If you’re craving coastal beauty, fresh seafood, and uncrowded beaches, I think you’re going to love Oxnard. In this post, I’ll take you through the sandy stretches, harbor sunsets, and coastal flavors I found in Oxnard, California. This is a place where laid-back vibes meet oceanfront beauty every single day. You’ll find it along Southern California’s scenic coast, just about an hour from Los Angeles. I love that it still feels like a true beach town, with easy access to the Channel Islands, fun festivals, and charming harbor villages that feel like hidden gems.
Best Time to Visit
If you're like me and want warm days without the crowds, I’d say the best time to visit Oxnard is from April through October. That’s when the skies are sunny, the weather’s mild, and everything from beach days to harbor cruises feels just right. I especially like going in spring or fall. It’s quieter, and the weather is still perfect for being outside all day.
How to Get There
- By Car: Oxnard is about 60 miles northwest of Los Angeles via U.S. Route 101.
- By Train: Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner and Metrolink Ventura County Line both stop in Oxnard.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), about 1 hour and 15 minutes away. LAX is another option.
Where to Stay
- Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach – from $340
- Hampton Inn Channel Islands Harbor – from $367
- Homewood Suites by Hilton Oxnard - From $195
Recommended Tour in Oxnard, California:
- Ventura: Rail Bike Guided Tour with Farm Stand Stop – Price: From $249 per group up to 2.
Best Things to Do in Oxnard
Walk along quiet shores of Mandalay State Beach - Walk along quiet shores and watch ocean sunsets on a peaceful retirement stroll.
See local productions at Elite Theatre - See local productions and enjoy live performances during a romantic night out.
Relax on Oxnard State Beach and Park - Bike on scenic trails and picnic on the sand during a sunny summer visit.
Explore waterfront shops in Channel Islands Harbor - Explore waterfront shops and watch boats pass on a relaxing weekend escape.
Visit Silver Strand Beach - Surf mellow waves and walk soft sands on a chill kids beach day.
Catch a show at Oxnard Performing Arts Center - Catch a show and explore cultural events on a weekend entertainment visit.
Discover nautical art at Channel Islands Maritime Museum - Discover nautical art and explore maritime history during a cheap educational visit.
Walk past vintage tractors at Oxnard Historic Farm Park - Walk past vintage tractors and learn farm stories on a fun fall outing.
Visit historic homes in Heritage Square - Visit historic homes and stroll charming gardens during a peaceful spring afternoon.
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)- • Walk along quiet shores of Mandalay State Beach
- • See local productions at Elite Theatre
- • Relax on Oxnard State Beach and Park
- • Explore waterfront shops in Channel Islands Harbor
- • Visit Silver Strand Beach
- • Catch a show at Oxnard Performing Arts Center
- • Discover nautical art at Channel Islands Maritime Museum
- • Walk past vintage tractors at Oxnard Historic Farm Park
- • Visit historic homes in Heritage Square