The fate of the Regal Oceanside in Oceanside, California appears to be certain after a recent City Council decision, and not in a good way for moviegoers in the area.

Located about a quarter mile from the beach along Mission Avenue, the movie theater is operated by Cineworld, which purchased Regal Entertainment Group in 2017 and operates movie theaters around the country under the Regal brand. The company filed for bankruptcy in September 2022 and has been closing many locations ever since.

After postponing its decision about a development proposal for the property, the City Council unanimously approved a revised plan which will replace the movie theater. The new plan includes 326 residential units, more than 26,000 square feet of commercial retail space, as well as a new 15,439 square foot public plaza which will face Mission Avenue.

The theater dates back to its opening December 10, 1999 as the Regal Cinemas Oceanside 16. It advertised "all stadium seating" with high-backed chairs, digital sound, and a "gourmet cafe."

A timeframe for when demolition of the theater might happen could not be found.

Where to Watch Movies on the Big Screen, Both Before and After It Closes

The theater remains open in the meantime. To see what's playing and when, and to buy tickets online, please visit the Showtimes page for the Regal Oceanside.

Once it does close, however, moviegoers in the area will need to visit one of the other nearby theaters, including the Regal Carlsbad in Carlsbad and the Regal Mission Marketplace in Oceanside.

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