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More InfoCelebrate the summer months in Oxnard, CA.
Spend your summer days exploring the beautiful central coast city of Oxnard.
WHY TRAVEL TO OXNARD IN THE summer?
Summer in Oxnard is filled with sun-soaked water adventures, summer festivals and Dallas Cowboys Training Camp. There's so much to enjoy about this affordable coastal destination where Southern California "cool" meets Central Coast relaxation. For one thing, temperatures are mild and pleasant with a cool ocean breeze making it refreshing compared to the rest of the U.S. this time of year. Hotel rates are lower than major destinations, so you can get away without breaking the bank. Our surf swells are pumping, adventure awaits at Channel Islands National Park and summer concerts are in full swing. Our calendar is packed with summer events. And so much more...
Current OXNARD WEATHER & Live Cam
Compare summer averages with the current Oxnard forecast below. If you want to see it to believe it, check our 24/7 livestream feed from Marine Emporium Landing located in Oxnard's Channel Islands Harbor, and see for yourself our gorgeous town.
Friday, Jul 26
H: 74°
L: 62°
Few clouds
Saturday, Jul 27
H: 71°
L: 58°
Scattered clouds
Sunday, Jul 28
H: 69°
L: 57°
Scattered clouds
Monday, Jul 29
H: 69°
L: 56°
Scattered clouds
Tuesday, Jul 30
H: 70°
L: 57°
Scattered clouds
Wednesday, Jul 31
H: 72°
L: 58°
Scattered clouds
Packing List FOR YOUR TRIP TO OXNARD
When you’re planning your trip to Oxnard in the summer, be sure to keep sun protection in mind. Spending the day at the beach in Oxnard or at the Channel Islands Harbor? The sun reflects off the ocean (and sand, for that matter), and its rays are intensified as they reach your skin, making you more susceptible to a sunburn. We recommend breathable, comfortable clothing and sandals for the day, and besides sunscreen, you should pack a hat, sunglasses and a lightweight long-sleeved shirt to protect your skin.
Because Oxnard offers so many amazing outdoor activities, great sneakers and hiking boots are must-haves. For those more aquatic-minded, you can always rent snorkeling and diving gear before you head out to the Channel Islands for a daily excursion. Don’t forget a reusable water bottle for any adventure out enjoying the beautiful natural offerings in Oxnard.
Holidays & Special Events IN OXNARD
For dates and details on the below events, please see our full events calendar at visitoxnard.com/events.
Father's Day Car Show | Channel Islands Harbor
Rev up your engines and join us for a fun-filled adventure at our Father’s Day Car Show at Channel Islands Harbor! Prepare to be dazzled by a spectacular lineup of custom cars, hot rods, lowriders, motorcycles and classics. This event showcases the finest wheels in town, promising a visual feast that will leave car enthusiasts of all ages in awe. The Father’s Day Car Show works in conjunction with the Channel Islands Maritime Museum Wooden Boat and Classic Car Show, where classic cars and vintage vessels come together in perfect harmony.
There will be food trucks, local vendors, music and exciting raffles! Best of all, admission to this celebration is free for the public, ensuring that anyone can join in the excitement and share in the joy!
To be a part of this automotive extravaganza, register for the car show or secure your spot as a vendor, visit www.channelislandsfathersdaycarshow.com.
Fireworks By The Sea | Oxnard Beach Park | Fourth of July
If you’re here for our Independence Day, you won't want to miss the spectacular “Fireworks by the Sea” fireworks display. The show is one of the highlights of the summer season, and is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. The fireworks are launched from the Channel Islands Harbor, and can be seen from various locations around Oxnard, such as the Oxnard Beach Park ('olołkoy Beach Park) or the Channel Islands Maritime Museum. The fireworks typically start at around 9pm with a spectacular display of colors and patterns lighting up the night sky. Whether you're with family, friends, or traveling solo, the 4th of July fireworks in Oxnard are a memorable experience that you won't want to miss.
All-For-One Car Show | Downtown Oxnard
Experience the extraordinary at Oxnard's All-For-One Car Show! Roaming along a four-block stretch of Historic "A" Street in downtown, you'll encounter a mesmerizing display of over 350 classic and specialty autos from all eras. From vintage classics to cutting-edge marvels, these meticulously restored vehicles ignite the imagination and transport you through the rich tapestry of automotive history.
Indulge in delectable food specials offered by the downtown merchants, adding a delightful culinary twist to this automotive extravaganza. With ample free parking on adjacent streets, public lots and the 3rd Street Parking Structure, you can roam freely, listen to live entertainment, and enjoy one of Oxnard’s most exciting summer events. For information about sponsorship or vendor opportunities, email [email protected] or call 805-385-2705.
Dallas Cowboys Training Camp | River Ridge Playing Fields
Join the Cowboys during their annual training visit to Oxnard! Meet your favorite players, and watch them prepare for their upcoming season. Enjoy activities and entertainment, including Dallas Cowboys merchandise trucks, VIP Experience Opportunities for Dallas Cowboys United members, Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders Autograph sessions and more. Admission is free. For more information, visit Dallas Cowboys Training Camp.
Dallas Cowboys Training Camp kicks off at the end of July. Be sure to catch these fun & free events: DCC Dance Academy, Oxnard Fan Night, Opening Ceremonies, Heroes Appreciation Day and Game-Day Practice(s)!
Daily VIP Pass Giveaways: Keep a look-out for our daily VIP Pass Giveaway contest, where you and a guest could win fenceline access to Dallas Cowboys Training Camp!
Oxnard Fan Night | Collection Park | End of July
Put on your best Dallas Cowboys gear and head over to The Collection at RiverPark for Oxnard Fan Night featuring the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. This free community event is a chance for fans to see performances by America's Sweethearts and an appearance from Cowboys Mascot Rowdy, with opportunities for photos and autographs. This event will also include Dallas Cowboys trivia, contests, giveaways and more! This year's event will feature host ZEALE of rap duo Blackillac, plus performances by local dance crews Undeclared and Hip Hop Mindset.
Kids Club | The Collection at RiverPark | Select Dates All Summer Long
Head over to the grass at Collection Park for Kids Club, a fun-filled morning of storytime, songs and crafts. Every Kids Club features a different theme, and families are encouraged to return throughout the season to experience the unique excitement the various themes offer. This free event is free to attend. Don't forget your picnic blanket!
OXNARD Summer Concerts
Heritage Square | Downtown Oxnard | Starts June
Enjoy an eclectic array of musical genres during Heritage Square's annual summer concert series! Music lovers of all ages will love the variety of available live entertainment, from old school to classic rock to Latin jazz to good ole’ rhythm & blues. Hungry after all that dancing? Enjoy a bite to eat from local food trucks or stop into 1901 Restaurant and Speakeasy for dinner and craft cocktails.
Concerts by the Sea Summer Concert Series | Harbor View Park
Get your groove on at Harbor View Park in the Channel Islands Harbor all summer! Concerts are held on Saturdays featuring Rock, R&B, Jazz, Blues and Swing. Bring picnics, blankets and lawn chairs and enjoy this fun family event.
Rock the Collection | The Collection at RiverPark
Soak up the California sunshine while dancing to live entertainment from local bands at this family-friendly event. Catch cover bands of your favorite rock ‘n’ roll bands that are sure to make you want to get up and dance! Feel free to bring blankets, chairs and the whole family.
OXNARD Summer Festivals
Oxnard Salsa Festival | Plaza Park | July 27th & 28th, 2024
Oxnard Salsa Festival officially returns this July 2024! Get ready for two days of delicious spicy food, live music and fun for the whole family at the Oxnard Salsa Festival in Downtown Oxnard. Enjoy salsa bands and salsa dancing, spicy foods and ice-cold drinks. The Festival returns this year with your favorites, including a wide selection of international foods and the Salsa Tasting Tent. Shop through the Vendor Marketplace for artisan goods and bring the little ones to the Kids Zone for rides, games and crafts. And of course, enjoy a cold beer or margarita while you salsa the day away!
Insect Festival | Downtown Oxnard's Plaza Park | June
Step into downtown Oxnard's Insect Festival, a magical extravaganza that blooms every June! Indulge in delectable treats, whether you're daring enough to try edible insects or prefer insect-free delights, served by our diverse food vendors. Let the Kids Zone ignite your little ones' imaginations with recreational booths brimming with arts, crafts and boundless joy. Don't forget to witness (or participate in) the mesmerizing insect-themed costume contest, where whimsical creatures come to life! Join us in celebrating bugs, creativity and culinary delights that will leave you enchanted! Read more on the Insect Festival Facebook page.
More Summer Events IN OXNARD
Get your calendar dialed in for the summer season. Go to our Events Page and filter dates from June through September.
Summer Activities for Kids
Silver Strand Surf School
Silver Strand Surf School & Ventura Makos Surf Camp are the #1 surf schools to experience in Ventura County, providing surf camps for kids ages 4-17 years old, private & group surf lessons and more.
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The Mighty Axe Youth League
Gather your bravest warriors! The Mighty Axe is launching The Mighty Axe Youth League. Must be 10-17 years old to join and no experience necessary. Who’s ready to take the axe-citement to the next level?
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Public Sail Days Aboard the Mystic Whaler
Families with children 5 years+ are welcome aboard Central Coast Ocean Adventures' Mystic Whaler tall ship for a 3-hour adventure sail in the beautiful Santa Barbara Channel.
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Kids Club at Collection Park
Don’t give the little ones a chance to say they’re bored this summer. Bring the kids and a picnic blanket to the grass at Collection Park for a fun-filled morning of entertainment, crafts and fun surprises. Select dates all summer long.
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Summer Sailing w/ Pacific Corinthian Youth Foundation
Learn to sail with Pacific Corinthian Yacht Club, and have fun developing skills in a potential lifetime sport. Sailing programs are open to kids 8+ who can pass a swim test.
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OXNARD Hotel Amenities
Pull up an Adirondack chair around the "Dunes Pyre" at Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach, or reserve your own propane fire pit outside the restaurant bar at Ox & Ocean. Order your own s'mores kit or a "fire roasted milkshake" with caramelized banana, graham cracker, salted caramel and fire roasted meringue. Yum!
The amenities at Homewood Suites are perfect for a summertime gathering. Bring your own meat for grilling at the hotel's built-in barbeques while your guests play basketball, take a swim or lounge around the pool.
picnics in the park
Make a reservation at Oxnard parks to host your very own family barbeque. No flame required? If you're in the mood for charcuterie and small bites, set up a picnic at one of Oxnard's many parks and beaches. We've got a list of preferred vendors for pop up picnics, including:
OXNARD BonFires & Fire Pits
Although open flames are not permissible at Oxnard beaches, you can take a quick 15-mile drive down Pacific Coast Highway to Point Mugu State Park and find beautiful beaches with picnic tables and fire rings. Burning firewood, Duraflame and charcoal briquettes in the fire rings is allowed when fire level permits (determined on a day by day basis). Check the sign near the entrance to the park for the day's fire levels. Parking fees apply.
Water Activities IN OXNARD
GATEWAY TO CHANNEL ISLANDS NATIONAL PARK
If you're ready to take your water adventures to the next level, look no further than Channel Islands Harbor. The pristine Channel Islands Harbor serves as the gateway to Channel Islands National Park with fun-filled water adventures, seaside parks and an expansive coastline.
ANACAPA ISLAND SEA CAVE KAYAKING
Go sea cave kayaking with Channel Islands Expeditions at Anacapa Island, home to the world’s longest downwind sea cave kayak tour. You'll paddle through 5 miles of sea caves with the current behind you. You'll also paddle through Anacapa's iconic Arch Rock, a 50' foot high natural volcanic bridge.
SUMMER WHALE WATCHING IN OXNARD
Take a whale watching tour to spot some of the magnificent marine life that frequent the area during this time of year, such as blue whales, humpback whales and bottlenose dolphins. Summer whale watching happens mid-May through September.
HARBOR RECREATION
For a more laid-back experience, rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the harbor at your own pace. If you're feeling adventurous, try your hand at jet skiing.
SURFING IN OXNARD
If surfing sounds more like your kind of water adventure, don’t miss out on some of Oxnard’s solid swells. With an average water temperature of 65℉ in the summer and wave heights 2-4 feet, this time of year is perfect for beginner to intermediate surfers. Whether you're a seasoned surfer riding the waves, a beach bum building sandcastles, or a laid-back sun worshiper, Oxnard's beaches have something for everyone.
SPORTFISHING OPERATORS
The summer months also offer excellent opportunities for sportfishing to catch a variety of fish species in the area's abundant waters. During this time of year, you can expect to target species such as yellowtail, white seabass, calico bass, halibut, rockfish and even the occasional tuna. The warm waters attract migratory fish, increasing the chances of successful catches. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, experienced captains and crew members will guide you on exciting fishing trips, providing equipment, knowledge and assistance. Book your sportfishing adventure with Hook's Landing or Channel Islands Sportfishing.
BOAT CRUISES IN OXNARD
Gondola Paradiso is an authentic Venetian gondola operator in Seabridge Marina. Looking to kick off a summer engagement? Propose beneath a bridge with your own private gondolier steering you through the marina's network of channels.
You can also cruise aboard the Scarlett Belle paddlewheel riverboat if you want the scenic view but prefer to stay dry. This riverboat is booked for events only, so it’s wonderful for summer weddings. And for those who prefer to stay on land, there are plenty of restaurants, shops and galleries to explore around the harbor.
Sightseeing & Wildlife IN OXNARD
During the summertime, there are plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and wildlife viewing. One of the must-do activities is to visit Channel Islands National Park, located just off the coast. You can expect to see coastal sage scrub, chaparral and native grasses covering the island landscapes. During the summer months in Oxnard, wildflowers bloom in abundance, painting the terrain with bursts of color. Look out for California poppies, lupines, bush sunflowers and other native flowers that create a stunning floral display.
Area Wildlife
In the summer, the Channel Islands also become a haven for migratory animals. One notable visitor is the California gray whale. These magnificent creatures embark on their annual migration from the Arctic to the warm waters of Baja California, passing by the Channel Islands along the way. Seeing these majestic whales breaching or spouting offshore is a memorable experience.
Other migratory birds can be spotted during the summer months as well. Look for species like the elegant tern, western gull, and brown pelican, which frequent the islands during this time. The islands also host nesting colonies of seabirds such as cormorants and guillemots. Visitors can hike the island's trails to spot island foxes (Santa Cruz Island), bald eagles and even the endemic island scrub-jay. The park's waters are also a prime location for snorkeling and diving to see colorful fish, sea stars and sea lions.
Pack In, Pack Out
When preparing for a trip to the Channel Islands, please note this is a ‘leave-no-trace island’. Everything brought to the island is pre-packed and brought back, even your trash. We recommend wearing great hiking boots and sun protection, as well as a picnic blanket to enjoy lunch with a scenic view. And because you’ll reach the island by boat, packing some Dramamine/anti-nausea medications never hurts.
Scenic Trails in Oxnard
For those who prefer to stay on land, Oxnard has plenty of parks and scenic trails to explore. The Harbor Island Trail near Oxnard is an 8.9-kilometer dog-welcome trail suitable for all skill levels. Whether you're an early riser who loves to run or prefer evening walks, you'll enjoy scenic views of the harbor that can't be beaten. 'olol'koy Beach Park (formerly Oxnard Beach Park) is another great spot for a leisurely stroll or picnic, with stunning views of the ocean and the Channel Islands. Visitors can also take a scenic drive up the coast to explore the nearby beaches and coastal towns.
OXNARD Summer Farmers Markets
Explore one of our local Farmers Markets, such as the Downtown Oxnard Farmers Market, which is held every Thursday from 9 am to 1:30 pm. Here, visitors can sample fresh fruits and vegetables that are in season during the summertime, such as strawberries, peaches and sweet corn. You can also visit the Channel Islands Farmers Market open Sundays from 10 am to 2 pm, where you can browse vendors, fishermen and farmers and their fresh produce and locally caught fish.
Oxnard's Agricultural Roots
You can’t come to Oxnard without noticing the farmland throughout this coastal town. Oxnard is a hub for agriculture, and there are plenty of activities for tourists who are interested in exploring the region's farming heritage.
Explore the origins of the city built on sugar beets. The Oxnard Historic Farm Park Foundation is a nonprofit group dedicated to the preservation of the two oldest structures on the Oxnard Plain and creating a home for Oxnard history.
Summer is For Animals Too!
We all know your dogs are part of the family. So you don't need to leave your furry friends at home the next time you plan your summer trip to Oxnard. Luckily, Oxnard has an abundance of pet-friendly hotels!
Let Fido enjoy some fresh air and off-leash time. These are our favorite off-leash dog parks in Oxnard:
- College Park Dog Park is an off-leash dog park with two areas for small and big canines.
- Campus Park, the former site of Oxnard High School, is another off-leash dog park. It's located on the corner of 5th and H streets.
- Jax's Windrow Dog Park is an off-leash dog park located at 3052 North Ventura Road.
- Hollywood Beach - Dogs can roam free before 9 am and after 5 pm.
If you are in need of Doggie Day Care or boarding, please find these services available at the following locations: Inglis Pet Hotel and Flying High Pet Resort.
Ready to Plan Your Summer Vacation IN OXNARD?
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