Oceanside CA.with all its inevitable changes the charm provided as a local is Oceansides largest hidden treasure. Knowing the back streets to take during Saturday traffic, getting the best California burrito anytime of the day or night are just a few of the lures that keeps locals around and visitors comming back. I was once a local, surfing, living, playing upon the streets of South O for almost thirty years. I eventually pulled the move card and joined the coalition of citizens whom literaaly bought the farm. Went the way of the wind and found new roots on 3 acres in Oregon. I may never call myself an Orgonian having been born and raised in Southern Ca. however, no matter how beautiful Oregon is Oceanside will forever be home. I have found myself driving 14 hours straight the last two Summers only to surf upon arrival, drive the Strand, eat mexican food immediately after and drive to make sure some of the stores i’ve known for three decades still exist. The comfort of the beach, the vibe, the smell of salt and herb in the air is comforting and irreplacable. Walking anywhere in town I still encounter people I have known for years other locals still holding on as if they are the cities original ghosts fighting and belonging to a rebellion. The changes and growth is visible and every local can’t help but be affected by them but knowing what used to be, is the connection that keeps Oceanisdes spirits united. When I go into a favorite bar and talk with any local all the stories emerge from memories. Forinstance, the beer pub was once a punk bar that Ive seen go thru 6 different manes throughout the years I remember watching bands from Los Angeles come in to play when fights began breaking out we would wait and watch only to see people settle down and the bands start again. The old skating ring is now condominimuns and the completely all nude dance bar is a surf museum. At least the Oceanside Welcome Center is still across the street from the local strip bar which is always a reminder of old Hill Street before it became PCH. The little shops and local coffee at the Harbor is still full of old salty’s and a great place to find a conversation..Walking on the pier stirs up every past step, wallow, skip, or romance the wood has experienced under my shoes. Even a jump from the railings at the end of the pier into the ocean below was in my past, So many changes yet the streets keep their names and the hidden guilty pleasures have yet to dissapear. I take pride in the memories, the stories, the call to come home, the yearn for the surf and the people, the smells, the food and the familar haunts. I may never move back to San Diego but Oceanside will be a comfort a familiar friend, a past love and whereever life takes you as a one time Oceanside local I will always be pulled to drive towards it. . It,s not a choice but rather an inner need to search for the treasures of what once was and what will always be South O.
Freelance Writing Blog – Lisa Netzner