Mira Costa - Oceanside, CA

The area of Mira Costa known as Henie Hills was developed by world-famous figure skater, art collector and film star Sonja Henie and her brother Leif in the latter half of the 1930s. Initially built as a vacation spot for their friends and family, it quickly became a popular spot for Sonja’s famous friends, who began building their own homes to temporarily escape the limelight and enjoy the tranquility of seaside living. Sonja and Leif eventually began to further the town’s development by building permanent homes to sell, with additional developers recognizing the area’s potential beginning in the 1950s.

MiraCosta College, built in 1934, moved to its current location in 1964. Currently, the college allows more residents greater educational and employment opportunities and is home to a theater designed by architect Gene Weston, who designed the Old Globe Theater in San Diego.

Mira Costa features an abundant array of nightlife and culturally diverse restaurants, from succulent down-home fare to exquisite fine dining. This makes it simple to find something that suits your particular tastes any day of the week.

Felix's BBQ With Soul, located in Oceanside, provides a true Southern dining experience. Stepping inside feels like walking into a backyard barbecue, surrounded by old friends. Sit outside on the patio with Felix's famous po' boy sandwich and sweet potato fries as the cool ocean breeze keeps you company, or dine inside with friends while feasting on the combination plate that includes Alabama fried chicken, baby back ribs, fresh corn bread, mashed potatoes, and macaroni and cheese. Make sure you don't pass on the gumbo, and if you still have enough room, try the sinful peach cobbler.

For more beach-friendly fare, check out Hooked on Sushi in nearby Carlsbad. With several gluten-free options, including the tres amigos roll and the spicy hulk roll, this restaurant caters to diners of all types. Fun dishes such as the greased lightning roll, the 911 roll and the always popular California dreaming leave you feeling like a local, since sushi is a mainstay in the city.

When seeking a good old-fashioned pizza joint, look no further than Big Bob's Best Pizza, known for traditional, hand-tossed, Old World-style pizzas. If you're not in the mood for pizza but still crave some Italian fare, order one of the shop's generous calzones, hearty pastas or fresh salads. Just remember to wait 30 minutes before catching the next wave.

If you're looking for nightlife in the North County, you're in luck. The Basement Night Club in Oceanside is sure to dazzle anyone looking to bust a move, with drink specials every day and different guest DJs spinning beats throughout the week. With doors opening at 9 p.m. and no cover charge, this club keeps you twisting the night away.

Getting around is easy in Mira Costa, with easy access to the 78, 805, 91, 15 and 215 freeways. Most people get around by car, though several surrounding areas are easily accessible by foot. If you prefer public transportation, you can call Tri City Cab, or hop on one of the scenic rail trains to transport you to your destination. The Sprinter Light Rail Train and the San Diego Coast Express Rail, part of the North County Transit District, provide gorgeous views of the coast during your commute and run Monday through Friday from 4 a.m.-9 p.m., while the Breeze bus provides more cost-effective transportation for everyday commuting needs. It runs on a regular schedule that can be obtained through the North County Transit District website.

California’s residents are known for being healthy and fit, and the parks in North County do not disappoint.

Located in neighboring Vista, Buena Vista Park has numerous ball fields, a charming duck pond and a rigorous hiking trail for outdoor enthusiasts. If you’re more family-oriented, the area offers several kid- and family-friendly parks featuring safe and exciting play structures, walking trails, bike trails, ponds and more. Check out the Hidden Canyon Community Park in Carlsbad, featuring the most up-to-date play structures. Try the Buchanan Park in Oceanside and let your kids take advantage of the six available swings, or climb the mountain-shaped jungle gym as you stay shaded under one of the park’s large playground umbrellas.

The cost of living in Mira Costa can be described as high-end to luxurious. If you are looking to rent an apartment, the current median average for a one-bedroom unit can cost anywhere from $1,200 to $1,800 per month. Depending on the mode of public transportation you use, fares cost between $1.75 and $6.00 per trip, while gas prices normally average about 1 percent higher than the national average. The typical price of a pint of beer in Mira Costa averages around $6.

There are several places to shop throughout the North County, with name brand stores you have come to know and trust.

The Westfield Plaza Camino Real offers standard mall staples such as JCPenney, Macy's and Sears, with a total of 165 shops throughout the complex to cater to any high-end shopping needs you may have. Though it lacks the standard food court, the mall does house the Regal Carlsbad 12, which screens the latest blockbuster releases.

Poinsettia Village Plaza in nearby Carlsbad, home of the famous Drooling Dolphin statue, provides one-stop shopping for anyone on the go. This outdoor plaza has a Rite Aid for your drugstore and pharmacy needs, a Ralphs for your grocery needs, a gas station, a bank and specialty stores like Pelly's Fish Market and Cafe for any gourmet needs you may have.