The Oceanside Transit Center is Amtrak's home in this seaside town just north of Carlsbad, California. The Pacific Surfliner and the Coast Starlight make regular stops in Oceanside on their trips along the California coast. The transit center is the area's transportation hub, also serving the North County Transit District Buses, Coaster Commuter Train, Sprinter Light Rail and Commuter Link Express. Most of the hotels and motels, particularly the chain brands, are along Interstate 5 and not within walking distance. The closest properties have that advantage, along with easy access to the town’s long stretch of warm sand.
Dolphin Hotel – Historic Charm
- At only 1 block east of the Amtrak station, the Dolphin Hotel is the closest property. It is also the oldest. Dating back to 1927, the facade still has its vintage look, down to the neon “Dolphin Hotel” sign above the entry. The high ceilings and period furnishings give the property a retro look, a direct contrast to modern amenities such as free wireless Internet and cable TV. The 25-room hotel is low-key, reasonably priced, surrounded by shops and restaurants and only 2 blocks from the beach.
The Southern California Beach Club – Oceanfront Glam
- Located next to Tyson Street Park and across from the beach, the Southern California Beach Club is an all-suite property that has nightly rentals. Studios, one- and two-bedroom units, many with ocean views, are on the availability list. In addition to its proximity to the beach and historic Oceanside Pier, the beach club schedules on-site activities for its guests. Take up watercolor painting, enter a Sudoku puzzle contest or sign up for yoga classes. Off-site excursions are also planned, including Hollywood Tours, yacht sailing and visits to farmers markets and seaside bazaars. The Amtrak station is 2 blocks away.
- SpringHill Suites San Diego Oceanside/Downtown – Eco-Friendly
- Less than a block from the ocean and 2 blocks from Oceanside Pier, the SpringHill Suites San Diego Oceanside/Downtown is one of the newest properties in the area. It is also LEED certified, meaning it is environmentally friendly. A vision in ivory and silver, the property is part of the Marriott Hotel family. The all-suite, non-smoking property has separate sleeping areas in each room, kitchenettes, free wireless Internet and upscale furnishings. The rooftop swimming pool and sun deck overlooks the Pacific Ocean and the Oceanside skyline. Buffet breakfast is included in the room rate. The Hello Betty Fish House, a local landmark, is right next door. You'll find the Amtrak station 2 blocks southeast.
Wyndham Oceanside Pier Resort – Adjacent to Pier
- At 4 blocks from the Amtrak station, the Wyndham Oceanside Pier Resort is the next closest property with the added advantage of being adjacent to the city’s historic pier. Walk out the front door and take an early morning walk on the 1,942-foot-long structure. Even better, experience sunset from the very end and enjoy a meal at Ruby’s Diner, a retro eatery that looks like something out of the 1950s. Fishing is allowed off the pier, and you don’t even need a license. Standard hotel rooms and one- to four-bedroom suites are available, some with ocean views. The suites all have full kitchens. All rooms have upgraded amenities and free wireless Internet access. Guests have use of an outdoor pool and hot tub with ocean views, a library and, of course, the beach.
