We just came back from a four-day staycation in Oxnard, CA that absolutely blew us away. “Oxnard, really? Why Oxnard? What’s there?”
We’re so glad you asked.
Conveniently located just five minutes South of Ventura, Oxnard is a hidden gem of a beach town. It has it all—beautiful weather, a pristine coastline, award-winning restaurants, luxurious accommodations, and even a taco trail! And the best part is, it feels under the radar. But I digress, just read on…
One of our first stops was this colorful mural!
Zachari Dunes is a brand-new (it just opened in October of 2022!) and absolutely stunning beachfront resort, right in the heart of Oxnard. Not only is the property massive, the rooms are too! All of the rooms are suites (families, can we get an amen?), so even if you’re in the smallest room—you still have a living area and two bathrooms! There’s a beautiful pool and spa, multiple dining options, Watersport rentals, game room, daily activities, and SO MUCH MORE. It’s a destination in and of itself. We would have been more than happy never leaving the property, but alas, there’s so much to do in the town as well. Which leads us to our next reason….
Sally and Reese love a good hotel bed.
What a spot! Zachari Dunes is stunning!
Sunset with the boys.
The beach is Sally approved.
Dozens and dozens of delicious and authentic taco spots… need we say more? We only had time to hit up a few, but they were LEGIT. If nothing else, we’ll be back to Oxnard just for the tacos. Two must-visit local faves:
Carnitas El Rey: Not many people know that Bobby always goes straight for the carnitas at an authentic Mexican restaurant. Who knew that our first stop in Oxnard would be the taco restaurant that specializes in carnitas. WHAT?!? They offer different cuts of carnitas and you should try a variety. Quite possibly the best carnitas we’ve ever had. Be forewarned—the tacos are BIG. They load them up, so come hungry.
Yolanda's Mexican Cafe: We came for the marina views, but the tacos were the real star here. We tried the steak, chicken, and carnitas tacos and they were all really good. Especially when paired with a couple Cadillac margaritas. ;) For a full list of taco trail spots, click here!
First stop at Carnitas and it was the BEST!
Yolanda’s is delish!
3. There are Endless Activities
Whether you’re the kind of vacationer that just wants to beach, pool, repeat, or the kind that gets antsy after 10 minutes of “relaxing”—you’ll thrive in Oxnard. It has it all. Adventure seekers can choose between day tripping to the Channel Islands or a variety of ocean sports. Shoppers can indulge in picture-perfect outdoor shopping spots. Sightseers can stroll the harbor or ride bikes on the beach path. Your vacation can be as jam-packed or chill as you want it to be.
Anacapa Island is stunning! Go!
4. It’s Perfect for Families
It’s wild how your priorities change once you’ve had kids. Pre-kids we’d spend hours researching the cocktail bars and nightlife of a destination—now we google “playgrounds with a view”, “kid friendly restaurants with happy hours”, and “outdoor activities for toddlers”. Oxnard REALLY delivered in this department. From the Pirate Playground next door to our hotel, to the Gondola Paradiso gondola ride that our whole family enjoyed, to the scenic Wheel Fun Rentals Surrey ride, to the waterfront restaurants that had icy cold cocktails for us and coloring books for the kiddos—we were ALL living our best lives.
The Mullin Automotive Museum is a hit for all ages.
Pool time at Zachari Dunes!
Sunset Gondola ride with Gondola Paradiso!
5. The FOOD!
It’s safe to say we ate our way through Oxnard. Beyond the insane taco scene, the fresh seafood here is on another level. Just a few of our favorites:
Ox & Ocean (located at the Zachari Dunes) was so good, we ate there numerous times. Order the O & O Burger And the Oxtail Bao Buns. And don’t forget their signature Magic Sunset cocktail!
Waterside Restaurant and Wine Bar is another spot we frequented more than once. As the name implies, it’s right on the water and has an extensive menu with fresh seafood and local favorites. They also have a really great happy hour (get the Strawberry Mule!), and live music. We’d be there every weekend if we were locals!
Other standouts: Ragamuffin Coffee Roasters makes a mean iced oat vanilla latte, The Blend Superfood Bar has a Peanut Butter Berry Acai Bowl that I will never forget, and La Dolce Vita serves the most mouthwatering homemade Italian pastas in the most charming setting.
Be sure to visit Ox & Ocean!
Moral of the story: Go to Oxnard. Bring your family. Heck, bring us! We’re ready to go back!