By: Amanda Huntsman

Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach is a luxurious and family-friendly coastal retreat located on the pristine shores of Mandalay Beach in Oxnard, California. In the early 1900s, sugar mogul Henry Oxnard outlined plans to use the acres of land along the Central Coast of California to grow and process sugar beets. Oxnard intended to name the settlement after the Greek word for sugar–Zachari–but ended up dedicating the region after himself. The resort's name is inspired by Henry and his original vision to transform the region.

Zachari Dunes opened in late 2022 after a multi-million dollar renovation. The Spanish hacienda-style resort features 250 suites, each with a full-sized living room, two full baths, tennis courts, a cabana-lined swimming pool, and delicious dining. Guests at the resort can spend their days boarding, surfing, swimming, frolicking on the beach, or exploring nearby Channel Islands or Ventura.

Upon arrival, Zachari Dunes welcomes guests with open arms and an array of immersive experiences. The architecture, characterized by a grand stone staircase and expansive windows framing breathtaking ocean views, sets the tone for an unforgettable stay. The attentive team of "Experience-Crafters" ensures that every moment is tailored to exceed expectations.

The resort offers spacious suites that cater to families, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout your stay. Each suite is equipped with a microwave, perfect for popping your favorite snack for movie time, a refrigerator to stock everyone's favorites, and not one but two baths because Mom & Dad like bubble baths, too. With these amenities, families can relax and unwind together after a day of beach adventures or explore nearby attractions while enjoying the incredible views.

After a significant renovation of the resort, Ox & Ocean, Zachari Dunes' signature restaurant, boasts an elegant beach house–style ambiance. Indulge your palate where the essence of California cuisine comes to life. Locally sourced ingredients create a symphony of flavors celebrating the region's culinary heritage. Its spacious dining room features high, wood-beamed ceilings and a central fireplace. Framed photos of American Beet-Sugar Company president Henry Oxnard and vintage lemon and strawberry packing labels pay homage to the region's rich agricultural history. The menu features shareable plates like Steak Tartare, fermented chili aioli, crispy potatoes topped with garlic-herb sauce, and house-made cultured butter. Beets with roasted poblano vinaigrette, avocado puree, goat cheese puffed amaranth, and local citrus are also featured. The half Jidori Chicken, seared crisp and oven-roasted, is served with braised greens and black garlic jus. INSIDER TIP: If traveling with kids, do not skip dessert: A must is the warm hand pies filled with strawberries from nearby Harry's Berries or Fire Roasted Milkshakes infused with s'mores flavors and torched meringue.

New at Zachari Dunes is Sugar Beats, a vintage Airstream café offering a musically inspired menu of California favorites. Situated amidst the resort's picturesque setting along the Pacific Ocean, Sugar Beats adds a laid-back vibe to the dining experience, with offerings ranging from locally roasted coffee to innovative twists on classic dishes. The café's name pays homage to Oxnard's sugar mogul, Henry Oxnard, while its menu items are creatively inspired by iconic musicians and local culture. With an array of grab-and-go breakfast options and afternoon bites, as well as a selection of beverages, including locally brewed beers and signature cocktails, Sugar Beats caters to guests seeking a casual yet flavorful dining experience. Additionally, the café serves as an ideal venue for social events, offering a communal atmosphere and flexible outdoor space. Complementing the resort's signature restaurant Ox & Ocean, Sugar Beats enhances the culinary journey at Zachari Dunes, inviting guests to indulge in the flavors of Southern California's vibrant coastal scene.

There is no shortage of activities you can enjoy on the property, such as the expansive pool and hot tub oasis nestled amidst lush tropical foliage. Whether you're seeking the vibrant energy of the main pool or the secluded tranquility of a cabana, every moment spent here is a testament to relaxation and rejuvenation. You can also explore the resort's central courtyard plaza, where winding pathways lead to Mandalay Beach, which offers sugary sands and blue waters for a sweet escape. The resort provides everything you need for the beach. Along the Oxnard coast, there are 7 beaches to choose from, so everyone will find their ideal oasis. Whether you're into beach volleyball, building the ultimate sandcastle, cruising along the bike paths, or enjoying a beach picnic at sunset, the options are endless. From beach games, jet skis, golf, and even s'mores around the fire pits, the fun never ends. If you need a little adult alone time, the resort offers an array of activities and lessons for the kids, from basketball, cookie decorating, sand sculpting class, stargazing, and more, which will keep them busy while you relax.

Bonus: As part of your resort fee, you can borrow equipment from Henry's Gear Rental. From beach chairs, sand tools, boogies boards, longboards, and hoverboards to classic beach games- again, all included in your resort fee! Whether you're looking to catch waves, explore the coastline on paddle boards, or capture stunning moments with their DSLR cameras and GoPros, Henry's Gear Rental has everything you need to make your stay unforgettable. In addition, they offer various entertainment options, including Nintendo Switch, Nintendo games, Xbox, Xbox controllers, Xbox games, Oculus, Vinyl record player, Board games, and Giant Jenga. It's so easy to enjoy a day full of play!

The resort fee also includes fitness/wellness classes, PressReader access, and discounts to local area attractions such as Kayaking, Jet Ski Rentals, and Parasailing.

If fitness and wellness are important, you can stay active and invigorated at Zachari Dunes' state-of-the-art Fitness Center. With 24/7 access to top-of-the-line equipment and various fitness classes, including sunrise yoga and beach body fitness, guests can maintain their routine amidst the breathtaking coastal backdrop.

Nestled within the resort's confines is Float Mandalay Beach, which focuses on holistic wellness and provides an oasis of serenity amidst the chaos of daily life. The spa's serene ambiance and skilled therapists ensure that each visit is a transformative experience. Whether you seek relief from muscle tension and stress or simply wish to indulge in self-care, Float Mandalay Beach promises to exceed your expectations.

There is so much to do not only on the property but also around the area. Explore Channel Islands Harbor, which has sailboat charters, whale-watching tours, parasailing, and kayak and paddleboard rentals. It's also home to the Channel Islands Maritime Museum. Exhibits include historic seascape paintings, scrimshaw, sailors' tools, and tiny, handcrafted ship models by master modeler Edward Marple. Downtown Ventura beckons with its vibrant farmers' market and eclectic shops, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the region's rich culture and history.

Zachari Dunes Resort epitomizes the quintessential California getaway—where families unite to create lasting memories against the backdrop of sun-kissed shores and endless blue horizons. From the allure of coastal cuisine to the serenity of beachside bliss, every aspect of your stay is infused with the spirit of SoCal hospitality. When you bid farewell to Zachari Dunes, the memories of laughter, relaxation, and adventure linger like the gentle sea breeze, reminding you that your coastal haven awaits your return, ready to welcome you back with open arms.

www.zacharidunes.com | IG @zacharidunes