What to Wear in Oxnard: Packing Essentials for the Perfect California Trip

Dreaming of the perfect California vacation? Oxnard's weather is hard to beat. Home to pristine beaches, award-winning wineries and the gateway to Channel Islands National Park, temperatures are perfect for outdoor adventures and water activities.

In Oxnard, the average temperature range is from the mid-60s to the high 70s year-round. It's honestly a dream!

• During the summer months, the average high is around 74 degrees Fahrenheit, with an average low temperature of 60 degrees.
  
• In winter, the average high hovers around 66 degrees, and the average low is 47 degrees Fahrenheit. The key to being comfortable is dressing in layers, especially if you're headed to the beach.

Whether you're planning on going on a whale watching tour, experiencing fun in the sun at Oxnard beaches, or doing some hiking and island-hopping in the Channel Islands, knowing what to wear in Oxnard and what to pack doesn't have to be a challenge. Here's how to pack for a perfect trip to Oxnard, California.

California Style: Embrace Comfort

California style is cool, confident and relaxed. While sandals, swimsuits and boardshorts are summer essentials, stylish outfits are perfect for wine tasting tours or shopping excursions. Just because you're coming to the coast doesn't mean you won't need a jacket. Be prepared and check the forecast before your trip.

Before you stuff your suitcase with things you think you'll need for your visit to Oxnard, remember to leave some room for some souvenirs or any sweet deals you might come across while shopping in this coastal town.

How to Pack a Capsule Travel Wardrobe

If you're the type of traveler, who likes to go with the flow and not make plans, pack a variety of outfits for beach days, hiking or wine tasting tours. Bring versatile pieces that you can mix and match, so you're ready for any occasion. For the ladies, a flowy sundress is perfect for your foodie tour, and a knit sweater will keep you warm if you decide to have an impromptu picnic at the beach. Guys, pack T-shirts, shorts and jeans and bring a dress-shirt just in case you get the sudden urge to wine and dine at Tierra Sur at Herzog Wine Cellars.

If you're traveling in the winter, peak rainfall happens in February, and the cloudiest days are in June. The warm season lasts from July 5 to October 18, with an average daily high temperature above 72 degrees F.

• The best time to see whales is late December through mid-April.
• Summer is ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling because the average water temperature is above 64 degrees F.
• Enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding and bike rides year-round.
  

The Perfect Oxnard Packing List

Wine Tasting Tour

Oxnard is home to four wineries, and if it's your first time visiting California - you should add a California wine tasting tour to your must-do list. While you might not be required to dress up to sip on merlot or rosé, it's always smart to bring an upscale outfit on any trip. A black dress can go from day to night. Elevate your look by changing accessories and shoes. A collared shirt and denim or pants is a sophisticated look without any stress.

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Channel Islands National Park + Harbor Activities

If you're planning on camping or exploring Channel Islands National Park, wear hiking shoes for a comfortable journey. Don't leave home without a sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and a light jacket just in case it gets breezy on your way to the islands.

You don't have to be a waterman or adventure junkie to learn how to kayak, standup paddle board or rent an electric boat at Channel Islands Harbor. If you want to spend the day on the water, a casual t-shirt and shorts will do. A rash guard will also protect you from the sun’s rays.

California Beach Style

In the summer months, a bathing suit paired with shorts or a maxi skirt is the perfect casual look for the beach. In winter, wear a cardigan or a jacket. If you're planning on surfing in the winter, you'll probably want a 4/3mm wetsuit + 3mm boots or a 5/3mm wetsuit for those longer surf sessions.

Art Crawl

Keep your eyes peeled for street art, murals and visit vintage car museums in Oxnard. Wear comfortable walking shoes and jeans while you visit Downtown Oxnard and the Historic District, Channel Islands Harbor or The Collection at RiverPark to check out the art installations.

WHERE TO SHOP IN OXNARD

If you forgot something on your visit to Oxnard, here's where to shop to pick up travel essentials.

• The Collection at RiverPark - Oxnard's premier outdoor shopping and entertainment center, The Collection at RiverPark features your favorite shops and restaurants, including REI, Bougie Beach Co. and Barefoot Boutique.
• The Esplanade - An open-air shopping plaza with stores including T.J. Maxx, Cost Plus World Market and Nordstrom Rack.

Check out our Oxnard Shopping Guide for more details on boutique shopping and farmers markets.