Channel Islands Harbor
3900 Pelican Way
Oxnard,
California
93035
(805) 973-5928
Posted Jun 03, 2022 | By Alejandra Cerball
Oxnard is the best bang for your buck and an affordable option when it comes to Southern California coastal vacation destinations.
Your sunshine-filled days in Oxnard will drift together as you take in all that Oxnard has to offer. From exploring Oxnard Beaches to checking out historical landmarks, there's plenty to see and do. Here's the best part, most of the activities on this list are free.
Here's a list of the top ten things you can do in Oxnard for free or almost for free.
There's never a dull moment along the Channel Islands Harbor. It's a hub of activity, with boats coming and going and people walking around. Catch a glimpse of the tall ships that anchor in for the night. Bring your camera and snap some shots of the homes that line the waterway at sunset.
The Downtown Oxnard Farmers Market is a great place to soak up some local culture. It's free to wander through the vendor's booths, but you might want a few bucks to buy local treats or grab lunch. The Downtown Oxnard market is open every Thursday from 9-1:30 pm in Plaza Park.
Stroll through The Channel Islands Harbor Farmers Market for some seaside shopping. Check out the vendor's booths, grab a bite to eat and enjoy the ocean breeze. The Channel Islands Farmers Market is open every Sunday from 10-2 pm in Channel Islands Harbor.
Join the skateboarding action at a massive skate park in Oxnard. Bedford Pinkard Skate Park is open seven days a week, and there's no admission fee. Guests must sign a waiver before entering.
Take a walking tour of Oxnard's vibrant murals, especially those located in Downtown Oxnard. The newest additions at the Oxnard Transit Center include a "Greetings from Oxnard" mural and a stunning 360-degree mural inside the station. Take a drive to this coastal town and discover its up-and-coming art scene, where creativity and culture come alive on every corner.
Take your sweetheart for a walk along the beach during sunset on Silver Strand Beach. Walk hand-in-hand as you watch the sunset over the ocean with surfers riding the waves in the background. Be sure to snap a few pictures to capture the moment.
Wondering what Oxnard looked like long ago? Find out by touring Heritage Square. You'll find a dozen old Victorian homes owned by the city's first settlers. You can take a 45-minute guided tour for $5 or walk around for free.
Spend a relaxing day at Oxnard Beach Park (olol’koy Beach Park). Pack a few towels, a picnic lunch and a Frisbee, and you'll have everything you need for a great day. You'll need $5 for parking, but it's a small price to pay to enjoy the calming sounds of the ocean.
Even the family dog should enjoy some fun in the sun during your vacation. Your furry friend will love College Park Dog Park. It has agility courses for big and small dogs and a washing station to make sure Fido is squeaky clean as you return to your hotel.
The California coast has a wealth of fresh produce. With its year-round growing season, you can't leave Oxnard without tasting some of the freshest fruit. Stop by the local favorite, Lil' Red Barn, a produce stand with everything you need.
Mandalay Beach is a pristine beach with coastal dunes and palm trees swaying the wind. Rent a kite for $5 from Wheel Fun Rentals. You'll find their booth just outside Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach.
Alejandra Cerball (Journalist | Travel Writer)
Alejandra Cerball is an award-winning journalist, writer, and editor of alexcerball.com, a Travel + Lifestyle online destination filled with compelling and honest travel tips + resources. On her blog, Alex shares inspiration for your bucket list, family travel + adventure itineraries, and style guides to help you pack for your next trip.
send email visit websiteFollow us on Instagram at @VisitOxnardCA
Book your stay at one of these Oxnard hotels
Channel Islands Harbor
3900 Pelican Way
Oxnard,
California
93035
(805) 973-5928
Channel Islands Harbor Farmers Market
3600 S. Harbor Blvd. Oxnard, California 93035
Channel Islands Harbor
Channel Islands Harbor Farmers Market
3600 S. Harbor Blvd.
Oxnard,
California
93035
(805) 643-6458
Downtown Oxnard Farmers Market
5th & B Streets at Plaza Park Oxnard, California 93030
Shopping
Downtown Oxnard Farmers Market
5th & B Streets at Plaza Park
Oxnard,
California
93030
(805) 247-0197
Wheel Fun Rentals
Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach, 2101 Mandalay Beach Oxnard, California 93035
Outdoors
Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach, 2101 Mandalay Beach
Oxnard,
California
93035
(805) 650-7770