Buddy Todd Park

A Piece of Oceanside History

Perched on a hilltop with the ocean peeking through on clear days sits Oceanside's oldest park. Established in 1929, Buddy Todd Park spans 19 acres of public green space that offers some pretty spectacular panoramic views of both the ocean and mountains.

The park wasn't always known by this name. Originally, it took its name from its location on Parnassus Circle, but in 1946, it was renamed to honor John "Buddy" Todd, the first local from Oceanside who lost his life serving in World War II. It's a touching tribute that connects this space to the community's past.

Places to Play

If you're looking to shoot some hoops or spike a volleyball, Buddy Todd Park offers both options. The park features a full-court basketball court and a sand volleyball court for those feeling competitive. There's also plenty of open grassy space great for frisbee, catch, or just lounging with a good book.

The playground area features a unique train structure that's popular with children. Complete with swings and slides, it's ideal for little ones ages 2-5 and their older siblings too. Just note that the playground has a wood chip surface, so maybe skip the sandals.

Getting Active

Need to get your steps in? The park features a half-mile walking loop with paved paths that wind through the grounds. It's well-suited for a morning jog or an evening stroll, with the elevation offering those gorgeous views as a reward for your effort.

The park is a favorite spot for dog walking (keep those furry friends on leashes, please!), and the paved paths make it accessible for wheelchairs throughout most areas. The layout is thoughtfully designed to accommodate visitors of all mobility levels.

Natural Beauty

One of the best things about Buddy Todd Park is its magnificent mature trees that cast cool shadows across the grounds. On hot California days, these shady spots provide welcome relief for relaxing or picnicking.

The hilltop location means you'll often catch a refreshing coastal breeze here. If you're into bird watching, this is a particularly good spot, especially during the early morning hours or as the sun begins to set.

Come Hungry

Planning a family get-together? The park offers numerous picnic areas with barbecue facilities scattered across the grounds. Each BBQ station comes with hot coal disposal facilities, making cleanup easier when you're done grilling.

There are plenty of picnic tables nestled under those lovely shade trees. On weekends, the atmosphere becomes particularly lively as multiple families gather to celebrate special occasions.

Community Spirit

This isn't just a park - it's a community hub. On some Saturdays around 1 PM, you might stumble upon LARP (Live Action Role Play) events, adding an unexpected dash of fantasy to your park visit.

With its generous space and variety of amenities, Buddy Todd accommodates everything from quiet meditation to bustling birthday parties. The park welcomes visitors daily from 6 AM to 9 PM, with convenient restroom facilities and parking available. With its long history dating back to 1929, the park remains an important part of Oceanside's public spaces.