Oxnard Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, local culture, and travel tips for your trip to Oxnard, California.


Introduction to Oxnard

Welcome to Oxnard, a city located in the heart of Ventura County in California, United States. Known for its coastal charm, Oxnard boasts a great combination of natural beauty, rich culture, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore cultural attractions, or indulge in delicious food and drink, Oxnard has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Oxnard

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Channel Islands Maritime Museum

Visit the Channel Islands Maritime Museum to discover the rich maritime history of the region. With outstanding exhibitions and galleries, this museum houses some of the finest maritime art, ship models, and other sea-faring memorabilia.

The Murphy Auto Museum

Featuring a collection of restored vintage cars, from Packards to DeLoreans, The Murphy Auto Museum is a must-see for all automobile enthusiasts.

Heritage Square

Located in the historic district of downtown Oxnard, Heritage Square is a collection of restored Victorian homes that offer a glimpse of life in the late 1800s.

Natural Attractions of Oxnard: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Mandalay Beach

The crown jewel of Oxnard’s beaches. Mandalay Beach is a mile-long stretch of soft sand and crystal-clear waters that offers plenty of space for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.

Channel Islands National Park

Located just off the coast of Oxnard, Channel Islands National Park is a haven for nature lovers. With hiking trails, tide pools, and opportunities for kayaking and whale watching, the park is a great place to experience the natural beauty of Southern California.

The Ventura County Beaches

If you’re in the mood for some seaside fun, take a stroll through the Ventura County Beaches. Each of these beaches has its own unique personality and offers a range of activities such as swimming, surfing, and fishing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Oxnard

Oxnard Beach Park Trail

This 1-mile trail is perfect for a short bike ride or walk. It winds through the Oxnard Beach Park and offers breathtaking views of the ocean.

Ormond Beach Loop Trail

The Ormond Beach Loop Trail is a 3.5-mile trail that runs through the Ormond Beach Wetlands. This wildlife refuge is home to several endangered species, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching.

Ventura River Parkway Trail

This 6.3-mile trail runs along the Ventura River and through the Ojai Valley. It’s a great spot for a scenic hike or bike ride.

Best Things to Do in Oxnard: Activities and Tours

Whale Watching Tours

Experience the beauty of the ocean by going on a whale watching tour. There are plenty of companies in Oxnard that offer tours, so it’s easy to find a trip that fits your schedule.

Wine Tasting Tours

Take a trip through the local vineyards to experience the best that Oxnard has to offer in terms of wine. There are several companies that offer wine tasting tours throughout the region.

Horseback Riding

Explore the rolling hills around Oxnard on horseback. There are several companies that offer guided horseback riding tours through the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Oxnard

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Channel Islands Maritime Museum
Day 2 Go on a whale watching tour
Day 3 Explore the beaches of Ventura County
Day 4 Go on a wine tasting tour
Day 5 Hike through the Ventura River Parkway Trail
Day 6 Relax at Mandalay Beach
Day 7 Horseback riding tour through the hills around Oxnard

Food and Drink Scene of Oxnard

Must-Try Dishes

Fish Tacos

Oxnard’s location on the coast means that there’s a lot of fresh seafood available. Fish tacos are a local favorite, and you can find them at many restaurants in the region.

Santa Maria-Style Barbecue

Oxnard is close to the Santa Maria Valley, which is known for its unique style of barbecue. The Santa Maria-style barbecue is characterized by tri-tip steak grilled over red oak wood.

Local Beverages

Ventura Spirits

Ventura Spirits is a craft distillery located in Oxnard, producing small batches of gin, vodka, and other spirits from locally sourced ingredients.

Wine

Oxnard is located near the Santa Barbara wine region, the Sta Rita Hills, and the Ventura wine trail. There are plenty of locally-made wines that you can enjoy throughout the region.

Where to Stay in Oxnard: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Embassy Suites by Hilton Mandalay Beach Resort

Located right on the beach, the Embassy Suites is a top choice among visitors to Oxnard. The hotel features spacious suites and exceptional amenities, including an outdoor pool, tennis courts, and a fitness center.

Hampton Inn Channel Islands Harbor

The Hampton Inn is a great choice for travelers looking for value. This hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms and a range of amenities, including a fitness center and free breakfast.

Oxnard Beach Resort

Located on Mandalay Beach, Oxnard Beach Resort is a luxurious option for travelers who want to enjoy the beach. The hotel features spacious rooms, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant.

What to Buy in Oxnard: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Strawberries

Oxnard is known for its strawberries, which are some of the sweetest and juiciest in the world. You can find fresh strawberries at farmers’ markets throughout the region.

Olives

Oxnard is home to several olive orchards, and you can find a range of locally-made olive oils and gourmet olive products throughout the region.

Local Culture and Customs of Oxnard

Oxnard is a diverse city, with a rich cultural heritage. The city is known for its agricultural heritage and for its contributions to the defense industry during World War II. The Mesoamerican Chumash Native American tribe were the first inhabitants of the area. Today, Oxnard has a vibrant arts and music scene, and you can find live music and cultural festivals throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit Oxnard

The best time to visit Oxnard is between September and November, when the weather is mild, and the crowds have dispersed. Spring and summer are also great times to visit, but expect more crowds and higher prices.

Do’s and Don’ts of Oxnard

Do:

  • Do visit the Channel Islands National Park.
  • Do explore the local beaches and parks.
  • Do try the fresh seafood and local wines.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to apply sunscreen when outdoors, especially during the summer months.
  • Don’t leave valuables in your car.
  • Don’t forget to respect the local culture and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Oxnard

Oxnard is a relatively safe city, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions and stay aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone at night and always lock your car doors.

Health in Oxnard

Oxnard has several hospitals and medical facilities, including the Ventura County Medical Center and the St. John’s Pleasant Valley Hospital. It’s always a good idea to purchase travel insurance before your trip to ensure that you’re covered in case of an emergency.

Getting to Oxnard: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Oxnard

The nearest airport to Oxnard is the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), about an hour and a half away. Other airports in the region include the Burbank Bob Hope Airport and the Santa Barbara Airport.

Bus Stations Near Oxnard

Greyhound buses run to Oxnard from Los Angeles, San Francisco, and many other cities throughout the region. The Oxnard Transportation Center is located in the heart of the city and provides connections to other parts of Ventura County.

Other Options

Car rental companies such as Avis, Budget, and Enterprise have locations in Oxnard. Amtrak trains also stop in Oxnard on their way to San Francisco or San Diego.

How to Get Around in Oxnard

The best way to get around Oxnard is by car. There are also a number of bike rental companies in the region that offer a more eco-friendly way to explore the city.

Where to Go Next from Oxnard: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Santa Barbara

Just 30 miles to the north of Oxnard, Santa Barbara is a popular destination for its beaches, wineries, and historic architecture.

Malibu

Located just south of Oxnard, Malibu is a beach town famous for its surf culture, beautiful beaches, and great shopping.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, or just some relaxation on the beach, Oxnard has something to offer. With its rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture, this coastal city is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Plan your trip today and discover the best of Oxnard.