1. Guajome County Park
City: Oceanside, CA
Category: Parks & Recreation
Telephone: (858) 565-3600, (877) 565-3600
Address: 3000 Guajome Lakes Road
Description: To find this 557-acre park, exit Interstate 5 on Mission Avenue in Oceanside and drive about 7 miles east. Nature trails ramble for miles through the lush riparian wilderness here. There are equestrian trails, too. The marsh area is popular with serious bird-watchers, and the lakeshore is a well-liked fishing spot. You’ll find camping available in 35 RV sites (with showers for campers). There are plenty of picnic and barbecue areas along with a play area and convenient restrooms. Near the parking lot is an information kiosk that has brochures about the area. Nature walks and docent-led tours of the historic adobe home on-site are held most weekends; call for dates and times.
2. Carlsbad Paddle Sports
City: Oceanside, CA
Category: Parks & Recreation
Telephone: (760) 434-8686
Address: 2002 South Coast Highway
Description: This store is far more than a place to rent equipment. Kayakers think of it as their North County club, where knowledgeable staff members provide instruction, lead adventure trips, and know all the local paddling possibilities. If you need equipment, it’s $60 for a single and $80 for a double eight-hour kayak rental.The company offers all sorts of adventurous trips from Baja to Kauai. Closer to home, they teach newbies how to paddle into the ocean at the Oceanside Harbor and how to surf the waves in a sit-on-top kayak at Carlsbad State Beach. They’ll also guide you to the best spots for kayak fishing and for spotting sea creatures.
3. Surf Ride Board Shop
City: Oceanside, CA
Category: Parks & Recreation
Telephone: (760) 433-4020
Address: 1909 South Coast Highway
Description: If you’re looking for surf gear, shoes, and accessories, Surf Ride always offers a big selection of top-quality merchandise, including designer labels.