is another place to check out if you are near the pier and in the area. There is a lot of paid parking if you want to park steps away, but if you are willing to walk 750 feet or so, there is also free parking. The harbor has a mix of shopping, dining, whale watching, and other assorted businesses to check out. There are restaurants, coffee shops, boat rentals, jet ski and kayak rentals, places to store your boat, souvenir shopping, etc. There is a lighthouse, and there are sidewalks so you can walk from one end all the way to the other end out by the ocean. And down by some of the boats are plenty of seals / sea lions to check out. They like to hang out on the dock sunbathing, fighting, frolicking, and general shenanigans. During the holidays they have boat parades, and it is fun to watch them cruise by all lit up. Pictures and videos attached. read more

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Oceanside Harbor is a fantastic spot to relax and enjoy the coast. The marina views are beautiful, and the fire pits make it perfect for evening hangouts although during summer get there early to secure a pit. Plenty of restaurants and shops nearby, and watching the boats and wildlife adds to the peaceful vibe. Great place for a stroll or just soaking in the ocean air! Lots of paid parking , if you want free parking you'll have to park by the restaurants. read more

Oceanside Harbor - Boating Near Me - Oceanside, California

Wonderful place with lots of seals and boats and restaurants! If you have time stop by and walk around! read more

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Love this harbor...we sat and watched the very loud seals... boats coming and going into the harbor... a beautiful day with a nice breeze... read more

Oceanside Harbor - Boating Near Me - Oceanside, California

We love going to the Oceanside Harbor for Happy Hour. We took our yellow lab and ate outside in an area that the restaurant provides water bowls next to the tables. We love the shrimp cocktails and the various fish tacos. Everything on the Happy Hour Menu is a delight and the Bloody Mary's are awesome! read more

We've been to a few Parade if Lights in San Diego, but it was our first time celebrating the Parade of Lights at the Oceanside Harbor. It was an awesome way to spend the evening with friends, sharing some food, a fire pit, and enjoying the amazing display offered by the locals. I recommend you arrive early since parking can get hectic and remember that it's a metered lot. We had a great time, enjoy the convenience of short travel, and look forward for doing it again next year. read more

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Beautiful view and restaurants were tasty! Fun to walk around and go to the beach! Love the lights in the evenings! read more

Oceanside Harbor - Boating Near Me - Oceanside, California

this is a really nice beach with not too many people on it. The water is clean and it's not too cold. You can definitely go in. I'm kind of upset you have to pay for parking. Other than that, it was fine. There are bathrooms and places to wash up before heading to your car. There are also lifeguards on duty. My friend comes to this beach in particular every time he's in the area so he took us this time around. 10/10 would be back! read more

I love Oceanside Harbor! We stayed at Springhill right on the beach and it's one of my favorite hotels to stay when "staycation" in the area. I looked up on google map and saw there is a sealion island so I got my bf to trek from the peer to the sealion island with me and it was so sweet! The sealions I mean! :) There weren't as many as Monetary or what not but there were still plenty and they were quite vocal! I love just siting and watching them interacting with each other, annoying each other out while sunbathing. Highly recommend! read more

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Massive, gorgeous harbor with beautiful sunsets, a wide beach nearby, a floating dock of seals... it's nice here. A great spot for canoeing, standup, a stroll, etc. Cute restaurants line the harbor and there are a few lil beach shops too. read more

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Parking was a breeze even on a busy 4th of July. Seemed cleaner than the beaches in OC. read more

Oceanside Harbor - Boating Near Me - Oceanside, California

The slip renters bathrooms are not very clean. There's a service but they are horrible!! They lift the seat to show they have been there but they don't really clean the place. The toilets inside AND out need proper cleaning. Laundry rooms don't get cleaned AT ALL it seems. Not good. Oh and the dock gates don't always work so good luck getting to your boat sometimes. read more

Ahoy There maties! This is one harbor that will float your boat. There are a few restaurants that are catches for the day. There are a couple of small trinkets shops, and sports bars to sure send you out a little shipped wrecked. It's great for a quick couple's getaway but be sure to arrive early to reserve a camping spot. It's only $35 a day. You can have a family day in the beach areas ,which at night you can use the fire pits to stay warm. It's also a small play area for the wee ones. If you're more into splash of things there's boat rentals, jet ski rentals, small tour around the harbor area, all the surfing you can handle. This is boatloads of fun!!! So, batten down the hatches and prepare to be entertained for whatever floats your boat. read more

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Beautiful setting! A handful of good places to eat. Rock jetties to see the boats and a sandy beach area to play. We will be back! read more

Oceanside Harbor - Love the sign! - Boating Near Me - Oceanside, California

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This is a tiny harbor off the beaten track. It's not worth going out of your way for. The restaurants are mostly fast food like fried unhealthy stuff. There are a few touristy shops with overpriced trinkets. I would not recommend read more

Oceanside Harbor - Boating Near Me - Oceanside, California

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The Oceanside Harbor isn't huge, has a nice, laid back vibe. It is cute and there's a lot of marine life so look out for seals, dolphins, pelicans and other cute birds. There are some decent restaurants around and some tourist traps, so look into before making your choice. There are a few shops, also the touristy type. You can take a boat from here to whale and dolphins watching. Restrooms are decent, there are water fountains and it's never crowded. I like walking around, check out the seals and the birds or just sit on a bench ande relax. Nice views, cute boats. They also have a great boat parade for X-mas, I have been there twice to see it. Smaller harbor, with a nice lighthouse and more intimate vibe. If you visit Onceanside, the Harbor is a must attraction, close to downtown, I walk to it, but it's plenty of parking around. Cute spot, relaxing and pretty! read more

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Doesn't get much better than the small town feel of this beautiful ocean harbor located of the very north end of Oceanside. Amenities: Lots of restaurants, shops, and rental locations for boats, kayaks, and boating tours. Has everything from ice cream shop, coffee shop, seafood, or classic American restaurants with large offerings to satisfy almost anyone. Parking: Limited parking near the harbor or on local streets. There is a large parking lot behind the harbor where there is ample parking, but it may be paid parking or free, so it will be good to check first if considering coming to the harbor. Overall, a fun weekend hangout to see great views, enjoy a nice meal, or rent a kayak to site see in the harbor! read more

Oceanside Harbor - Harbor view ! - Boating Near Me - Oceanside, California

Looking for something to do? Oceanside Harbor if a great place to visit for tourists and locals alike. In my book, any day is a little bit better if it's spent on the water. That might be why I appreciate harbors and marinas so much. Beyond that, Oceanside Harbor does have lots to offer including, restaurants, shops, boat tours, whale watching, a scenic walking patch, and much more. My family and I often come here to celebrate birthdays, holidays and other special occasions. There are plenty of delicious restaurants- check out Flame Broiler if you're looking for a solid seafood dinner! However, one of our new favorite activities is getting a 2-hour boat rental and taking a picnic dinner out on the boat for a sunset dinner. It's an incredible way to spend a Sunday (as long as you're not prone to getting sick). If you like animals, it's also fun to walk along the water look at the boats and watch the sea lions and sea birds. Sometimes you have to search for the animals but that's half the fun! read more

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I like the harbor but there isnt too much to do around here but fish or watch the ocean. It definitely gets dark here at night, so bring your own lights. read more

I love walking around Oceanside Harbor and looking at all the boats that are docked. I've been staying in this area a lot because I have been visiting nearby Camp Pendleton. The harbor itself is about 2 miles long with plenty of picnic tables and benches and of course Oceanside Beach. It's a pretty laid back scene and you can occasionally spot some sea lions hanging around. There are some dining options too in the village area. Oceanside Village resembles a village from Cape Cod and is full of activity. It even has a lighthouse. You can take boats out for fishing or rent a paddleboard or kayak. There is also free parking available along the streets or if you get here early enough. read more

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Came here for the lock lock sculpture "love the o". Loved walking along the water on a sunny day. Private parking lot. read more

Oceanside Harbor - "Love the O" love lock sculpture - Boating Near Me - Oceanside, California

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What a cute place to stop by on your next road trip! We were headed to San Diego and decided to stop here for brunch. We opted for the Stratford restaurant which was very good with a nice view of the harbor. There are a few touristy, overpriced shops but they are fun to browse. Lots of food choices in such a small space. We went on a weekday and there was no wait and no crowds. Super relaxing and enjoyable place to visit if you're in the area! read more

Oceanside Harbor - Boating Near Me - Oceanside, California

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Great place to relax with nature and maybe a little water sports. In Carlsbad meeting up with a Daughter and her family. This was a special time because my Ex-Wife and I had given up our Daughter for adoption when she was born 47 years ago and through Ancestry.com, we found each other and I found a Son-in-Law and Grandson I did not even know about. On Saturday, we went to the Lighthouse Oyster Bar here is Oceanside but that is a separate review. At the end, we stopped and walked down on the docks to look at the Sea Lions. Very peaceful and tranquil and the Sea Lions were just chilling out soaking up some rays but at the same time, telling everyone else, this is my spot and don't come close. Other animals such as Crabs and Fish were abundant and for families, there were instructors giving lessons to a small girl on paddle boarding and numerous kayaks on the Harbor. It's a simple life but that is what makes it so great. First time I have been able to relax in years. Meeting my Daughter and her family brought closure to a circle that had been broken over 47 years ago and that brought peace as well read more

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Smaller marina, there are a few shops and restaurants but parking is extremely difficult. There is a boat ramp and RV park, the RV park really is just a parking lot. Not really any run inside the marina for boating you will need to go out into open waters. read more

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Oceanside Harbor is a little hidden gem that mostly Marines and locals know about. Not so many tourists go here because it is north of San Diego and the more well-known places like Shelter Island and Sea World. There is quite a bit of camping available at the harbor for Trailers and RVs. First come, first served. The daily fee is fair priced, and it is dry camping. There are bike trails surrounding the harbor and lots of little shops and restaurants to enjoy. My last time there, I saw Garibaldi fish, dolphin playing in the harbor, and seals swimming around. One even swam over and mugged it up with us. This is just a neat little place and a fun place to spend relaxing time by the ocean. read more

Oceanside Harbor - Oceanside Harbor - Boating Near Me - Oceanside, California

Looks clean, there are benches every where along the sidewalk to sit and soak in the sun. I saw a sea lion chillin at the dock. Didn't feel to busy on a Saturday. read more

Oceanside Harbor - Seagull and sea lion - Boating Near Me - Oceanside, California

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I recently visited the Oceanside Pier, and I must say, it was an incredible experience! The pier was well-maintained, offering stunning views of the ocean and a peaceful atmosphere. I went fishing and was thrilled with the abundance of fish I caught. The equipment rental was convenient, and the staff was friendly and helpful, ensuring I had everything I needed for a successful day. The community of fellow fishers was welcoming, and we shared tips and stories throughout the day. This visit to the pier was unforgettable, and I can't wait to return for another fantastic fishing adventure! read more

My first date when I moved out here in 2004 was at the harbor. I remember his selling point was, "Hey have you seen Oceanside's lighthouse?!" and while it was not what I expected, it's still a fond memory. I have been coming here solo and bringing friends ever since! Besides walking the bike trail, I'll also drive and park by the hotel on the other side of the train overpass. It's free. I usually come before 8 am, so parking has never been an issue, even during the summer. There's a handful of decent restaurants, a bar, and shops to browse. The Lighthouse Restaurant has great views from its deck, but I usually end up at Stratford simply because it's open. Nautical Bean has average coffee at resort town prices, but it gets the job done. It's a nice area to exercise, sit on the rocks, tan, eat, people watch, etc. I highly recommend this place to others. Pros: - date, dog, and kid friendly - a few good dining options plus sweet shop - free parking - ample restrooms - water sports plus boat rides, fishing etc Cons: - annual beach restoration project kinda unsightly - too crowded in summer - lots of flies near certain restaurants read more

Fun spot. Lots of friendly locals. The harbor is more of a longboard spot. 2 jetties: North jetty is at the harbor mouth and south jetty (with the next biggest man made structure jetting out is the OSide Pier. I noticed that at the south jetty the waves break further out. This is because the creek/river empties itself out on the south side. The bottom of the beach is sand with no definable sand bars other than at the creek/river mouth that empties itself out on the south side of the south jetty. In the harbor itself is a place called Harbor Fish & Chips. Eat there and get the fish & chips l for you won't be disappointed read more

Harbors offer a glimpse at an alternate reality for me. The division between land and sea is so much more than a line in the sand. The harbor is a pocket of life that is constantly changing with tide, weather and personality. Energy and movement from harbors has graced population centers with opportunity and commodities since the beginning of time. Travel, fishing, pleasure, and bustling social soiree abound. I enjoy the Oceanside harbor frequently. A friend with a beautiful sailboat likes to entertain small groups and we sail out of this harbor. The people who are regulars here really treat each other like family. It is a helpful tightly knot community. Fisherman share in their catch, bigger boats loan smaller boats cushions or other supplies, harbor police help stalled vehicles. Great energy abounds. In additional to the day to day life, new and interesting people sail in and out all of the time. Whether they are on an extended tour and stopping in for supplies, on vacation, or part of an event, there are always good times to be had at the Oceanside harbor. read more

Oceanside Harbor - Boating Near Me - Oceanside, California

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Your able to walk around the harbor if you park at the Oceanside broiler, which is a nice walking trail around the area. Fun to look at the boats, and grab a coffee or breakfast. Clean area. The beach is great for toddlers because you can go out and play in the water without big waves, so it's helpful so the little ones don't get knocked down. Parking is expensive in the pay lot $15 for all day, unsure how much the meters costs but I am assuming they are about the same. The bathrooms are clean, and there is a cool playground to play at. There is a little deli on the far end that serves fresh fish, sandwiches. Breakfast pastries, and select supplies. Cool spot, just wish the parking wasn't so expensive but it's Southern California! read more

Our family suggested this place if we want to hang out at the beach. Since it's only 10 minutes from their house we gladly went. The beach is designed for family with all playground equipment on the sand and easy access to bathrooms. Surfers all over the place and just families relaxing and taking advantage of the beautiful-sunny-cold-breeze California beach. For only $10, you can park the whole day. We probably went at the right time because it was not crowded and there were plenty of parking spaces by the beach. We are definitely coming back here. read more

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Oceanside Harbor is our favorite North San Diego County beach to go to. The sand is plentiful, clean and with no rocks to step upon like many a spots in Carlsbad. I grew up in Carlsbad and the beaches back then had plenty of sand. However, when Oceanside and USMC base Camp Pendleton extended their harbor jetties both of those jurisdictions captured the moving tidal sand - stripping Carlsbad's beaches in many areas. Just thought I'd throw that out there for those wondering. It does not negate the fact that Oceanside Harbor beach is our favorite. This beach (and harbor overall) gets our 5 star rating for NCSD. The actual harbor itself is quite nice and a great place for those desiring to walk it from end to end, or patronize the shops and restaurants at the southeast end. We have eaten at a few of the restaurants over the years, but not all. There is an ice cream shop with pretty tasty offerings and tourist trap type businesses offering souvenirs for both locals and visitors. The harbor also has a sport fishing fleet that offers daily and multi-day fishing trips for the novice and those that consider themselves higher up the professional food chain. I also noticed, but have never partaken, in kayak and paddle board rentals by a different outfit. Parking close to the beach in the summer months can be a pain in the ass, unless you get there early. That paid parking is regulated by the city and enforced. Don't think you can pay for parking at the pier and then head over to the harbor, splitting up your day, and using it to park there; even if the pier parking cost more. I found that out the hard way several years ago, appealed the ticket I was given at the Harbor and lost. I was pissed for a long time, but have since gotten over it hahaha. However, there is FREE parking lot to the east of of the restaurants beyond the railroad tracks. A tunnel beneath the tracks leads you to the harbor and the beach beyond. The walk is not life altering. It is rare to see any transients and/or drug addicts wandering around during the day, but once the sun starts setting some seem to crawl out of the bushes - especially in and around that free parking area. Just a heads up for the faint of heart. We use this FREE parking lot 9 out of 10 times we visit. read more

I'm a fan of the harbor because you have the beach and the harbor but you don't have big crowds like at the pier. They have a few restaurants that are pretty decent and of course, they have some seafood spots even though some are chain restaurants. Parking isn't that great but there is a big parking lot but then you have to walk to the beach. They also have tons of fishing boats that will take you out for the day. read more

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Great parking and family friendly. Close access to the beach or harbor. Great spot for a day trip.

This place is beautiful, with many restaurants to choose from and ice cream lol Lots of beautiful yachts and other smaller vessels to look at while you eat. Friendly seals all around you .... #justlovely read more

Thank you for being open this 4th of July weekend. Lots of Social distancing. Having a great time despite the high tides. Seen a lot of American pride, parades, people and everyone very gracious during these Covid times. Restaurants so far very good. Recommend Baja Rockn Lobster. Thank you San Diego county. Looking forward to the fireworks later. With my MMM...---- Main Man Marc..... read more

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A little touristy, but full of charm! I frequently walk from the pier to the harbor and back, and there is so much to love about this place. If I'm heading out for dinner, I really don't come here much, it's more aimed at tourists and the quality of the food isn't spectacular for the price, check out my other reviews for my favorite local hot spots. There are areas to park, dock, and wash boats so this is a functional area as well at the tourist shops. I see so many people out with their boats on my weekend walks to the harbor. I'm assuming this is a great spot for the boating enthusiasts. Parking is of course a nightmare wrapped in a horror show, so show up early and stake your claim. I don't mind the trek so I park far away and walk to where I need to go. But is locals know the tricks. Enjoy your visit and the amazing views. read more

I also like this whole area, plenty of places to eat that serve during the Covid crisis, just takes longer and there is no indoor dining. Sun and a breeze during this heat wave, I just overheard a lady saying this area is her haven . I agree. The beach is clean, and accessible. But come early or count on paying $4. An hour to park. There is no access from the marina area to the big free parking lot, I think there is a back way in, but no cars can park from the shops area. Some day I'm going to rent a place down here on the beach read more

Oceanside Harbor - The marina - Boating Near Me - Oceanside, California

Paddle boarding for beginners - was an awesome place to public launch the paddle boards. Thank you Captain Scottie! Memories to last a lifetime. The seals were in full voice. Loved seeing the pup seals from a distance sunning on the dock. Beautiful weather, great tutor, awesome glassy water, priceless time with teen. read more