Via Marina - Oxnard, CA

The Via Marina neighborhood lies within Oxnard, an area where Native Americans lived before the Spanish claimed it. Possession shifted to the United States in 1850. At the time, the land was occupied primarily by farmers. The population increased rapidly during and after World War II, and Oxnard now has a balanced mixture of residences and businesses.

Although Via Marina doesn't have any museums, art aficionados can find Studio-Gallery just south of the area. The modestly sized museum presents a collection of art by both local and non-local artists. You can buy a piece if you like it and have framing done here as well.

The neighborhood's dining scene includes a mix of reasonably priced cuisine, primarily concentrated on West Channel Islands Boulevard.

Step into Fresco II on the Marina for a harbor view and generous portions of Mediterranean food. The tasteful decor blends brick and hardwood, creating an atmosphere perfect for dates while also exciting enough for larger groups. Sit out on the dining patio for the best views. If you enjoy music with your meal, go on Thursdays for karaoke night.

Korean barbecue fans should check out Sura. The name translates to a meal for the royal family, and this restaurant treats diners like royalty from the moment they walk through the door. Make sure to try the soondubu, a Korean staple and a highlight of the menu. Upbeat music and a friendly staff combine to create an entertaining, memorable evening.

Blue Elephant Thai features authentic Thai food in a casual atmosphere. Try the seafood parade for a taste that pairs perfectly with the marina area. The entree mixes seafood and vegetables in a sweet and sour sauce for an appealing combination of flavors.

Nightlife in the area consists of the local bars and restaurants. If you like music and dancing, head just north of Via Marina to Pirates Restaurant. During the daytime, it serves as an ideal place to watch the game or bring the family for a bite to eat. At night, it transforms into a neighborhood hot spot. Live bands on weekends, karaoke and room to dance the night away make this the place to be at night.

Whether you prefer to drive, walk or take the bus, this neighborhood has several convenient transportation options.

Due to its small size and lack of traffic, short drives usually don't take too long. Non-local commutes can take more time as this area doesn't have quick freeway access. Drive a short distance east to reach Pacific Coast Highway, which runs north and south along the coast. You can take it north to the U.S. 101, which runs northwest and southeast. The neighborhood has street parking, but just check the signs to avoid any tickets.

Gold Coast Transit bus routes 5 and 21 service the community. These routes can take you to the Oxnard Transportation Center, a transit hub for the city. In addition to local Gold Coast Transit buses, the center also has VISTA buses for intercity trips, along with connections to Metrolink, Amtrak and Greyhound. While taxis are available in Via Marina, ride-share services like Uber are not.

With mostly flat terrain in the area, local errands can be handled by walking. The streets surrounding the neighborhood have bike lanes, and the entire area tends to be safe for bikers.

One park right in the middle of the neighborhood and several in nearby areas give residents ample opportunities to get outdoors.

No matter where you live in Via Marina, the Via Marina Park is a short walk away. Younger kids can enjoy the small playground, while teens can compete on the soccer fields or basketball courts. After a workout, the well-maintained grass and tall trees make for an ideal resting area. You can use the facilities for free, and the park also has children's sports leagues for a fee. Dogs enjoy this park as well, although it is not an off-leash site.

Peninsula Park, located in the Channel Islands Harbor, provides seaside views and a few tennis courts if you feel like playing a match. Go during July and August for Concerts by the Sea, a free concert series showcasing artists of different genres every Saturday.

Life in Via Marina carries an affordable cost of living. To rent a one-bedroom apartment, expect to spend an average of $1,172, although you may find cheaper arrangements.

It costs $1.50 for a ride to the city center on a Gold Coast Transit Bus, and gas prices settle in at around 13 percent higher than the national average. You can get a pint at the local pub for about $6.

Local food markets and specialty stores characterize the shopping scene around this neighborhood.

Those looking for larger shopping centers can drive east a bit out of town to the Centerpoint Mall. The NEX Main Exchange department store has a large selection of items for those with base access.

Essential Nutrition stands as a go-to shop for people who follow a healthy lifestyle. It carries an extensive selection of vitamins and supplements, and the owner provides helpful advice based on your goals and lifestyle. With fitness accessories sold here too, you can stock up on what you need right before you hit the gym.

If you enjoy vaporizers, check out Beach Vapes. You can smell the flavors the moment you walk in the door, and this cozy shop includes a flavor bar. Specials keep the prices down when you want a deal, and you can even call ahead to save time in the store.

For grocery shopping, you have Ralphs a short drive away and a Vons so close you can walk to it. Locals usually go to Vons due to its convenient location on South Victoria Avenue. With a Starbucks in the store, you can get your java there too. Check out the produce and baked goods, which both tend to be high quality. Via Marina doesn't have a farmers market, but some surrounding neighborhoods do.