For those on the west coast who are looking for a destination or stop over I would like to recommend Oceanside, CA. harbor. Recognizing safe harbors along the west coast can be few and far between, Oceanside is no different being 30 miles north of the San Diego and 30 miles south of Dana Point. For years we passed it up when traveling north from SD until two years ago when we stopped over for the night and enjoyed it. Fast forward to today and we live only 13 miles from the harbor and downtown. Not knowing Oceanside very well we heard it was a "military" town (Cape Pendleton Marine Base is just to the north) and not worth visiting. Last year when we started visiting we were pleasantly surprised to see the revitalization and new building taking place while still maintaining a small town fee. While the harbor remains original it is very well kept and clean. The water is clear allowing 6 feet of visibility looking down from the docks which wasn't possible in San Diego. The docks look newer or at least well kept and there are about 12 - 16 guest slips.
Harbor patrol presence is large and comforting and the Sea Port Village is filled with restaurants. Entrance into the harbor is wide but you will want to understand beam see's before committing your entrance. From the harbor you can walk to downtown (10 -15 minutes) and visit new restaurants, hotels and microbreweries. The Oceanside Pier is also located in the heart of downtown and one of the largest on the west coast. Being located 30 miles north of SD the water is very clean and great for fishing and surfing. Lots to do and a great place to enjoy your boat.
John T
N4050, N4061, N3522, H38E - former owner
Harbor patrol presence is large and comforting and the Sea Port Village is filled with restaurants. Entrance into the harbor is wide but you will want to understand beam see's before committing your entrance. From the harbor you can walk to downtown (10 -15 minutes) and visit new restaurants, hotels and microbreweries. The Oceanside Pier is also located in the heart of downtown and one of the largest on the west coast. Being located 30 miles north of SD the water is very clean and great for fishing and surfing. Lots to do and a great place to enjoy your boat.
John T
N4050, N4061, N3522, H38E - former owner