Things to Do in Oceanside (2025)

Matsu - Review - Oceanside - San Diego - The Infatuation

Matsu does a 10-course, three-hour-long Japanese tasting menu in a space so intimate that the food gets the spotlight it deserves—literally. There are only 14 lights in the dining room, which are above the 14 wooden tables, making each course feel like it’s getting up on stage to audition for the role of “Your Favorite Part Of The Meal.” The menu changes with the season, but some recent standouts were the grilled, all-cabbage gyoza with caviar, braised sunflower and cuttlefish, and house tempura-battered ebi. This is the type of place where each tiny course comes with a fresh plate and maybe a custom-made knife, and the service attentively explains dishes without being annoying. They also do an a la carte menu at the bar, where you can chat with the bartender while sipping wines from Valle de Guadalupe. - Ligaya Malones

Oceanside’s Michelin-starred modern Mexican from chef Roberto Alcocer pairs Baja flavors with ocean views. Celebrated in the Michelin Guide and singled out by national food writers as a landmark dining experience.

A plant-based, zero-waste restaurant leading Oceanside’s sustainability movement. Highlighted by Surfrider and praised by local critics for creative, flavor-forward menus and seasonal ticketed dinners.

A vital arts anchor with fresh exhibitions, artist talks, and community programs. Its 2025 schedule underscores OMA’s role in the city’s cultural district, often cited by regional arts publications.

A nonprofit preserving surf history through rotating exhibits and events. Open daily and collaborating with OMA on 2025 surf-culture programming, it’s frequently recommended by travel editors.

Every Thursday, downtown fills with live music and hundreds of food and artisan stalls. Covered by KPBS and Condé Nast Traveler, this year-round street festival is a true community gathering.

A scrappy, community-run short course saved by locals and beloved for its laid-back vibe, ocean breezes, and inclusive events like the Ashworth Brothers 2Man. A fixture in golf media and local culture.

A 13,000-square-foot vintage and makers hub supporting 100+ small vendors. Featured by national and local outlets, it’s the spot for distinctive, locally sourced finds you won’t see in chain stores.

Locally operated whale and dolphin cruises on modern catamarans from the harbor lighthouse. Marked 10 years in July 2025 and widely recommended by regional tourism groups.

The King of the Missions is a National Historic Landmark with a museum, gardens, and guided tours. Open daily, it anchors Oceanside’s complex history and community programming.

Downtown brewpub known for birria and award-winning lagers and IPAs. Recognized at the World Beer Cup and frequently praised by local food writers for balancing serious beer with casual coastal food.

South O original with a 100% coal-fired oven, community wine events, and strong ties to local farms. Praised by local critics for craft pies and a friendly neighborhood atmosphere.