Oceanside Golf Course restaurant The Golfin' Inn logo.

The Story of the Golfin’ Inn: Carrying On Oceanside Tradition

Before Oceanside Golf Course became a favorite gathering spot for golfers and local families, another beloved landmark stood near the shore: the original Dolphin Inn. Long before 1976, the Dolphin Inn was a cherished hub for both restaurant-goers and sportfishing enthusiasts, known for its welcoming atmosphere, hearty fare, and a true sense of Oceanside community.

In 1976, Oceanside’s coastline began to change, and the site of the Dolphin Inn was set aside for the construction of the Chart House Restaurant. Rather than closing its doors for good, the Dolphin Inn’s building and spirit were given a new lease on life—literally moved, piece by piece, to the rolling greens of the Oceanside Municipal Golf Course.

Over the years, the Dolphin Inn embraced its new role at the heart of the course, eventually evolving into what is now the Golfin’ Inn. While the name and scenery have changed, the legacy of friendly service and local tradition remains at the core of everything we do.

Today, the Golfin’ Inn stands as a living piece of Oceanside history. We invite guests—whether you come for a round of golf, a family meal, or to relive a bit of Oceanside nostalgia—to be part of our ongoing story. Here, every visit is a celebration of tradition, community, and great food!

A black and white photo of a boat docked at a pier, carrying people boarding or disembarking, with buildings, power lines, and a hillside in the background.
A vintage photo of a commercial area with a small market, vintage cars, and a highway in the background under a blue sky.
A golf cart parked outside Oceanside Golf Course restaurant The Golfin' Inn with large windows, palm trees, and a partly cloudy sky in the background.
Oceanside Golf Course restaurant The Golfin' Inn with large front windows, surrounded by palm trees and greenery, with golf flags and a putting green in the foreground.
Oceanside Golf Course The Golfin' Inn with large windows, outdoor tables and chairs under a white canopy, surrounded by palm trees and greenery, on a sunny day.