Tourist places in Oxnard, Oxnard Travel Info
Oxnard is a vibrant coastal city in Southern California, known for its beautiful beaches, agricultural heritage, and as the gateway to the Channel Islands National Park. It offers a relaxed atmosphere, diverse culture, and a perfect blend of seaside fun and farm-fresh experiences.
Oxnard is located in Ventura County along the coast of Southern California. It sits about 60 miles northwest of Los Angeles and 35 miles south of Santa Barbara, nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the fertile Oxnard Plain.
Oxnard is famous for being the "Strawberry Capital of the World" due to its massive strawberry production. It is also well-known for its pristine coastline, the Channel Islands Harbor, and its rich history of automotive museums and festivals.
The best time to visit Oxnard is from late spring to early autumn (May to October) when the weather is warm and sunny. The annual California Strawberry Festival in May is a peak time for visitors.
Channel Islands Harbor: A bustling harbor offering waterfront dining, boating, kayaking, and the starting point for trips to the Channel Islands.
Mandalay State Beach: A scenic, undeveloped beach with sand dunes and wetlands, perfect for nature walks and quiet relaxation.
Heritage Square: A collection of restored Victorian and Craftsman houses that offer a glimpse into the city's early history and architecture.
The Collection at RiverPark: A premier outdoor shopping and dining destination with a movie theater, comedy club, and public art installations.
Channel Islands Maritime Museum: A museum showcasing maritime history, ship models, and fine art, located at the harbor.
Take a whale-watching tour from the harbor, explore the local wine trail, visit the weekly farmers markets, enjoy water sports like jet skiing and paddleboarding, and attend the famous strawberry festival if visiting in spring.
Oxnard is known for its fresh strawberries (in everything from pies to tamales), authentic Mexican cuisine along the "Taco Trail," and fresh seafood caught locally.
Shoppers flock to The Collection at RiverPark for major brands and boutiques, while the Camarillo Premium Outlets are just a short drive away for discount luxury shopping.
Mandalay Shores: A beachfront neighborhood offering vacation rentals and resort-style hotels with direct ocean access.
Channel Islands Harbor: The best area for water views, convenient access to boating activities, and walkable dining options.
Downtown Oxnard: A central location near Heritage Square, transportation hubs, and diverse local restaurants.
Oxnard is easily accessible via U.S. Highway 101. The nearest major airport is Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), while the smaller Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) is also nearby. Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner stops directly in downtown Oxnard.
A car is the most convenient way to explore Oxnard and its surroundings. Gold Coast Transit provides bus services, and the city is bike-friendly with paths near the beach. Uber and Lyft are also readily available.
Visit Ventura for its historic pier and downtown, drive to Santa Barbara for Spanish architecture and wine tasting, or take a boat to Anacapa Island for hiking and wildlife viewing.
Silver Strand Beach is a local favorite for surfing and exploring the wreckage of the La Jenelle ship. The Mullin Automotive Museum houses an exquisite collection of French Art Deco cars.
Bring layers as coastal weather can be cool in the mornings and evenings. If visiting the Channel Islands, book your boat tickets in advance. Don't forget to buy fresh produce from local roadside stands.
Oxnard offers a delightful mix of beach life, history, and agricultural bounty without the crowds of larger cities. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure or a relaxing getaway, this coastal gem welcomes you with open arms.