San Luis Rey - Oceanside, CA

San Luis Rey was first settled when Spanish monks established Mission San Luis Rey de Francia on the site in 1798. The grounds encompassed nearly one million acres, including the site of the present-day neighborhood. The area became more settled during World War II with the construction of nearby Camp Pendleton in Oceanside, and a large housing boom followed. This military presence has heavily influenced the community, and today, many military families and veterans reside in San Luis Rey.

Visitors can get a look at this history by touring the well-maintained mission. The extensive grounds also contain a cemetery that dates back to the 18th century, and a museum in the mission chronicles its history. Within walking distance of the mission, you'll find Heritage Park Village and Museum, the former town center of Oceanside that contains many of the original historic town buildings.

Lined with restaurants that span a wide range of cuisines, Mission Avenue dining establishments provide a little something for everyone. For authentic Mexican food, head to San Luis Rey Bakery and Restaurant. Don'te let the name fool you, this place has some of the tastiest carne asada burrito. If you stop by in the morning, try the Spanish omelette or carne asada with eggs and a heaping cup of coffee to help you start the day off right. Also, don't forget to browse the selection of sweets and baked goods at their bakery before you leave.

To satisfy a craving for greasy diner food, check out the Pit Stop Diner. A juicy burger and a pile of fries served in a basket makes for a quick and tasty lunch. Make sure to start the meal off with the fried mushrooms, a restaurant specialty. The checkered tablecloths and vintage cars give a 1950s vibe to the restaurant and the low prices seem straight out of the same era as well.

If seafood happens to be your food of choice, visit Miramar Fish Tacos and Beer on Douglas Drive right off of Mission Avenue. People from all over come to this establishment for its lively atmosphere and tasty menu items. The locals certainly visit this restaurant often and you may notice some familiar faces as you frequent the place more. Enjoy happy hour specials every day of the week and be sure to try one of the many fish tacos as you sip on a blended ice cocktail of your choice.

A few bars provide nightlife in San Luis Rey. Patrons visit One More That's It Pub to pick a beer from the wide selection of brews on tap. Inside, you'll find several pool tables and a juke box, but many people enjoy socializing in the outdoor patio area, complete with comfortable seating and fire pits.

Residents utilize many different modes of transportation for getting around San Luis Rey. Many drive cars or carpool to work, and most businesses have free and ample parking nearby. People enjoy walking around the neighborhood, which has wide sidewalks running on both sides of most roads. Bike lanes and crosswalks at intersections make biking a popular method of transportation as well. Rides via Uber, which operates in San Diego and surrounding areas, can usually be arranged in San Luis Rey. You'll need to call one of the several taxi companies that serve the area for a cab ride.

North County Transit District operates several transportation systems that locals use to get around. The bus system features multiple routes that run through San Luis Rey and to Oceanside. A commuter train called the Coaster runs down the coast from Oceanside to San Diego, with multiple stopping points along the way. The Breeze, a light speed rail, runs an east-west route with service to Escondido. Amtrak has several stations in the area as well. State Route 76 runs through San Luis Rey and connects with I-5, making it easy to access highways.

The sprawl of housing that has taken over San Luis Rey has left very few green areas, but a few small ones can be found throughout the neighborhood. Most of these focus on family-oriented functions, and you won't find many courts or fields for sports in them. Fireside Park has several elaborate playgrounds that children enjoy. The picnic tables and shade structures make the park ideal for birthday parties and gatherings.

People also use the San Luis River Trail for recreational opportunities like biking, jogging and walking dogs. This 9-mile trail runs adjacent to San Luis Rey and ends at Oceanside, making it a popular route to the beach.

Although the cost of living can be quite high in southern California, living costs run 8 percent lower in San Luis Rey than in San Diego. Median rent prices for a one-bedroom residence typically run around $1,228 per month, while gas prices remain 10 percent higher than the national average. If you walk into a local pub for a beer, expect to pay about $5 for a pint. Getting to San Diego from San Luis Rey using public transportation requires a bus ride to Oceanside for $1.75, and then a ride on the Coaster train for $5.50.

Many shopping opportunities lie clustered along Mission Avenue, including several big-box stores. Several strip malls house retailers like Petsmart and Ross while locals shop for groceries at Albertson's, Vons or Sprouts. Although there are no farmers markets that operate within San Luis Rey, several can be found in the nearby in Oceanside and Vista.

For unique items, stop by Old Mission Gift Shop. The store sells artwork made by local artisans, and you can pick up handmade tiles or statues. You'll also find a selection of books that detail the history of California and the Spanish missions.

Take advantage of the southern California surf by renting a surfboard at Pacific Fun Project. For a less strenuous way to enjoy the water, purchase a stand-up paddle board. Because the store is a direct manufacturer and not a retail store, it offers lower prices than other shops, and hardcore surfers travel from miles around for these deals.