Located in Northern San Diego County, the Oceanside pier is the northern-most pier on our list. It is located in the city of Oceanside, a beach town 40 miles north of San Diego with a laid-back atmosphere, much like many of the piers on our list!
The third largest city in San Diego County, Oceanside has 3 and a half miles of beach. There have been six piers here since the first one in 1888, and the current one is 1,942 feet long, the second longest in the county, behind Ocean Beach.
The beach itself is not very long here, with only a few steps before you get to the water. From the pier you will see the shoreline with houses and mountains behind. Bike riding is a major thing on San Diego beaches, and this one is no different. With its Southern California atmosphere, you’ll find it very easy to feel comfortable here.
Attractions
There are many things to do on Oceanside’s beaches, from everyday happenings to special events like surf competitions, concerts, car shows, triathlons, and the Oceanside Harbor Village. The Village offers dining, shopping, and other activities complete with a lighthouse. Each with their own vintage feel, there are many types of restaurants here, from burger places to seafood joints to pizzerias.
Oceanside Pier, like many on our list, is a fishing pier and there is even a shop along the way for bait and rentals. No license is required and there are always people hanging their lines over the edge. They even hold Fishing Derbies! For those who don’t want to fish for their dinner, Ruby’s Diner sits at the end of the pier. This true 60’s style diner has an all-American menu combined with views of the waves, California sun, birds, dolphins, and much more.
We don’t really need to tell you that this is a surf spot, because in San Diego everywhere is a surf spot! But here you’ll find some hardcore wave rippers. The south side of the pier is more lively and sits in front of the Oceanside Pier Plaza Amphitheater, where many events take place year-round. To the north of the pier is a calmer beach in a residential area and sits in front of the Oceanside Community Recreation Center.