Winter In Oxnard
Planning a winter getaway to Oxnard? Here are our best tips on what to pack, things to do and what’s in season.
Experience an eventful winter season in Oxnard, with one-of-a-kind seasonal offerings.
Why travel to Oxnard in the Winter?
Winter may be considered "shoulder season" in Oxnard, but there's so much to enjoy about this affordable coastal destination where Southern California "cool" meets Central Coast relaxation. For one thing, a slight drop in seasonal temperatures is mild compared to the rest of the U.S. this time of year. Hotel rates are lower than peak season, so you can get away without breaking the bank. Our sunsets are fiery - with the sun tucking behind the islands during the late fall to winter months - setting off brilliant hues in the skies. Our surf swells are pumping in the wintertime. Our calendar is packed with holiday events. It's whale watching season! And so much more...
Weather & Average Temperatures
When preparing for a winter vacation in Oxnard, remember that the weather is relatively mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit.
Current Conditions & Live Cam
Compare winter 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.
Packing List
Packing for a winter vacation in Oxnard is a bit different from packing for traditional winter destinations due to the beautiful mild climate. Layering is key, as temperatures can be cooler in the evenings and mornings. Pack sweaters, long-sleeve shirts and lightweight jackets. Pack a swimsuit because while it's winter, Oxnard's beaches are still enjoyable, and you might want to take a dip. Oxnard can experience occasional rain in the winter, so having a compact umbrella and a lightweight rain jacket is a good idea. If you plan to enjoy outdoor activities or visit nearby attractions like Channel Islands National Park, pack the appropriate gear such as hiking boots, binoculars and a backpack.
Sweets Made in Oxnard
McConnell’s Ice Cream has been scooping up fans for decades with its homemade, no preservative, pure-flavored ice cream. McConnell’s Ice Cream’s manufacturing plant has been based in Oxnard since 2017. Another of the sweetest manufacturers in Oxnard is Duverger Macarons. Each of its macarons is confectioned in Oxnard, using the best fruits, berries, nuts and almond flour in its baking process.
Spirits & Craft Beer
Sespe Creek Distillery mixes the flavor of BBQ and whiskey together to create an international award-winning spirit, Warbringer Mesquite Smoked Southwest Bourbon. Take your holiday eggnog to the next level with this exclusive spirit produced and bottled in Oxnard.
If craft beer is more your specialty, make your way to The Taproom at Wagon Wheel. Known for its thoughtfully crafted small-batch brews, the tap list often features West Coast–style IPAs, smooth lagers, balanced pale ales and rotating seasonal selections. It’s a laid-back spot to enjoy a pint and connect with Oxnard’s local craft community.
Oxnard transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season with festive events ranging from massive light displays to double-decker trolley tours and a festival dedicated to Christmas tamales. Below are some of Oxnard's signature seasonal events! For a full list of events with dates, times and other pertinent details, please see our full events calendar.
Holidays & Special Events
Annual Oxnard Christmas Parade | December 6, 2025 | Downtown Oxnard
A fun tradition for the whole family, the Annual Oxnard Christmas Parade embraces the holiday season with colorful marching bands, spirited floats, equestrian units and more!
18th Annual Santa to the Sea Half Marathon | December 14, 2025 | Downtown Oxnard
Stay in shape this holiday season while also giving back to the community with the Annual Santa to the Sea Half Marathon. Participants can choose from a half-marathon race to a 5k run/walk, or a 1k kids run and event a “Diaper Dash” for the younger sect. Registration fees vary, and all proceeds benefit local charities.
Annual Parade of Lights | December 13, 2025 | Channel Islands Harbor
Sail boats and electric vessels take center stage at the Annual Parade of Lights at the Channel Islands Harbor. The floating parade begins with pre-festival activities including snow play for kids, a visit by Santa and Mrs. Claus, a local parade, holiday artists’ market, exhibitors, live music, children’s activities and more. At night, the lighted, colorful boat parade can be viewed from all points along the Harbor’s edge and at surrounding restaurants.
Classic Oxnard Traditional Events
Keep an eye out for some of our many other traditional events we celebrate in Oxnard in the winter season:
- Nardcore Navidad at OPAC
- Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremonies (The Collection AND Downtown Oxnard)
- Holiday Markets
See our Events Calendar for more seasonal events.
Winter Performances & Festivals
Ventura County Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker | December 6 + 7, 2024 | The Canyon at Oxnard PACC
Experience the holiday magic of Ventura County Ballet's 27th annual The Nutcracker with live accompaniment by Opera San Luis Obispo Grand Orchestra with International ballet artists Hanna Chudinova and Alexander Saveliev headline the star-studded cast of over 100 dancers in this year's Ventura County Ballet’s 27th annual production of The Nutcracker. This beloved holiday classic is perfect for audiences of all ages.
Annual Oxnard Tamale Festival | December 6, 2025 | Plaza Park
Held in conjunction with the Christmas parade is the Annual Oxnard Tamale Festival. Festival-goers can inspire their taste buds with a variety of flavorful, authentic tamales from sweet to savory to traditional. The event also includes an eating contest, holiday crafts fair, kid’s activities and live music.
Annual Gingerbread Exhibit | December - January | Heritage Square
The holidays wouldn’t be complete without sweet smelling gingerbread. Follow the scent to Heritage Square in Downtown Oxnard for the Heritage Square Holiday Tours and the Annual Gingerbread Fest. Costumed docents lead tours of the historic houses exteriors and select interiors with tours offered on the weekends. The elaborate gingerbread houses will be displayed inside the onsite chapel.
Ring in the new year the right way, right here in Oxnard! You won't want to miss out on celebrating with our local vendors and businesses.
Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach
Step into a night of elevated celebration at Zachari Dunes, where coastal cool meets refined revelry. From an energetic oceanfront dance party to curated dining and luxurious overnight packages, it’s the perfect way to welcome 2026 in unforgettable style.
Fishermen's Catch
Ring in 2026 at Fishermen’s Catch with live entertainment, a 4-course dinner, champagne and a front-row seat to the 9 PM countdown. Limited seating, reserve early for a night of flavor and fun.
Portola Italian Kitchen
Indulge in a night of sparkling celebration at Portola Italian Kitchen, where festive flair meets elevated Italian bites. Enjoy a dazzling 4-course gala dinner, a champagne-forward atmosphere and live music as you groove your way into 2026.
Strey Cellars
If an East Coast countdown is more your vibe, check out the NYE celebrations at Strey Cellars. Wine, food and a night of comedy (18+) and a sparkling toast – reserve your table and enjoy!
Lucky Strike Oxnard
Spare yourself the NYE woes and reserve a lane at Bowlero. Ring in the new year with food and cocktails while playing with your friends and loved ones. Call early to book parties of 6 or more.
More Winter Events
Get your calendar dialed in for the winter season. Go to our Events Page and filter dates from late November through early March.
Fortunately for locals and visitors alike, California’s weather is pretty spectacular regardless of the season. Leave the ice and snow behind and discover a whole new way to experience winter in Oxnard. From majestic trails, beautiful blue waters and epic sunsets, Oxnard has the great outdoors covered.
Sunset Season
The best sunsets of the year occur in the late fall to winter months, with the sun setting over the Channel Islands.
Oxnard serves as the perfect gateway to Channel Islands National Park, providing easy access to this stunning archipelago off the California coast. From Oxnard's harbor, adventurers can embark on unforgettable boat tours to the islands. Find out more of what’s on offer during the winter season
Islands Bloom
The Channel Islands transform into beautiful green wonderlands of wildflowers and unique fauna. There are over 2,000 plant and animal species that are unique only to the Islands. If the islands receive their normal rainfall, they will reach peak bloom around late winter, Some of the best flowers to view are the brilliant yellow coreopsis flowers on Santa Barbara, Anacapa and San Miguel.
Winter Whale Watching
In the winter, Oxnard transforms into a prime location for whale watching enthusiasts. Venture out into the Pacific Ocean on specialized excursions and witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of migrating whales. Catch glimpses of majestic humpback whales, gray whales, and even playful dolphins as they traverse these bountiful waters. Winter whale watching season typically starts at the end of December and runs through the end of April.
We have many vendors to choose from for starting your whale watching excursion, including:
Northern Elephant Seals
Northern elephant seals are the second largest seals in the world. The male of the species is easily identified due to its large proboscis, which resembles an elephant’s trunk. A member of the pinniped family, these majestic animals start pupping in the early winter, while harbor seals pup in the late winter.
Brown Pelicans
The only breeding colonies of Californian brown pelicans are within West Anacapa and Santa Barbara islands. These birds migrate from the islands to central Mexico. They can dive from 60 feet in the air and can live up to 40 years old. Keep your eyes peeled for brown pelicans as they nest in the winter months.
Bike Paths
Bring your bikes and hop on the Pacific Coast Bicycle Route, a 1,800-mile path starting in Vancouver, British Columbia, and ending in Imperial Beach, California. No bikes? No problem! Rent beach cruisers, surreys, tandem bikes, and more at Wheel Fun Rentals.
Surfing
With year-round perfect weather, uncrowded beaches and a robust culture surrounding the sport, Oxnard is an experience any avid surfer should add to their bucket list. There are several beaches for different levels of experience. For professionals chasing the big surf, the winter swells at Silver Strand Beach are a world-class surfer’s paradise. Winter swells produce breaks like the Banzai Pipeline in Hawaii that are perfect for tube riding. So, grab your board, lather on some sunscreen and experience the surfer’s paradise hidden in the Oxnard shores.
Take A Hike
Take time to disconnect from civilization. Hit the breathtakingly scenic trails on Anacapa Island or Santa Cruz Island at Channel Islands National Park. The islands boast dozens of trails - from moderate, like the 1.7 mile (47 min.) Cavern Point Loop, to hard, like the 8.9 mile (4 hr. 35 min.) El Montañon Trail. Note: You'll need to board an excursion via Island Packers to get there.
Explore the Harbor
The Channel Island Harbor is a must-see during your winter vacation in Oxnard. Restaurants with spectacular ocean views get even better with the epic winter sunsets. Check out the Maritime Museum during your visit to the Harbor, as well as our list of local events.
Holiday Escape with Zachari Dunes
Cherish the holidays in a new way at the Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton. Take winter to the land of sand and surf with some exciting and festive winter activities. Exclusive to the holiday season, be sure to check out their seasonally decorated holiday suites.
Don’t miss out on exclusive winter programming at Zachari Dunes. There’s something for everyone in the family!
- Weave a holiday wreath
- Craft a dreamcatcher
- Hear a story from Santa
- Enjoy a movie screening
- Embark on a scavenger hunt
- Sip hot cocoa under a beautiful sunset
- Relax with beachside yoga
Cozy Fireplaces
Fancy the firelight’s glowing embrace? We’ve got your guide to cozy cocoa-sipping evenings by the fire. Here’s our top picks of places to enjoy the glowing embers and crackling fires.
Heritage Coffee
Enjoy speciality, locally roasted coffees at the quaint Heritage Coffee, a coffee and gift shop inside a 1911 craftsman-style home.
1901 Speakeasy (temporarily closed)
Step back into the Prohibition era at 1901 Speakeasy, located in the heart of Oxnard’s historic Heritage Square. Enjoy classic cocktails with modern twists and chase away the chill next to their cozy fireplace.
Zachari Dunes
Enjoy the elegant atmosphere of the Zachari Dunes at Mandalay Beach lobby and their outdoor seating area. These fireplaces will be beckoning you to sit back, relax and enjoy this festive holiday season.
Pet Friendly Travel
Oxnard's beautiful parks, scenic beaches, and pet-friendly attractions make it the perfect destination for a travel adventure with your dog by your side.
Oxnard has a vibrant pet-friendly community, with locals who appreciate and welcome visitors with pets, creating a warm and inclusive atmosphere.
Get into the holiday spirit and treat yourself and your furry pal to a photo with Santa! Make your reservation at the Collection at Riverpark.
Parks & Trails
Unleash the energy of your pup at Oxnard's pet-friendly parks, providing ample space for play, exercise, and socialization with other furry friends.
- 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 location: Inglis Pet Hotel.
Ready to Plan Your WINTER Vacation?
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