Oceanside

Oceanside is a coastal city in San Diego County, California, positioned between Los Angeles and San Diego along the Pacific shore. The city covers several miles of coastline with sandy beaches, a wooden pier, and residential neighborhoods close to the water.

Spanish missionaries founded Mission San Luis Rey nearby in 1798, establishing early religious structures in the region. The city itself gained legal status as a separate municipality in 1888 and grew into a coastal community.

The name Oceanside describes its location directly on the Pacific and shapes how residents use the waterfront for surfing and swimming. Local families gather at the beach parks and fishing spots throughout the warmer months when the water is calm.

The beaches provide lifeguards during main visiting hours and have public facilities near the main parking areas. Oceanside Transit Center connects the city with regional train and bus routes running north and south along the coast.

The California Surf Museum displays historic surfboards and photographs that document how the sport developed along this coast. The wooden pier reaches about 1,942 feet (592 meters) into the Pacific and serves as a popular spot for fishing and walking.

Location: San Diego County

Inception: 1888

Elevation above the sea: 20 m

Address: Oceanside, CA, USA

Website: https://ci.oceanside.ca.us

GPS coordinates: 33.21167,-117.32583

Latest update: December 15, 2025 09:03