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Mandalay State Beach may not have the modern amenities that you’re used to, but that’s kind of the point. The pristine sandy shores, along with the surrounding sand dunes and wetlands, are part of a protected area that spans 92 acres. The area is as wild and natural as it gets, making it one of the more beautiful and serene beaches in all of Central California.

The lack of commercial development allows for the wildlife at Mandalay State Beach to flourish. It’s a common spot for birdwatchers, with some portions of the beach actually blocked off to allow for the nesting of snowy plovers and least terns.

If you’re looking for a return to nature, and you’re willing to part with modern conveniences to do so, Mandalay State Beach will not let you down.

Mandalay State Beach Oxnard California
Mandalay State Beach, Oxnard, CA. Photo: Sergei Gussev

Location

Mandalay Beach Road and West 5th Street in Oxnard

Activities

Surfing, fishing, walking, hiking, birdwatching.

There are no lifeguards, and waves can be large, so swim at your own risk.

Dogs not allowed on beach.

Amenities

There are no facilities at Mandalay State Beach, but again, that’s part of the charm.

Street parking is available free of charge.

Nearby Attractions

If you walk just south of Mandalay State Beach you’ll find Oxnard Beach Park. There you can play volleyball and basketball, go cycling on the bike trail, barbecue, and surf. Dogs are allowed on the beach, as well, provide they’re leashed.

South of Oxnard Beach Park is Hollywood Beach, a more secluded area where you can swim and sunbathe. Leashed dogs are allowed before 9 am and after 5 pm.

Mandalay State Beach is less than ten minutes from Channel Islands Harbor, where you can charter a boat, scuba dive, kayak, go whale watching, or grab dinner from a nearby restaurant.

The Channel Islands Maritime museum is near Channel Islands Harbor. They have various rotating exhibits, paintings, model ships, guided educational tours, and more.

Heritage Square in downtown Oxnard is a perfectly preserved square of historic buildings for you to explore. Take a guided tour of the area, then grab dinner at a nearby restaurant.

Fun Facts

Oxnard is not only home to Mandalay State Beach, there’s also a long list of celebrities who either once lived there or currently do including musician Dave Grohl of the Foo Fighters and Nirvana, rapper/R&B singer Anderson Paak, political activist Cesar Chavez, and singing duo Sonny & Cher.