July Oceanside Events

Oceanside Events in July 2016.

The summertime fun will continue in Oceanside through the month of July! If you're visiting Oceanside this month, don't miss out on these terrific events happening around Oceanside and San Diego County. After you've spent the day at the beach, of course!

Check out all the events that are happening this July in Oceanside, CA!

Plan on traveling around SoCal this summer? Make it a car-free adventure and take the train from Oceanside!

 

July 6 – 27, 2016

Rooftop Reels

This summer, Hello Betty Fish House will be transforming their rooftop patio into a open-air movie theater for showings of classic movies.

July 6th at 7:30pm – Jaws

July 13th at 7:30pm – National Lampoon's Summer Vacation

July 20th at 7:30pm – Top Gun

July 27th at 7:30pm – Back To The Future

July 8 – 12, 2016

MLB All-Star Week

The 2016 All-Star Game will mark the third time that the Padres will serve as hosts of the Midsummer Classic, with Petco Park joining Jack Murphy Stadium (previously known as San Diego Stadium) as a host of the festivities. The Padres previously welcomed the event in 1978 and 1992.

The 2016 MLB All-Star Week will be packed with activities for the whole family. The highlight of the week is the MLB All-Star Fanfest at the San Diego Convention Center. All-Star Fanfest is the world's largest interactive baseball theme park with more than 40 attractions for fans of all ages. Fans will have the opportunity to take photos and get autographs with former Padres players, MLB legends and Hall of Famers. Or practice their baseball skills during clinics taught by former and current MLB players. A collection of MLB trophies, including the Commissioner's Trophy, will be there to view and take pictures of. These are just some of the exhibits and activities that will take place during the 2016 MLB All-Star Week.

Click for a listing of events throughout the 2016 Major League Baseball All-Star Week.

July 9, 2016

Downtown Oceanside History Walk

The Oceanside Historical Society hosts a Downtown History Walk on the second Saturday of each month beginning at 9:00 am during the summer. Your tour guide will be a member of the Oceanside Historical Society, eager to show you around beautiful downtown Oceanside.

The history walk will begin at the Civic Center Plaza located on the corner of Coast Highway and Pier View Way. The 2-hour walking tour will show participants the historical significance of local homes, churches & banks, three Irving J. Gill buildings, the famed “Top Gun” house, the Oceanside Pier & bandshell, and variety of other sites.

Along your walk look for the “O.U. Miracle” on the sidewalks and curbs. There's a great story behind them, so ask your tour guide. Walks are free (donations accepted), as well as, open to everyone and are pleasantly paced so folks of all ages can participate. The tour takes about 2 hours.

For additional information, please visit the Oceanside Historical Society website.

July 9, 2016

Samoan Cultural Festival

The Samoan Cultural Festival will return to Oceanside this year with a week of activities and events beginning July 3rd.

The final and main event will be held on July 9th from 10:30am-9pm at the Junior Seau Pier Amphitheater and will include traditional dancing, food and local vendors.

This event is open to the public; everyone is welcome to attend and experience a taste of traditional Samoan culture.

 

July 12, 2016

Painting by the Pier

Oceanside Museum of Art and Hello Betty Fish House are teaming up to offer the perfect combination of art, food, and an ocean view.

Hello Betty Fish House will offer one free glass of house wine or beer to each student, plus enjoy their appetizer or dinner menu while you paint. Led by Margaret Chiaro, students of any level are taught step by step to paint a master copy of Van Gogh's Starry Night.

All supplies for the class are included. Must be 21 or older to attend. Class cost is $40 per person.  Register online or call (760) 435-3721.

July 15, 2016

Del Mar Horse Races – Summer Season Opening Day

Fans make their way to the track to place their bets and cheer on their favorite horses. This popular event dates back to 1937. The Del Mar Thoroughbred Club summer racing season will open on Friday, July 15 and will run until Monday, September 5.

There are themed days and special events scheduled throughout the season; including family fun day, beach towel day, etc; please see the Del Mar Events Calendar for additional information.

Summer Concert Series: In addition to the horse races, the the track will also host a performance summer concert series every Friday. The concerts will begin after the final races of the day. For the complete lineup of the Summer Concert Series, check out the Del Mar Concert Series website.

July 15, 2016

Concert in the Park: Greg Douglas Band

All are invited to attend the free “Concert in the Park” on Friday, July 15th. The concert will be held at Rancho Del Oro Park, 4701 Mesa Drive (next to the YMCA).

The pre-show entertainment starts at 5:00 p.m. Come and enjoy classic rock, eighties pop, funky Southern Rock to heart-rending Van Morrison ballads. Everyone will enjoy this fun band as you walk down memory lane.

Make an evening of it! Arrive early, bring your blanket or beach chair, and dine at one of the on-site food and drink vendors. Sponsored by The City of Oceanside Parks and Recreation Division and the Friends of Oceanside Parks.

July 20, 2016

Big Wednesdays

On July 20th, join co-authors Clay Marzo and Robert Yehling for Big Wednesdays at the California Surf Museum.

Clay Marzo and Robert Yehling will be holding a discussion and signing of their book, Just Add Water: A Surfing Savant's Life with Asperger's.

Robert Yehling said in an interview with Stab Magazine, “I knew of Clay's surfing greatness, and had been following him off and on since he won the NSSA Men's Nationals in 2006 with a perfect score. Clay always stood out to me because of his incredible surfing ability, his originality, and the way he didn't march to anyone else's beat. I particularly love how he's such a great above the wave surfer. His aerials, re-entries, and positioning for those re-entries is off the charts. Then he throws down his reverse throw tails and we all wonder how he still has a functioning lower back. Like everyone else, I heard of the Asperger's diagnosis when I watched the documentary Just Add Water.”

July 21-24, 2016

San Diego Comic-Con

Comic-Con International: San Diego returns to the San Diego Convention Center in 2016.

Comic-Con will begin with a Preview Night on Wednesday, July 20 with the four days of the event running Thursday, July 21 through Sunday, July 24.

2016 marks the 47th year for the show, making it the country's longest continuously-run comics and popular arts convention.

July 22-24, 2016

SuperGirl Pro

The only televised and largest women's surf contest in the world takes place in Oceanside, California.

Competitions:  There are three days of surfing heats that lead to head-to-head competition between the world's best female surfers.  The event is an Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) 6-Star event so it offers valuable points for surfers to qualify into the Women's Championship Tour.

Festival Village: The event features a surf industry and sustainability village that includes live music, seminars, yoga, fashion, fitness, dance, art, autographs from the pros, give-aways, free hairstyling by Paul Mitchell and other female-oriented activities. The Festival Village schedule will be posted prior to the event. For more information, or a schedule of the Festival Village, please visit SuperGirl Pro.

For a complete list of upcoming events, view the Oceanside Event Calendar.

Featured Image: SuperGirl Pro surf contest in Oceanside, CA.

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4th of July Weekend Activities

Independence Day Weekend Activities

Celebrating the Fourth of July in Oceanside

Check out these family friendly, fun, patriotic events happening in Oceanside during the Fourth of July holiday weekend!

Star Spangled Market: June 30th, 5:00pm – 9:00pm

The Sunset Market is a weekly outdoor market with plenty of hot food, live entertainment, a children's area, certified agriculture products, cold pre-packaged food as well as retail, artisan and craft booths. The Sunset Market will become the Star Spangled Market on June 30th, and have a “Red, White, & Blue” theme in honor of Independence Day. Don't miss the giant inflatable heart that will be set up at the Star Spangled Market!

Independence Parade: July 2nd, 10:00am – 12:00pm

The Oceanside Independence Parade will begin at 10:00am in front of the 101 Cafe (Coast Highway at Wisconsin Avenue) and work its way north on Coast Hwy towards Civic Center Drive just past City Hall. Come see floats, bands, walking groups, cool cars and much more. Viewing of the parade is available from the sidewalks along the entire route. Spectators are encouraged to bring folding chairs. The highest concentration of viewers will be on the north end of the route past Seagaze Avenue.

Fireworks Show: July 3rd, 6:00pm – 10:00pm

The City of Oceanside Fireworks Show will be staged north of the El Corazon Senior Center. Rancho Del Oro Boulevard will be closed from 6:00pm – 10:00pm for this event. The display of fireworks will begin at 9:00pm. There will be music and food trucks at the event site from 6:00pm – 9:00pm. Spectators are encouraged to park in the nearby lots, bring a beach chair, and walk to the viewing area on Rancho Del Oro Road. No parking will be available at the El Corazon Senior Center. Limited parking will be available in the Ocean Ranch Business Park. Overflow parking will be available at El Camino High School.

Yankee Doodle Dinghy Parade: July 4th, 1:00pm – 3:00pm

The Yankee Doodle Dinghy Parade will begin at 1:00pm in the Oceanside Harbor at the Oceanside Yacht Club and then continue on to the south end of the harbor. Anyone may decorate a patriotic dinghy 12 feet and under and enter in the parade. There is no entry fee, and trophies will be awarded. Those who are interested in participating may register at the Oceanside Yacht Club office before July 4th or at the skippers meeting at 10:00am on July 4th at the yacht club.

Independence Day at the Beach: July 4th, All-Day

Be sure to wear your best “Red, White, and Blue” attire when on Oceanside Beach and Pier for the Fourth of July. Beach vendors along the Strand will be open on July 4th with additional food, activities, and retail available for all. Please be aware that the bike/surreys rentals will not be available, as no bikes are permitted on the Strand that day.

Oceanside Adventures Cruise: July 4th, 8:00pm – 9:30pm

Come aboard with Oceanside Adventures to watch a fireworks display at Camp Pendleton. The cruise will depart from the Oceanside Harbor at 8:00pm and will travel outside the harbor a short distance to get a great view. Depending on the weather, you may have the opportunity to see many of the fireworks shows happening around the Oceanside/North County area. Reservations are required.

Beach Clean Up: July 5th, 8:00am – 11:00am

After the Fourth of July Festivities, is the “Morning After Mess” beach cleanup. Join in on the annual Surfrider cleanup after the busy holiday weekend.  There is no need to pre-register for this beach clean up, just show up July 5th on the beach, at the pier, and lend a hand to keep Oceanside beaches beautiful!

4th of July Events Around San Diego County

San Diego: Big Bay Boom, 9:00pm

Big Bay Boom is said to be the largest fireworks display in the county, with fireworks launched from four barges strategically placed around North San Diego Bay. The fireworks from Big Bay Boom can be seen from Shelter Island, Harbor Island, the Embarcadero area and Seaport Village/Coronado Landing. Just find a place along the bay and you will not be disappointed.

San Diego: Old Town 4th of July, 10:00am – 4:00pm

Old Town San Diego will host a parade, crafts and activities all based off of an early San Diego to recreate an old fashioned Independence Day celebrated on the frontier. No fireworks will be occurring at this location.

Escondido: Independence Day Festival & Fireworks, 4:00pm

Visit the California Center of the Arts, Escondido for the 53rd Annual Independence Day Festival & Fireworks with music, fabulous food vendors, and a wealth of children's activities and games for everyone to enjoy. Fireworks will begin at 9:00pm at this location.

Vista: Independence Day Celebration, 5:00pm – 9:00pm

Celebrate the Fourth of July in Vista at the Moonlight Amphitheatre with live music, an honorary ceremony, family fun and fireworks!

LEGOLAND California: Red, White and BOOM!, Fireworks at 8:30pm

Take the whole family to LEGOLAND California and spend the day enjoying over 60 rides, shows and attractions along with some all-American picnic games like burlap races and water-balloon tosses and then top it off with an awe-inspiring fireworks display at 8:30pm set to patriotic music.

Camp Pendleton: Del Mar Beach Bash, All-Day

The Camp Pendleton Del Mar Beach Bash is an event specifically for service members and families starting about 8:00am on July 4th. Del Mar Beach will be the host to beach games, tribute to heroes videos, and kids activities; along with live bands and food at the base's Del Mar Beach Resort.

 

For a complete listing of Fourth of July events happening in San Diego County, click here!

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Have you seen the RAAM Vans?

Over the next several days you will begin to see vehicles covered in stickers and decals, some even with speakers attached to the roof of the vehicles.  You may ask yourself what is going on?, but have no fear! These are the RAAM vans! They are the support vehicles for the participants of Race Across America (RAAM) and Race Across the West (RAW) and will be traveling with the riders as they make their way from Oceanside, CA to their final destinations of either Annapolis, MD or Durango, CO. The support vehicles carry the food, water, gear, and tool kits for the athletes, so that they don't have to worry about anything except riding as fast as they can to the finish line. For the safety of the riders, the vehicles are required to be clearly marked with the team's name, participation number, event decals, etc.

RAAM draws in some of the toughest endurance bicyclists from around the world, with 17 different countries represented by individuals and teams participating in the event.  The cyclists are traveling to Oceanside from as far away as Samoa, Russia, Japan, and India; and as close as Encinitas, California.

Featured in the image to the left is solo cyclist Nicole Reist and her support team from Switzerland and Austria who are excitingly preparing for the race to begin. Their support vehicle is decked out with multiple flags of Switzerland, along with two speakers on top of the car ready to play her favorite music to keep her motivated during the race. This is Reist's first time participating in the event and she will be racing alongside fellow female solo cyclists Juliana Buhring (GER) and 6-time RAAM winner Seana Hogan (USA). Click here to see the official Race Roster listing all of the athletes and the countries they represent.

If you are interested in learning more about this year's participants, press conferences will be held on Monday, June 13th at 9:30am for the RAW athletes and 10:15am for the RAAM solo racers.  The final press conference featuring the RAAM team riders will be held on Thursday, June 16th at 10:30am.  All press conferences will be held within the Oceanside Pier Plaza.

Race Across America (RAAM) and Race Across the West (RAW) will officially kick-off on June 14th and June 18th, 2016.

Oceanside visitors and locals are welcome to gather at the Oceanside Pier on June 14th at 12pm and June 18th at 12pm to cheer on and wave goodbye to the 316 participating athletes as they begin their journey towards the East. RAAM solo riders and all RAW participants will be departing on June 14th. RAAM team riders will be departing on June 18th.

Race Across America (RAAM) is a 3,000-mile coast-to-coast race across the United States. RAAM is widely recognized as the world's toughest endurance bicycle race. The Race Across the West (RAW) is one of the world's top RAAM Qualifying events from Oceanside, CA to Durango, CO; 860 miles across the rugged American West.

Click here to learn more about Race Across America (RAAM) and Race Across the West (RAW)

 

 

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Fun on the San Luis Rey Bike Trail

A family heads to Oceanside for a day of discovery and a bit of a history lesson

By Alyssa Guttendorf

When my husband, John, had suggested we take the kids to Oceanside for a weekend away, I envisioned a relaxing day of sunbathing. But John had something else in mind: a bike tour to visit the historic San Luis Rey Mission. Actually, architecture, great weather and ocean views sounded good to me. It wasn't every day we got to see the ocean. Melanie and Ryan, our 16-year-old twins, would love their dad's idea.

Getting up to speed

We arrived in Oceanside in the early afternoon for our bike tour. John left out one tiny detail. This was no ordinary bike tour, it was an electric bike tour at Dynamite Electric Bikes. “Awesome!” shouted Ryan, as he ran excitedly toward the wall of bikes.

“How fast do they go?” I asked, suddenly imagining my child popping wheelies like Evel Knievel.

Bhumi, the manager at the bike shop, assured me the bikes were perfectly safe. We were outfitted with helmets, and instructed on how the bikes have an option to pedal and change gears, just like on a normal road bike. John and Ryan were having none of that. They were excited to hop on the e-bikes and rev up the engines to max speed (anywhere from 10 to 25 miles per hour). After about 10 minutes of orientation, we took off to find the bike path entrance to the San Luis Rey Bike Trail.

As we cruised down the carefully paved bike path, I found I couldn't help but smile. I looked over at Melanie, who is naturally cautious like I am, but was now looking quite pleased as her golden brown hair flew behind her from underneath her helmet. She caught my eye and grinned.

“Hurry up, slowpokes!” Ryan called as he zipped determinedly behind his father. He certainly wasn't going to let his mom and sister slow him down. He rode ahead and then circled back, so he could ride at his own pace but still stick with the family. While Ryan may have been focused on speed, I was content to take in the view. I spotted some wildlife and a skate park buzzing with acrobatic and brave teenagers doing tricks, I even spotted a handful of skydivers gently cresting down to their landing point with colorful parachutes.

Exploring the Mission

About five miles down the path, we reached the destination of our tour, the historic San Luis Rey Mission. I was immediately struck by the beautiful white facade of the chapel. “Isn't that something?” John remarked as we dismounted our bikes.

It was Saturday afternoon and the parking lot was slowly filling with reverent visitors. We followed them and entered the doors of the chapel, where we saw one of the most colorful church interiors I'd ever seen. The scenes and structures were vibrantly accented in yellow, green and red, and grounded by deep mahogany pews. The chapel was full of people, all content to sit respectfully in its glory.

John started meandering introspectively up one of the side aisles of the church and Ryan followed a step behind. Melanie seemed captivated by the altar. She was admiring it for a while, and I was certainly captivated as well. Topped with a wooden dome and surrounded by an archway of turquoise and a vibrant pinkish tan, the back wall featured statues of saints surrounding an inset sculpture of Jesus on the cross. The chapel's interior was a work of art.

“This is so pretty,” Melanie observed.

I couldn't have agreed more.

An unexpected revelation in an unexpected place

I exited the church feeling humbled and, surprisingly, slightly emotional. I felt lucky to have been able to experience such a significant place with my family. The worries that occupied my mind so frequently-Would the kids end up at a good college? Will they always be happy? Can I make the perfect dinner that everyone likes?-were trivial in comparison to this shared moment in this historic place. With its lasting adobe facade and historic past, the 200 year-old mission embodied the mainstays that were really important in life: love and family.

A perfect end to the day

After we explored the mission grounds, we rode back to Oceanside beach. It was a flurry of activity. paddled out and carved the waves on the north side of the pier. Families pedaled around on group bicycles. Young couples strolled along the pier holding hands. It was a joyous scene.

I'd been expecting a standard beach vacation, but that proved not to be the case. This vacation turned out to be one that left me feeling accomplishment, gratitude and fulfillment.

“Thanks, Dad!” I called louder than necessary to John. It prompted Melanie and Ryan to chime in, too.

“Yeah, way fun!” Melanie said.

“Definitely.” Ryan said, “And did you notice those skydivers?”

Uh-oh.

Reconnect with your family in Oceanside, where you'll experience the best of Southern California.

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Animal Kingdom Comes To Oceanside

Animal Kingdom Comes to Oceanside.

Hollywood has once again made it's way South and has chosen Oceanside, California as it's main filming location for a new and exciting television drama series, Animal Kingdom.

Oceanside has been depicted in many different Hollywood projects such as Top Gun, Bring It On, Sands of Iwo Jima, The Outsider, Battle Cry and Flying Leathernecks. And now, Oceanside is being used as the main filming location for TNT's newest highly anticipated drama series, Animal Kingdom.

Animal Kingdom is a bold new drama about a 17-year old boy, whom, after his mother's tragic death, moves in with freewheeling relatives in their Southern California beach town and soon learns that they all make their livings through criminal activities. This dangerously, exciting fictional drama stars Ellen Barkin, Scott Speedman, Shawn Hatosy, Finn Cole, Ben Robson, Jake Weary and Daniella Alonso.

The show has been filming around town this week at a variety of iconic locations including the Oceanside Pier and along The Strand. Local businesses, including surf shops and restaurants, will also be featured in the show. The cast and crew will return to Oceanside in June to continue filming.

You may have heard about the casting call for extras that took place at the beginning of April, which brought in over 600 hopefuls to downtown Oceanside to audition.

The following is excerpted from the San Diego Union Tribute article 'Animal Kingdom' crime drama begins shooting in O'side” by Edward Sifuentes

Oceanside may not get top billing on the show, but it's a big part of the narrative, said Llewellyn Wells, an “Animal Kingdom” producer who was overseeing filming this week in the city. “While we're here, we're shooting at a lot of locations that really show Oceanside in the story,” Wells said. “This is just an amazing location. It's really unique.” Cast and crew are working at several locations around town, including The Strand, the iconic municipal pier and the Flying Pig Pub & Kitchen. On Monday morning, Wells and the crew were filming a fight scene inside a motorcycle shop at the corner of Wisconsin Avenue and South Tremont Street.

 

Be sure to keep your eye out for the production van (pictured left), which features a nice thank you/appreciation message, thanking the community for allowing this show to be filmed in Oceanside. The show has partnered with the  Friends of Oceanside Parks and Recreation, a non-profit that helps fund local youth scholarships for recreation programs.

It is very exciting that the creators of the show, Warner Bros. Television and TNT have chosen to feature and film in Oceanside. Not only for the fantastic experience and media exposure, but also from an economic standpoint. All together, it is anticipated that spending for the show will gross over $500,000 in Oceanside during the first phase of filming, which takes place for a week in April in addition to a week in June. This includes hotel room nights, dining, activities and more.

The recent expanded funding by the California Film Commission to help keep productions in California contributed to producers looking outside of the traditional Los Angeles footprint and discover Oceanside as an attractive location for their upcoming series.

Season 1 of Animal Kingdom will air June 7th on TNT.

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5 Hiking Trails In & Around Oceanside

Looking for a few locations to enjoy either leisurely or moderate exercise, while enjoying beautiful Southern California views? We've got some great San Diego County hiking Trails for you. We've crafted a list of 5 of our favorite hikes in and around the Oceanside area!

 

The San Luis Rey River Trail

Photo Source: www.ci.oceanside.ca.us

The San Luis Rey River Trail is a Class I bicycle trail open to pedestrians as well. The trail is 7.2 miles, one way, from the Neptune access (west end) to the eastern-most point on the College Bridge. The trail follows the path to the San Luis Rey River. Walkers and runners are welcome to bring their dogs to the trail for exercise as well. Just remember, if you use the trail with your four-legged friends, please pick up after them to keep the trail enjoyable for everyone! The west end of the trail is within a few blocks of the Oceanside Transit Center where commuters can board the Coaster, Amtrak and Metrolink trains or North County Transit District buses, all of which can accommodate bicycles.

Insider Tips:

• The trail is smooth and mostly flat, makes it a local favorite among cyclists, walkers and inline skaters


• Dogs using the trail must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet


• There are bathrooms and a water fountain at the park so it is a nice place to cool down


• This trail leads you all the way to the beach too, so don't forget your camera

 

Guajome Regional Park

Photo Source: www.sandiegocounty.gov

3000 Guajome Lake Road Oceanside, CA 92057

Guajome Regional Park is located in the coastal community of Oceanside, including not only 4.5 miles of park trails to meander through, but also is surrounded by chaparral, woodlands, wetlands, mixed grasslands, and 33 campsites, in case you and the rest of the family want to make a weekend stay out of the excursion! There are two gorgeous fishing ponds and a sizable amount of open grass area, perfect for a pick-nick day, or to simply relax!

Insider Tips:

• A playground for the kids, equipped with a jungle gym and swings


• A wedding gazebo/pavillion that can fit and needs to be reserved for 10 or more, and


• The lake is great for campers, park goers, for a picnic or to feed the geese and ducks


• Camping spaces for RVs and tents, but you need a parking permit to park in the campgrounds


• Park rangers are onsite to patrol the area to ensure safety

Lake Calavera Trail

Photo Source: www.carlsbadca.gov

Tamarack Ave & Strata Drive Carlsbad, CA 92010

This 4.9 mile trail loop is a moderate trailhead, with several different access trails for a morning walk/run or stroll with the dog! Fun fact about Lake Calavera: An old volcanic plug lies amongst the trail. You can climb to the top rim and look out onto the Carlsbad community area! Views from the bottom to the top are idyllic, with the small lake at the base and wide open views atop the mountain on a clear day!

Insider Tips:

• Amazing view of not only Carlsbad, but much of North County San Diego, if you make the hike to the top


• Provides quick local access to not only hiking, but mountain biking and geocaching


• Dog-friendly, don't have to worry about leashing your furry friend too


• The crater is a crowd favorite, as you can go to the top edge and look out.

Double Peak Park

Photo Source: sandiegoreader.com

900 Double Peak Drive San Marcos, CA 92078

At the convergence of San Elijo Road and Double Peak Drive, the Double Peak Trailhead rests alongside the serene and peaceful Discovery Lake. This 5.3 mile trail is of moderate difficulty, with many scenic views to enjoy year-round. Also a dog-friendly trail, for you and your loved ones to take your favorite fur-balls out for a nice morning walk, afternoon stroll or picturesque sunset hike! Don't be afraid to get out to San Marcos and explore some new terrain!

Insider Tips:

• There are bathrooms and water fountains at both Discovery Lake and Double Peak Park


• Even on a not-so-clear day, the view of the surrounding foothills is fantastic


• If you're pooping out a bit, you can actually drive yourself to the top too


• Parking is manageable and the area to hike isn't hard to find

Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve

Photo Source: www.olivenhain.com

8833 Harmony Grove Drive Escondido, CA 92029

The Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve trail starts out next to a calm wide creek, extending out 7-miles total, round trip. A moderate hike, with mostly uphill inclines, make sure to bring lots of water, as temperatures hike up during warmer months. In the summer months rattlesnakes have been spotted frequently, so ensure you're prepared for encounters prior to coming. This is a great group-setting hiking trail and is dog-friendly, as long as the dog is leashed up! During peak hiking seasons parking can be limited, so give yourself the upper-leg and arrive either in the early morning, before the first wave of crowds, or in the late afternoon, after the final wave of crowds! Come out and explore the beauty of Elfin Forest!

Insider Tips:

• Trails are all well maintained, well marked and offer great views of the reservoir/dam and Lake Hodges


• The 0.6 mile botanical trail is a nice, easy walk along the stream bed, for beginners or casual hikers


• Lots of bio-diversity and native plants to enjoy alongside the trail pathways


• Horses are allowed on the trail, so watch out for horse droppings

 

Find Hiking Gear at the following stores in Oceanside: 

Dick's Sporting Goods

3514 College Blvd.

Oceanside, CA 92056

Sports Authority Sporting Goods

2160 Vista Way

Oceanside, CA 92054

Adventure 16 Outdoor & Travel Outfitters

2002 S. Coast Highway

Oceanside, CA 92054

View related articles here: Great Running Trails in Oceanside, Oceanside Bike Trails

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March Photo Recap: Oceanside Beauty

In Oceanside, there is no shortage of beautiful views. Our perfect beaches, bright harbor, beautiful pier, great restaurants, etc., make Oceanside truly a magical place. This March, 2016, you shared some incredible images with us. We are so grateful for all of the pictures that you shared, we wanted to recap some of our favorites. Enjoy the beauty…

 

Photo Source: @cre8ivekitchen

 

Photo Source: @erubes1

 

Photo Source: @picsbypizza

Photo Source: Roy Kerckhoffs Art

Photo Source: Alan Crosthwaite

 

Photo Source: Under Pressure Photography

 

Photo Source: Gary Chase

 

Photo Source: Russell Hulbert

 

Photo Source: Doug MacDonald 

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