Sierra Linda - Oxnard, CA

Sierra Linda sits within Oxnard, named after Henry Oxnard and his brothers. Henry Oxnard built a sugar beet factory in 1897, leading to the creation of the town. The town experienced major growth in 1898 upon the building of a railroad station and after World War II, when commercial and residential developments took place.

Oxnard has a developing art scene focused on local artists, but Sierra Linda doesn't have galleries or museums. Gull Wings Children's Museum, located a short drive south, stands as the closest museum. Designed for those age 12 and under, the museum features hands-on exhibits to keep kids interested.

The area's restaurant scene primarily features different kinds of American and Mexican cuisines, with a few international options scattered around the neighborhood.

For Southern favorites with a dash of California flavor, check out Nawlinz 805 Grill. A lively atmosphere that feels like Mardi Gras makes this the perfect place to grab food with a large group of friends. Get the gumbo, one of this grill's specialties, and if you feel like eating a lot, order the jambalaya.

If you like seafood cooked Mexican style, visit El 30 Mariscos. Each meal begins with chips, salsa and ceviche, giving you plenty to munch on before your entrée. Try the shrimp and cheese empanadas, and make sure to use plenty of the green sauce. This restaurant has a calm vibe during the week, but on weekends it gets more festive with live bands playing mariachi music.

Nightlife in this area stays quiet, with restaurants being the main sources of entertainment. Just outside the area sit a couple local bars and clubs for wilder nights. One nearby mainstay, Q Club, gives residents a place to watch the game, shoot some pool or just kick back with a beer. When you feel like moving, head over to the dance floor. With a rotation of DJs, bands and karaoke nights, music lovers can feel right at home here.

Traveling by car or Oxnard's extensive public transportation network tend to be the most convenient options for residents.

Motorists in this neighborhood have quick access to the Pacific Coast Highway, located a short drive east of Sierra Linda. It can be taken south along the coast or north to the U.S. 101, the closest freeway. U.S. 101 runs northwest and southeast, making it the freeway of choice for longer commutes. You can park on the streets, but check the signs to avoid any tickets.

Oxnard has several options for public transportation, and Sierra Linda is close to the Oxnard Transportation Center. The center includes Greyhound buses, Amtrak trains and Metrolink trains for trips between cities or counties. Shorter trips can be completed on VISTA buses, which run between cities, or Gold Coast Transit buses, which run locally. Taxis service the area, although pick-up times vary. Ride-share companies such as Uber don't currently service the city.

You can walk around the neighborhood due to its small size, but another form of transportation makes errands much easier. Flat terrain and bicycle lanes on most major streets in the area make biking a safe, reliable option.

Several parks within walking or biking distance give residents the chance to experience the sunny weather and natural beauty of the area.

Sierra Linda Park sits in the middle of the community, right next to Sierra Linda Elementary School. At 6.2 acres, the park offers adults and children space to go for a run, play some baseball or just relax with a book. Other nearby parks include Cabrillo Park and Southbank Park, each providing 6 acres of well-maintained grass and trails. All the parks in Oxnard don't charge a fee and allow dogs, but pets have to be kept on leashes.

A Santa Float Tour occurs annually in Oxnard. Santa stops at schools and parks, including Sierra Linda Park. With the school right across the street, the Santa Float Tour is a convenient and fun activity to attend with younger children.

The neighborhood carries a lower cost of living than the city average, and the cost of leasing apartments tends to be affordable. A one-bedroom apartment usually rents for about $1,100 a month, but you may find cheaper arrangements.

A Gold Coast Transit bus to the city center costs $1.50, and gas prices come in around 12 percent higher than the national average. A pint of beer at the local pub will run you about $6.

Nearby shopping centers and specialty stores give residents places to go whether they want upscale items or a bargain.

For shopping centers, the Collection and the Esplanade Shopping Center both sit only a short drive from the neighborhood. Both feature major retailers and diners, but the Collection has a larger grouping of boutiques and upscale retailers.

For groceries, Watermill Express and Gonzalez Market provide the closest options. Major grocers nearby include Food 4 Less and Walmart. Those who enjoy farmer's markets can visit R & M Market, which has fresh produce, meats and a deli for prepared food. Residents also have the farmer's market in downtown Oxnard in close proximity. The Berry Best Fruit Stand is the closest organic food option. This stand stocks many different kinds of organic fruits at inexpensive prices.