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Oceanside California, Vintage Beach Town

by Nicole Dorsey Straff

Oceanside is considered the sun-slicked gateway city between metropolitan San Diego and Los Angeles. A classic Southern California surfin’ town, the central location offers visitors an ideal place to stay and experience California’s casual spirit.

Over 3.5 miles of sandy beach near a quaint New England-style harbor, part of the allure is the area really hasn’t changed much since the 1940s, post World War 11.  The family-friendly getaway boasts a collection of authentic landmarks and experiences that take visitors back in time to capture the charm of a long-gone era.

[Photo Right, Oceanside Pier at sunset]

“Over the years, Oceanside has protected its historical buildings and landmarks by ensuring that development has not come at the cost of losing our unique history and character,” says Leslee Gaul CEO of Visit Oceanside. “Our ties to the past are part of what makes a vacation to Oceanside so memorable.”

Here are a few fun ways  you and your loved ones can experience vintage authentic Oceanside on your next getaway.

  • Romantic bungalows built during the heyday of Historic Highway 101 known as Robert’s Cottages are steps from the sand.  Robert’s Cottages (locally known as the “pink” cottages) were built in the 1920’s as summer cottages at just 300 square feet each, the petite structures offer visitors a front row seat to Oceanside’s surf scene. Tiny but dreamy!

[Photo Right, Robert’s Cottages are oceanfront]

  • The California Surf Museum is one of the most popular attractions downtown, and a place where guests learn the history of surfing. Among exhibits are a tribute to 1960’s surf culture and a long history of surf board nostalgia.
  • For old-fashioned mementos and clothing, Captain’s Helm is an Oceanside shop worth the stop. The California-vintage boutique has a popular local following and features the highest quality recycled clothing, surfboards, records wetsuits and fins.
  • The celebrated downtown district features three theaters- Sunshine Brooks, Historic Coast and the timeless Star. Each offers year-round shows and film festivals.

For more fun and eco-healthy travel ideas this summer, read the blogs and updates from our own bloggers!

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