Oxnard

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Oxnard's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in downtown Oxnard, where you can enjoy fresh pastries and coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll through the Historic District to admire the beautiful architecture of the Victorian-era homes. Visit the Heritage Square, where you can learn about the rich history of the area and snap some photos of the charming buildings.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head over to the Carnegie Art Museum to appreciate contemporary and classic art pieces. Spend some time exploring the local shops and boutiques, where you can find unique souvenirs and handmade crafts. Wrap up your afternoon with a delicious lunch at a nearby farm-to-table restaurant, focusing on fresh, local ingredients.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a scenic walk along the Oxnard waterfront, taking in the beautiful views of the marina. Choose a waterfront restaurant for dinner, where you can indulge in fresh seafood while listening to the gentle lapping of the waves. After dinner, consider attending a live music event or a local theater performance to cap off your cultural day.

day 2
Beach and Water Sports
morning
:

Begin your day at Oxnard Beach Park, where you can enjoy a hearty breakfast picnic with ocean views. After eating, rent a kayak or paddleboard and spend the morning paddling through the calm waters of the Pacific Ocean. The gentle waves and coastal scenery provide a perfect backdrop for some fun in the sun.

afternoon
:

After a morning of water sports, relax on the sandy beach with a good book or take a refreshing swim in the ocean. For lunch, try one of the beachside eateries that serve up tasty fish tacos and smoothies. Spend the afternoon beachcombing or playing beach volleyball with friends or fellow beachgoers.

evening
:

As evening approaches, watch the sunset paint the sky with vibrant colors while you stroll along the beach. For dinner, enjoy a casual meal at a beachfront restaurant, where you can savor local specialties while enjoying ocean breezes. End your day with a bonfire on the beach, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories with friends.

day 3
Channel Islands National Park Adventure
morning
:

Set out early in the morning for a day trip to Channel Islands National Park, taking a ferry from the Oxnard harbor. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by breathtaking views and the chance to explore the unique wildlife and stunning landscapes of the islands. Spend the morning hiking on one of the trails, encountering endemic species and enjoying the fresh ocean air.

afternoon
:

Continue your adventure with a guided snorkeling tour to discover the vibrant underwater ecosystem surrounding the islands. After snorkeling, enjoy a packed lunch on the beach, taking in the serene surroundings and chatting with fellow adventurers. Spend the afternoon hiking or exploring tide pools along the shore, watching for seals and sea lions basking in the sun.

evening
:

Return to Oxnard in the evening, filled with memories of your island adventure. Have dinner at a cozy restaurant in town, reminiscing about the stunning views and experiences of the day. If you're up for it, take a leisurely stroll along the harbor before heading back to your accommodation.

day 4
Visit to Local Farmers' Market
morning
:

Start your day at the Oxnard Farmers' Market, where you can browse a wide variety of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local crafts. Enjoy a breakfast of fresh-squeezed juice and pastries from local vendors while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere filled with live music. Spend some time chatting with the farmers and artisans to learn about their products and sustainable practices.

afternoon
:

After exploring the market, take your fresh finds to a nearby park for a picnic lunch, enjoying the sunny weather. Spend the afternoon visiting the nearby Channel Islands Maritime Museum, where you can learn about the rich maritime history of the area. Engage with the exhibits and perhaps participate in a hands-on workshop if available.

evening
:

For dinner, head to a local bistro that emphasizes farm-to-table dining, treating yourself to a meal made from the fresh ingredients you picked up earlier. Enjoy the cozy atmosphere while savoring dishes that reflect the local flavors of Oxnard. After dinner, consider taking a leisurely walk through the park to enjoy the evening breeze and the sounds of nature.

day 5
Cultural Exploration and Art
morning
:

Begin your cultural exploration with a visit to the Oxnard Performing Arts Center, where you can check for any morning workshops or art exhibits. Take a guided tour of the center to appreciate the design and learn about the performances that take place throughout the year. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café, fueling up for a day of art and culture.

afternoon
:

Afterward, visit the Pacific Coast Art Guild Gallery to see local artists' work and possibly meet some of the creators themselves. Spend your afternoon participating in a painting or pottery class offered at a local studio, allowing your creativity to flow. For lunch, find a quaint eatery where you can enjoy a delicious meal surrounded by artistic decor.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a local gallery opening or art show, immersing yourself in the vibrant local art scene. Enjoy mingling with artists and fellow art lovers while sipping on wine and indulging in appetizers. Cap off the evening with a visit to a nearby lounge for live jazz music, creating a perfect atmosphere for unwinding and reflecting on the day's experiences.

day 6
Nature Walk and Wildlife Viewing
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Oxnard Wetlands, where you can take a guided nature walk to learn about the diverse ecosystems and wildlife in the area. The morning is perfect for bird watching, as many species are active and visible at this time. Enjoy the tranquility of the wetlands as you immerse yourself in nature.

afternoon
:

After the morning walk, head to a local farm for a farm tour, where you can learn about sustainable agriculture practices and perhaps even pick some fresh produce. Enjoy a farm-fresh lunch at the onsite café, where you can taste the local flavors of Oxnard. Spend the afternoon visiting a nearby nature reserve, where you can hike various trails and spot more wildlife.

evening
:

As the day winds down, return to the wetlands to catch the sunset, painting the sky in beautiful colors. Enjoy a picnic dinner amidst the natural beauty, listening to the sounds of wildlife around you. If time permits, consider joining a night tour to experience the wetlands after dark and learn about nocturnal animals.

day 7
Wine Tasting in the Region
morning
:

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner, where you can fuel up for a day of wine tasting ahead. After breakfast, visit one of the local wineries for a morning tour, where you’ll learn about the winemaking process and the region's rich viticulture. Enjoy sampling a selection of their finest wines in a picturesque setting.

afternoon
:

Continue your wine journey by visiting a couple more wineries in the area, each offering tastings of their unique varietals and blends. Pair your tastings with a gourmet lunch at a winery that offers food pairings, enhancing the flavors of the wines. Spend some time relaxing in the vineyard gardens, taking in the beautiful views of the rolling hills.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, enjoy a final tasting at a winery known for its stunning sunset views, creating a magical atmosphere. For dinner, choose a restaurant that serves local cuisine paired with regional wines, allowing you to savor the flavors of Oxnard. After dinner, consider stopping by a local wine bar for a nightcap and to reflect on your delightful wine-tasting day.

day 8
Outdoor Adventure and Hiking
morning
:

Embark on a morning adventure with a hike at the nearby Santa Monica Mountains, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and diverse trails. Start with a hearty breakfast at a local café to fuel your energy for the hike ahead. Bring your camera to capture the stunning vistas and wildlife you may encounter on the trails.

afternoon
:

After your hike, enjoy a packed lunch at a scenic overlook, taking in the beautiful landscapes surrounding you. Spend the afternoon exploring additional trails or visiting the nearby parks, where you can engage in activities like birdwatching or nature photography. Take the time to relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of the mountains.

evening
:

As the day comes to a close, return to Oxnard and treat yourself to a well-deserved dinner at a cozy restaurant known for its hearty meals. Reflect on your outdoor adventure while enjoying a delicious meal made from fresh, local ingredients. To end your day, take a relaxing stroll along the beach, listening to the sound of the waves and watching the stars emerge in the night sky.

day 9
Family Fun at the Park
morning
:

Start your family day at the Oxnard Parks and Recreation, where you can have a fun breakfast picnic surrounded by nature. After breakfast, engage in some family-friendly activities like mini-golf or a game of frisbee at one of the local parks. The kids will love exploring the playground while you enjoy the beautiful weather.

afternoon
:

After some fun in the park, head to the nearby Channel Islands Harbor for a family-friendly boat tour, where you can spot seals and dolphins. Enjoy a lunch at a family-friendly restaurant overlooking the harbor, where everyone can find something they love on the menu. Spend your afternoon at the beach, playing in the sand or building sandcastles together as a family.

evening
:

As evening approaches, have a casual dinner at a restaurant known for its kid-friendly options, ensuring everyone is happy with their meal choices. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the harbor, enjoying the gentle ocean breeze and maybe stopping for ice cream. End your family day with some fun games at a local arcade or a movie night at a nearby theater.

Discover Oxnard

Read more in our Oxnard 2025 Travel Guide.

Oxnard Travel Guide