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February 9, 2023

All You Need is Love (+ A Free Night at a Beachfront Escape!)

By Jenna Gabrial Gallagher



When it comes to big romantic gestures, booking a beachfront hotel for Valentine’s Day covers all the bases: alone time, luxurious rooms, beach access for daytime fun and evening strolls, cocktails at sunset, delicious meals, spa dates…it’s almost too much for just one day.

That’s why The Seabird Resort is giving you and your valentine the opportunity to extend your romantic beach getaway with a Valentine’s Day hotel deal that will make you fall in love all over again.

With our exclusive Valentine’s Day special, you can book your choice of any of our beautiful seaside rooms for any three nights during Valentine’s Day week (from Feb. 8 – Feb. 18, 2023) and receive the third night free.

 

A couple standing in front of piper

 

Valentine’s Day Dinner at Piper

Our talented chefs at Piper have the souls of poets, the relationships with producers (at least producers of local, artisanal foods and wines) of top Hollywood agents, and the artistic touch of Impressionist painters… who better to prepare a swoon-worthy prix fixe Valentine’s Day dinner in a quintessentially stylish coastal California setting? Start your meal off with seductive oysters and caviar, steak tartare, or, for something a little lighter, a strawberry and tarragon salad. Then choose from parmesan-crusted spotted bass, a decadent brandied filet mignon or savory curried cauliflower steak, followed by your choice of desserts, including a sweetheart chocolate panna cotta, a triple berry tart, and a lush lemon cake for an evening that will inspire 1,000 love songs. Reserve your spot soon: this unforgettable four-course Valentine’s dinner is available only on February 14th.

 

The shore room

 

Puppy Love at the Shore Room

Who says the love of your life has to be human? If yours is canine, you can enjoy a perfect Valentine’s Day together at The Seabird, one of the top 10 best pet-friendly hotels in the U.S., according to USA Today readers. We even have a special Valentine’s Day Yappy Hour lined up for you and your pup. On Friday, Feb. 10 from 4-8 p.m., you and your bestie can enjoy live music, a puppy photo booth, themed Tito’s vodka cocktails and pup treats. It may be your most un-furr-gettable Valentine’s Day date ever!

 

Spa Day for Two

You and your sweetheart are invited to indulge in a little child-free self-care at Sunny’s Spa, where Valentine’s Day spa packages include “Let’s Stay Together (for a Massage),” “You Light Up My Life (With Your Glowing Skin)” facial,  “I Want to Hold Your Hand” manicure and pedicure duo, “No Scrubs (Scrub),” which is, in fact, a scrub… but a really, really fantastic one that resurfaces and hydrates, and “Smooth Operator” blowout leaving you with lustrous hair.

 

Couple sitting in front of a pool at Seabird

 

Carefree Alone Time

Even if getting away alone together for the weekend is not possible, The Seabird has you covered. Our kids’ club, Little Seabirds, offers craft hour every weekday afternoon, as well as plenty of weekend activities and a four-hour Parents’ Night Out — led by a fun, friendly and highly experienced staff — on Friday and Saturday evenings so that parents can enjoy some child-free time.

 

Shelter club

 

For the Love of the Game

Locals and visitors alike are invited to enjoy a Super Bowl watch party without the kids on Super Bowl Sunday at The Seabird. Choose from three different ways to watch the big game: gather up to eight friends in a private booth at The Shelter Club; host up to 10 guests at an outdoor firepit party; or make a day of it in one of our poolside cabanas with a 44” TV screen. It’s a win-win for everyone!

Book Your Valentine’s Stay Today

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S'more by the beach at The Seabird

December 2, 2022

What to Do in Oceanside This Christmas

 

By Suzanne Davis

Nobody does holiday cheer quite like Oceanside, California. For one thing, our weather is significantly more blissful than what you’ll find in frigid climes, meaning you can often pair your ugly Christmas sweaters with flip flops and shorts. For another, The Seabird Resort is even more megawatt than usual — literally — thanks to holiday decor and glowing trees that seem to dust every other surface with the season’s twinkly magic. Plus, there’s plenty of merry fun to be had here in Oceanside and the surrounding San Diego area, whether you want to visit a holiday market to splurge on gifts or treat yourself to an evening of spectacular Christmas lights.

Read on to find out what to do in Oceanside this Christmas for the hap-happiest season of all…no coal-stuffed stockings in sight.

 

Shop the Holiday Gift Market

Oceanside has Christmas markets aplenty this time of year, and they’re always a fantastic way to shop ‘til you drop. The Holiday Gift Market is the one you really can’t miss. Held each Thursday night in December from 5-9 p.m., you’ll find 200 vendors of all kinds (everything from flameworked glass to leather goods), edible thrills like cannoli and baklava, and an array of comfort foods that will outdo your last trip to grandma’s house, including cheesecake, beignets, and handmade caramels. Did we mention the big man — Santa — will be there for visits on December 1, 8, and 15 from 5:30-7:30 p.m.

 

Watch the Oceanside Harbor Parade of Lights

On Saturday December 10 at 7 p.m., the Oceanside Marina transforms into a watery winter wonderland thanks to this annual parade of cheerfully lit boats. Look closely enough at the yachts adorned with LED razzle dazzle at the Oceanside Yacht Club, and you’re likely to spot at least one or two Santa Claus lookalikes dancing the night away. The best gift of all — it’s completely free to attend.


Christmas decoration inside the lobby

 

Celebrate the season with Jingle on the Beach

The Seabird Resort’s annual Jingle on the Beach holiday fun includes seasonal stay specials, gratis sunset champagne toasts in The Shore Room, holiday movie nights by the pool — what says Christmas more than sipping hot chocolate while watching “Home Alone” together? — and so much more. Other kid-friendly activities at The Seabird this time of year involve caramel apple dipping (you’ll get to top yours with all manner of treats, from graham crackers to crushed oreos), workshops like ornament decorating and writing letters to Santa, and even storytime with elves while cozy in your PJs.

 

Ice skate like a champ

There’s really nothing like a whirl around an ice rink each winter to set the holiday mood, and among Oceanside’s many seasonal lures, Icetown Carlsbad is practically required. About a 20-minute drive from The Seabird, the rink offers open skating nearly every day of the week.

 

The nutcracker with the drum

 

Catch a live performance of The Nutcracker

A family Christmas tradition since it was first created in 1892 with music by Tchaikovsky, ”The Nutcracker” is being performed by the City Ballet of San Diego, accompanied by the City Ballet Orchestra and Chorus at the California Center for the Arts in Escondido. It’s well worth the 30-minute drive from the resort. We wouldn’t be surprised if you want to dance like a sugar plum fairy all the way back to the hotel.

 

Hit the San Diego Zoo for Jungle Bells

The cheekily-named Jungle Bells event at the world-famous San Diego Zoo is everything your little one could want from a Christmas extravaganza, and runs December 9 through January 1. On your itinerary: strolling through a jaw-dropping light show, watching a live brass band play holiday tunes on the Front Street Stage, and posing for photos with Churchill Polar Bear, Harry Lion, and other cuddly creatures. Don’t miss seeing the live reindeer at the Polar Bear Plunge, and stopping by the Boardwalk Beer Garden at 5:35, 6:05, 6:35, and 7:05 p.m. for a truly magical (and rarely seen in San Diego) experience: snow!

 

Enjoy a Christmas light show at the San Diego Botanic Garden

If you love a little sparkle, you’ve come to the right place. The San Diego Botanic Garden hosts  Lightscape that runs through January 1 and is an absolute jaw-dropper. Less than a 30-minute drive south along the coast, the lush and leafy 37-acre plot is exactly the same Lightscape seen in London, New York, and L.A and full of otherworldly holiday ligh

Ready to stay and celebrate at The Seabird this holiday season?

fathers day family vacations

June 12, 2022

What to Do for Father’s Day in Oceanside

By Alana Morgan

From kid-friendly golfing to sampling local brews, to surfing the waves, and savoring barbecue and bourbon by the beach, there is plenty of family fun to enjoy your time during Father’s Day in Oceanside. Ready to plan the perfect day?

 

Find Golf Fun at Flight Deck 

Kick back, relax, and hit a few balls at the new Flight Deck at Arrowood Golf Course, less than a 20-minute drive from The Seabird Resort. This casual, interactive experience welcomes all ages and abilities, complete with golf simulator technology, drinks, food, and more. Dogs are welcome too! Prefer to play 18 holes? Arrowood Golf Course sits on a scenic hilltop by the San Luis Rey Valley, just miles from the coast, offering a par-71, 6,721-yard layout.

 

Savor Barbecue and Bourbon by the Beach

Celebrate Father’s Day with a memorable meal by the beach. On Sunday, June 19 from 1-5 p.m., join us on the Grand Coastal Terrace facing the Pacific for live music, the U.S. Open, smoky BBQ, and signature bourbon drinks in partnership with Woodford Reserve. Reservations are available at $95 per adult and $45 per child.  

 

Want more options for dining with kids? Just off the beach, Piper’s handmade pastas and garden-to-table dishes are designed to please all palates.

 

 

Two kids and their dad learning how to surf like a pro
Learn how to surf in Oceanside with a local pro.

 

Learn How to Hang Ten with Surf Lessons 

Want to get out in the water? Try surfing for the first time or level up your skills with private surf lessons from local pro surfer Duran Barr (start getting some of his surfing tps here). Available for all ages and skill levels, the 1.5-hour lessons from Barr’s ​​North County Surf Academy are available daily by appointment. 

 

Check Out The California Surf Museum 

Oceanside has long drawn in surfers and the ever-evolving sport is all on display at the California Surf Museum. Opened in 1986, the well-curated museum is known for its permanent collection covering the history of surfboards and wave-riding, as well as intriguing rotating exhibits diving deeper into different aspects of surfing’s past, present, and future. Plus, it’s just a block and a half away from The Seabird. 

 

Sample Local Beers at Oceanside Breweries 

San Diego’s known for being a craft brewery hub, and the beer scene has traveled up the coast to take over Oceanside as well. Here you’ll find a number of local breweries — some within walking distance to The Seabird Resort, like Craft Coast Beer and Tacos — serving creative brews that pair perfectly with sun-drenched days. Discover some of our go-to breweries in Oceanside here.

 

 

Perfect gift for dad, Top Gun Experience
The Need for Speed Package in Oceanside.

Spoil Dad With The “Need for Speed” Experience

Want to give dad the ultimate Father’s Day experience in Oceanside? Treat him to our sister resort’s once-in-a-lifetime “Need for Speed” package, including everything from two matching bomber jackets and RayBan Sunglasses to embrace his inner aviator, a two-night stay in Mission Pacific’s Ethereal Suite, skydiving with former Naval aviators onto Oceanside Beach followed by a Dom Perignon rooftop celebration, private surf lessons with a professional surfer, and more.

 

 

CONTACT RESERVATIONS PLAN YOUR FATHER’S DAY IN OCEANSIDE OR BOOK THE “NEED FOR SPEED PACKAGE” AT (760) 227-5080.

 

mothers day family by the beach in terrace

April 29, 2022

What to Do for Mother’s Day in Oceanside

 

By Alana Morgan

Mother’s Day should be special for all moms and mother figures alike…it should also be a relaxing day for the whole family! Less than two hours driving from Los Angeles and only 45 minutes from San Diego, Oceanside offers an easy way to enjoy a Mother’s Day escape. (Don’t want to deal with driving? You can take Metrolink’s Orange County Line following the scenic SoCal coast to Oceanside, or conveniently hop on an Amtrak train from both L.A. and San Diego.)

 

Once in the seaside town, there are plenty of things to do for Mother’s Day in Oceanside. Even better? They’re all just steps from The Seabird.

 

Savor a Mother’s Day Brunch

 

Family together, enjoying a delicious breakfast at The Seabird

 

First things first, make sure to make a reservation for Mother’s Day brunch. At Piper, an elevated Mother’s Day brunch is available May 8 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Known for its fresh, flavorful dishes drawing from the region’s best small farms and artisanal purveyors, Piper’s Mother’s Day brunch menu is sure to delight diners of all ages thanks to an array of carefully prepared and made-to-order dishes, including live carving stations, local pastries and baked good, and charcuterie and seafood platters featuring a bounty of SoCal specialities. 

 

Sound too good to pass up? Book your table here.

 

 

Be Pampered With a Spa Day

 

A girl and a guy at the Sauna enjoying a spa day

 

A spa day becomes extra soothing with family-focused treatments. At Oceanside’s sophisticated spa, Sunny’s Spa and Beauty Lounge, the expert team of therapists have designed special packages for Mother’s Day, complete with added perks. For a grownup getaway, the Mom and Me Getaway includes your choice of massage or facial, paired with a manicure, pedicure, and lunch credit to enjoy at The Seabird’s pool.

 

Meanwhile, for those in need of a longer escape, the Soothe Your Soul spa journey includes a vagus nerve meditative massage — using steaming aromatic compresses, gentle neck, body, and cranial techniques along with an essential oil blend of juniper, chamomile, lavender and jojoba to reduce stress while promoting positivity and wellbeing — a deep sea anti-aging facial, manicure, pedicure, and poolside lunch credit.

 

Spending Mother’s Day on a babymoon? The Family to Be experience allows space for you and your partner to nurture yourselves and your soon-to-be addition with a custom or prenatal massage, express or baby bump facial, and an intimate oceanfront photo session for two.

 

 

Make memories at the beach

 

couple under the umbrella trying not to soak up the sun

 

Of course, an Oceanside stay wouldn’t be complete without spending time on the iconic stretch of beach. Snag beach towels and loungers from The Beach Rambler, conveniently located on The Strand, for the whole family, then find the perfect spot of sand to stay awhile. Prefer to stay more active? Rent Pedego electric bikes from nearby Mission Pacific and pedal down the Strand. The two-mile-long oceanfront road is popular for cycling with the kids, taking the dog for a walk, or simply strolling to soak up the ocean views.

 

 

Sneak in Some Retail Therapy (and Shop for a Cause)

 

Beautiful store with palm, books and bikinis

 

In recent years, Oceanside’s shopping scene has leveled up, drawing in a wide selection of independent boutiques and artisans. For surf-inspired goods, vintage collectibles, cool apparel, and eclectic home decor, The Ozone offers a one-stop shop for O’side finds. 

 

In Oceanside April 30 or May 1? Stop by The Ozone between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. to meet local makers (Ron Robinson of Apothia LA, Paula Rosen of Paula Rosen Jewelry, and Ali Heitz with Kerri Rosenthal) and pick up some special items. A percentage of sales will be donated to TERI, Inc., an Oceanside nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting children and adults with developmental and learning disabilities. (You can also shop The Ozone online and use code “TERI” during checkout to donate.)

 

 

Spend Time Together at The Seabird

 

Family enjoying quality time playing board games

 

While it’s possible to just spend the day in Oceanside coming from San Diego or L.A., the laidback town deserves more time to discover — and to let yourself fully unwind. Staying overnight at The Seabird provides the perfect base for you and your family to spread out, relax, and spend time together for Mother’s Day (who can say no to playing in or lounging by the pool with Pacific Ocean views?) You can bring your furry family members too!

 

Book a room for two nights to take advantage of even more perks.

 

START PLANNING HOW YOU’LL SPEND MOTHERS DAY IN OCEANSIDE.

 

Offers

Preparing Pasta at the restaurant Book Now

GARDEN TO GLASS

Hi Friends, Please join me in my garden to savor the best of fresh California cuisine. Enjoy hand-crafted pastas, garden-to-table dishes and a selection of wines from around the world, all while dining steps away from the beach! Gather your friends and family to enjoy $100 credit to dine with my “Garden to Glass” package! With Love & Care, Piper

clothes store

Photo by Patrizia Montanari

December 9, 2021

Holiday Shopping Guide: How to Give the Gift of Oceanside

Want to put an authentic Oceanside twist on your holiday shopping? The Ozone, the lifestyle store located at our sister hotel, Mission Pacific, is your place. The artful mash-up of a slick art gallery and cool surf shop has become an essential shopping destination in Oceanside for its highly curated offerings and singular ambience — and the holiday season is no exception. 

 

“We definitely wanted to go all out for our first holiday season,” says Karen Meena, the store’s chief buyer. That meant putting up a rock-n-roll-inspired Christmas tree whose red branches are hung with ornaments depicting icons like David Bowie, Stevie Nicks, Johnny Cash, and Freddie Mercury (the work of artist Cody Foster). And stocking the shop with an inspired mix of “special things you cannot find elsewhere” and merch to inspire spontaneous discovery.

 

That includes limited-edition gnome sculptures by German conceptual artist Ottmar Hörl; Smith and Sinclair holiday gummies (chewable no-fuss instant cocktails); crystal glassware; custom tie-dye T-shirts; and exuberant red and pink neon lips encased in an acrylic box. 

 

Books are always popular gifts, and the selection Meena has curated includes interiors, pop culture, and art volumes sure to please even the fussiest readers. “Maybe it’s because they’re so beautiful to hold, but guests are loving the book selection — and the rarer the better,” says Meena, who adds that tomes covering the local surf and skate culture, such as the one produced by the Oceanside Historical Society, make for great presents. 

 

Oceanside culture is also reflected in the excellent collection of vintage shirts, as well as surfboards that, according to Meena, “were shaped by local guys in Oceanside in the 60s and 70s and chosen by curators from the California Surfing Museum.”

 

Ozone’s clothing selection focuses on Southern California designers and brands, the closer the better. “Oceanside has an impressive reputation as a place where people start fashion or streetwear brands or become designers,” says Meena, mentioning local eyewear company RAEN as well as Nixon watches and Vuori activewear — all hometown brands who made it huge. Other local merch in stock: leather bags by Rais Case, travel bags from Aloha Collection, Feather4 Arrow’s beachy kidswear, hoodies from Aviator Nation, and hats made by Zito Hat Co. In other words, a one-stop shop for anyone interested in emerging California designers and the SoCal style scene.

 

From a bit further afield, you’ll find beach-inspired sportswear from Santa Monica’s John Eshaya and binoculars from San Francisco–based Nocs Provisions.

 

Products from Apothia, the LA brand responsible for the aromas at the Seabird and Mission Pacific, are also in high demand. “Guests are constantly asking us what makes the hotels smell so good,” Meena says. Scents used throughout the hotels, including Bronzed and the holiday scent Chrismukkah, have been “runaway bestsellers.”

 

 

VISIT THE OZONE

abstract merry christmas day holidays

November 24, 2021

How to Celebrate the Holiday Season in Oceanside

The holiday spirit is already in abundance at The Seabird Resort and our sister hotel Mission Pacific. We’ve cooked up an impressive calendar of events, food experiences and activities for guests of all ages to enjoy the special season. But the festivities aren’t limited to what’s happening at the hotels. We’ve cooked up a list of fun ways the Oceanside community and surrounding areas will put their sunny stamp on the holidays. 

Local Shopping

Oceanside’s collection of fashion boutiques, hip surf and skate shops, and inviting art galleries are part of what gives the town its unique character. This independent spirit is being promoted through the efforts of Shop Local Oceanside, which has launched a ’Tis the Season to Shop Local program, which includes a scavenger hunt, craft beer and wine tasting event, and a tree lighting party. Naturally, holiday shoppers will find unique gift ideas and bargains along the way. Saturday Nov. 27 through Sunday, Dec. 12.

Merry Makers Fair

For one-of-a-kind gifts that showcase the Oceanside spirit of artistry, come to this annual two-day market in downtown Oceanside. While the crafts, artworks, and singular curios are a reason to visit in their own right, you’ll find live music, beverage tastings, and other festive goings-on to sweeten the deal. Saturday, Nov. 27, 10–4, and Sunday, Nov. 27, 11–3, Pier View Way and North Tremont Street. 

Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony

A highlight of Oceanside’s holiday calendar, Oceanside’s famous sunset market will become a yuletide fantasia for the annual tree lighting ceremony. Among the many activities: coconut tree climbing, kids zip-lining, an obstacle course, holiday train, jump houses, and inflatable slides. Adults will appreciate the live music and gourmet street eats, and the market itself will be in high gear as its eclectic vendors offer a dizzying range of gifts. Thursday, Dec. 2, 5-9pm (Santa arrival and tree lighting at 6pm).

Oceanside Harbor Parade of Lights

A dazzling spectacle featuring vessels of all shapes and sizes festooned in holiday lights and ornaments, this annual boat parade is a nautical twist on Christmas traditions. The free event appeals to all and features entertainment and prizes for the best sailboat, powerboat, and small craft. Bring a blanket and warm clothing. Saturday, Dec. 11, 7pm, Oceanside Marina.

Taste of Art: A Holiday Feast with Georgia O’Keeffe

The recently reopened Oceanside Museum of Art is bridging food and art in this singular holiday event. Led by art professor and curator Robin Douglas, the ticketed evening blends elements of a painting workshop with a Southwestern-inspired holiday fête, with shared insights on the life of the iconoclastic painter. Reservations essential. Thursday, Dec. 16, 6-8pm, visitors $50, members $40. 

christmas tree ball decoration

November 18, 2021

Celebrate the Season at The Seabird

We’re marking our first holiday in Oceanside — come join the fun!

Get ready for some holiday cheer, SoCal-style. We’re delighted to spend our first holiday season in Oceanside with Jingle on the Beach, a festive collection of celebrations and family-friendly activities ranging from delectable dining offers to seasonal workshops. Whether you’re a visitor, a staycationer, or a proud O’side local, we can’t wait to ring in the holiday season with you! 

Reservations are strongly recommended for all holiday events. See what’s going on at our sister resort, Mission Pacific, here. Here’s what’s in store:

CELEBRATORY MEALS AT PIPER

Piper, the resort’s signature restaurant, is offering a range of special prix fixe menus throughout the season, all prepared with the best organic and locally sourced ingredients. As always, our delicious cuisine is family-friendly (our kid-focused menu will also be available throughout the season), served in a convivial and relaxed atmosphere. 

  • Farm-to-Table Thanksgiving Feast: Indulge in Thanksgiving favorites, plus our beloved pastas and vegetarian fare, all sourced from our favorite local purveyors. Thursday, November 25, 3-9 p.m.; $95 per person (four-course menu). 
  • Christmas Eve: Savor the Season Dinner: Come together with family and friends over a festive menu that focuses on organic, seasonal fare, including prime rib, vegetable cassoulet, and so much more. Friday, December 24, 4-9 p.m.; $95 per person (four-course menu).
  • Christmas Day: All is Bright Brunch: Start the special day with homemade artisanal breads, a hot oatmeal station, apple-stuffed French toast, and more brunch favorites. Saturday, December 25, 9 a.m.–2 p.m.; $45 per adult, $28 per child 5-12.
  • New Year’s Eve: Pop the Cork Dinner: Bid adieu to 2021 and get ready to ring in a new year full of promise with a special four-course feast. Friday, December 31, 5:30-8 p.m.; $110 per person.

COUNT DOWN IN STYLE 

With the ocean just outside, there’s no better venue in Oceanside than the Shore Room to celebrate the New Year. Celebrate in style with an elegant evening, featuring live jazz music along with plenty of champagne and caviar. Friday, December 31, 8 p.m.–midnight; $250 per couple, including reserved seating, a bottle of champagne, and caviar tasting.

HOLIDAY TRADITIONS WITH A BEACHFRONT TWIST 

Our special program of holiday-themed activities is designed to ignite the imaginations of kids of all ages. 

Holiday Workshop

Celebrate the season with fun crafts, including snowman building, cookie decorating, writing letters to Santa, and creating Christmas and Hanukkah ornaments. Saturdays from Nov. 27 to Dec. 25 and Friday, Dec. 24; 12-2 p.m.

Gingerbread House Decorating

Grab the entire family and show off your gingerbread house decorating skills. Make it a Top Gun Gingerbread House for a chance to win a $100 hotel gift certificate. Are you up for the challenge? Nov. 11, 4 p.m.; $35 per kit | Recommend one per family of 4-6; limited availability.

Caramel Apple Dipping

Create your own sweet treat by dipping apples in creamy caramel and then tailoring them to your liking with a range of toppings, including chocolate chips, graham cracker crumbles, sprinkles, and crushed cookies. Nov. 24, 6 p.m. and Nov. 25 and Dec. 21, 11 a.m.; $10 per apple

Story Time With Elves

The spirited Elves of Seabird are standing by to lend a hand and narrate a fun holiday story. Younger guests are invited to wear their favorite holiday pajamas. Thursdays from Dec. 2 to Dec. 23; 5:30 p.m. 

Holiday Movie by the Pool

Get cozy at Shelter Club, enjoying hot chocolate, cider, and popcorn while watching a classic holiday film. Add an extra dash of holiday magic to the experience by renting a portable fire pit and getting all the ingredients for tasty s’mores. Saturdays from Nov. 27 to Dec. 25; 6-8 p.m. 

halloween orange pumpkins

October 22, 2021

How to Spend Halloween in Oceanside

By Aaron Peasley

The weather may still be balmy here, but Oceanside is no slouch when it comes to celebrating fall and, especially, Halloween. Buildings are festooned with chilling decor, residential streets turn into mini haunted villages, and even the surfers get their freak on, swapping board shorts for skeleton-print wetsuits. Here are a few ways to get into this year’s fun, Oceanside-style.

GET SPOOKY AT THE SEABIRD

You won’t have to leave the resort to experience Oceanside’s ghoulish side. Our ever-popular Little Seabirds program includes creative and memorable ways for younger guests to have a beachside Halloween. Throughout October, our curated activities include rock monster painting, spooky scavenger hunts, pumpkin painting, and creepy sand art. On Halloween night, trick-or-treaters are unleashed at 4:30 pm. 

HAUNTED SUNSET MARKET

Just three blocks away from The Seabird, Oceanside’s year-round market gets wicked and weird for this once-a-year party the Thursday before Halloween. Ghosts and goblins of all ages are welcome: The costume parade commences at 6pm, and the main stage will showcase local performers and sets by DJ Steve O as well as a contest in search of Oceanside’s “most blood-curdling scream.” BYO earplugs. Thursday, Oct. 28.

DIA DE LOS MUERTOS FESTIVAL

Given our proximity to Mexico, it’s no surprise that O’siders are accustomed to the unique traditions of Día de los Muertos, from papel picado (paper banners) and marigold garlands (traditional spirit offerings) to the ubiquitous skull iconography. Celebrating its 20th year, our local festival, held downtown at the corner of Pier View Way and South Tremont, attracts people of all ages. Kids can have their face painted in their favorite colors and learn about the chalk cemetery ritual, while parents delight in the culinary treats and vendors selling handmade arts and crafts. Sunday, Oct. 24. 

BALBOA PARK’S HAUNTED TRAIL

Transportation (it’s a 30-minute drive from the resort), an entry fee ($25 and up), and a little courage are the prerequisites to enter this hugely popular attraction in San Diego’s iconic Balboa Park. Designed for kids 10 and up and adults, the mile-long track runs through the historic gardens, with some unexpected sights along the way. An uber-theatrical homage to the old school hayride, the one of a kind experience begins once you make your way out of the “eXperiment Maze,” a portal to an underworld where futuristic special effects and professional actors create a ghoulish, intriguing and often hilarious experience. You’ve been warned. Through Oct. 31.

LEGOLAND CALIFORNIA

Locally in Carlsbad around 15 minutes from Oceanside, Legoland pulls out all the spooky stops during October. As well as Brick-or-Treat, which sees the perennially popular park open after dark, weekend ticket holders will be able to experience the park in a new light. Kids are invited to come dressed in costumes for (safely distanced) character meet-n-greets, and the entire family will appreciate the seasonal eating options and popular scavenger hunt. Through Oct. 31.

AROUND OCEANSIDE

With its profusion of wineries, small farms and orchards, the San Diego area is set up for outdoor fall delights — no picnic basket required. Drop by Mr. Jack O’ Lanterns Pumpkin Patch in La Jolla to scout organic produce, take on the maze, or learn the basics of pumpkin carving. Temecula Terror, which attracts an older crowd as well as families, is a new attraction featuring wine tastings, live music, and a series of themed pop-ups serving seasonal cocktails, local wines, and microbrews.