The Harbor
With its wide sandy stretches, The Harbor is Oceanside's largest beach.
On the south side of Harbor Beach, you’ll find picnic tables and gazebos.
We prefer to head to the far north end of the Harbor where there are public restrooms and a small playground right on the sand.
During peak season there are plenty of lifeguards on duty all throughout the beach.
Parking is paid and the lots fill up quickly, so try to get there as early as possible to grab a spot.
For extra fun:
1) Walk over to the marina side of the Harbor to check out all the sailboats and stop for an ice cream cone at
2) Stand in the middle of the roundabout at the far north end of the Harbor parking lot and clap! 👏 This is called the Clapping Circle - if you clap your hands while standing in the very center, you'll hear a funny squeaking sound instead of a normal clap.
3) Sign up for a surf lesson or summer camp with the Whitlock crew! My boys did the camp every summer and loved it.
Tyson Street
Located on the Strand, Tyson Street is another great pick for a beach day with kids.
On one side of the Strand you'll find a sandy beach, and on the other side of the Strand you'll find a grassy area with a little playground perfect for young kiddos.
During the summer months, there is a lifeguard on duty right there at Tower 5.
There is metered parking all along Pacific Street, with a staircase for Tyson Street access. If you don't feel like driving - it's an easy 1 mile walk from the Oside Abode.
For extra fun:
Take a short walk on the strand towards the pier, you will come across all sorts of sweet treats! There are vendors selling ice cream, funnel cake, and fresh squeezed lemonade.
The Pier
Our third favorite beach spot with kids is the area just north of the pier. Here you'll find all of the action! Surfing, sand, fishing, bike rentals, food vendors, and more.
There are restrooms nearby and tons of lifeguard coverage. You will also find pay parking lots, as well as metered street parking.
For extra fun:
1) Walk the pier and get a great bird's-eye view of all the surfers.
2) Head up to Pacific Street and get a hand pie from the old Top Gun house.