Oceanside, known to locals as O’Side is one of those quintessential SoCal beach towns with a chill vibe. You might recognize a few of their top tourist destinations from the iconic movie Top Gun. (You can actually visit the Top Gun house!) Keep reading for some of the best photo spots in Oceanside!
Best Photo Spots in Oceanside #1: Vigilante Coffee
For me, it always starts with coffee. Vigilante Coffee is a total vibe. Smooth coffee, fabulous ambiance, great food, and all locals. Their location is also a roastery in the back which is pretty cool!
- Location: 1575 S Coast Hwy, Oceanside, CA 92054
- Hours: 7AM – 4PM Daily
- Pro Tip: Get there early for a cozy spot on the couch. Also, I tried one of the best flat whites I’ve ever had here.
Best Photo Spots in Oceanside #2: Robert’s Cottages
Built during the 1920s, Robert’s Cottages are an important piece of O’Side history. They are cute vacation cottages available for rent right on the beach with an amazing view. Surrounded by palm trees and white sand, they really have that “SoCal” style.
- Location: 704 The Strand N, Oceanside, CA 92054
- Pro Tip: The cottages are technically more of a salmon color. A lot of photos are edited to make them light/bright pink. Just an FYI so you’re not surprised like I was!
Best Photo Spots in Oceanside #3: The Star Theatre
The Star Theatre feels like it popped right out of Palm Springs or vintage Las Vegas. This 1950s theater is another of Oceanside’s historic landmarks. It was originally a movie theater, but today it hosts various community productions throughout the year.
- Location: 402 N Coast Hwy, Oceanside, CA 92054
- Pro Tip: For the best shot, shoot from below or while crossing the street.
Best Photo Spots in Oceanside #4: Civic Center & City Hall
The entrance to Oceanside’s City Hall feels like you just stepped onto the game board of Candyland. There are colored tiles everywhere and it serves Miami in the best way! If you can believe it, it’s even more stunning in person.
- Location: 300 N Coast Hwy, Oceanside, CA 92054
- Pro Tip: The courtyard does also feature modern white walls with arches and minimalist architecture if you’re looking for a simpler style.
Best Photo Spots in Oceanside #5: Oceanside Harbor
After all these photos, if you’re looking for a cute stop for lunch (with great photo ops) head to the Oceanside Harbor. There are plenty of harbor-side restaurants as well as paths to walk along the water.
- Location: 1540 Harbor Drive North, Oceanside, CA 92054
- Pro Tip: Lighthouse Oyster Bar & Grill is a local hotspot.
Looking for more San Diego photo spots?
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Most Instagrammable Coffee Shops in San Diego
