Oxnard is a city incorporated in 1903. It is the county seat of Ventura County, California, United States.
Oxnard is the 22nd largest city in California and Ventura County’s most populated city, having a population of over 200,000. Oxnard can be found exactly 60 miles from the western part of downtown Los Angeles.
Oxnard is a breathtaking city beside the sea. It stands out because of its spotless white beaches and natural beauty.
There are many exciting things and places to explore in Oxnard, such as Oxnard State Beach and Park, Mandalay State Beach, Channel Islands Harbor, Lazy Dog Restaurant and Bar, Herzog Wine Cellars, and more.
Here are the best and fun things to do in Oxnard, CA.
Things to Do in Oxnard
1. Channel Islands Whale Watching
Channel Islands Whale Watching is one of the best places to visit in Oxnard, CA, for families or individuals who would like to watch and admire the native southern Californian fauna and flora more closely.
Channel Islands Whale Watching provides a front-line seat for visitors, offering them fishing expeditions where they get to test their fishing skills.
Visitors can also opt for a whale-watching expedition with the expectation of sighting some of the most spectacular creatures.
They also offer Seafari excursions, exploring the waters and searching for famous sea life unique to the area, including dolphins and sea lions.
Channel Islands Whale Watching offers educational programs and field trips for young lads and schools.
Address: 4151 South Victoria Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93035, United States
2. Silver Strand Beach
Silver Strand Beach
How about spending one of those hot summer days at Silver Strand Beach?
Silver Strand Beach is known as the most outstanding surfing beach in the city; it is nestled between port Hueneme and the Channel Islands Harbor.
It is a sandy beach that stretches for just one mile with showers and restrooms with lifeguards roaming around during the summer.
At the northern edge, there is a charming viewing forum at the passageway to the Channel Islands Harbor.
Visitors use the platform to watch the native marine life, which includes harbor seals and dolphins.
This Beach is one of the few in the community where pets are allowed. It is a perfect place for swimming, fishing, and snorkeling, which are fun things to do in Oxnard, CA.
Address: Oxnard, CA 93035, United States
3. Channel Islands Harbor
Channel Islands Harbor
Channel Islands Harbor is your surest bet if you’re looking for a perfect escape to the beautiful Channel Islands.
Channel Islands Harbor is a functioning harbor of fifty years with scenic sandy parks for various outdoor activities like swimming and picnicking with a chain of trails for hiking and biking.
You’re offered a wide variety of fantastic restaurants to pick from whenever you’re hungry, plus the Channel Islands Maritime Museum, which showcases intriguing exhibits.
Channel Islands Maritime Museum features a broad collection of ships with other captivating maritime art.
When you get to the Harbor, you can request a boat charter, rent equipment for diving or a boat, or embark on a whale-watching excursion.
Channel Islands Harbor hosts the Channel Islands Tall Ship Festival every three years, drawing numerous ship and marine lovers from different parts of the country.
Address: Oxnard, CA 93035, United States
4. Mandalay State Beach
Mandalay State Beach
One of the best things to do in Oxnard, CA, especially if this is your first time in the city, is to visit Mandalay State Beach; it is a must-visit for every tourist.
Mandalay State Beach offers the feel and the atmosphere of what California beaches were like centuries ago.
The Beach provides a romantically natural and wild environment, making it stand out from other beaches.
The Beach is next to Mandalay County Park, home to wetlands, dunes plants, fragile dunes, and wildlife of California.
Mandalay State Beach is regularly inhabited by the snowy plover and Least Tern, two endangered bird species.
It is a popular destination for surfers who prefer to begin at Mandalay, including those who seek a simple hike to Oxnard Beach Park.
Address: Oxnard, CA 93035, United States
5. Channel Islands Maritime Museum
Channel Islands Maritime Museum
The Channel Islands Maritime Museum is an attraction for the whole family in Oxnard, including the young and old.
The Museum showcases painting education programs, ship models, and an extensive collection of temporary exhibits.
There are educational tours and field trips for the young lads, with exhibitions showcased all year round for various kinds of visitors.
Channel Islands Maritime Museum features exhibits emphasizing maritime art, including the painters and model ship constructors.
There is a collection of maritime artworks dating back to three centuries ago that is ideal for those who love historical art.
Channel Islands Maritime Museum organizes several events, including musical events, diners, food competitions, etc.
Address: 3900 S Harbor Blvd, Oxnard, CA 93035, United States
6. Marine Emporium Landing
Marine Emporium Landing
Are you wondering what to do in Oxnard, CA? Marine Emporium Landing offers a plethora of exciting marine expeditions.
Marine Emporium Landing offers visitors an unforgettable experience as they explore the Channel Islands Harbor area.
Those who don’t want to explore the waters directly can watch and admire the beautiful sunsets at one of the several nearby restaurants and bars.
If you’re seeking more adventure, you can take a boat tour to watch the native sea life, such as whales, dolphins, and sea lions.
Visitors can book a boat charter and roam around the marina or unwind as they’re taken on a guided tour.
Address: 3600 So. Harbor Blvd, Oxnard, CA 93935, United States.
7. Oxnard Historic Farm Park
Oxnard Historic Farm Park preserves and promotes the oldest structures in the county, providing a space where visitors and locals can visit and learn about the area’s history.
The Park is located on the productive Oxnard plain, cultivated by different migrants from Mexico, Germany, and Spain.
Now, the museum is located in the major building, which was fully restored to its past 1870s beauty with other attractions within the area.
There are different ancient farm implements in the two vineyards from the 1870s, display barn, exhibition gardens, and fruit orchards.
Address: 1251 Gottfried Place, Oxnard, CA 93030, United States
8. Urbane Cafe
focaccia
Breakfast, they say, is the most important meal of the day, so whenever you want to have your breakfast make sure it’s healthy and hearty.
Urbane Cafe is one place in Oxnard that guarantees you a healthy or hearty meal and a delicious one.
They prepare fresh dough onsite daily with garlic, sea salt, and olive oil and then get it baked in an open-fire oven right in your presence.
Urbane Cafe does these using an old Roman recipe stuffing the bread with veggies, chicken, beef, or turkey depending on what you want.
Their new invention is focaccia made with mozzarella cheese, julienned carrots, apples, arugula, beets, and chutney aioli.
The staff is friendly and helpful when attending to visitors, attentively taking and serving the orders made by the guests.
Address: 1750 E Gonzales Rd, Oxnard, CA 93036, United States.
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9. Heritage Square
Heritage Square
Heritage Square can be inarguably referred to as the hub of history. It is located in the downtown District of Oxnard.
The area is a collection of fully renovated historic buildings with guided tours featuring well-dressed tour guides ready to lead the tours.
The “Square” is an excellent place to begin your exploration in Oxnard. The region features more than 25 businesses, including a visitors center, restaurants, gift shops, and wine tastings.
You can have afternoon tea at the Rose Garden, while Heritage Square can also be used as a wedding venue.
Heritage Square hosts open-air events throughout the year, including other events like cooking lessons.
Address: 715 S A Street, Oxnard, CA 93030-7178, United States
10. Mullin Automotive Museum
Mullin Automotive Museum
If you’re a lover of automobiles, add a visit to Mullin Automotive Museum to your list of top things to do in Oxnard, CA.
Mullin Automotive Museum was founded by Peter W. Million and has become a popular place for those who appreciate classic cars from the early 20th century.
The Museum offers tours led by highly knowledgeable staff with temporary and permanent exhibitions related to exhibit design and craftsmanship.
As an automotive museum, Mullin Automotive Museum focuses on the history and background of these cars.
Visitors also get to view sculptures, timeless photographs, and artwork to complement the amazing experience.
Mullin Automotive Museum features a store offering books, clothes, and other memorabilia like posters and car themes.
Address: 1421 Emerson Ave, Oxnard, CA 93033, United States
11. Herzog Wine Cellars
Herzog Wine Cellars has been in business for almost six centuries. It offers an intriguing peek into the winemaking history.
Here, visitors are offered a detailed tasting tour where they watch how their favorite wines are produced and learn about the Herzog Wine Cellars’ heritage.
Visitors can also dine at the winery’s restaurant and stop by the wine shop, which offers its wines for purchase.
Herzog Wine Cellars has hosted several entertaining and educational events throughout the years, along with local businesses.
Address: 3201 Camino Del Sol, Oxnard, CA 93030, United States
12. The Collection at Riverpark
Collection at Riverpark
The Collection at Riverpark offers patrons various shopping options through their anchor occupants, including supermarkets, small-scale businesses, and boutiques.
After shopping for nice and unique merchandise from the various vendors, you can stop by any of the restaurants and cafes.
They offer you a variety of dining options, including ice cream parlors and sandwich stores, plus upscale eateries offering delectable cuisines.
For more relaxation and beautification, visit one of the lifestyle outlets, such as fitness studios and beauty salons.
The Collection at Riverpark features a theatre where movie lovers can catch one of their favorite blockbuster movies.
Address: 2751 Park View Ct #261, Oxnard, CA 93036, United States
13. Lazy Dog Restaurant and Bar
Lazy Dog Restaurant and Bar
Lazy Dog Restaurant and Bar offers a relaxing mountain lodge with a rustic feeling featuring a fire pit, open beams, dog sculptures, and cozy chairs.
The atmosphere in the restaurant is always full of life, with several large TV screens and bright-colored bottles also contributing to this.
Their menu is named “Global comfort fare,” implying that it features every kind of meal catering to the needs of all diners.
You can stop by the restaurant for a delicious meal with or without your friends and family and have an incredible experience.
They offer Chocolate Brownie Sundaes, Brussels Sprouts, Breakfast Burritos, Bananas Foster French Toast, Country Chickens & Biscuits, TV Dinner Chicken Parmesan, Grilled Lemon Chicken Meal, and more.
Address: 598 Town Center Dr, Oxnard, CA 93036, United States
14. Oxnard Performing Arts Center
If you’re seeking a fantastic adventure, your list of what to do in Oxnard, CA, wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Oxnard Performing Arts Center.
The Oxnard Performing Arts Center is a theater focused on trade shows, informal or formal seminars, business meetings, and other events.
Aside from the fully functioning theatre room, you will find eight meeting spaces in the center, which can contain about four thousand viewers.
This performing center is perfect for several corporate events, with charming and beautiful patio spaces that serve as venues for parties, weddings, banquets, receptions, etc.
The Oxnard Performing Arts Center hosts an assortment of events like musical recitals, games nights, performing arts exhibits, and concerts.
Address: 800 Hobson Way, Oxnard, CA 93030, United States
15. La Dolce Vita 1901 Speakeasy
La Dolce Vita 1901 Speakeasy
Are you hungry? One of the best places to visit in Oxnard, CA, is La Dolce Vita 1901 Speakeasy, a favorite meeting place for many locals and visitors.
La Dolce Vita 1901 Speakeasy offers an impressive selection of cocktails in a comfortable and soothing environment. These cocktails are made onsite with freshly pressed juices, in-house liquor, and house syrup.
You can enjoy different delicacies as you enjoy a delicious handcrafted cocktail; there is definitely something for you.
La Dolce Vita 1901 Speakeasy offers you a more proper meal through the extensive menu if you book a table in the upstairs section of the restaurant.
They serve Tiramisu, Gnocchi, Caprese Salad, Linguine Bolognese Pasta, Pasta with Pistachios, Fritto Misto, Baked Salmon, Chicken Parmesan, Baby Greens Salad, Fried Calamari, and more.
Try some of their drinks, such as Gin Rickey, Pre-Prohibition Old Fashioned, French, Sazerac, Manhattan, housemade sangria, sparkling wines, and more.
Address: 740 South B Street, Oxnard, CA 93030, United States
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16. Elite Theatre
Elite Theatre
When you talk about premium live theatre presentations in Oxnard, you have to talk about Elite Theatre, which has been serving the people since its inception in 1964.
Elite Theatre is housed at the ancient Maritime Museum, bringing upcoming and experienced local artists together for the public’s entertainment.
The Theater offers free tickets to qualified members of the community in a bid to share the joy of live entertainment with the people.
The company produces up to five major stage productions in an average season, including youth productions, play readings, open mic nights, and more.
Address: 2731 S. Victoria Ave, Oxnard, CA 93035, United States
17. The Carnegie Art Museum
Carnegie Art Museum
Aside from being California’s first Carnegie Library, the Carnegie Art Museum is the first structure listed in the National Register of Historic Places in Ventura County.
The brain behind the Neoclassical architectural design of the structure is Mr. Franklin P. Burnham. Oxnard City now owns it.
Unfortunately, the Carnegie Art Museum has been shut down due to the city’s finances; you can admire the building from a distance.
Address: 424 S C St, Oxnard, CA 93030, United States
18. Magnavino Cellars
If you’re one of those who know their wines, visit Magnavino Cellars in Oxnard.
Magnavino Cellars enlightens the visitors about everything relating to wines in its working winery.
The winery produces its collection of award-winning drinks following every process, starting from cultivating, harvesting, fermenting, and bottling.
Visitors can watch first-hand how the various wines are produced and sample the wines in the tasting room.
Magnavino Cellars offers tastings and tours, including hosting occasional music and food events in partnership with local musicians and businesses.
There is a wine club, especially for wine lovers, including a wine shop where guests can purchase various signature productions.
Address: 961 North Rice Street, Suite 5, Oxnard, CA 93030, United States
19. The Murphy Auto Museum
Murphy Auto Museum
If you’re interested in learning about the history of automobiles from one hundred years ago, visit the Murphy Auto Museum.
The Murphy Auto Museum houses over sixty nicely refurbished classic cars with a permanent collection of automobiles.
You will find a functioning model railway extending more than 1,800 square feet. It is open during weekends as visitors get to see the railway working.
The Museum manages exhibitions, including old car shows through temporary exhibitions and local clubs, concentrating on famous industry figures.
The Murphy Auto Museum features exhibits like photographs, biographies, and memorabilia for guests to browse through.
The Museum is committed to preserving and restoring vintage automobiles with an onsite mechanic available.
Address: 1930 Eastman Avenue, Oxnard, California 93030, United States
20. Rancho Ventavo Cellars
The Production of wine at Rancho Ventavo Cellars is more than just mixing and fermenting; it is seen as an art.
Rancho Ventavo Cellars is owned and operated by individuals who have a strong passion for wines and have always wanted to learn the art of producing them.
It began as a home-based business before growing greatly and was moved to Ventavo Ranch. Although the winery is not open to the public, there is a tasting room for everyone.
You will find the winery at Heritage Square in an ancient building known as the Scarlet House, which dates back to 1902.
Rancho Ventavo Cellars features a wine shop where visitors can purchase any of their wine production with a wine club for those who want to learn everything relating to wines.
Address: 741 South A Street, Oxnard, CA 93030, United States
21. Levity Live
Levity Live
Levity Live is a place that offers you nearly everything you need to have an exciting day filled with joy and laughter. A visit to Levity Live ought to be on your list of fun things to do in Oxnard, CA.
Levity Live with the Copper Blues Rock Pub and kitchen originally opened its doors to the public in 2016.
Ever since its inception, it has proclaimed itself as one of the most frequented comedy clubs in the area, combining comedy with music presentation all under one roof.
The center offers visitors delightful food and drinks, which are some major highlights attracting nightlife lovers to the place.
Levity Live is located not too far from Hollywood, attracting numerous favorite comedians to keep the air in the building alive.
They serve a variety of entrees and snacks, including pizzas, tacos, sandwiches, burgers, and more.
Address: 591 Collection Blvd, Oxnard, CA 93036, United States
22. River Ridge Golf Club
How about swinging your club in a scenic natural setting? Book a golfing session at River Ridge Golf Club.
River Ridge Golf Club is a 36-hole golf course that has since become a favorite place for many golf players.
Golf players are offered two perfectly designed 18-hole golf courses, the Victoria Lakes Course and the links-style Vineyard Course.
These golf courses wind through a space of at least eight acres, with water features offering great glamour and challenging attributes to each golf session.
River Ridge Golf Club is perfect for golf players of different skill levels offering four various tee sets to cater to all golfers.
Address: 2401 W. Vineyard Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93036, United States
23. The Blue Ocean
Are you a fan of exploring the waters? If yes, the Blue Ocean is an excellent choice for you as you embark on a water adventure.
The Blue Ocean features numerous agencies offering kayaking services that allow you to see natural caves, especially when you hire an open-air kayak.
You might also get the chance to see whales and dolphins if you’re lucky, but make sure you choose an agency with knowledgeable guides.
Address: Oxnard, CA 93035, United States
24. Oxnard State Beach and Park
Oxnard State Beach and Park
Oxnard State Beach is one of the gorgeous large beaches in the area, characterized by soft, white sand with glistening waters.
The Beach is a beautiful sight to behold, and even better when the wildflowers in the surrounding dunes are blooming.
Several trees within the area offer you the chance to experience the true definition of California.
The Beach is a component of the Oxnard State Park, featuring barbecue grills, picnic tables, paved trails, and lawns.
Oxnard State Beach and Park feature a playground for kids with sculptures of huge turtles and sea monsters, including rock climbing, baby swings, seahorse bouncy, seesaws, and more.
Address: Oxnard, CA 93035, United States
25. Hook Burger
The number one burger joint in Oxnard is Hook Burger, which captivates everyone through its burgers.
Hook Burger interiors are nicely designed with an emphasis on the environment, hardwood recycled ceilings & floors, exposed beams, and more.
They use only USDA-approved beef sliced from naturally grown cows with no antibiotics or growth drugs. The Babe farms close by supply the meat, while the local bakery offers fresh buns.
The burgers are the spotlights of everything; they are charitably sized, tasty and juicy, including the veggie and turkey burgers.
You can build your burger with bourbon onions, salads, pineapple, cheese, or anything you like; it will definitely come out delicious.
Address: 1811 Rose Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93030, United States
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Plan Your Trip to Oxnard
Oxnard is worth the effort, time, and money despite being one of the developing coastal cities in California.
You will be blown away by all it has in store ranging from the standard theatres, growing hip-hop arenas, museums, water exploration, and others.
Due to its electrifying nightlife scene, nightlife lovers would definitely like it here. In addition, its Victorian-era architectural designs will be captivating for emerging and professional architects and photographers.
Don’t hesitate to make it your next getaway destination.