Peacock - Oceanside, CA

Originally a stomping ground for Native Americans, Peacock, and the entirety of Oceanside, were established in 1769 with the arrival of Spanish missionaries and European explorers. Farming and grazing were the ways of life up until 1848, when the United States took rule of California from Mexico.

As the decades progressed, the surrounding neighborhoods grew, becoming one of the most populated areas due to their proximity to the beach. Residential areas in Peacock were a continuing project from the late 1890s to the early 1930s. Renovation continues to this day.

Peacock practically sings with the voices of local artisans. The Lotus Sculpture museum specializes in Indonesian and Bali artworks and statues, displayed beautifully in an ever-expanding collection. The majority of these artworks are for sale. Just ask and a knowledgeable guide details the cultural significance and history of each piece. You'll feel as if you have traveled to distant lands.

Oceanside Boulevard and South Monroe Street divide dining options with an eclectic array of Italian, American, Japanese, Chinese and Thai cuisine.

Sidle over to Enzo’s BBQ for refined editions of southern-inspired dishes. Situated smack dab at the center of Oceanside Boulevard, this restaurant specializes in overflowing pulled pork sandwiches with sides of homemade potato salad, macaroni and cheese, cornbread and sweet potato fries. Be sure to bring your appetite for enormous portions. If you’re dining with friends, opt for Enzo’s American feast - a collection of platters that includes baby back ribs, brisket, pulled pork, roast chicken and your choice of sides. Sample over 15 craft beers on tap and bottled.

Snug at the intersection of Peacock Boulevard and Temple Heights Drive, the Mi Asador Mexican and Seafood Restaurant dominates in ethnic dining options with authentic shrimp tacos, enchiladas, breakfast burritos and handmade tortillas. An outdoor patio accommodates those who want to bask in the midday sunshine, and an eclectic jukebox plays everything from rock and roll to traditional Mexican and country. Snag a plateful of appetizers from the chips and salsa bar while you wait for your main courses.

Nightlife in Peacock consists of dancing, playing poker, drinking craft beers and enjoying a booming happy hour. Open 24 hours, Ocean’s Eleven, right off the Interstate 5 freeway, hustles in diverse crowds. Sectioned-off atmospheres include a game room for hardcore poker players and recreational gamblers, while a full bar and dance floor service the loungers and friendly talkers. A live DJ keeps dancers pumped up with everything from hip-hop to techno to country and slow jams.

The connecting roads and suburban streets in Peacock make it quick and simple to get where you’re going. Some parts of the neighborhood are walkable, such as Sunrise Ridge, Golden Ridge Drive and other suburbia side streets. However, walking on major highways, such as Oceanside Boulevard and Temple Heights Drive, is ill-advised, as those roadways are typically jam-packed with speeding cars in both directions.

For drivers, Oceanside Boulevard connects to other major highways in surrounding cities, making it easier to get from point A to B quickly and safely. Most of your errands will be car-dependent, or you can call ahead to either Tri City Cab or Yellow Cab of North County. You can also use Uber to acquire an extremely reliable, affordable taxi fast.

Bicyclers should stick to the designated trails along North Avenue, North Melrose Drive and Old Grove Road. These paths weave through neighboring areas, creating simple ways for both commuting and recreational cyclists to get around. Stay close to North Avenue for public parking opportunities.

Peacock residents value the sound of the ocean, the seashore and the salty breezes that blow in from the Pacific Ocean. These local attributes make the neighborhood a prime location for family-friendly, dog-friendly and exercise-centric parks.

Large and grassy without impeding forests, Buchanan Park has plenty of room for soccer, picnicking or simply running around. A five-mile bike trail leads off through light foliage, while walking paths veer to the opposite side. Families can enjoy rollerblading on the designated cement trails, and two large playgrounds keep kids happy.

Perfect for rambunctious puppies that love to wander with their owners, Guajome County Park features a lengthy hike to Guajome Lake. Ducks and geese graze on the lake in the summer, and you are welcome to bring bird seed to feed them. Of course, pups are welcome, but keep your doggy on a leash at all times.

Living costs in Peacock fall three percent lower than the California average, but gas prices soar to over 11 percent higher than the national median. Catering to moderate-to-high income households, residents can find one-bedroom accommodations for around $1,261. Depending on amenities and how close you are to the beach, the average could skyrocket to anywhere from $1495 to $2500.

Catch a bus ride with North County Transit for $1.75 per trip, or grab a day pass for $5. Children under six ride free, while senior citizens, those with disabilities and those on Medicare have a reduced fare of $.75. Hop off the bus and into the local bars for a pint of beer that costs $7 to $8.

As a seaside neighborhood, you can expect Peacock to have the latest in major chain stores, such as Walmart, David’s Bridal, Costco and Macy’s. What you wouldn't expect is the barrage of unique, locally owned and operated small shops and themed boutiques.

Twice on Main Street, an upscale establishment, specializes in women’s apparel, beautiful jewelry with real gemstones and handmade creations from local artists. Daily specials vary, and most locals rave about their extensive selection of premier handbags. The Last Chance at Life Thrift Store goes in an entirely different direction. At bargain rates, this shop brims with antiques and vintage treasures from the lives of volunteers and local donations. All proceeds go to an animal rescue in Oceanside.

Sprouts Farmers Market offers the best deals on fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables, free-range eggs and a selection of choice-cut meats. You can also head over to Ralphs for grocery shopping essentials. This store doubles as a pharmacy.