On the Oceanfront: Tacos, dolphins, and more in Oxnard

By Nicole Leonetti

Oxnard, one of California’s most unexpectedly diverse coastal cities, could be characterized as a beach town, or an agricultural powerhouse, or an idyllic suburb. Here rich farmland meets wide sandy beaches, and strawberry fields sit minutes from scenic harbors and surf breaks.

Beyond geography, Oxnard’s layered history stretches back thousands of years, when the region’s coastline and the nearby Channel Islands formed part of the homeland of the Chumash people. Many centuries later during the Mission era, the fertile Oxnard Plain became an important agricultural and grazing area for Mission San Buenaventura.

Modern Oxnard began to take shape in 1897, when Henry T. Oxnard and his brothers built a massive $2 million sugar beet factory that transformed the area into a booming company town. Oxnard officially incorporated in 1903 when, as legend has it, the founders hoped to name the settlement Zachari, the Greek word for sugar. After running into bureaucratic delays, Henry Oxnard simply named the town after himself.

Although the sugar factory closed in the 1950s, the city continued to evolve into a hub for agriculture, manufacturing, and aerospace. Today, Oxnard remains famous for its year-round growing season and enormous strawberry harvests, while its beaches, dunes, wetlands, and near-perfect weather make it an easy place to love.

With so much natural beauty and history packed into one destination, I couldn’t wait to start exploring.

 

Eat

I love to get a feel for a city by eating my way through it.

I headed to Channel Islands Harbor to Mrs. Olson’s, a local institution that has been serving hearty breakfast and lunch favorites since 1974. Be sure to choose the outdoor patio, where you can enjoy views of boats gliding through the harbor while you dine. My personal favorite, the Breakfast Burrito, came stuffed with scrambled eggs and chorizo and topped with house-made tomatillo sauce, jack cheese, sour cream, and green onions.

Another excellent breakfast option, Hollywood Beach Cafe, sits just steps from the sand. This popular neighborhood spot draws a crowd on weekends, so I suggest arriving early. The indoor/outdoor seating creates the perfect beachy atmosphere, and the Beach Mimosa (basically a double mimosa) really kickstarts the day. I paired mine with the Breakfast Tacos filled with scrambled eggs, chorizo, red bell peppers, and shredded cheese.

For a caffeine jolt, stop at Honey Cup Coffee House & Creamery at the Channel Islands Harbor. This charming café embraces a honeybee theme throughout and features an impressive drink menu. Creative options include a Hot Honey Lavender Latte, Coconut Hazelnut Latte, and even cereal-inspired lattes. Beyond coffee, you will find gelato, smoothies, milkshakes, and an enticing pastry case filled with croissants, scones, babka, cookies, and specialty treats like a Dubai Chocolate Croissant. Honey Cup offers a perfect place to relax while waiting for an Island Packers excursion (more on that later).

For another unique coffee house experience, visit Heritage Coffee & Gifts, tucked inside a historic 1911 Craftsman farmhouse in Heritage Square. The family-run café sits within a peaceful garden setting and doubles as a gift shop featuring locally made souvenirs and artisan goods. I enjoyed a warming Turmeric Latte, but they also serve Mexican Hot Chocolate, Matcha Lattes, and traditional coffee drinks.

When lunchtime hits, check out Topper’s Pizza Place. Founded in Ventura County more than two decades ago, Topper’s has become a local favorite, especially popular for families and large groups. Their harborside location offers beautiful waterfront views. My choice, the aptly named Meatinator, came piled high with Canadian bacon, salami, pepperoni, sausage, and bacon. Get the Nashville Hot chicken wings flavor if you can handle a little heat.

For a leisurely harbor front meal, Waterside Restaurant & Wine Bar provides indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the water and is especially gorgeous around sunset. Highlights included the flavorful Dippin’ Trio featuring pepper dip, eggplant dip, and tzatziki, the juicy Wagyu Burger, and the slow-braised short ribs served over mashed potatoes.

Ox & Ocean, another standout option located at the Zachari Dunes resort, serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and one of the area’s best happy hours. The menu highlights fresh California flavors with dishes such as the Mission Burrito and Chilaquiles at breakfast; Lobster Roll, Grain Bowl, and BBQ Tri-Tip Sandwich for lunch; and Short Rib Bao Buns, Tuna and Salmon Tartare, and Mushroom Risotto for dinner. The extensive California-focused wine list pairs well for an excellent evening meal.

Wine lovers should also make time for Tierra Sur at Herzog Wine Cellars. This acclaimed restaurant showcases kosher New American cuisine with a farm-to-table approach, sourcing many ingredients from local growers. Signature dishes include Saffron Risotto, premium steaks, and decadent desserts like Hazelnut Chocolate Gâteau.

Now onto my absolute favorite part of visiting Oxnard: exploring the city’s Taco Trail! The self-guided trail highlights dozens of family-owned taquerias, taco trucks, and restaurants. From birria and carnitas to fish tacos, barbacoa, and vampiro tacos, the variety astonished me. I visited three spots before tapping out, but felt like I had barely scratched the surface.

House of Tacos impressed me with its signature Oxnard Taco, featuring grilled meat, Anaheim chili, melted cheese, and fresh pico de gallo on a made-to-order blue corn tortilla. I paired the taco with a refreshing cucumber lemonade agua fresca. At Carnitas El Rey, their beautiful, tender pork stars in tacos, burritos, and family-style platters alongside rice, beans, and house-made salsa. On weekends, get the menudo, a traditional Mexican soup made with beef tripe and hominy in a rich, red chili-pepper broth. Meanwhile, Birria Mi Rancho takes the traditional slow-cooked Mexican beef stew and transforms it into everything from quesabirrias and birria nachos to birria ramen, burritos, and even pizza-inspired creations.

 

Drink

I love to blaze a wine trail everywhere I travel, and I relished the variety and quality of Oxnard’s wine scene.

We started at Herzog Wine Cellars. The Herzog family’s winemaking heritage dates to 1840 in Europe, and its California chapter began in 1985. Today it is the largest fully kosher winery in the United States. It remains family-owned and is operated by the eighth generation of the Herzog family. I especially loved their Dignitary Pinot Noir from Sonoma. The tasting room features a beautiful bar where guests can pair wine with dishes such as Ahi Tuna Poke, a Ribeye Smashburger, and Sweet Potato Fries.

Next, I headed to Strey Cellars. Helmed by husband-and-wife team Scott and Katie Ballew, Strey celebrated its 12th anniversary this year and aims to “stray from the norm” in winemaking. While Strey also operates a tasting room in Camarillo, its wine production all takes place in Oxnard, and this is where you will find its flagship tasting room. The winery features a beautiful barrel room complete with twinkling lights and a stage, which hosts live music on Saturday evenings and Sunday afternoons. My favorite of the Strey offerings is the Slanted 5.0, a rich blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Tannat, Zinfandel, and Syrah, sourced from premier vineyards throughout California.

Just down the street, Magnavino Cellars concentrates on crafting bold, expressive wines. Guests can enjoy a tasting alongside pizzas and other food offerings, and the winery regularly hosts events ranging from live band karaoke to dueling pianos. Beer lovers will love Public Realm Brewing Company, connected to Magnavino Cellars through their back door. In addition to Public Realm’s own beers, the tap list includes guest pours from other local breweries. They also create collaboration beers and offer a fun build-your-own seltzer experience, allowing guests to customize flavors to suit their tastes.

Speaking of beer, we had a fantastic time at Red Tandem Brewery. Located near the beach, this microbrewery features eight taps, including the award-winning Double C-Hag Double IPA, a first-place winner in its category. They brew all the beers on-site, and tours are available upon request.  I enjoyed a refreshing Mexican Lager while playing a game of chess with my husband. While I lost miserably, the beer and complimentary pretzels softened 
the blow.

 

Shop

Visiting a local farmers’ market provides a pleasant way to experience any new destination, but especially an agricultural mecca like Oxnard. The Channel Islands Farmers Market takes place every Sunday at Channel Islands Harbor. Find more than 30 local farmers as well as food vendors and artisans. During my visit, I spotted local honey, street corn, tacos, tamales, succulents, candles, spices, and more. Add some live music and plenty of free samples, and you can easily spend an entire morning wandering the stalls.

Oxnard’s abundant agriculture flourishes throughout the region, and roadside farm stands help to enhance the experience. One of my favorites is Lil’ Red Barn Produce, a charming red barn stocked with seasonal fruits, vegetables, and flowers seven days a week. Their strawberries, some of the sweetest I’ve ever tasted, and fresh cherries give you reason enough to stop by during the summer months.

If you’re looking for something beyond food, make your way to Bougie Beach Co. I discovered this delightful boutique while waiting for a table at Hollywood Beach Cafe and adored its curated collection of coastal-inspired goods. The shop features products from primarily female-led brands, with items either made in the USA or ethically sourced. You will find clothing, jewelry, candles, greeting cards, children’s books and gifts, and plenty of beachy items that make perfect souvenirs.

For a completely different shopping experience, check out The Mystery Shop. Much more than a comic book store, the shop sells collectibles, gaming merchandise, comics, vinyl records, and pop culture memorabilia. While gamers and collectors will feel right at home, I found my own treasure in the record section, leaving with two Frank Sinatra albums. The store also hosts trading card tournaments, video game nights, workshops, live music, and other community events, making it a hub for local enthusiasts.

I always seek out a metaphysical shop whenever I explore a new city, and Botanica Oxnard did not disappoint. The store carries a wide selection of crystals, candles, incense, herbs, oils, teas, and wellness products, along with offering tarot card and palm readings. And yes… they even offer love spells, should you find yourself in the market for a bit of romance.

 

Play

Channel Islands Harbor serves as a gateway to boating adventures, whale-watching excursions, kayaking, paddleboarding, sportfishing charters, and cruises to the nearby Channel Islands. Visitors can stroll the marina, dine 
at waterfront restaurants, browse local shops, and enjoy
year-round events while taking in views of sailboats and 
the Pacific Ocean.

Get out on the water during your visit to Oxnard with Island Packers, a family-owned company that has been connecting visitors to one of California’s most extraordinary natural treasures for decades. Their excursions range from whale watching and birding trips to transportation and cruises within Channel Islands National Park. Often called “North America’s Galápagos,” the park protects five rugged islands and the surrounding marine environment, home to unique wildlife, dramatic sea cliffs, sea caves, pristine beaches, and miles of uncrowded hiking trails.

We opted for a non-landing shoreline cruise around Anacapa Island, and it was one of the highlights of our trip. During the 3.5-hour excursion, we encountered two massive pods of dolphins, more than I have ever seen in my life. The dolphins raced alongside our boat, jumped through the air, and seemed to revel in our encounter as much as we did. We also spotted sea lions and countless seabirds

before taking in stunning views of Anacapa’s lighthouse and the island’s iconic 40-foot 
Arch Rock. Back on shore, the Channel Islands Maritime Museum offers another way to connect with the region’s maritime heritage. Knowledgeable docents guide visitors through exhibits covering Civil War naval history, whales, clipper ships, shipwrecks, Chumash culture, and maritime art. The museum also hosts special events throughout the year, including its popular annual Chowderfest, taking place this year on Sept. 9.

Beach lovers are spoiled for options in Oxnard. Hollywood Beach is a peaceful mile-long stretch of coastline known for wide sandy shores, a calm atmosphere, and excellent swimming. Nearby, locals love Silver Strand Beach for surfing, kayaking, fishing, and beachcombing; wildlife enthusiasts often spot dolphins and sea lions offshore. Visitors can also explore the nearby La Jenelle shipwreck.

Just around the corner from Silver Strand, Kiddie Beach is a

favorite for families with young children. Protected from ocean waves by the harbor, the small sandy beach offers calm, shallow water ideal for little swimmers. The dog-friendly beach features seasonal lifeguards, restrooms, showers, and free parking, making it a convenient and relaxing spot for families spending the day by the water.

For those seeking a more natural coastal experience, Mandalay Beach offers expansive dunes, protected wetlands, and excellent birdwatching. Adjacent Neptune Square Park provides easy beach access and beautiful views toward the Channel Islands, making it a wonderful place for a stroll or an evening picnic by the sea.

The Collection RiverPark is an outdoor lifestyle center chock full of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. Check out Levity Live Comedy Club for amazing performances from today’s top comedians. Spend an evening at Bowlero, where you can enjoy its giant arcade, impressive menu of upscale food and beverage offerings, or bowl a 65 like I’ve been known to do (85 on a good night!). I’ve recently learned the art of axe throwing, so The Mighty Axe is always a fun stop. If you aren’t an axe-throwing enthusiast, you can still enjoy locally crafted ales, craft sodas, and food from Oxnard favorite PizzaMan Dan’s.

For a glimpse into Oxnard’s agricultural roots, visit Oxnard Historic Farm Park. The park preserves some of the region’s oldest surviving agricultural structures, including an 1869 Brick Residence and Winery and an 1870s farmhouse. History enthusiasts should also make time for Heritage Square, the heart of Oxnard’s historic district. Eleven beautifully restored Victorian-era homes, along with a church, water tower, pump house, and storehouse, were relocated and preserved here to showcase the city’s architectural heritage. Today, the district houses shops, restaurants, offices, and hosts community events like concerts, salsa nights, and fundraising dinners. The oldest home dates to 1877, while the newest was built in 1912. My personal favorite was the Petit House, built in 1896 and every bit the Victorian dream home.

Just a short walk away, Oxnard’s Historic District surrounds Plaza Park, with the city’s iconic Pagoda standing at the center. Originally built in 1910 and redesigned in 1911 as a bandstand, the octagonal structure remains a beloved downtown landmark as one of California’s few remaining historic band pavilions.

 

Stay

Oxnard provides plenty of great places to stay, whether you’re looking for a beachfront resort, a convenient harbor hotel, or a full beach house rental.

One of the standout options, Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach, lies directly on the sand. A Hilton property, this all-suite, pet-friendly resort has beautiful oceanfront rooms and a laid-back coastal atmosphere that immediately puts you in vacation mode. The resort does a great job blending luxury and fun, with amenities like Ox & Ocean restaurant, Sugar Beats (an Airstream serving brews and casual bites) and Henry’s Sundries & Gear Rental, where guests can borrow surfboards, paddleboards, binoculars, yoga mats, and other beach essentials. Also at the resort, Float Spa offers massages and body treatments, and the Cabana Cove pool area has private cabanas available to rent for a more elevated poolside experience. Check the calendar for a variety of special events, classes, and activities for the kids.

Another excellent option, Hampton Inn Channel Islands Harbor, provides spacious rooms overlooking the marina. Guests can enjoy a relaxing outdoor pool, complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and pet-friendly accommodations. Its location also makes it easy to explore the harbor, beaches, and nearby restaurants.

For travelers looking for something new, TownePlace Suites by Marriott opened in 2025 in Oxnard’s RiverPark neighborhood. The hotel affords convenient access to shopping, dining, and entertainment at The Collection, making it a great home base for visitors who want to balance beach time with city amenities.

When traveling with family or a group of friends, renting a beach house can be one of the best ways to experience Oxnard. Companies like StayattheSea.com (RE/MAX) furnish vacation rentals just steps from the sand, giving visitors the chance to fully embrace the relaxed beach lifestyle. Compared to many other California coastal destinations, Oxnard beach rentals can also offer surprisingly good value.

Oxnard has a way of surprising you, with its equal parts beach town, agricultural hub, and laid-back coastal community. I’ll gladly keep coming back for weekend escapes filled with beach walks, harbor sunsets, fresh strawberries, and as many tacos as possible. And who knows, maybe by my next visit I’ll finally befriend someone who owns a boat!