Ultimate Oxnard, California Travel Guide: Top Stays, Eats, and Channel Islands Adventures
Planning a trip to Oxnard, California? This coastal gem offers pristine beaches, fresh strawberries, and easy access to Channel Islands National Park. Get expert tips on where to stay, eat, and explore based on our firsthand experience.
Searching for accommodations near Santa Barbara, we discovered Oxnard—far from the overdeveloped suburb we imagined. Nestled on Southern California’s coast, just minutes from Channel Islands National Park (dubbed “the Galápagos of North America”), Oxnard is California’s 19th most populous city yet feels refreshingly spacious.
In the 1970s and 1980s, grassroots efforts preserved vast open lands from urban sprawl. Today, it’s California’s top strawberry producer, hosting the annual California Strawberry Festival each summer.
We visited for its proximity to the Channel Islands, but Oxnard’s charm made it one of our favorite Southern California destinations.
Best Place to Stay in Oxnard
For convenience, we chose a spot within walking distance of Channel Islands Harbor. The Embassy Suites Mandalay Beach Hotel & Resort was perfect—a 15-minute stroll to the harbor in a safe neighborhood, ideal even for evening walks after dinner.
This resort stands out with complimentary happy hour drinks. Guests shared tips for grabbing two per person to skip lines. We enjoyed ours in the private hot tub.
Suites are spacious, immaculate, and elegantly furnished, featuring a separate bedroom, living room, and two bathrooms—accommodating up to four guests comfortably, perfect for families.
The included breakfast buffet exceeds expectations with hot items, pastries, coffee, tea, and juice—fuel for a full day of adventures. Overall, it’s an exceptional beachside retreat.
A Day Trip to Channel Islands National Park
Island Packers offers the only tours to the islands; we booked a trip to Anacapa, the nearest to the mainland.
The one-hour boat ride delivered dolphin sightings galore, playfully riding the bow waves. Knowledgeable crew slowed for photos, sharing wildlife insights.
A National Park volunteer led a guided tour on Anacapa’s history and ecology upon arrival.
No services on the island, so pack lunch and water. Spring visits showcase wildflower blooms; our January trip caught early hints of color.
The 3:30 p.m. return brought an unforgettable surprise—read about our Once-In-A-Lifetime Whale Watching Experience in the Channel Islands.
Top Restaurant Pick: Hollywood Beach Wine Company
Overlooking the harbor, this spot wowed us on Saturday night with exceptional service. The staff, owner, and sommelier created a welcoming, friend-like atmosphere. They prioritize local produce, supporting the community.
Enjoy live cover bands indoors, or heated outdoor tables with harbor views.
Must-tries: Jalapeño Apricot Tort, Shrimp in English Cheddar and Chives with Biscuits, Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon, and Banana Nut Bread Pudding.
Oxnard delivered the perfect relaxing escape—we can’t wait to return and uncover more.
Have you visited a destination that pleasantly surprised you?
