Maybe coastal California real estate is just too expensive to house many real seafood dives? I grew up in New England, and seafood dives with 5 star food and views can be found in almost every coastal town. Finding a non chain fish restaurant in southern CA is another story.
While out and about exploring Oceanside Harbor in CA on foot for the first time, I decided to try out our very own : Harbor Fish & Chips
760/722-4977. Although I intended to get the fish & chips when I entered, I ended up with their crab cakes, which I can rarely resist. My companion ordered the grilled fish plate. Both were fairly priced at under $10 with salad & fries or salad & chowder. The service at the counter was fantastic: efficient, personalized, and cheerful. We got to enjoy our chowder and unlimited drinks during the reasonable wait. We were lucky to arrive right before the lunch rush at 12:30 on a December Saturday, which was handled very quickly by the staff. I cannot imagine the crowds in the summer time there in Oceanside.
There was plenty to keep us entertained as there are 3 decades of fishing and family photos and stories decorating the walls of this smallish place. The atmosphere made us feel like family and understand the story behind Harbor Fish and Chips. I noticed a framed piece from Coastal Living that was responsible for this write up:
"Harbor Fish & Chips keeps things simple. It serves consistently good fish-and-chips and tasty if not overly clammy clam chowder. And it sits on Oceanside Harbor, between Los Angeles and San Diego. Just right.
• 276-A Harbor Drive South, Oceanside, California"
My crab cakes were fresh, and just the right quantity. Salad the perfect substitute for slaw, and the fries were real potato! My husband's fish was very small, cooked properly, just not enough. Next time, we will stick with the fish and chips as this dish did indeed look to be the best of the bunch.
Craving chowder (Manhattan or New England style), crab cakes that won't break the bank, or good fish & chips? Harbor Fish & Chips in Oceanside, CA should fit the bill - it's a lot closer to us southern Californians than Woodman's in Essex or the Clam Box in Ipswich!
Monday, December 04, 2006
Carlsbad California Flower Fields
The link here said "great trip for southern California residents"- forget about that -this is a great day trip for any guest or resident:
Carlsbad Flower Fields - Guide to Carlsbad Flower Fields.
Every year I plan on visiting the flower fields full of ranunculus in March, and every year I don't make it, though it is and easy half hour from my home. Sometimes we residents need to live as if we are on vacation...
So during your next vacation in Orange County, San Diego, or Oceanside, just don't miss this colorful spectacle of nature!
Ah...maybe next year.
Carlsbad Flower Fields - Guide to Carlsbad Flower Fields.
Every year I plan on visiting the flower fields full of ranunculus in March, and every year I don't make it, though it is and easy half hour from my home. Sometimes we residents need to live as if we are on vacation...
So during your next vacation in Orange County, San Diego, or Oceanside, just don't miss this colorful spectacle of nature!
Ah...maybe next year.
Sunday, October 15, 2006
Inaugural Oceanside Turkey Trot Novemer 23, 2006
Here is your chance to eat more at Thanksgiving; enjoy a fantastic coastal view, and raise money for a good cause.Oceanside Turkey Trot: Join friends and neighbors for the Inaugural O'side Turkey Trot.
When: Thanksgiving Morning, November 23, 2006
Where: Downtown Oceanside. The race will start at the Oceanside Civic Center and finish on the beach near the Oceanside Pier.
What: 5K Race will raise money for Oceanside schools.
When: Thanksgiving Morning, November 23, 2006
Where: Downtown Oceanside. The race will start at the Oceanside Civic Center and finish on the beach near the Oceanside Pier.
What: 5K Race will raise money for Oceanside schools.
Oceanside California Photo Contest deadline is Nov. 1, 2006
Oceanside Chamber of Commerce Announces: "Deadline For City’s Photo Contest Draws Near
City of Oceanside 10/03/2006
The Oceanside Magazine is currently accepting entries for its 2006 “All Sides of Oceanside” photo contest. This year’s theme is “A Few of My Favorite Oceanside Things…”.
The categories are Oceanside’s:
Parks
Destinations
Cultural/Artistic Event or Celebrations
Recreational Activities
Beach/Surf Culture
All photos must be post marked no later than November 1st or delivered to the City’s Media Relations Office, 300 North Coast Highway, North Building, 3rd Floor by 4:30 p.m. on November 1st."
For additional information call (760) 435-3071 or visit Oceanside Magazine
City of Oceanside 10/03/2006
The Oceanside Magazine is currently accepting entries for its 2006 “All Sides of Oceanside” photo contest. This year’s theme is “A Few of My Favorite Oceanside Things…”.
The categories are Oceanside’s:
Parks
Destinations
Cultural/Artistic Event or Celebrations
Recreational Activities
Beach/Surf Culture
All photos must be post marked no later than November 1st or delivered to the City’s Media Relations Office, 300 North Coast Highway, North Building, 3rd Floor by 4:30 p.m. on November 1st."
For additional information call (760) 435-3071 or visit Oceanside Magazine
Good News for Oceanside Harbor and Visitors
The much anticipated bridge linking North Oceanside to Oceanside Harbor is slated to begin construction shortly. This will mean improved access for all including residents and visitors to North Coast Village. At it's completion, the bridge will allow the current causeway to be opened and the San Luis Rey River to run free to the ocean!
See the full article from the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce here or below:Business Directory: "Making the Connection
Construction of Bridge to Begin Soon
City of Oceanside 10/09/2006
The anticipated construction of the Pacific Street Bridge is about to get underway. When completed, the bridge will provide a safe and attractive crossing for motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians, and will be able to withstand the worst of storms. This is good news for businesses and residents who live and work on the Harbor side of the city.
Construction will begin on October 30, 2006 and is scheduled to be completed in October 2008. During this two year period, segments of some parking lots will be closed resulting in parking displacements, and Harbor Drive will be realigned.
To minimize impacts on the residential and business community, the construction will be staged around key events, and complimentary shuttle service will be provided. During off-peak periods (October through May 15th) the shuttle will run from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Saturday and Sunday, and during peak periods (May 15th through October 5th) it will run Thursday – Sunday from 10:00 to 8:00 pm making eight stops along the way with a 15 minute turn-around.
The City will also be implementing a proactive outreach effort to encourage continued shopping and dining in the Marina area during the construction phase of the project.
If you need additional information or have a concern, please call Maryam Babaki, City of Oceanside Project Manager, at 760-435-5090 or email at mbabaki@ci.oceanside.ca.us."
See the full article from the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce here or below:Business Directory: "Making the Connection
Construction of Bridge to Begin Soon
City of Oceanside 10/09/2006
The anticipated construction of the Pacific Street Bridge is about to get underway. When completed, the bridge will provide a safe and attractive crossing for motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians, and will be able to withstand the worst of storms. This is good news for businesses and residents who live and work on the Harbor side of the city.
Construction will begin on October 30, 2006 and is scheduled to be completed in October 2008. During this two year period, segments of some parking lots will be closed resulting in parking displacements, and Harbor Drive will be realigned.
To minimize impacts on the residential and business community, the construction will be staged around key events, and complimentary shuttle service will be provided. During off-peak periods (October through May 15th) the shuttle will run from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Saturday and Sunday, and during peak periods (May 15th through October 5th) it will run Thursday – Sunday from 10:00 to 8:00 pm making eight stops along the way with a 15 minute turn-around.
The City will also be implementing a proactive outreach effort to encourage continued shopping and dining in the Marina area during the construction phase of the project.
If you need additional information or have a concern, please call Maryam Babaki, City of Oceanside Project Manager, at 760-435-5090 or email at mbabaki@ci.oceanside.ca.us."
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
Oceanside Harbor Dining - Oceanside California - Monteray Bay Canners
One of the advantages of having to do maintenance on my Oceanside CA Vacation Rental is hunting for new places to eat while visiting Oceanside. This time I actually had a little time to enjoy a new (to me) restaurant in the harbor with my mom.
Since my mom moved to southern CA a little more than a year ago, we try to make it a weekly habit to have lunch together near our south Orange County homes. She came with me on this sunny weekday to deliver some new deck chairs and other vacation rental oriented chores - my bribe was lunch.
Mom's first impression as we rounded the corner and glimpsed the harbor was "Wow! That's pretty." How could I not take her to one of the restaurants in the harbor after that? Rockin' Baja Lobster? Been there - good food but not much of a view. Jolly Roger? She's got one in Dana Point Harbor. Joe's Crab Shack? Good view, but not my favorite food. Monteray Bay Canners? Ok - why not? View & Fresh seafood.
The restaurant, Monteray Bay Canners is in the middle of the harbor with good parking. There are a decent number of tables with harbor views in the dining room, but even more in the oyster bar. The service was efficient and courteous. Mom enjoyed the Shrimp skewer lunch with pilaf and I enjoyed a lunch special mahi mahi with mango salsa and fresh veggies. The desserts looked deadly, but we were too full to splurge. The food was average - nothing to write home about, but just fine for lunch. $30 for 2.
Monteray Bay Canners, 1325 Harbor Drive North, Oceanside, CA 760-722-3474
Sunday, September 24, 2006
Oceanside Museum of Art Expanding!
The Oceanside Museum of Art is growing. See here for the details:Oceanside breaks ground on museum expansion -North County Times: "When it's completed in about 14 months, the 16,000-square-foot building in the heart of downtown will house two galleries, a conference room and a research library. It will be a considerable upgrade for the museum, which closes its one gallery for about 15 weeks a year to change exhibits."
Thursday, August 17, 2006
Oceanside Muni Golf Course - More Improvements To Come
When I fell in love with Oceanside,CA it was as a beach and boating town, not a golf town. However, as I get to know the city better, it becomes obvious that it has so much more to offer visitor, vacationer, and resident than its enviable location on the California coast. Oceanside has a public golf course that is a bargain to residents and visitors alike. Now it looks like Oceanside has a plan for golf course improvements as well!
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
Surfer King Puts Oceanside on the Map
I've got this weird thing about books and movies: I like to read and watch movies that somehow feature places I know well. Surfer King is a film featuring the great city of Oceanside in a small way. We'll see if it is flattering. Regardless, it is always fun to hear your own town or favorite vacation spot featured in a movie.
The description from filmthreat says this:
"“The Surfer King” is a teen comedy about a seventeen year-old Robbie Zirpollo (Randy Wayne) who was recently uprooted from Oceanside, CA to a small town in Colorado after his father bilked the family’s savings to run off with his secretary in Mexico"
The description from filmthreat says this:
"“The Surfer King” is a teen comedy about a seventeen year-old Robbie Zirpollo (Randy Wayne) who was recently uprooted from Oceanside, CA to a small town in Colorado after his father bilked the family’s savings to run off with his secretary in Mexico"
Monday, August 14, 2006
Grunion Runs
Ever heard of grunion fishing? Check it out at: Time is near to hunt down some grunion -- no, really North County Times - North San Diego and Southwest Riverside County News - NCTimes.com - Californian.com!
Your next chance to view the miracle of these silver fish on the beach is August 23-26. Oceanside is the perfect place to go.
Your next chance to view the miracle of these silver fish on the beach is August 23-26. Oceanside is the perfect place to go.
Vacation crowd control-What you should know!
I read with interest how so many people travel with extended family and friends every year. This seems to be a growing trend, and I know that at North Coast Village in Oceanside we get a lot of family reunions as well as groups of families vacationing together. A recent thread on a vacation rental owners' forum deals specifically with how to deal with the growing trends of both overcrowding in a single rental, and in condo developments, the gatherings of groups traveling together and how to keep it in control.
This article: Vacation crowd control�-�Family Times�-�The Washington Times, America's Newspaper deals well from the vacationer's point of view in the sense of what to look for in compatibilty of people, but as an owner, I'd like to add a list of things to look for in your vacation rental, as well as what owners, developments, and communities expect from larger groups (and in many cases any vacationer) when they get together. Considering all of these things will make your reunion or group vacation go much more smoothly.
Before selecting a vacation rental home, condo, or development:
1. Know for sure how many adults and how many children will be traveling. Include this information up front in inquiries to owners and property managers. If these are family groups - specify. If you are 4 golf buddies - tell them. It matters. Example: We are 4 families traveling together. Our makeup includes:
Family 1: -1 elderly with limited ability to handle stairs
-2 kids ages 7, 9
-2 tired parents
You understand! What this allows the owner or property manager to do is understand your needs better. They can let you know that there is a downstairs bedroom and bath perfect for grandma and that there are boogie boards for the kids. They can also let you know when the place is all wrong. Know sense going to a place full of valuable antiques when you need a high chair and outlet covers!
2. If you will be planning a party or gathering, or cookout, or birthday party at the vacation rental, tell the owner up front. They might know that the septic can't handle it, or be able to arrange the use of the condo complex's party room for you. They may require a larger deposit, but you'll take great care and get it back anyway - right?!
3. If you are renting several units in one complex, let each or property manager know. Ask the first one for other units to suit your needs. Often owners know each other and know the best matched condos. In addition, if you accidentally leave the towels to their place in another unit, they know where to look.
During your stay:
1. NEVER ever sneak in more people than are allowed or are in your contract! Many times cities, homeowners associations, and individual owners have specific limits on occupancy, parking, and such. These are for your well being as well as the community's. If you violate these terms, not only can you be evicted, but you may lose the option of vacation rentals. In many areas (Encinitas, CA and HI included) are trying to ban short term vacation rentals because of overcrowding, noise, trash, and parking problems.
2. Take good care of the rental. This is someone's vacation home or life savings.
3. Be courteous. This is your vacation, but it is also someone's hometown. If you are in a dense area realize that others may be working in the morning. When you meet locals, treet them like your own neighbors. Pick up after yourself.
4. Be honest. If you or your guests break something, fix it and/or tell the owner or property manager about it. Don't hide the wine stained linens in the closet, or pretend that the kitchen chair didn't break. It's the right thing to do, and you will typically be welcomed back because you owned up to the problem.
After your stay:
1. Let the owner or property manager know if anything was in need of repair or attention.
2. Say thank you...
3. Book for next year!
4. Enjoy your memories.
This article: Vacation crowd control�-�Family Times�-�The Washington Times, America's Newspaper deals well from the vacationer's point of view in the sense of what to look for in compatibilty of people, but as an owner, I'd like to add a list of things to look for in your vacation rental, as well as what owners, developments, and communities expect from larger groups (and in many cases any vacationer) when they get together. Considering all of these things will make your reunion or group vacation go much more smoothly.
Before selecting a vacation rental home, condo, or development:
1. Know for sure how many adults and how many children will be traveling. Include this information up front in inquiries to owners and property managers. If these are family groups - specify. If you are 4 golf buddies - tell them. It matters. Example: We are 4 families traveling together. Our makeup includes:
Family 1: -1 elderly with limited ability to handle stairs
-2 kids ages 7, 9
-2 tired parents
You understand! What this allows the owner or property manager to do is understand your needs better. They can let you know that there is a downstairs bedroom and bath perfect for grandma and that there are boogie boards for the kids. They can also let you know when the place is all wrong. Know sense going to a place full of valuable antiques when you need a high chair and outlet covers!
2. If you will be planning a party or gathering, or cookout, or birthday party at the vacation rental, tell the owner up front. They might know that the septic can't handle it, or be able to arrange the use of the condo complex's party room for you. They may require a larger deposit, but you'll take great care and get it back anyway - right?!
3. If you are renting several units in one complex, let each or property manager know. Ask the first one for other units to suit your needs. Often owners know each other and know the best matched condos. In addition, if you accidentally leave the towels to their place in another unit, they know where to look.
During your stay:
1. NEVER ever sneak in more people than are allowed or are in your contract! Many times cities, homeowners associations, and individual owners have specific limits on occupancy, parking, and such. These are for your well being as well as the community's. If you violate these terms, not only can you be evicted, but you may lose the option of vacation rentals. In many areas (Encinitas, CA and HI included) are trying to ban short term vacation rentals because of overcrowding, noise, trash, and parking problems.
2. Take good care of the rental. This is someone's vacation home or life savings.
3. Be courteous. This is your vacation, but it is also someone's hometown. If you are in a dense area realize that others may be working in the morning. When you meet locals, treet them like your own neighbors. Pick up after yourself.
4. Be honest. If you or your guests break something, fix it and/or tell the owner or property manager about it. Don't hide the wine stained linens in the closet, or pretend that the kitchen chair didn't break. It's the right thing to do, and you will typically be welcomed back because you owned up to the problem.
After your stay:
1. Let the owner or property manager know if anything was in need of repair or attention.
2. Say thank you...
3. Book for next year!
4. Enjoy your memories.
Saturday, August 12, 2006
Oceanside Pier Area Hotel Plans Explained
Although the costs to be born by the city of Oceanside are nearly double the original estimate by the builder, Malkin, this great project continues to get the support of the City Council, and major local interest groups. Read here for more information:Oceanside officials explain support for hotel deal - North County Times - Coastal -
I can't say enough how excited I am to see major investment and redevelopment continue in Oceanside. When I first visited Oceanside about 18 months ago when searching for affordable coastal real estate I instantly fell in love - both with what the coastal community was, and what it could become. I live only 30 minutes north, but this place, Oceanside, combines the best of San Clemente (pier), Dana Point (harbor), and Newport Beach (flat/broad sandy beach) all in one. What it has lacked is a focus on tourism. Fortunately, this is about to change. Although Oceanside is great as it is, and the harbor and 101 have plenty of eateries, I know I'm looking forward to the next 5 years when we should see some major positive additions on the coast!
I can't say enough how excited I am to see major investment and redevelopment continue in Oceanside. When I first visited Oceanside about 18 months ago when searching for affordable coastal real estate I instantly fell in love - both with what the coastal community was, and what it could become. I live only 30 minutes north, but this place, Oceanside, combines the best of San Clemente (pier), Dana Point (harbor), and Newport Beach (flat/broad sandy beach) all in one. What it has lacked is a focus on tourism. Fortunately, this is about to change. Although Oceanside is great as it is, and the harbor and 101 have plenty of eateries, I know I'm looking forward to the next 5 years when we should see some major positive additions on the coast!
Thursday, June 29, 2006
Networking for the Best Vacation
It's June 29th; the kids are out of school; the heat wave has hit, and you haven't booked your summer vacation yet...You do some searches for favorite destinations: the beach, the city, local mountains...but it seems like all the best places have been booked for months. Try not to despair, take a deep breath, stretch your fingers, and start inquiring anyway.
Looking for a vacation rental? Inquire about your favorite place even if booked. Ask the owner if they know of anyone who might have availability or if they have had any last minute cancellations. Many vacation rental owners know their neighbors and network with other vacation rental owners. This is true in all three vacation rentals that I own. Any owner worth their salt is happy to help you find a place. Reward them with a future stay or a referral to a friend for another time. Make sure you let the people they hook you up with know who referred you.
Vacation rental not your thing? This article has some good tips for finding hotel availability and for alternatives to the standard summer beach or lake vacation:How to Plan a Last-Minute Summer Vacation. Some of my favorite vacations are those taken to popular places in their "off season" - think the desert in summer and ski area in summer. This is also a good time to look into secondary destinations: smaller cities and lesser know lakes or beaches.
Have fun and share your favorite last minute vacation finds here!
Looking for a vacation rental? Inquire about your favorite place even if booked. Ask the owner if they know of anyone who might have availability or if they have had any last minute cancellations. Many vacation rental owners know their neighbors and network with other vacation rental owners. This is true in all three vacation rentals that I own. Any owner worth their salt is happy to help you find a place. Reward them with a future stay or a referral to a friend for another time. Make sure you let the people they hook you up with know who referred you.
Vacation rental not your thing? This article has some good tips for finding hotel availability and for alternatives to the standard summer beach or lake vacation:How to Plan a Last-Minute Summer Vacation. Some of my favorite vacations are those taken to popular places in their "off season" - think the desert in summer and ski area in summer. This is also a good time to look into secondary destinations: smaller cities and lesser know lakes or beaches.
Have fun and share your favorite last minute vacation finds here!
Monday, June 05, 2006
Mission San Luis Rey hosts lectures, and tours
Oceanside's Mission San Luis Rey de Francia is our own historical gem. This summer it is host to educational lectures, and part of a CA Mission Tour including the Mission San Juan Capistrano. Check out the link here for more information on these events: SignOnSanDiego.com > News > Features -- Are you ready for some words from the wise?: "Trips and tours
Sign up now for the California Mission Tour sponsored by Baja California Tours Inc. June 14. The package includes round-trip coach transportation from San Diego to San Juan Capistrano, docent-guided tours of Mission San Luis Rey de Francia and Mission San Juan Capistrano, plus lunch at Cafe Mozart in San Juan Capistrano. The price is $94 per person; call (858) 454-7166. "
Sign up now for the California Mission Tour sponsored by Baja California Tours Inc. June 14. The package includes round-trip coach transportation from San Diego to San Juan Capistrano, docent-guided tours of Mission San Luis Rey de Francia and Mission San Juan Capistrano, plus lunch at Cafe Mozart in San Juan Capistrano. The price is $94 per person; call (858) 454-7166. "
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
Legoland California - profile of the Legoland California theme park for families
Got kids? Then get yourself to LegoLand in nearby Carlsbad. About.com gives a good guide here:Legoland California - profile of the Legoland California theme park for families and an excellent photo tour of LegoLand as well.
San Diego Harbor Cruise
I used to keep a 26' sailboat in San Diego harbor and a sailboat is still my prefered method of seeing the sights of any harbor. Unfortunately I no longer have a nice sailboat, and cannot offer visitor this type of sightseeing trip, so why not take a more traditional San Diego Harbor Cruise?
The city of San Diego is one of the loveliest and most varied you will ever see in the States. From any cruise you'll see a plethora of sailboats, awe inspiring military vessels, and modern city scenes.
In the winter, sign on for a whale watch and see the magnificent California Grey Whale. If available in the summer, enjoy and evening cruise, and the stunning city lights.
The city of San Diego is one of the loveliest and most varied you will ever see in the States. From any cruise you'll see a plethora of sailboats, awe inspiring military vessels, and modern city scenes.
In the winter, sign on for a whale watch and see the magnificent California Grey Whale. If available in the summer, enjoy and evening cruise, and the stunning city lights.
Riding the San Diego Trolley Step by Step
No trip to Oceanside California would be complete without a trip to San Diego, just 35 minutes south. One of the funnest ways to explore the city is via trolley (after taking the train. This guide: Riding the San Diego Trolley Step by Step is the best I've seen to explain the process. Have fun!
Thursday, May 04, 2006
Sprinter trains headed to North County - North County Times - Coastal -
California is known not only for its beaches, Hollywood, immigration issues, and marvelous climate, but also for its people's love of their cars. People often forget that some of our cities (San Francisco Bay area, and San Diego) actually have some excellent public transit systems. Now San Diego is set to augment its reliable, easy and convenient North/South Coaster routes, with a great North County Sprinter route from Oceanside to Escondido, set to begin operation in late 2007. See the update on the trains here:Sprinter trains headed to North County - North County Times - Coastal -
Saturday, April 01, 2006
Spring in Southern California
I was just conversing online with a fellow vacation rental owner at North Coast Village in Oceanside. I was trying to learn what a "normal" post Easter until June rental season looks like, since I purchsed this place around this time last year. He commented that it can seem particularly slow because people are finishing up spring break, and our infamous "June gloom" (this is the time we have coastal fog many mornings, but often glorious afternoons. It's funny how one man's trash is another's treasure. When it rains and then clears, the southern CA skies are clear for miles. I love foggy mornings, and uncrowded winter beaches, but for those of you who don't: maybe head inland in the morning to enjoy some flowers at these great locations:
Carlsbad Flower Fields - Guide to Carlsbad Flower Fields; Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve north of LA; Anza Borrego State Park.
If flowers aren't your thing, it's a great time to head up to Orange County to Knotts Berry Farm. While Disney Parks seem to be forever crowded, a recent cool and cloudy Saturday resulted in the best time a group of 5 teens and one middle aged mom could ever hope for at Knotts. NO lines, and kids asking to go home at 7 pm because they were so worn out from riding.
Come and enjoy...
Carlsbad Flower Fields - Guide to Carlsbad Flower Fields; Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve north of LA; Anza Borrego State Park.
If flowers aren't your thing, it's a great time to head up to Orange County to Knotts Berry Farm. While Disney Parks seem to be forever crowded, a recent cool and cloudy Saturday resulted in the best time a group of 5 teens and one middle aged mom could ever hope for at Knotts. NO lines, and kids asking to go home at 7 pm because they were so worn out from riding.
Come and enjoy...
Monday, March 27, 2006
Development in Oceanside Near the Pier
In case you haven't heard, Oceanside is a city in transition. My decision to invest in this eclectic city by the sea a year ago is not unique. In fact, I'm just a speck compared to other investments going on. Done well, this investment will me a more vibrant Oceanside for visitors and residents alike. Keep watch on what is happening down at the pier area at: Oceanside residents suggest ideas for downtown North County - NCTimes.com. I'm looking forward to greater entertainment, dining, and shopping options, as well as the publicity that will come to this beloved lesser known coastal gem. Like most though, I hope that Oceanside will be preserved and not spoiled in the process!
Wednesday, March 22, 2006
Visit Legoland California
If you have children in the 2-8 range, no visit to Oceanside or San Diego would be complete without a visit to nearby Legoland. This park is unique and in a world and class of its own. Fun, interesting, and different - try it out! Find discount tickets in your San Diego Entertainment Guide.
The adults will surely enjoy the creations and replicas of famous landmarks made wholly with legos. The kids will love the driving schools, and rides.
The adults will surely enjoy the creations and replicas of famous landmarks made wholly with legos. The kids will love the driving schools, and rides.
Sunday, March 19, 2006
Ford Ironman California
After a warm and dry "winter" here in Oceanside, mother nature finally began to a deliver a little wet stuff here in March. Poor Ironman athletes and spectators! Though for the athletes, I suspect the cool weather is better than hot! Read the article here: Athletes, spectators brave rain and cold for Ironman - North County Times - Coastal - to find out more. If you plan on coming to Oceanside next year to compete in the Ford Ironman, or support your favorite Ironman athlete, book your vacation rental condo early, as this weekend sells out very fast!
Monday, March 13, 2006
Scrapbook in Carlsbad - Stay in Oceanside
I'm fortunate enough to live just a half hour away from my great vacation rental condo in Oceanside; I'm even more fortunate because, with the help of a friend, I've discovered Ever After Scrapbooks just down the road in Carlsbad. I've dabbled in scrapbooking for years and seem to never be able to finish a project. I'm an avid photographer of my family, travel, and life. I'm also very good at doing things for other people, and keeping committments once made. Luckily for me, my friend asked me to accompany her weekly to this great "scrapbook store" near Oceanside on a weekly basis for the last few months.
Ever After has half a dozen tables and great papers and supplies, and welcomes scrappers any time there isn't a class, as well as on Friday nights from 6-midnight. What better way could you ask to spend a day, or better yet what better excuse to get away with a couple of girlfriends to the beach in Oceanside off season?
Ever After has half a dozen tables and great papers and supplies, and welcomes scrappers any time there isn't a class, as well as on Friday nights from 6-midnight. What better way could you ask to spend a day, or better yet what better excuse to get away with a couple of girlfriends to the beach in Oceanside off season?
Friday, March 10, 2006
Welcome to Oceanside California Vacation Information Blog
Welcome to the blog for Oceanside California Vacation Information. This site is operated by Vacation Mamma - a travel fan, a vacation rental owner, southern California resident, a born New Englander, technical marketing consultant, and dedicated mother and wife. This is the place to come to learn about vacationing in Oceanside California specifically, and southern California in general. You are welcome to comment, but must register first with blogger. To avoid blog spam and inappropriate posts, I do approve all posts (not to sensor legitimate comments and tips). I welcome guest authors - contact me at melinda at rentthisplace dot net (replacing at and dot with the characters) who have good information to share about Oceanside and San Diego travel and vacations.
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