A great place to begin or conclude your discovery of Oceanside is the Oceanside Harbor and Marina (1) at 1 Harbor Dr. (760-435-4000). This is the largest marina in the North County coastal area and is home to more than 950 boats. Enhancing this one-of-a-kind harbor setting is a small Cape Cod-style fishing village (4), complete with a lighthouse. The village is a fun place to explore and features several boutiques, unique kiosks, gift stores, cafés and restaurants. Just steps from the ocean, it’s the perfect place for a family outing.

The Oceanside Pier (22) is another must-see attraction (760-435-5041)! Measuring 1,942 feet in length, it is one of the longest wooden over-the-water fishing piers on the West Coast of the United States. It overlooks what is Oceanside’s greatest asset, a fantastic, broad, white sandy beach.

Not only is the pier a wonderful place to take a stroll, but it is a perfect place for taking photographs, watching the beach scene and the sur fers. If you bring your rod and reel, you’re allowed to fish from the pier without a license. Oceanside’s beautiful Pier Amphitheater (23) (760-435-5540) is where concerts, festivals and sporting events are held. The ocean is the backdrop here, so you can enjoy great music and a sparkling view at the same time.

Year-round there are always some festivities taking place in Oceanside. In December there is the popular Parade of Lights in the harbor. They also have a Christmas in July event sponsored by the Montessori School.

Another big event is the Labor Day Pier Swim, which draws large crowds. Then, during the third weekend in September, the harbor comes alive with Harbor Days. There are scores of booths, entertainment, boat races, crafts, a children’s area, beer garden, food galore, displays and periodic demonstrations by the Camp Pendleton Marines and the Navy. It’s the highlight of the year and loads of fun.

A cultural vision is also being realized in historic downtown Oceanside that will forever change the image of the city. The award-winning Oceanside Civic Center (21) is a focal point of this new vision. It’s located at 300 N. Coast Hwy. in Oceanside. On Thursdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., check out the Farmer’s Market (21) (760-754-4512) on Pier View Way, which is on the south side of the Civic Center. Oceanside also has a Sunset Farmer’s Market on Thursdays, 5 p.m.-9 p.m. It’s at the corner of North Coast Highway and Pier View Way.

The Oceanside Museum of Art (21) located in the historic Gill Building at 704 Pier View Way (760-435-3720) is a must-see Oceanside attraction with its year-round calendar of 8-12 rotating new exhibits. The Museum is open Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sun., 1 p.m.-4 p.m. You’ll be impressed with their many rotating exhibitions of regional and international contemporary art. The museum has newly expanded its facility to a spacious 21,000-sq. ft. and is now a cultural attraction in the Southern California landscape. Sleek and modern, its attractive design reflects the beauty and art it offers within.

You can also take a guided tour featuring the history of downtown. The tour is sponsored by the Oceanside Historical Society (21) at 305 N. Nevada St. (760-722-4786) and takes about two hours. Every second Saturday April-September, docent tours are given at 9 a.m. Tours begin at Coast Highway and Pier View Way in front of the Oceanside Public Librar y. The Historical Society is open Thurs. and Fri., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. You can also obtain historical information from the California Welcome Center. Call (760-721-1101) or (800-350-7873).

While touring downtown, a local attraction worth seeing is the California Surf Museum (20) (760-721-6876) at 312 Pier View Way. This fascinating, internationally recognized world-class surfing museum captures the chronicles, lifestyles, culture and heritage of surfing and surf art. It’s open daily 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Thursdays till 8 p.m., except major holidays. Admission for adults is ($3); seniors 62 years and over and military with ID and students with ID ($1). Children 12 years and under are admitted free. And admission is free every Tuesday.

The surfing conditions have made Oceanside the premiere location for numerous surfing events including the US Pro Longboard Championships, the NNA Surf Completion, USSF Surf Competition and World Bodying Surfing Championships. So quite naturally the California Surf Museum embodies the history of surfing through art, photography, film artifacts and special events.

Another unique Oceanside attraction is one of the coastal wetlands habitats. The Buena Vista Audubon Society’s Nature Center (24) is at 2202 S. Coast Hwy. (760-439-2473)[bvaudubon.org]. Being the only fresh water lagoon in Southern California, you’ll find a different variety of local plants and migrating birds than elsewhere. There is even a picnic area and trail with signage explaining the flora and fauna you’ll see. The center is open Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sun., 1 p.m.-4 p.m.

Oceanside and North County’s major historic attraction is the impressive Old Mission San Luis Rey de Francia (14) at 4050 Mission Ave. (760-757- 3651). Known as the King of the Missions, it is the largest of the 21 missions that flourished here in the 1700s and 1800s. Tucked away in a quiet north San Diego County valley, it is just 3.7 miles from the Pacific Ocean. Here you will find this majestic jewel of early California history called Old Mission San Luis Rey.

The Mission provides both guided and self-guided tours. Discover the architectural beauty of the Missions museum, church, sunken gardens and cemetery. The museum features an extensive collection of early mission artifacts. The museum is open Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sat.-Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.. Prices are ($5) for adults and seniors; military ($4) for youth 6-18, and free for active military and their dependents and children 5 years of age and under. Be sure to stop by the gift shop featuring unique and delicate religious artifacts, mementos and books. Credit cards: AE, DISC, MC, VISA.

To the north of the city is Camp Pendleton Marine Corps Base (3) (760-725-5569), which celebrates its 70th bir thday this year. Although Camp Pendleton boasts of being the largest western amphibious training base, it is a safe and protected home to many historic landmarks and endangered species. Enter at the main gate off I-5. For security concerns, call before you go. Oceanside is also the best transportation hub in North San Diego County. In fact you can step off of the train and literally walk to the beach, your hotel and dozens of restaurants.

In fact, the Oceanside North County District Transit Center (23) (760-966-6500) [gonctd.com] is conveniently located downtown at 195 S. Tremont St. It is home to Amtrak nationwide train service (760-722-4622); Metrolink train service to Orange and Los Angeles counties; Coaster train service to points south of Oceanside; Greyhound nationwide bus service; and the Breeze, North County’s transit district bus ser vice (760-966-6500) for North San Diego County.

The newest mode of transportation to get from Oceanside east to Escondido is via the new North County Transit District’s Sprinter (23). Its fast, convenient method of transpor tation will give you a new perspective of the sights and sounds that make Nor th County such a nice place to live, work and play.

Golf enthusiasts will find the Oceanside Municipal Golf Course (17) (760-433-1360) challenging. Located at 825 Douglas Dr. in the San Luis Rey River valley, this beautiful 18-hole, par 72 course is open daily.

Other popular golf courses are the Emerald Isle Golf Course (16) at 660 S. El Camino Real (760-721-4700) and the Center City Golf Course (26) (760-433-8590) at Goat Hill Drive and Oceanside Boulevard near the I-5.

Another Oceanside attraction is the Ocean’s Eleven Casino (25) at 121 Brooks St., which is off Interstate 5 (760- 439-6988) or (888-439-6988). With the 1960 Rat Pack movie as its theme, this full-service card casino features Texas Hold ’em, three-card poker, blackjack, Omaha, Pai Gow poker and more. To the north of the city is Camp Pendleton Marine Corps Base (3) (760-725-5569), which celebrates its 68th birthday this year. Although Camp Pendleton boasts of being the largest western amphibious training base, it is a safe and protected home to many historic landmarks and endangered species. Enter at the main gate off I-5. For security concerns, call before you go.

Just off Hwy. 78 is the region’s major shopping center, the spacious Westfield Shoppingtown Plaza Camino Real (27) at 2525 El Camino Real, Carlsbad (760-729-7927). It has over 100 specialty Oceanside 125 shops, restaurants and major department stores. JC Penney, Macy’s and Sears anchor the center.

For your local banking needs, Pacific Marine Credit Union is one of San Diego's most trusted banking institutions, with over 50 years of service and multiple locations throughout San Diego to serve you. Pacific Marine Credit Union membership is open to everyone.

Oceanside has a good selection of ocean and bay view restaurants to choose from. The hippest and trendiest sushi restaurant in all of San Diego County is Harney Sushi (19) at 301 Mission Ave. (760-967-1820) with two locations to serve you. One is in Oceanside and has an ocean view and the other is in Old Town. Both locations have an unbelievable selection of specialty rolls, and the atmosphere is what keeps people coming back again and again.

The Oceanside Harbor boasts great restaurants. Monterey Bay Canners (7) at 1325 N. Harbor Dr. (760-722- 3474) for example, serves fresh seafood overlooking the harbor. Their extensive menu has everything from fresh swordfish and shellfish skewers to beer battered halibut. Also popular is their oyster bar and their award-winning Sunday Breakfast, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Another scenic harborside restaurant is Jolly Roger (1) at 1900 N. Harbor Dr. (760-722-1831). Their marina location provides the perfect setting for a wonderful meal. Delicious entrées include their teriyaki chicken and JR’s ultimate build your own burger.

Serving home-style food since 1979, the Broken Yolk Café 2434 Vista Way (760-9679655) is a favorite among local San Diegans and hungry visitors alike. With a strong dedication to good food and equally good service, the Broken Yolk has built a reputation for its large menu, ample portions and freshly-made flavor. With over twenty different omelets plus a large variety of breakfast favorites including pancakes, waffles and French toast, Broken Yolk satisfies even the heartiest of diners - all in a clean, comfortable and casual atmoshpere.

Oceanside is a great summer retreat for the whole family with a broad selection of accommodations with oceanfront views for any budget. It’s also a great getaway for couples too. A stroll on the beach is always a popular choice for things to do.

Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Oceanside (30) at 3501 Seagate Way, Oceanside (760-966-1000). Rates var y with the season and change without notice. As of this publication date, beginning rates were offered at ($117) per night. They also offer special savings for the following groups and associations: millitary and government, AAA, CAA, corporated discounts, senior citizen discounts and Marriot Rewards members. Check in time is 3 p.m. and check out is noon. This is the newest and most modern luxurious 142-room hotel in beautiful Oceanside. And it is the perfect place to relax after a day on the road or after a day of sightseeing. Plus, it’s only minutes to LEGOLAND. Amenities abound and include an inviting swimming pool, well-equipped fitness center, restaurant, cocktail lounge and of course beautiful guest rooms and suites with FREE wi-fi throughout. This new Cour tyard by Marriott offers state-of-the-art business meeting facilities as well as the best place for a social event. It is a smokefree hotel and does not allow pets. Credit cards: AE, DC, DISC, MC, VISA.

Days Inn (5) 1501 Carmelo Dr., Oceanside (760-722-7661). There are 80 rooms ($89-$145) and some have ocean views. A free continental breakfast is offered each morning. It’s the closest motel to Camp Pendleton’s main gate. It’s also only eight minutes from LEGOLAND California and four miles to Mission San Luis Rey! The comfor table rooms feature highspeed wireless Internet, refrigerators and microwaves, as well as in-room coffee, irons, ironing boards, hair dryers, guest laundr y, daily newspaper and cable TV with HBO. Non-smoking rooms are also available. They even have a heated swimming pool and Jacuzzi. Plus, there is a business center with computers and printers. The Inn overlooks the Harbor and is within walking distance to the beach, harbor and restaurants. Get 10% Off Regular Rate online with their coupon. Credit cards: AE, DC, DISC, MC, VISA.

Oceanside Marina Suites at Oceanside Harbor (2) 2008 Harbor Dr. North, Oceanside (760-722-1561) or (800- 252-2033). There are 57 romantic, harbor and ocean view rooms ($149-$269). The hotel is located on a private peninsula, away from the crowds. Amenities include fully equipped kitchens, private patios, fireplaces, meeting rooms and a complimentary continental breakfast in their poolside cabana room. They also have a stunning waterfront wedding gazebo for that perfect ceremony. This hotel is the premier location for weddings in Oceanside. If you are looking for romance or a memorable weekend escape, this is the place. They also have themed rooms, serenity rooms and honeymoon suites. They also offer military a 10% off discount. Credit cards: AE, DISC, MC, VISA.

Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego Oceanside (29) 3603 Ocean Ranch Blvd., Oceanside (760-722-9600) and (800-331-3131). This impressive fourstory, 125 room hotel ($149-$329) has all the amenities that make Residence Inn so appealing to business travelers as well as vacationers. A big plus are its fully-equipped kitchen amenities, which include a microwave oven in every room, dishwasher, refrigerator and more. Complimentar y breakfast buf fets are offered every morning and they have a happy hour Mon.-Wed. They also have an outdoor fireplace perfect for gatherings, a heated swimming pool, whirlpool and exercise room. They even offer grocery shopping for busy guests. Plus, it’s close to Oceanside’s major historic attraction Old Mission San Luis Rey. Credit cards: AE, DISC, MC, VISA.

Rodeway Inn (9) 1103 N. Coast Hwy., Oceanside (760-722-1904). There are 80 rooms and some have ocean and harbor views ($60-$185). They are also across the street from the California Welcome Center. Non smoking rooms are available as well as meeting rooms. A complimentary continental breakfast is featured each morning! Amenities include A/C, cable TV, HBO, a pool, free highspeed Internet, hair dryers, irons with ironing boards, microwaves and minifridges in all rooms. This centrally located hotel is an excellent place to get a good night’s sleep. Save 10% with their online coupon. Credit cards: AE, DISC, MC, VISA.

Super 8 Oceanside (12) 3240 Mission Ave., Oceanside (760-757- 7700) or (800-747-3529). This two-story hotel has 108 rooms with a conference and banquet center ($59-$149). They also offer lower rates for extended stay guests and a free breakfast daily with muffins, breads and waffles. It’s ideally located between Camp Pendleton and Oceanside’s biggest attraction, the historic Mission San Luis Rey. Plus there are restaurants nearby. Amenities include high-speed Internet, HBO, ESPN, ironing boards, coffee maker, microwaves, refrigerators, a daily newspaper, fitness center, heated pool and Jacuzzi. Credit cards: AE, DC, DISC, MC, VISA.

For relocation information, whether for residential or business opportunities, call the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce (8) (760-722-1534) or write them at 928 N. Coast Hwy., Oceanside, CA 92054. The chamber is open Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-4 p.m. You can visit their Web site at [oceansidechamber.com]. For visitor information, call or visit the California Welcome Center Oceanside (8), also at 928 N. Coast Hwy. (760-721-1101) or (800-350-7873).

It’s conveniently located just off I-5 at the Coast Highway exit. Look for signs with a traveling bear logo on I-5. This is one of only 18 state-approved welcome centers. Here you’ll find clean restrooms, maps and travel information on California and the regional area. You can also purchase tickets to major attractions and make hotel reservations. The center is open daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m., except for major holidays. The California Welcome Center is worth a visit.

John Beran (760-547-2127) specializes in all types of Oceanside real estate properties, from single-family homes to estates within many incredible neighborhoods and planned communities. Ask about highly prized Oceanside homes that are perfect for a wide range of first, second and vacation home buying needs; or survey the Oceanside real estate market for the perfect family friendly setting. View videos for his latest listings here.

June 12-16: Race Across America
June 6: 6th Annual California Surf Museum Gala
July 3: Oceanside's 125th Anniversary Celebration
July 3: Oceanside's 125th Anniversary Firework Show
July 13-14: Christmas in July
July-Aug: Concerts in the Park
Aug. 10-11: 29th Annual Longboard Surf Contest & Beach Festival
Aug. 17-18: World Body Surfing Championship
Sept. 2: 84th Annual Labor Day Swim
Sept. 7-9: Surf for the Sea/Firefighters
Sept. 28-29: Harbor Days
Nov. 2: Bike the Coast - Taste the Coast
Nov. 8-11: 5th Annual California Surf Festival
Nov. 28: Turkey Trot
Dec. TBA: Holiday Tree Lighting
Dec. TBA: Parade of Lights
Mar. 29: Ironman California
April: Oceanside Days of Art
May: Beach Soccer Championship