trip ventura

26 Best Things To Do In Ventura California (By a Local)

Ventura is the perfect Central California coastal destination for those wanting to spend a few days relaxing near the beach, enjoy fun outdoor activities like surfing and hiking and indulge in fresh, drool-worthy seafood. And we should know! As locals living in Ventura County for the past several years, we have discovered so many incredible things to do in Ventura California .

Whether you’re heading on a weekend trip to Ventura from out of town, just moved here, or planning a pit stop on a road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco , our Ventura guide is here to help!

In this post, I’ll cover some of my favorite things to do in Ventura for a fun coastal trip.

We have personally been to all of these locations and this is where we take our family and friends whenever they come to visit.

Best Things To Do In Ventura California:

1. san buenaventura state beach.

Spending a couple of hours at the San Buenaventura State Beach is one of the top things to do in Ventura for both locals and out-of-town visitors alike. This pristine beach is a great spot for sports such as surfing, swimming, volleyball or just laying out on the sandy shoreline.

San Buenaventura State Beach is also the beginning of the Ventura Beach Bike Trail that you can take down to the Ventura Pier and past it. Along the way, you can enjoy views of scenic sand dunes, fresh air, and unique futuristic-looking restrooms (yep, you read that right!) .

For day visitors there are plenty of picnic tables where you can enjoy a lunch with a view. If you don’t want to bring your own food, I highly recommend stopping by The Jolly Oyster Ventura seafood truck that’s situated within San Buenaventura State Beach.

We usually order the grilled oysters along with fried oyster tacos. For something a bit more unique try the Uni Ceviche Tostada that comes with Santa Barbara Sea Urchin.

Do note that dogs are allowed along the bike path and within The Jolly Oyster Ventura food truck area but not on the beach itself.

Location: San Buenaventura State Beach

2. Marina Park

One of the first places that I visited after moving to Ventura was Marina Park. This is one of the most popular Ventura attractions so you’ll see it popping up on Google Maps as one of the best things to do in the area.

Marina Park is situated right next to the ocean and consists of 15 acres of walking paths and a grassy area where you can enjoy a beachfront picnic. It’s a great place to come for families with kids or if you’re looking for somewhere to take your dog for a walk.

Marina Park has a beachfront playground and a large ship in the sand where kids can go to play in. The park is situated right next to the ocean and Ventura Harbor if you want to dip your toes into the water.

Location: Marina Park

3. Ventura Harbor Village

Ventura Harbor Village is one of the top places to go in Ventura, especially for out-of-town visitors. Ventura Harbor Village is an outdoor shopping area situated in the perfect location between the ocean and Ventura Marina.

Here you can walk along the harbor and check out local shops, seafood restaurants, cafes, and dessert spots. A few of the most popular seafood restaurants include Brophy Bros. , Andria’s Seafood , and Baja Bay Surf n Taco .

If you have a sweet tooth, be sure to stop by Coastal Cone & Parlor for a cone of soft-serve ice cream! They offer lots of flavors including some more interesting choices such as Fishzookies and Mermaid Yaki Fish Cone.

From Ventura Harbor, you can also go on a boat ride to Channel Islands National Park which can be arranged through Island Packers Cruises.

Location: Ventura Harbor Village

4. Ventura Botanical Gardens

Ventura Botanical Gardens is a beautiful outdoor space just north of downtown Ventura. If you’re looking for relaxing activities in Ventura, put Ventura Botanical Garden on top of your list!

As locals, we come to Ventura Botanical Gardens quite often for the stunning scenery and excellent ocean views . This outdoor garden offers several miles of hiking trails that climb up to the top of a hill offering unobstructed ocean views along the way. The trails are very easy so it’s a great place to visit for families with little kids.

Ventura Botanical Gardens price for entrance is $7 per person , but they offer free visitor days on Fridays. This location also allows leashed dogs, but only on Wednesdays and Fridays. On all other days, dogs are not allowed.

There is a small visitor parking lot next to the Ventura Botanical Gardens welcome center where you can park your car and pay for the entrance fee before heading into the trails.

Location: Ventura Botanical Gardens

Hiking Tip:  Before heading out hiking, we like to download an offline map from the  AllTrails hiking app . This way we always have access to the trail map, even if we lose reception or get lost!

5. Take a Surfing Lesson

If you’ve never tried surfing before, but it’s always been on top of your bucket list, you’re in luck! Ventura has some of the best surfing conditions on the Central Coast making it a wonderful place to learn surfing for beginners.

For the best experience, book this Ventura Surf Lesson which takes place on Mondo’s Beach, just 10 minutes north of Ventura. During the surfing lesson, the experienced instructors will teach you how to stand up on the surfboard, find your balance, and ride waves all the way to the shore.

I’ve taken numerous surfing lessons myself and it’s the fastest way to catch a wave without previous surfing experience . This Ventura surfing lesson includes all the necessary gear so you don’t have to worry about a thing!

6. Spencer Makenzie’s Seafood Restaurant

Spencer Makenzie’s is one of the most iconic seafood eateries in all of Ventura . While there are some fancier seafood restaurants in town (such as Brophy Bros. and Lure Fish House ), Spencer Makenzie’s remains our favorite.

Spencer Makenzie’s is known for their world-famous fish tacos that are a must-try! This family-operated no-frills restaurant is affordable yet creates food only using the best, freshest ingredients. Because of this, you can always expect to see a long line of customers waiting to try their food.  

You can order food at the outdoor counter and the order will be called out when it’s ready. There is some seating outdoors and indoors, but the outdoor seating is very limited and tables get snatched up quickly.

Besides the fish tacos, a few of our favorites include the calamari tacos, grilled fish & shrimp burrito, Fish & Chips, and clam chowder.

• Rating on Google:  4.6 out of 2600+ reviews
• Location:  Spencer Makenzie’s
• Website:  Spencermakenzies.com

Read More: 15 Best Places To Eat In Ventura, California

7. Stay At Waypoint Ventura

If you’re planning a trip to Ventura from out of town and are looking for a memorable place to stay overnight, be sure to check out Waypoint Ventura ! This property is located near the beach and features unique accommodations in luxurious vintage trailers .

Waypoint Ventura is a great choice for couples or groups that want to enjoy a bit of privacy, but still be close to each other. The property offers excellent amenities such as BBQ areas, cornhole games, and complimentary bikes that you can ride around downtown Ventura and to the beach.

Each of the trailers features modern upgrades including air conditioning, flat-screen TV, a shower, and a fridge. This hotel-style campground is also a short walking distance of popular local eateries such as Spencer Makenzie’s, Toppers Pizza Place , and Frontside Cafe .

Read Next: 15 Best Places To Stay In Ventura CA Near The Beach

8. Ventura Pier

A visit to Ventura would not be complete without stopping by the Ventura Pier . This is the oldest pier in California where you can come for a sunset stroll, go fishing, or watch surfers catch waves in the ocean.

At the beginning of the pier, you can stop by Eric Ericsson’s Fish Co and MadeWest Brewing Co to enjoy fresh seafood and craft beer overlooking the water . If you’re looking for something a bit more budget-friendly, Beach House Tacos is a popular outdoor taco stand in the same location.  

From the pier, you can also walk down the Ventura Promenade which offers excellent ocean views. If you have little kids, be sure to check out the Ventura Promenade Beach Playground that’s situated right on the sandy beach!

Location: Ventura Pier

9. Surfers Point At Seaside Park

Surfers Point At Seaside Park is one of the most popular beaches in Ventura that’s great for surfing, windsurfing, and bird watching. We like to come here on the weekends to go for a walk along the ocean and bring our dog for a bit of play on the beach.

Parking for Surfers Point can be a bit challenging, especially on the weekends. We usually park along Shoreline Drive which has 30-minute free visitor parking or you can pay a small fee and park in the Public Parking @ surfers point .  

From Surfers Point you can walk along the Ventura Promenade which turns into a bike path. If you’re looking to get away from the busy tourist crowds, Surfers Point Dunes is a quiet beach just a short walk west.

Location: Surfers Point at Seaside Park

10. Emma Wood State Beach

If you keep going along the bike path past Surfers Point Dunes, you will eventually reach Emma Wood State Beach . This is a popular location for RV camping with campsites situated right next to the sandy beach . This campground offers primitive campsites meant for self-contained vehicles like RVs and campervans.

Although we haven’t camped here ourselves, we like to take our bikes for a spin along the adjacent bike path to enjoy the scenery. Often you might spot wildlife in the ocean like dolphins swimming along the shoreline.

Emma Wood State Beach is tucked away in a secluded location so you’ll rarely encounter many people here. Overall, this is one of the things to do in Ventura Beach if you want to get away from the crowds!

Location: Emma Wood State Beach

11. Walk Around Downtown Ventura

Downtown Ventura’s Main Street is one of the top places to visit in Ventura! This area consists of several blocks of pedestrian walking area that is closed off to car traffic.

Along both sides of Main Street, you’ll find many restaurants, bars, cafes, yoga studios, and antique shops. We like to come here to go on a stroll, stop by for a drink at one of the local restaurants and browse through the boutique stores.

On the weekends Ventura’s downtown is buzzing full of out-of-town visitors and tourists seeking a getaway on the coast. This area often hosts fun events like Ventura Wine Walks, St. Patrick’s Day Parade, and Holiday Tree Lighting.

12. Mission Basilica San Buenaventura

The Old Mission Basilica San Buenaventura is one of the most notable things to do in downtown Ventura. This historic building is located along Main Street so it’s a great place to stop by as you’re walking around downtown to learn more about Ventura’s history.

Mission San Buenaventura is open to visitors from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm every day . There is a small fee of $5 to enter the Mission with discounts for seniors, active military, and youth.

With the admission, you can explore the church, garden, the interior, and see various artwork and sculptures. It takes about an hour to walk through the mission grounds which makes it a great little stop!

Location: Mission Basilica San Buenaventura 1782

13. Serra Cross At Grant Park

Serra Cross is an iconic Ventura landmark that can be seen from afar! This oceanfront park features a giant cross and sweeping panoramic views overlooking the Ventura County coast.

Serra Cross is situated at the summit of Grant Park which you can reach by foot or by car. At the top, there is a small parking lot and walkways that lead to a viewpoint of the Serra Cross.

This historic monument was originally placed by a Spanish missionary in 1782 to guide people traveling to Mission Basilica San Buenaventura. Over the years the wooden cross has been replaced several times but remains a major Ventura attraction.

Location:  Serra Cross

14. Dinner & Drinks At Rumfish y Vino

Whenever our friends come to visit us in Ventura for the first time, we always take them for dinner and drinks at Rumfish y Vino restaurant in downtown Ventura. Rumfish y Vino is also a great place to dine if you’re looking for romantic things to do in Ventura for couples.

This gastropub-style restaurant has a beautiful modern interior with a relaxed, beachy vibe . Their dinner menu is limited but features drool-worthy choices such as Caribbean Fish Stew, Cochinita Pibil Tacos, Belize BBQ, and many seafood options.

For starters, we usually pick a few appetizers to share. Some of my favorites include mussels in mustard crema sauce, Peruvian ceviche, and garlic fries.

If you’re looking for a fun spot where you can enjoy a few cocktails and delicious food, this is where you’ll want to go!

• Rating on Google:  4.6 out of 780+ reviews
• Location:  Rumfish y Vino
• Website:  Rumfishyvinoventura.com

15. Ice Cream At McConnell’s

Have a bit of a sweet tooth? Ventura is home to McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams which has been serving delicious treats to Central Coast locals for over 70 years . The original store was established in Santa Barbara in 1934 with a newer location in Ventura that opened 14 years ago.

McConnell’s motto is to ‘ Leave the world just a little sweeter than we found it ’. And that is exactly what they strive to do!

The staff at Ventura McConnell’s is always so welcoming and friendly whenever we come in. They have two ice cream stations displaying the various flavors that you can pick from for a variety of taste preferences. I usually go for the Santa Barbara Strawberry and Toasted Coconut Almond Chip combo.

• Rating on Google:  4.7 out of 600+ reviews
• Location:  McConnell’s Fine Ice Cream
• Website: Mcconnells.com

16. Channel Islands National Park

One of the first times that I came to visit Ventura years ago was to go on a day trip to Channel Islands National Park . Located just a short boat ride from Ventura Harbor, Channel Islands is a popular nature getaway for California locals.

Channel Islands National Park consists of five islands:

• Anacapa Island
• Santa Cruz Island
• San Miguel Island
• Santa Barbara Island
• Santa Rosa Island

Within these islands, you can enjoy plenty of fun outdoor activities like camping, kayaking, snorkeling, wildlife sighting, and hiking amongst pristine landscapes. To reach the islands you will need to reserve a boat ride with Island Packers Cruises that depart from Ventura Harbor.

Some of the islands like Anacapa and Santa Cruz can be visited year-round while the other islands have limited visitor seasons. As an option, you can also reserve wildlife and whale-watching cruises that travel next to the islands without departing the boat.

17. Go Biking Along Ventura – Ojai Bike Path

The Ventura – Ojai Bike Path is a long, paved pathway that travels for 15 miles from Ojai to downtown Ventura . This is a great route to bike, trail run or walk if you’re looking for a longer place to stretch your legs.

I’ve walked parts of the Ventura Ojai bike path when looking for a quick escape into nature with my dog. I’ve also run the entire length as part of the annual Ventura Marathon. The pathway is fairly flat with a little bit of downslope ( if you start in Ojai ).

With plenty of trees, lush vegetation, and views of the mountains, the Ventura Ojai bike path is one of the best places to take a bike out for a spin in Ventura!

Location: Ventura River Bike Trail

18. Grab a Beer At a Local Brewery

For being a small beach town, Ventura is known for having quite a few popular local breweries . No matter where you end up staying, the chances are that there is a brewery within a few blocks from your hotel or vacation rental!

A few of our favorite Ventura breweries include:

• Transmission Brewing . This brewery is situated next to Toppers Pizza Place with an adjacent door and shared seating area so you can grab a beer and food at the same time.
• Ventura Coast Brewing Company . One of our favorites in downtown Ventura for its overall vibe and modern setting. VCBC often features food trucks on their outdoor patio.
• MadeWest Brewing Co . MadeWest arguably has one of the best locations situated right on the Ventura Pier! This is where you’ll want to go if you want to enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean as you sip on your craft beer.
• Topa Topa Brewing Co . Topa Topa is one of the most popular local breweries with several locations on the Central Coast including Ventura, Santa Barbara, Ojai, and Camarillo.
• Rincon Brewery-Ventura . This brewery is a great choice for larger parties or if you want to enjoy a laid-back setting with plenty of food options.

Read Next: 5 Great Breweries In Ventura For Amazing Local Beers

19. Go On a Hike At Arroyo Verde Park

Arroyo Verde is a local park in Ventura where you can spend time outdoors surrounded by a green hills and beautiful hiking trails . There are several miles of trails that you can enjoy here with plenty of visitor parking.

For the longest hiking option, we recommend following the Arroyo Verde Park Loop route from the AllTrails hiking app . The higher you climb, the better the views will get!

We especially enjoy visiting Arroyo Verde in spring when the entire park is full of blooming flowers. This park is also very dog friendly so it’s the perfect place to bring your four-legged friend for exercise and play.

Location:  Arroyo Verde Park

Visitor Tip:  In the summer months, keep an eye out for rattlesnakes, especially when the weather starts getting hot. I like to carry a  snake venom extractor kit  when going on hiking adventures in California, especially in dry coastal areas.

20. Pete’s Breakfast House

Pete’s Breakfast House is an iconic Ventura breakfast spot that is a must-try at least once! This casual breakfast joint was featured on Food Network’s famous Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives show which created quite the local buzz.

Pete’s Breakfast House takes pride in serving delicious food at affordable prices that won’t break the bank. Not sure what to try? Order the Chorizo Burger or Pancake Roll with yogurt and berries that Guy Fieri himself called ‘ righteous’ .

This breakfast restaurant is open from 7:30 to 2:00 and fills up quickly, especially on the weekends. Be sure to come early in the morning to get a spot on their charming outdoor patio.

• Rating on Google:  4.7 out of 1200+ reviews
• Location:  Pete’s Breakfast House
• Website:  Petesbreakfasthouse.com

21. Grab Coffee At Prospect Coffee Roasters

If you’re looking to grab a cup of coffee in the morning before exploring Ventura, I recommend stopping by my favorite coffee shop in town – Prospect Coffee Roasters.

This inviting coffee shop boasts a beautiful modern interior complimented by some of the best coffee on the Central Coast. I usually go for the Batch Brew drip coffee but they sell plenty of drink choices such as Americano, Latte, Cold Brew, Hand Pour, and Matcha Latte, along with others.

Prospect Coffee Roasters sources coffee from small farms around the world such as Peru, Mexico, Colombia, and Ethiopia. The coffee sold at Prospect is very strong with notes of sweetness and acidity.

• Rating on Google:  4.6 out of 370+ reviews
• Location:  Prospect Coffee Roasters
• Website:  Prospectcoffee.com

Read Next: 12 Best Coffee Shops In Ventura, California

22. Go On a Day Trip To Ojai

If you want to switch things up on a trip to Ventura, plan to spend a day in the nearby city of Ojai! Ojai is a small town just 30 minutes north of Ventura where you can find lots of charming art studios, wine-tasting rooms, spas, and restaurants.

A few of the most popular wineries and tasting rooms in this area include:

• Old Creek Ranch & Winery
• The Ojai Vineyard Tasting Room
• Majestic Oak Vineyard and Wine Tasting

Surrounded by lush trees and mountains, Ojai is the perfect place to spend an afternoon on the weekends. Nearby you can also find excellent hiking trails such as the Ventura River Preserve Trail .

23. Four Brix Winery And Tasting Room

Don’t want to go all the way to Ojai for wine tasting? You’re in luck as Ventura has its own wine-tasting room at the center of the town!

At the Four Brix Winery and Tasting Room, you can try a selection of high-quality wines sourced from grapes grown on the Central Coast in Paso Robles, Santa Ynez, and Ojai. This tasting room is open with limited hours Friday to Sunday from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm.

On the weekend evenings, they often host fun events such as live music, wine and cheese pairings, paint & sip, and many others! For details be sure to check out the Four Brix Winery event calendar here .

Location: Four Brix Winery and Tasting Room

24. Harmon Canyon Preserve

Harmon Canyon is another one of our favorite local places for spending time outdoors in Ventura. This preserve covers over 2100 acres of land with longer hiking and mountain biking trails.

Within minutes of entering Harmon Canyon, you’ll feel fully submerged in nature. This location is especially beautiful in spring when all of the mountains are covered in green grass and there is water flowing through the creeks.

For a longer hike follow the Harmon Canyon to Overlook Bench route from the AllTrails hiking app . For a shorter option, take the main Harmon Canyon Road or head into one of the narrow side trails to explore various scenery.

Location:  Harmon Canyon Preserve

25. The Collection Riverpark

Many people come to Ventura for its world-renowned beaches, seafood, and outdoor activities. But while that sounds fun for some, retail therapy is a fun way to spend an afternoon on a weekend for others. Thankfully in this small beach town, you can do both!

The Collection Riverpark is a great shopping mall just a few minutes drive east of Ventura on the border of Ventura and Oxnard. A few of the most popular stores here include REI, H&M, Whole Foods, Victoria’s Secret, and Ulta Beauty amongst many others.

This outdoor shopping center also has a lot of great restaurants that we like to frequent for dinner such as Gen Korean BBQ House , Yardhouse, and Kabuki Japanese Restaurant .

Location: The Collection at RiverPark

26. Museum Of Ventura County

The Museum of Ventura County is a local museum situated in downtown Ventura near Mission Basilica San Buenaventura 1782. This museum is small but features artwork and several different exhibits along with an outdoor play area for kids featuring straw huts and musical instruments.

Within the museum, you can learn more about Ventura’s history, Chumash native people, and their culture. Admission to the museum is free and it only takes about an hour to walk through the entire museum and see the exhibits on display.

Location: Museum of Ventura County

Looking for more things to do around the Central Coast? Be sure to check out these posts next:

10 Best Hiking Trails In Ventura, California

• 15 Top Dog Friendly Activities In Ventura, California
• 13 Best Pet Friendly Hotels In Ventura, California
• Carpinteria Bluffs Trail & Tar Pits Park
• 15 Best Santa Barbara Wine Tasting Tours
• 15 Best Places For Viewing Wildlife In California

Some of the links used in this blog may be affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, may I earn a small commission when you book through these links for which I am very thankful!

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Things to Do in Ventura California

Plan a day trip or weekend getaway to Ventura California

In Ventura, you can go to the beach, go antiquing, and or do some outlet shopping. It's the perfect destination for sun worshippers, beach bums, marathon shoppers, and food lovers alike. 

For a getaway from the hustle and bustle of the big city, head about an hour's drive north of Los Angeles to start your Ventura day trip. 

Why Should You Go? Will You Like Ventura?

Some Southern Californians call Ventura a more reasonably-priced version of Santa Barbara. It's easy to draw parallels: both have a scenic, seaside location and a historic Spanish mission. Ventura has a more easy-going ambiance than Santa Barbara and is much easier on the pocketbook, too.

Save some money without compromising on beach time; Get that California beach town charm by going to the many places to visit in and around Ventura.

Five Great Things to Do in Ventura

 Ventura is a destination with a lively downtown that's undergoing active growth and development. It's best visited as a day trip unless you plan to go to the Channel Islands or spend a lot of time at the beach. Here are some of the things to do in Ventura County this weekend or even for a quick day trip away from the city: 

• Channel Islands National Park :  It's surprising how many people don't know about these offshore islands that are so rich in unique species that they could be called California's Galapagos. It's easy to visit them by boat on a short day trip, and you might spot a few whales or dolphins on the way.
• Mission San Buenaventura :  Mission San Buenaventura is one of California's few remaining Spanish missions that were never destroyed and the last mission founded by Father Junipero Serra. It's right on Main Street in downtown, making it easy to visit if only for a few minutes.
• Downtown Ventura :  There's more in downtown Ventura than just the mission, everything from second-hand stores and antique shops to restaurants, art galleries, and day spas.
• Waterfront : Ventura sits right on the Pacific coast, and you can go to the beach here, go boating or windsurfing, build a sandcastle or catch a fish.  Use this guide to find your perfect Ventura Beach .
• Bell Arts Factory :  It used to be a mattress factory. In fact, the sign out front still says so, but these days it's home to some good artist's studios.

Annual Events

The  Ventura County Fair  happens every August.

From late January through early February, the tall ship Hawaiian Chieftain visits Ventura. You can tour her from dockside, watch her engage in mock battles, or sail with her from Oxnard to Ventura — or even all the way to San Francisco.  Check the schedule  and reserve ahead of time.

If you're a nature lover, monarch butterflies move into the trees at Camino Real Park (Dean Drive at Mills Road) from October through February. The best time to see them is in the morning when the sun hits their trees. That's when you can watch them wake up and flutter off.

Whales are around for more of the year: Pacific Grey whales are off the coast from late December through the end of March. Humpback and Blue whales appear from late June through August. You'll find whale-watching tours departing from the harbor.

The Dallas Cowboys football team holds their training camp in nearby Oxnard, and you can watch them practice for free during July and August. Get this year's schedule at the Dallas Cowboys website .

Where to Stay in Ventura, California

Hotels cluster along U.S. Highway 101 near the pier, around the Marina Village Shopping Center on the north side of town, and near the harbor. Stay as close to the water or as close to town as you like. Ventura has plenty of options based on the type of weekend and the activities you have planned.

You can go straight to Tripadvisor's guest reviews and price comparisons on hotels in Ventura .

Ventura is also one of the better places in California to find a place to camp near the beach. Use the Ventura beach camping guide to find the place that's best for you.

Getting to Ventura

Ventura is located on U.S. Highway 101, 70 miles north of Los Angeles and 30 miles south of Santa Barbara.

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Top Things to Do in Ventura, CA

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• Ventura Pier and Promenade
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14 Fun Things to Do in Ventura for a Day Trip

Ventura is an often overlooked city in California. Most people don’t even think to stop there, and likely only really know of it because of its historic pier and abundance of thrift shops, but there are so many fun things to do in Ventura that you’re going to want to stop in to check it out.

Ventura is truly an unexpected gem of a destination on the southern California coast, just one and a half hours north of Los Angeles . With its stunning and uncrowded beach, incredibly charming downtown area, and more craft breweries than you can imagine being in one town, Ventura is an ideal day trip destination from many of the top cities in California .

We visited Ventura in early 2022 and fell in love with it so much that we moved there in September. It’s a gorgeous place, and the best part is that it’s not your typical tourist town.

In fact, it’s relatively untouched by tourism. Instead, you have pristine and nearly deserted beaches, a fantastic downtown that’s never too crowded, and plenty of unbridled sunshine.

If you’re planning a trip to Ventura, I’d love to show you all the great things there are to do here, so you can fill up your itinerary and spend a weekend enjoying this wonderful town.

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• 12 Breweries to Visit in Ventura
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Table of Contents

How to Get to Ventura

To get to Ventura, you have two routes you can take. If you drive along Route 1, which hugs the coastline, you’ll get a sensational beachfront drive that’s really hard to beat. Or you can take the slightly faster route along Highway 101, but it doesn’t have a view.

The driving distance from Los Angeles to Ventura is approximately 63 miles, and the driving time can vary depending on traffic and other factors. On average, it takes about an hour to an hour and half to drive from LA to Ventura.

The driving distance from Santa Barbara to Ventura is approximately 30 miles. On average, it takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour to drive from Santa Barbara to Ventura.

Top Things to Do in Ventura

Once you arrive in Ventura, the first thing you’ll notice is the contrasting beautiful blue waters lapping against white sand beaches and the lush green mountains jutting up in front of you.

The beach in Ventura is a true gem. It’s practically empty most of the year, making you feel like you’re the luckiest person alive to be enjoying such a gorgeous spot.

San Buenaventura State Beach

Spend some time on the beach near the historic pier. It’s the oldest in California. Grab a beer from MadeWest, some tacos from Beach House Tacos, and enjoy lunch on the pier.

There is plenty of parking at San Buenaventura State Beach for $10/day. Near the parking lot you can rent cruiser bikes, electric bikes, or four-wheel Surrey cycles from Wheel Fun Rentals . We see people peddling along the paved pier path all the time. It’s a great time.

We like to spend time in San Buenaventura park, which meanders along the waterfront. There are picnic tables and bathrooms, plus nice walking paths to the beach. You might even be lucky enough to visit while The Jolly Oyster is open. It’s a raw oyster bar food truck that’s delicious.

Ventura Beach is known for its excellent surfing conditions, and there are many surf schools and rental shops in the area.

Ventura Pier and Promenade

Stroll along the Ventura Pier and Promenade for breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and Ventura’s beautiful coastline . It’s one of the longest piers on the California coast, stretching out majestically into the Pacific Ocean, offering sweeping views of the coastline and the Channel Islands.

Our favorite thing to do at the pier is to grab a beer at MadeWest, a brewery located at the end of the pier, or get some tacos or a plate of grilled fish at Eric Ericsson’s Fish underneath the brewery, and just sit out on the picnic tables enjoying the view.

Wheel Fun Bike Rentals is located just on the beach next to the pier and you can rent bikes, electric bikes, or Surreys there. I often see families riding along the promenade in a surrey (which is a bit like a tuk tuk or a bicycle carriage).

Ojai Valley Trail

If you’re looking for something active to do, a great idea is to rent a bike from Wheel Fun and take a bike ride up the 9-mile Ojai Valley Trail that parallels Route 33 and leads all the way up to Ojai , which a cute little town in its own right.

The trail is paved and well maintained. You’ll see many other bikes, walkers, and runners on the path. It’s a great way to spend a sunny day.

Main Street

From the beach, it’s a quick walk to Main Street, where you’ll find dozens of boutique shops, thrift stores, antiques, great restaurants, breweries, cocktail spots, and coffee shops.

A few streets of the downtown area have been turned into a pedestrian only zone, so there are lots of outdoor spaces to eat and grab a cocktail. Plus, you can stroll around shopping without worrying about traffic.

We like the downtown area for an afternoon of shopping and strolling. There are a few really nice homeware stores. I’m in love with Plum Gift Boutique and the little plant store that’s in the back, called Fiddle & Fern. Apparently Ventura used to be known as the thrift store capital of California. There are still quite a few thrift stores downtown.

After walking around, head to a seafood restaurant like Rumfish y Vino or Lure , or grab a cocktail at Bank of Italy Cocktail Trust or The Saloon . These are all great options for an afternoon in Ventura.

San Buenaventura Mission

If you’re interested in history, the San Buenaventura Mission is a historic and cultural landmark nestled in the heart of downtown. It was founded in 1782 by Father Junipero Serra. Take in the beautiful architecture, learn about its rich history, and enjoy the peaceful gardens surrounding this historical mission. The museum displays artifacts from over 200 years ago.

Renowned as the ninth and last mission founded by Serra, the mission is a testament to early Spanish colonial architecture and history. You can explore its serene gardens, beautifully preserved church, and the extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits detailing the mission’s history and the life of the Chumash people. The mission’s bell tower has picturesque views of the city and the Pacific Ocean.

Ventura Botanical Gardens

The Ventura Botanical Gardens, tucked into the hillside behind Ventura City Hall, is a 107-acre sanctuary that showcases Mediterranean climate plants from around the world. The Gardens’ network of trails is a great way to take in the stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, the Channel Islands, and the city of Ventura.

As you meander through the diverse plant collections, you’ll encounter a variety of flora, including the remarkable Chilean gardens and the South African plant exhibit. The Garden is not just a visual treat, it’s also a learning center promoting conservation, environmental education, and the celebration of the natural beauty of Ventura County.

Ventura Harbor Village

Once you’ve left downtown, the next fun spot to check out is Ventura Harbor Village . There are a variety of shops, restaurants, and family-friendly attractions. You can rent a paddle boat (swans, dragons, and ducks available!) or a kayak to take out into the calm waters of the harbor, you can play around at Harbor Cove Beach, or even play a game at the beach volleyball courts.

We often go there around sunset to grab a glass of wine at Deep Sea Wine Tasting Room , then grab some dinner at the Boatyard Pub or Brophy Bros. , then grab an ice cream at Coastal Cone & Parlor. There’s also an Escape Room game and a comedy club at the harbor.

If you wanted to go whale watching or on a harbor cruise, this is where it leaves from. You can also get a ferry out to the Channel Islands from here with Island Packers .

The village is also home to weekend festivals and events throughout the year, so be sure to check the local event calendar during your visit.

Kayaking and Sailing

The Ventura Harbor is the perfect place for kayaking and sailing enthusiasts. You don’t have to bring your own equipment, and you don’t even have to know what you’re doing. You can rent equipment or take a class to explore the harbor and the nearby Channel Islands. The calm waters and breathtaking coast make this activity an unforgettable experience.

Ventura’s beaches are known for their fantastic waves and talented surfers. The stretch of coastline along Ventura offers great surfing throughout the year. If you’re already experienced, you’ll know what to do, but if you’re a beginner, you’ll want to call up Ventura Surf School and book a lesson. They run them on a demand basis, so just give them a call to set up a lesson.

Whale Watching

During the migration season, you have the opportunity to witness the magnificence of whales as they pass by Ventura’s coastline. Head to the harbor and embark on a guided whale watching tour, providing unforgettable up-close encounters with these gentle giants.

There are over 28 species of whales and dolphins that inhabit the waters of the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary, so it’s very likely that you’ll see more than you expected, depending on the time of year you go. We once were lucky enough to see a dolphin stampede in the waters between Ventura and the Channel Islands, and I can tell you it was absolutely a once in a lifetime experience.

Ventura Spirits

Ventura Spirits is a craft distillery that started up in 2011, run by 4 guys. They’re making some unique spirits like YOLO, California’s version of a tequila, Amaro, Limoncello, and Prickly Pear brandy. If you have a few hours on your hands, you can head out to the distillery for a tasting and tour.

The distillery is located on 3891 N. Ventura Ave. Drop-in tastings ($12) are available Monday through Friday from 12:00pm – 5:00pm. Reserved tastings take place every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Craft Breweries

Located all around Ventura and neighboring Oxnard are more than 11 craft breweries that you can visit, such as Topa Topa Brewing Company , Seaward Brewing , and Transmission Brewing . We’ve been to every single one of them and definitely have our favorites, but there are many experiences to be had. Here are a few highlights:

• Topa Topa has an incredible outdoor oasis of a space at 4880 Colt St. There’s always a food truck and (usually) lots of sun.
• Transmission Brewing has a location at 1098 E Front St that shares a space with Topper’s Pizza (also one of our favorite pizza places in town). Grab a beer and a pizza!
• Bellringer Brewery, one of the newest breweries in town, has an incredible double smash burger that you must try!
• Leashless Brewing , housed in an old tire shop, is a certified organic brewery crafting gluten and gluten-reduced Belgian styles and IPAs. You can order food from Barrelhouse 101 next door.

Channel Islands National Park

A visit to Ventura isn’t complete without exploring the breathtaking Channel Islands National Park . Comprising five beautiful remote islands, this park is known for its unique plants, wildlife, and archaeological resources.

There is only one company allowed to take visitors out there, Island Packers, so you’ll want to visit their website to get ferry tickets. It’s the only way to get there. Once you’re there, it’s hiking, bird-watching, snorkeling, and even spot some seals and sea-lions.

There are no facilities on the island, so it’s a very rustic and off-the-beaten-path experience. Be prepared with everything you need for the day.

Santa Rosa Island is very rare. It offers stunning views, outdoor activities, and a chance to experience the natural beauty of California with hardly any people and absolutely no services on land. There aren’t many places like this in the U.S.

Channel Islands Harbor

If you’ve got a bit more time on your hands, visit Channel Islands Harbor, in Oxnard, where you can rent a pontoon boat and float around the harbor. It costs something like $80 for an hour, and you can putt around all the fingers of the harbor with some wine and cheese on board.

On Sunday’s there’s a farmer’s market from 10am to 2pm, and there are plenty of places to stop for a drink or bite to eat with a view. You can also rent bikes from another location of Wheel Fun Rentals, or you can take out a kayak on the calm waters.

Accommodations

If you are looking for a hotel with ocean views, the Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach is your best bet. The Ventura Beach Marriott is very close walking distance, but no views. Another popular hotels is the Amanzi Hotel , all located near the Ventura Pier and Promenade .

While in Ventura, you can also find budget-friendly options for your stay. Here is a list of hotels for you to browse and select the perfect accommodation within your budget.

Useful Information

Transportation and parking.

You can easily access the city by car via Highway 101 or use public transportation options like Amtrak. The Surfliner train station is easy walking distance from everything. If you prefer more sustainable modes of transport, consider renting a bike to explore the city and take advantage of Ventura’s well-developed network of bike lanes.

Parking in Ventura is generally hassle-free. There are numerous free public parking lots and if you can’t find a spot there (which has never happened to us), you can park on-street for pretty cheap. Make use of the Downtown Ventura parking map to find convenient parking locations near popular attractions.

Ventura’s climate can be described as Mediterranean, with mild temperatures year-round and an average annual temperature of 65°F (18°C). Here’s a brief overview of the weather conditions you can expect during your visit:

• Spring (March-May): Ranging from 55°F (13°C) to 68°F (20°C), spring days in Ventura are generally sunny and mild, with occasional rain showers. There is a period of time from May to June that’s a bit gloomy. Locals call it May Grey and June Gloom. You’ve been warned.
• Summer (June-August): Summer temperatures in Ventura typically average around 75°F (24°C) during the day, with cooler evenings. Coastal fog can roll in during the morning hours, often burning off by the afternoon.
• Fall (September-November): Fall temperatures in Ventura vary between 58°F (14°C) and 78°F (25°C), with shorter days and cooler nights as the season progresses.
• Winter (December-February): Winter in Ventura sees chilly temperatures between 45°F (7°C) and 65°F (18°C), with occasional rainfall. It’s essential to pack layers to stay warm during colder periods.

Keep in mind that weather can always be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to check the local forecast before venturing out and pack appropriate clothing for possible weather changes during your visit.

» Looking for more inspiration along the route? Check out all our guides to San Francisco , Los Angeles , Santa Barbara and San Diego. Find the best beaches in Monterey , waterfalls in Southern California , and national parks.

Travel Planning Guide

🚙💨  Where should I book my rental car?

Renting a car is one of the best ways to get around in California, no matter where you’re visiting. Public transportation can only get your so far, even in big cities. I always rent with  Discover Cars , which checks the prices of all major rental car companies, so you get the best rates.

🛌  What’s the best way to book my accommodations?

For hotels and vacation rentals,  Booking.com or Expedia.com  are the best sites, but you can also book through TripAdvisor. If you’re considering renting a house instead, don’t forget to also check  VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

🧳  What do I pack for California?

Head to the our California Packing List or Disneyland Packing List  to get all the info on packing.

✈️  What’s the best site to buy flights to California?

For finding cheap California flights from around the world, I recommend  Skyscanner . I’ve also had pretty good luck with Kayak.com .

Like this article? Save it on Pinterest so you can find it again. FOLLOW US on Pinterest and Facebook for more California travel inspiration and tips!

Laura is a travel fanatic who loves seeing and doing new things. She lives in Ventura, CA, and spends a lot of time exploring California’s cities, beaches, and national parks.

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Breaking News

Ventura is more than a surf town. Here’s how to experience it

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By Rachel Schnalzer

Good morning, fellow Escapists. Last week, we ventured up the winding mountain roads of California 33 to Ojai in pursuit of pixies . This week, we’re heading down to sea level.

Many travelers know Ventura as a beach city between L.A. and the posh streets of Santa Barbara. But perhaps they haven’t walked along Ventura’s picturesque Main Street, browsed the shelves of cozy independent bookshops such as the Calico Cat , Bank of Books and Timbre or basked in kitsch at Busy Bee Cafe over a root beer float. In other words, they haven’t felt the pulse of the town.

In this edition of Escapes, you’ll find a few different ways to explore Ventura; as always, if you have a favorite spot you’d like to share, let me know and I may feature it in a future newsletter.

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Wander Ventura’s gardens and trails

When L.A. travelers first roll into Ventura on U.S. 101, with just a few hundred feet of sand separating the freeway from the Pacific Ocean, it might be hard to see beyond the city’s beachy vibes.

But the surf is only part of the story; last year, my colleague Jeannette Marantos wrote two stories about the city’s gardens and trails. Each is a tale of persistence.

In 2015, volunteers and a small staff broke ground on the Ventura Botanical Gardens , steps from downtown Ventura, after almost 10 years of public meetings, fundraising and planning. Two years later, their hard work was destroyed by the Thomas fire. “The fire burned everything,” Barbara Brown, board member and past president, told Marantos.

So began the laborious process of rebuilding.

Today, the young gardens — with more than 30,000 plants in the ground — spotlight flora from Mediterranean climates around the world, from Chile to the cape of South Africa to southern Australia. The gardens are open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Entrance costs $7 per person, except on Fridays, when admission is free.

Those looking to break a sweat while in Ventura might consider a visit to the Harmon Canyon Preserve , a 2,100-acre network of backcountry trails that opened in 2020 after years of work by the Ventura Land Trust. If you visit in the spring, you may get lucky and spot some wildflowers along the trails.

“Everybody was so starved for outdoor recreation, we found the preserve to be instantly popular and very appreciated,” Derek Poultney, former executive director of the trust, told Marantos. “Before Harmon Canyon opened, Ventura people had to drive 30 to 45 miles to Ojai or the Santa Monica Mountains to get this kind of experience.”

Kick back at the beach

Those hoping to relax and enjoy some ocean views while in town might consider an afternoon at Surfers Point , a convenient strip of beach off Ventura’s promenade with picnic tables and grills. If the wind and waves cooperate, picnickers may see surfers and windsurfers cutting through the water.

To get an even better sense of the surf town, walk the promenade from Surfers Point to the Ventura Pier. If you’re so inclined, stop in MadeWest Brewing Company ’s pier location for a sweeping view of the sea as you sample a flight of its beers.

The stunning location is an ideal jumping-off point for anyone interested in exploring Ventura’s booming craft-beer scene . ( Topa Topa is a particular favorite of mine.) Just make sure to have a designated driver.

Pop over to the Channel Islands

One of the least-visited national parks in the U.S. is a mere hourlong boat ride from Ventura. Channel Islands National Park is enjoyed by snorkelers, hikers and others. Each island offers varying degrees of solitude, ruggedness and ease of accessibility.

Though I could easily write an Escapes edition (or three) about the park itself — and some travelers camp for a week or longer on the islands — weekend visitors to Ventura can get a taste of the experience by booking a day trip to Santa Cruz Island with Island Packers, the official boat concessionaire of the park.

Day trippers to the park’s largest island can choose between hopping off at Scorpion Anchorage or Prisoners Harbor . Don’t let their inauspicious names fool you; travelers to either docking point can look forward to a day of hiking and incredible views of mainland California and the Pacific.

Most day trips include an optional hike led by a naturalist and time to snorkel and explore on your own. Keep an eye out for the island fox , which is found only on six of the eight Channel Islands, and the island scrub jay , found only on Santa Cruz Island.

One more day-trip option worth considering, especially for those who love exploring caves on their travels: a voyage to Prisoners Harbor with a stop inside Painted Cave along the north side of Santa Cruz Island. Although passengers must stay on the boat while in the cave, it’s an opportunity to get a glimpse of one of the largest and deepest sea caves on Earth.

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Celebrate ‘Mermaid Month’

Heads up, parents of kid travelers. Speaking of sea caves, and all the magical creatures that may call them home, it’s “Mermaid Month” in Ventura.

An inviting stop for families traveling up the coast, the event includes scavenger hunts, a mermaid-themed craft fair, island tunes, face painting and the chance to meet a “mermaid” IRL at the harbor.

Check the schedule for specific timing. The event is free.

📰 What I’m reading

• Spring break travel is back, and so are high prices, writes L.A. Times business reporter Hugo Martín. He offers a look at what travelers can expect to pay this season.
• Santa Cruz “is getting a new national monument , and it’s all thanks to former President Obama’s love for an old dairy farm,” reports Stacey Leasca in Travel + Leisure.
• Sure, Modesto’s almond blossoms look great on Instagram. But there’s much more to know about the popular blooms, writes Alan Chazaro in SFGate.
• “Skijoring” is part rodeo, part ski racing. Colin Clancy explains the ins and outs of what may be “ the wildest snow sport out there ” in Condé Nast Traveler.
• Women make up the majority of travelers and the lion’s share of the tourism workforce. Katherine LaGrave covers the power of traveling women in Afar.

📸 Photo of the week

🎸 Road song

Song: “ Kokomo, IN ” by Japanese Breakfast

Favorite line: “I’ll wait, passing time just popping wheelies and kicking round this flyover state.”

Where to play it: watching the sun set at Surfers Point in Ventura

Get ready for the Festival of Books

Sign up for the Book Club newsletter for a guide to the events, authors and other highlights of The Times’ annual book festival , returning in-person April 23-24 to the USC campus.

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We’ll help you find the best places to hike, bike and run, as well as the perfect silent spots for meditation and yoga.

Rachel Schnalzer Stewart is a former audience engagement editor for the Los Angeles Times. In addition to overseeing daily news engagement for the Business and World Nation sections, she managed promotion for projects such as Global California, Repowering the West and the Great SoCal House Hunt. Schnalzer Stewart has also served as the lead writer for the Times’ travel newsletter, Escapes, and Business newsletter. Schnalzer Stewart graduated from Johns Hopkins University and worked at BuzzFeed and Snap before joining The Times in 2019.

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AWESOME Things to do in Ventura (And Oxnard & Camarillo)

Just an hour north of Los Angeles, there are tons of amazing things to do in Ventura and the Ventura County Coast region offering an incredible array of activities ranging from nature to shopping, and an incredible dining scene and much more to make this a sublime destination on coastal California to vacation.

While there are alot of great options for things to do in Ventura, we are going to include the Ventura County Coast region which includes Ventura, Oxnard, and Camarillo. 

This has quickly become one of our favorite places for a Southern California road trip and holiday. We were blown away, considering we are practically neighbors to the area, that there was so much to do in Ventura, Oxnard, and Camarillo just an hour north of LA. We couldn’t believe we hadn’t been to this sleeping giant of a destination and that it made Orange County look completely crowded.

From the adorable and charming downtown of Ventura to the diverse nature and beauty of the Channel Islands National Park and the shopping and dining scene in the area we had an action-packed three days.

We have put together this guide for the best things to do in Ventura County Coast for a first time visitor to help introduce you to this incredible area through all your senses. Don’t miss out on one of California’s best-kept secrets.

What to do in Ventura

Downtown ventura.

Here are our picks for the best points of interest and things to do in Ventura’s downtown historic district.

San Buenaventura Mission

Known as the ‘Mission by the Sea,’ you can visit what is left of the entire mission complex on your visit to Ventura. Enter through the gift shop and begin your self guided tour of the mission starting in the garden & grotto. Make your way through the Mission Church, Padre’s Burial, and a replica of Michelangelo’s Pieta.

Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, closed on major holidays to visitors.

Stroll Down Main Street

There’s no shortage of great dining options to choose from, more on that later, and shops! We loved the array of vintage and antique stores mixed in with trendy boutiques and home stores.

Here are a few of our favorite shops we browsed:

Iron and Resin – Mostly a men’s store with an inviting entrance with vintage motorcycles and a mix of surf and gritty style from their accessories to clothing. This is where you’ll find vintage concert tees, cool flannels, and denim. There’s even a small section in the back for women.

Copperfields- Another cool stop on Main Street is Copperfield’s gifts. I was drawn in by the vintage looking maps and posters on display and loved their selection of small gifts and even antiques. This is a cool stop if you’re looking for a small gift for someone you know.

Tiki girl- A cute beachy boutique on Main Street is where to go for a hot new bikini, the perfect beach dress, or accessories! I loved the entrance to this boutique with its neon light and boho chic décor.

Rocketfizz- If you’re looking for the old school soda and candy shop then look no further on Main Street in Ventura! Find just about any candy under the sun and loads of soda flavors that will give your sweet tooth its fix.

Refill Shoppe-  We absolutely love the concept of this home and beauty supply store! With a world full of too much single use plastic this entire store’s mission is to sell beauty and home cleaning products in reusable containers. Bring your own jar or buy one in the store and fill it up with whatever products you’re looking for. It’s genius and we love and support the environmentally and sustainability friendly message.

Visit the Historic City Hall

One unmissable thing to do in Ventura is visit the Historic City Hall. You can’t miss it resting on the hill at the top of California Street with the palm-lined streets on either side. This masterpiece of a building dates back to 1912 and is a California Historical Landmark. We showed up on a Sunday and couldn’t peek inside but the terra cotta exterior and design of this building was fun to admire and photograph. Be sure to make a visit.

Enjoy the Local Surf

Don’t have a wetsuit or surfboard? No worries. Ventura is prepared to help visitors get their surf on and have local places that do daily rentals for body boards, surfboards, and wet suits. The most convenient location we noticed who rents out surfing gear was at Rip Curl near the pier.

Ventura Pier

What makes this pier even more special is that it’s considered as another one of California’s Historic Landmarks. The long wooden pier dates back to 1872 and was used as a commercial fishing wharf known as Ventura Wharf.

This is also the longest pier in California at 1,958 feet until 1995. Today the pier is only 1,600 feet long but is still impressive and offering rewarding views of the ocean and the Channel Islands off in the distance.

There are some great seafood restaurants and even a cute boutique called Native Eye selling little knick knacks from coffee mugs, jewelry, to vintage denim. Check it out, however, if it looks closed don’t give up, the hostess at the seafood restaurant it’s attached to also tends the store and will let you in to browse and shop.

If you’re looking for a bit of greenery in Ventura then check out Grant Park directly behind the historic City Hall. The park has nice walking paths and is a great place for an impromptu picnic. There’s even the giant Serra Cross in the park that Father Junipero Serra put up in 1782 to celebrate the new San Buenaventura Mission.

During our visit we didn’t make it up here due to repairs being made after the Thomas fires. However, whether you come to visit the cross or not there are incredible views of the city of Ventura below and the Pacific Ocean off in the distance!

Eat & Drink in Downtown Ventura

We recommend having lunch at Paradise Pantry . This local farm to table restaurant has an adorable, rustic setting with incredible fresh farm to table fare. Their sandwiches looked heavenly but we opted for the famous mac n cheese paired with an excellent salad.

They also have a great wine selection, our waitress paired the perfect Chardonnay with our meal.

Be sure to save room for dessert, even if it’s just a bite. They offer some desserts in a bite size portion which is perfect if you just want a small sweet treat.

We then recommend going to Rumfish Y Vino for dinner. The patio here is an excellent place to dine and it gave us some of our favorite flavors of the Yucatan and Belize. We were impressed with their Marie Sharp hot sauce and the authentic flavors of the Yucatan. The cochinita pibil tacos were on point and one of our favorite food experiences from our time living in Merida.

If you want to grab a drink we recommend going to the local hotspot, Star Lounge . We were drawn in by the vintage flashing sign and loved the local dive bar feel to it. They have a nice local draft beer selection to choose from and billiard tables.

Ventura Harbor

Ventura Harbor Village

One of the best things to do in Ventura Harbor Village beside eat great food is shop! There are just over a dozen different boutiques and shops to choose from. I loved browsing through the Barefoot Boutique and Ventura Swimwear for trendy styles and accessories. We also had a field day in the array of fun socks for sale in Lost in Socks.

Another favorite was the Mermaid Gallery where local artist Tina O’Brien sells her original artwork. I obsessed over her mermaid artwork and her ‘catfish’. I couldn’t leave the store without buying her signature catfish (an actual kitty cat as a fish).

Rent a Duffy Boat

Another way to chill in Ventura Harbor and another awesome thing to do in Ventura is rent a Duffy Boat and cruise around the harbor at a leisurely pace. You can rent these adorable little electric boats in different sizes for as little as five people or up to twelve people.

There are also options for stand up paddleboards and kayaks in the harbor as well.

Eat & Drink in Ventura Harbor

The other dining option we recommend is the seafood at Andria’s . You know you’re eating somewhere great when literally every local you meet tells you about Andria’s fish n chips and clam chowder. We love their no fuss approach and laid back restaurant vibe and incredible seafood. I was honestly was a bit nervous looking at their food displays but after hearing recommendation after recommendation about this place we knew it had to be good. Andria’s did not disappoint and their servings are very generous.

Scott ordered the chowder in the sourdough bread bowl which was creamy, rich, and heavenly. I ordered the Halibut fish n chips which were the best fish n chips we decided we had ever had. This is a must if you like seafood, and if you have a friend maybe split a dish as they are HUGE portions.

Channel Islands National Park

There are eight Channel Islands in total, but the five in the National Park are Santa Cruz, San Miguel, Santa Rosa, Santa Barbara, and Anacapa islands.

Set off with Island Packers from Oxnard or Ventura Harbor to any of the five Channel Islands that make up the National Park for a day trip or even a multi-day camping trip.

We were shorter on time and did a fun day trip from Ventura Harbor with Island Packers to Santa Cruz Scorpion Island. While we didn’t have nearly enough time on the island to do everything we’d want to do we had enough time for a quick hike with stellar views.

We came after a winter full of rain and the flora and fauna were lush and green. We had to pinch ourselves because for a minute we felt like we were at the Cliffs of Moher in Ireland at one of the viewpoints.

The Channel Islands have their own unique biodiversity and species of plants and animals. On Santa Cruz, there is the endangered Santa Cruz fox that is adorable and the size of a domestic house cat. You can easily spot them in the campgrounds sniffing out the campers food, which don’t worry are safely stored in animal-proof boxes on the island.

There are also other interesting plants and species on the islands including marine life. We were told by the ranger that Santa Rosa Island also has Torrey Pine trees which the only other place they are found in is La Jolla in San Diego.

A one day trip is enough to get your tastebuds wet and make you want to come back for more. We are already wanting to figure out when and how we can do a multi-day camping trip on the islands for a return visit. This is easily one of the most beautiful things to do in Ventura if you’re a nature lover like we are.

Things to do in Oxnard

Gondola Paradiso

Our gondolier took us on a relaxing and romantic 50-minute gondola ride through the Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard. We were actually quite surprised at how quiet and calm this harbor and town was in general. It really made for a peaceful time where we had nothing to do but just sit and enjoy the moment.

Your professional gondolier Mark takes you in an authentic Venetian gondola reminding you to kiss when floating under the bridges. You’re even encouraged to bring your own beverage of choice, we wish we would have brought mimosas as we did this in the late morning and it just felt like the perfect place to enjoy a drink with your lover.

The gondola rides are also family friendly and good for a small group. They can fit up six people so bring the family for a lovely leisurely time.

You can make reservations on Gondola Paradiso’s website.

Port Hueneme Beach

Technically in Port Hueneme but surrounded by Oxnard is Port Hueneme Beach. This is a great beach in Ventura County and right next to the local naval base. This beach has its own lovely pier to walk along and a great spot for picnics and beach volleyball.

There are many picnic tables around the beach as well as sand volleyball courts set up. There’s also the promenade trail which leads to the Port Hueneme Lighthouse.

Eat & Drink in Oxnard

We both went with the Chilaquiles which were ahhhhmazing. Their red salsa was on point and had a bit of heat. After sharing our meal on our stories we got reached out to by a ton of locals saying their favorite dish, another popular among frequent visitors seems to be their waffles! This is a great breakfast option!

The Waterside Restaurant and Wine Bar is an excellent stop along the waterside harbor for seafood and their al fresco menu. We enjoyed splitting a few of their small plates and a salad. Their seared ahi tuna was our favorite dish. We really enjoyed the atmosphere here right along the water and boats in the harbor.

Things to do in Camarillo

Camarillo Ranch House

He owned and operated the house and ranch for over 78 years and farmed cattle and crops on the land.

Today you can tour this incredible historic home with a docent in historical period clothing on Saturday, Sundays, and Mondays. On your tour, you will get to witness both the first and second levels of the home restored back to the 1915 setting of the home with real antique pieces donated by the Camarillo family.

We love these old historic homes and the details inside. Our favorite feature of the Camarillo Ranch was the incredible walk-in refrigerator in the kitchen.

If you’re looking for a killer wedding venue they do rent out the property for a very reasonable price and all the money goes back to the Camarillo Ranch House foundation. Not a bad option close to the coast in California!

Camarillo Premium Outlets

Consider getting their shopping passport for more savings and deals inside the mall at various retailers. Over 100 of the retailers participating in additional savings and discounts offered in the passport program available at Guest Services.

Eat & Drink in Camarillo

A great option for where to eat in Camarillo is Lure Fish House . They also have a location in Ventura as well. This seafood restaurant offers an array of seafood dishes and an impressive wine list to pair. Everything from the environment to the vibe in here was great. We loved the ahi and the grilled seabass.

Where to Stay in Ventura County Coast

We absolutely adore this concept and LOVED this experience. We would 100% do this again and get a different camper. There are 18 different campers to choose from OR if you have your own vintage style camper they do let you park here to do you exploring around Ventura, Oxnard, and Camarillo.

We stayed in the Navigator which was surprisingly very spacious and had a full sized bathroom. We were actually quite impressed with the layout of the camper and decided we could probably do a tiny house lifestyle out of this thing.

Book Waypoint Ventura here.

Liked this post on the best things to do in Ventura County Coast for a first time visitor? Bookmark for later or share the love below on Pinterest!

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Home » North America » Ventura

17 Awesome Adventures & Things to Do in Ventura, California

Ventura is a picturesque town. With the gorgeous blue ocean and a multitude of green spaces, it has an unbeatable natural landscape. Whether you’re piloting a Duffy boat or picnicking beneath the Serra Cross, it’s hard not to have a good time!

In addition to plenty of outdoor things to do in Ventura, you’ll also find lots of art, history, and culture to appreciate. This small city has done a phenomenal job of preserving the county’s history, and several of its landmarks are on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. Ventura also has a thriving theater scene and is a great place to taste California’s renowned wines.

These attractions really make Ventura a hidden gem of the Californian coast that should definitely be on your bucket list. With our suggestions for things to do in Ventura, this small city goes from nice to AMAZING!

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Top Things to Do in Ventura

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Every town has certain monuments and activities that are absolutely non-negotiable for tourists. The same is true here, so make your way down this list of essential things to do in Ventura.

1. Admire Ventura City Hall

Ventura City Hall, aka the County Courthouse, is a must on your list of things to do in Ventura County. The government building was designed in 1910 by Southern Californian Alfred C. Martin Sr. The city hall is inscribed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places so make sure to check it out!

The city hall features stunning features of Revival architecture. Its terracotta facade is an iconic landmark in Ventura. Also, admire the copper dome that glints under the sun. Inside, the courthouse boasts gleaming mahogany paneling.

2. Attend a Church Service

Mission San Buenaventura is a Roman Catholic Church that is a popular place of worship in the area. The “Mission by the Sea” was founded in 1782 and is consequently on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places!

The mission’s gardens are spectacular and tranquil. Tall palm trees shade the manicured flower beds and pretty water fountains. To truly appreciate the church’s history and architecture, consider joining a guided tour.

If you’d like to take a souvenir home from Ventura, CA, stop by the church’s gift shop. You can find out mass times on the website.

Downtown Ventura

Downtown Ventura is where all of the best attractions are. The area has a pleasant atmosphere and beautiful landmarks. It is also still within walking distance of Ventura Pier.

• Ventura City Hall
• Mission San Buenaventura
• Ventura Botanical Gardens

3. Discover Ventura’s Fascinating History

The Museum of Ventura County offers a fabulous glimpse into Ventura’s history so it should definitely be on your itinerary!

The museum boasts 30 000 artifacts and artworks which are exhibited on a rotational basis. It does a wonderful job of linking the region’s present to its past. For example, you can expect exhibitions on how the Native American tradition of weaving is practiced today, or how modernism impacted Californian architecture.

The museum is on Main Street so it’s one of the most fantastic things to do in Ventura city center.

4. Stroll Through Ventura Botanical Gardens

Exploring the abundant colors and scents of Ventura Botanical Gardens is one of the loveliest things to do in Ventura center.

Ventura Botanical Gardens was almost completely destroyed by a fire in 2017. Fortunately, the garden is making a great recovery. You can look forward to over 160 species of flora from regions of the world with a Mediterranean climate. There’s also a small pine forest that provides a shady walk.

Be on the lookout for events at the botanical gardens. These are often free and will help you enjoy this attraction so much more!

5. Hike to the Serra Cross

Walking up to Serra Cross is one of the most popular things to do in Ventura! This ancient landmark also offers great views and photo-ops.

The Serra Cross was planted on the mountainside in 1782 by Father Junipero Serra so that it would overlook the new Mission San Buenaventura. For centuries, it’s been used as a landmark for sailors coming into the harbor. Today, it’s more of a tourist icon that’s surrounded by a 107-acre park.

Visit the cross in the early evening to enjoy a splendid sunset over the unbroken Pacific Ocean.

6. Explore Ventura Harbor Village

Ventura Harbor Village has some of the best things to do in Ventura County over the weekend, as well as a spectacular harbor location.

Ventura Harbor Village is an assortment of waterfront restaurants, shops, and bars. One of the loveliest things to do in Ventura, CA is buying ice-cream and strolling along the promenade. You can also hire a kayak to go out into the harbor waters, as well as book cruises to the nearby Channel Islands.

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For a small city, there are some unusual and quirky landmarks in Ventura. Check out our list to find out what to do in Ventura today!

7. Shop for Antiques

For a fun, one-of-a-kind experience, browsing through Antique Adventures LLC should be on your list of things to do in Ventura County today. This antique store has been purchasing estates since the 1980s and there are multiple dealers, so there is a huge variety of beautiful collectibles.

You can find everything from Native American artifacts to fine jewelry, as well as antique furniture. The store is the perfect place to pick up a unique souvenir from your time in Ventura.

8. Pilot a Duffy Boat

Exploring the harbor on a Duffy boat is one of the most fun things to do in Ventura County! It will allow you to enjoy the sea breeze, get a new perspective on Ventura and have fun at the same time.

Duffy boats were invented in California so they offer a great local experience. They’re battery-operated and super easy to maneuver. You can hire a Duffy boat from Ventura Harbor Boat Rentals.

9. Visit a Former Cemetery

The strange thing about Cemetery Memorial Park is that the dead were never removed when the cemetery became a park in the 1960s!

All the headstones were removed and the cemetery was grassed over. Today walking through the park is one of the best things to do with your dog in Ventura. It also boasts several memorials to veterans.

However, it is a controversial place since some locals feel it’s disrespectful to walk dogs on the final resting places of prominent historical figures from the area. So, if you’re up for something unusual, exploring the park is for you!

Safety in Ventura

Ventura is generally quite a safe destination. It’s a small city and the traffic is not too bad so it’s great for cycling and strolling around.

As with most holidays, you should definitely consider getting travel insurance. This will give you peace of mind while you make your way through these epic Ventura things to do.

Read our tips for traveling safely before you fly and always get travel insurance. Check out our roundup of the best travel insurance .

Come nightfall, there are some fabulous indoor things to do in Ventura. Check them out over here!

10. Taste Californian Wine

For a sophisticated start to your Friday night, head to Four Brix Winery. It’s a craft winery that only produces 2000 cases at a time so their wine is very exclusive.

This winery sources its grapes from Italy, France, Spain and, naturally, California. You can explore the barrels and production room, as well as enjoy a few glasses.

BrixHouse, the tasting room, also offers fun events, such as concerts in the cellar and wine dinners. It’s an inviting, atmospheric space that’s hard to leave!

11. Watch a Local Theater Production

Wondering what to do in Ventura, CA, in the evening? Attending a show at the local theater, the Rubicon Theater Company is one of the best things to do in Ventura over the weekend.

Although the theater does host a number of events, it focuses on plays, many of which are put on by the company itself. The company has won many regional awards so the shows are top quality! If you’d like a glitzy night out, going to a show is one of the best things to do in downtown Ventura.

You might have heard of the “Pink Moment” that occurs as the sun sets casting a rosy glow over the majestic Topa Topa Mountains. Stay in Ojai to witness this epic show

Best Airbnb in Ventura –  Healing Retreat Cottage Ocean View with Loft

Within walking distance of Downtown Ventura’s major attractions, this Airbnb offers great value for money. The space is a loft that has incredible views of the ocean and the Channel Islands! The downstairs part of the property operates as a healing center and you can always pop down for a yoga class or massage!

Best Hotel in Ventura –  The Best Western Plus Inn of Ventura

The Best Western Plus Inn of Ventura is just on the outskirts of Downtown Ventura. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, while rates are often inclusive of breakfast. Rooms also include a small fridge, microwave and coffee maker which helps to keep costs down. This is really great value for money!

With a seaside location and intimate cafes, Ventura offers plenty of options for couples to sneak away and let the sparks fly.

12. Breakfast at Sunflower Kitchen & Bakery

Eating a delicious breakfast in a local bakery is of the best non-touristy things to do in Ventura and makes for a perfect date.

Sunflower Kitchen & Bakery has a wonderful patio where you can sit and enjoy the morning together. This eatery was established by a local Californian and prides itself on using local ingredients. Try the homemade, small-batch cookies!

13. Stroll Along Ventura Pier

The Ventura Pier extends 1600 feet out to sea and is a famous landmark in town. Come sunset, strolling along the pier is one of the loveliest things to do in Ventura for couples!

The Ventura Pier was first built in 1872 and restored in 1993. With fishermen, couples and photographers all frequenting the pier, it has a vibrant atmosphere. The pier is so large that it boasts toilets, food stalls, and water fountains. If you feel like extending your stroll, the Ventura Pier meets up with the Ventura Promenade which meanders along the sea. This is the perfect date for a laidback couple!

It’s totally possible to travel without breaking the bank thanks to these fantastic things to do in Ventura on a budget!

14. Suntan on San Buenaventura State Beach

One of the best things to do in Ventura today is relaxing on one of its gorgeous beaches. San Buenaventura State Beach is a wonderful free attraction that’s right in the heart of town so you can keep your transport costs low too!

San Buenaventura extends for around two miles and boasts a pretty coastline, as well as some wildlife. It’s perfect for swimming and there are trained lifeguards on hand to keep you safe.

For an inexpensive meal, grab some snacks at the grocery store and have a picnic on the beach. There are a variety of picnic tables to choose from, some with screens for privacy.

15. Explore the Oliver Adobe Historical Park

The Oliver Adobe Historical Park is a country home with a lot of history that’s completely free to visit. Its history and peaceful gardens make it one of the greatest things to do in Ventura alone.

An adobe is a mud-brick structure. The Monterey style of colonial-era architecture developed in California. The Oliver Adobe has both of these rare features so it’s a very special attraction!

Remember that the Oliver Adobe Historical Park is only open on weekends. Phone ahead to check that the venue hasn’t been booked out for a wedding.

Books to Read in Ventura

Scar Tissue – The auto-biography of the Red Hot Chili Pepper’s lead vocalist, Anthony Kiedes “rocked” my world the first time I read it. The story is about his entire life, from growing up in the City of Angels surrounded by drugs and bad influences, to becoming a rockstar. Any RHCP fan should read this; even if you’re not a fan, you’ll enjoy this book as it’s an inside look into Hollywood in the 70s through 90s.

The Mountains of California – The musings and ramblings of John Muir, one of the most famous and beloved naturalism in American history.

Slouching Towards Bethlehem – A collection essays about some of California’s greatest icons including John Wayne, Howard Hughes, and the Haight neighborhood of San Fran.

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Are you wondering what to do in Ventura with your little ones? Don’t worry, we’re here with some fun activities for the whole family!

16. Play on Emma Wood State Beach

There are some exciting things to do on this Ventura beach. Thanks to its mild temperatures, it’s ideal for swimming. It’s also popular with surfers and anglers who can expect to catch bass and perch, amongst other species. This means that there is something for family members of all ages.

As if that’s not enough to keep the family busy, there is also the ruined World War II artillery site to capture children’s imaginations! You can also walk to the Ventura River Estuary to spot an amazing variety of animals like herons and raccoons (dolphins can be seen just off the coastline). Visiting this beach is truly one of the best outdoor things to do in Ventura!

17. Explore Lake Casitas Recreation Area

Parents, if you’re looking for fun things to do in Ventura with your kids, the Lake Casitas Recreation Area holds all the answers!

Lake Casitas is part of the Los Padres National Forest and is just 20 minutes outside of the city. Although no swimming is allowed (the lake is a source of drinking water), there are some awesome activities for little children.

Your children can happily play miniature golf and go cycling on the car-free trails. There’s also a water playground and a lazy river for kids to enjoy, while parents take in the stunning views.

Ventura is surrounded by magnificent landscapes that offer a variety of unique, fun activities. Find awesome things to do near Ventura on our incredible list!

Taste Californian Wines

Foodies and culture lovers, this one’s for you! Just over an hour outside of Ventura is the glorious Santa Ynez Valley which grows some of California’s famous wines.

Exploring the vineyards is one of the best day trips from Ventura. In just one day you can visit about three wineries to learn what makes the region’s wines so special. Most establishments offer tours of the barrel room, alongside wine tastings. If you find the wine to your taste, there are also discounted prices for buying directly from the vineyard!

Encounter Rare Plants and Animals

The five islands that you can see floating off the coast of Ventura offer such an abundance of wildlife that they’ve been called California’s Galapagos! It’s certainly worth making a day trip to the Channel Islands National Park.

The park has a visitor’s center in Ventura Harbor so it’s easy to plan your day trip. Entrance to the islands is free but you do have to book a ferry or helicopter to get there. Try to book as far in advance as possible since it’s a popular trip with school classes.

Some of the plants and animals on these islands cannot be found anywhere else in the world. For example, on Anacapa Island, you’ll find the Anacapa deer mouse which is very rare, as well as the world’s largest breeding colony of western gulls! Santa Rosa Island, meanwhile, boasts 195 species of birds!

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With so many unmissable things to do in Ventura, it’s important to have a plan of action. That’s exactly what our 3-day itinerary provides!

Day 1 – Explore Ventura’s Historic Heart

Today is all about discovering Ventura’s central area. To start, head over to the Mission San Buenaventura. This site offers a glimpse of the city’s history and also has lovely gardens!

Next up, walk towards the Ventura City Hall. It’s a short walk down East Main Street before you turn left into North Oaks Street. The city hall is an iconic attraction, so take some good photos!

As it turns towards lunchtime, stroll to the Ventura Botanical Gardens which are just a three-minute walk from the Ventura City Hall. Here, you can admire various Mediterranean plants and learn about how the gardens are recovering after a devastating fire.

As evening approaches, it’s time to hike up to the Serra Cross. The Serra Cross Park is right next to the Ventura Botanical Gardens but it is a bit of a climb to the wooden cross, one of the city’s landmarks. Take a picnic along to enjoy as the sun goes down — the sight of the ocean bathed in golden light is breathtaking!

Day 2 – Stroll Around the Seaside

Ventura has a spectacular coastline and no itinerary would be complete without taking time to explore this area. In fact, we’re devoting an entire day to it!

Start off by strolling along the Ventura Pier. Extending for 1600 feet, the pier is a landmark attraction in Ventura. It’s populated with stalls and fountains, a wonderful atmosphere to start your day!

After this, head over to Ventura Harbor Village. It’s 4.5 miles from the pier, so it’s not practical to walk. Enquire at your hotel about public transport, if you can’t drive or take a taxi.

Once you’ve explored Ventura Harbor Village, head towards Ventura Harbor which is almost a part of the complex. Here, you can either soak up the atmosphere or hire a canoe to explore the harbor!

Finally, take a taxi to San Buenaventura State Beach, which is just a ten-minute drive away. This is the perfect beach to spend the afternoon!

Day 3 – Learn More About Ventura’s History

Start today off at the Oliver Adobe Historical Park. This manor house features aspects of the Monterey style of colonial-era architecture, as well as mud-brick walls. It’s also completely free of charge!

From there it’s a ten-minute drive to the Museum of Ventura County. This is a great place to learn more about Ventura’s rich culture and traditions through amazing items! Visiting the museum is one of the best artsy things to do in Ventura since it explores the area’s history through various art forms.

Finish off your day with a visit to the Rubicon Theater Company. It’s just a 20-minute walk from the Museum of Ventura County. This award-winning local theater company puts on fabulous shows so it’s a wonderful way to end your day!

Don’t forget your travel insurance for Ventura

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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Here are some quick answers to common questions about what to do and see in Ventura.

What are the top things to do in Ventura with family?

Head over to Lake Casitas Recreation for a fun day for all the family. There’s mini golf, cycling trails, a lazy river, a water playground and great views of the lake and mountainsides.

What are some things to do in Ventura at night?

Spend a fun evening watching a production at the Rubicon Theater Company. You’ll be sure to have a great time at this award winning theater.

What are the most romantic things to do in Ventura?

Take a trip out to the incredible Santa Ynez Valley to sample some of California’s best wine. Set in some stunning landscape it’s the perfect place way to spend some time with your significant other.

What are some free things to do in Ventura?

Spend the day swimming, tanning or exploring the miles of amazing coastline at Buenaventura State Beach. It’s super close to town too so it’s even cheap to get to!

Whether you’re a history buff or a fan of water sports, Ventura has got something for you! The sheer variety of activities available in Ventura is incredible but it can also be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this definitive guide to things to do in Ventura, alongside our detailed itinerary and accommodation suggestions.

Ventura’s seaside location has given it a relaxed holiday atmosphere, as well as some awesome attractions. It’s a low-key city that nevertheless makes for an unforgettable holiday — just keep our list of things to do in Ventura close by!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Art Patterson

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32 Best & Fun Things to Do in Ventura (CA)

Officially known as San Buenaventura, Ventura is a city in California which is at the mind of most tourists due to its stunning nature views, this city seats between two rivers, the Santa Clara River and the Ventura River.

There are lots of attractions and fun activities in Ventura for the whole family, which makes this city a perfect place for a vacation.

It is close to the Channels Islands presenting you an opportunity to ride boats to its shores on your tour this Island during your visit.

It presents itself with lots of parks and beaches which would give a fun outdoor time engaging in activities such as picnic, swimming, hiking and more.

Would you like to know what to do in Ventura during your visit, this guide is aimed at giving you the best spots in the city to give you a fun time through your vacation here.

During your visit, do not miss its historical museums such as the Museum of Ventura County, You can also decide to tour Ventura on a bike through the Ojai Paved Bike Paths, Foods are not left out for it has numerous restaurants, to visit notable food spots you can join the Ventura Food Tours.

Let us dive right into it, exploring the best things to do in Ventura.

Things to Do in Ventura, CA.

1. ventura harbor village.

Looking for a place to get the best seafood and have a good view of the ocean as you eat?, a visit to Ventura Harbor Village is just the option.

It provides you with the best ocean activities, ranging from the delicious meals to fun activities, you can decide to shop at some ocean side retail shops, take a tour of the ocean, play beach volleyball etc.

If you would like a tour through channels Island, you can take a ferry here to the Island, you can also decide to explore Robert J. Lagomarsino Visitor Center.

Major activities in Harbor Village is either enjoying the atmosphere or taking a walk around, you won’t miss the amazing view made by the collection of boats in the harbor.

This is a great place to bring your family as there are quite some children activities around here too, mostly during the pet costume contest which comes up every year in October.

Address: 1583 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, California

2. Mission San Buenaventura

Mission San Buenaventura was founded by priest Junipero Serra in the year 1749.

It has quite a historic and turbulent past, its main aim of construction was to bring the catholic and Spanish culture to the Native people of Chumash, that plan didn’t go well as it was known to be burnt to the ground.

Later in 1809, it was rebuilt and since then it has faced so many turmoils such as threats from pirates as well as earthquakes, today it is a well known Catholic church opened to the public.

While visiting here you will meet a lot of art pieces which you will love, also you get to see it’s 1809 alter.

Located in the mission is the mission’s museum where you will get to see a lot of religious objects and artifacts which tell of those who visited this church.

Its garden is a spectacular one which is a place for a peaceful stay, you can as well take a tour with one of the deacons to have a good knowledge of the mission.

Address: 211 E Main St, Ventura, California.

3. Museum of Ventura County

Dr. Cephas Bard who was a doctor in Pennsylvania began the collection of objects in this museum.

History has it that he relocated to Ventura to practice his profession when the Civil war was over, however rather than collecting money for the service rendered he collected objects.

Objects he collected spanned across Chumash as well as historical objects from Mexico and Spanish history, these became the building blocks for the Museum of Ventura County .

In the year 1913, he decided to show these objects to the public by opening this museum, in 1997 after more collections were made, the need for a larger space saw this museum moving to the Mission San Buenaventura Building.

In 2011, the Agricultural section of this Museum was incorporated and today this museum has the goal of preserving the history and culture of the Ventura County by hosting events and exhibitions, they also preserve historic artifacts.

One of its collections which is recommended by many to see is the Fine art collection, this collection counts about 30,000 works and objects from various artists which includes the likes of Jessie Arms Botke, John Nava, Beatrice Wood, Omar DeLeon and more.

They also have works of art of historical figures made by George Stuart who is a celebrated historian. This makes what to do in Ventura fun for art lovers

Address: 100 E Main St, Ventura, California.

4. Ventura Pier and Promenade

One popular Ventura tourist place to visit is the Ventura Pier .

This is a symbol which tries to gives the memory of the thriving age of American Agriculture, the oil industry as well as the construction industry.

It is known to be built in 1872, and to this day, known among locals and tourists as a perfect place to admire the sunset and the oceans, also to go fishing as well as seeing the coastlines and channel Island.

This area has been renovated with time, it is currently designed to be about 1700 feet, Its construction has a beautiful design of wood and steel pilings, today it is known among the longest pier in California.

It has benches around to sit and have a good view of the ocean and a sand playground for kids, its panels says a lot about its history with photos and written information.

Both side of the pier lies in the San Buenaventura State Beach, this is a place to visit with loved ones and have a fun time in Ventura.

5. Ventura Botanical Gardens

Are you a lover of ornamental plants, a visit to the Ventura Botanical Gardens is perfect to give you the best day in Ventura, it is located behind the Ventura City Hall.

This garden is one that shows the stunning beauty of nature, In 2017 this area was among the places devastated by the popular Thomas Fire which caught a huge area of the city.

However, during these few years this institution is making its way towards its former glory with cultivating the original species of plants known to this garden.

A visit to this garden would have you walking through its hiking trails reaching the summit if its landscape which gives a good view of the ocean.

Do not forget to bring your camera along as you have quite a lot of beautiful memories of floras which is a place take a beautiful shot.

The landmark of this botanical garden made its way to the Serra Cross which not only gives you a good look at the ocean as well as the Grant Park.

Taking a walk to the Serra Cross will also give you a good look of the city, hence it is a perfect place to visit in Ventura.

Address: 567 South Poli Street, Ventura, California.

6. Visit Surfers Point Beach

Located next to Seaside Park is Surfers Point Beach which is a beach following the Ventura River, this river also formed a lagoon behind the beach which is the habitat of so many bird species.

Here is a good spot for surfers as they follow the curly waves from the beach riding towards the City’s Pier.

You will also find kite boarders as well as windsurfers who are known to pick up their show with the emergence of the wind.

West of it is the Emma Wood State Beach and east of here is the Promenade and the Seaside Park.

Visiting here is among the best things to do in Ventura with kids as they will love a picnic in this area.

Having a picnic here, you may decide to make use of one of the many picnic tables of this beach, you can as well decide to get your legs wet by walking in the water or having a swim.

7. Serra Cross Park

One of the many Ventura attractions you should see during your visit is the Serra Cross Park .

It was known that after building the Mission San Buenaventura, Junipero Serra walked the hills above this mission, blessing the land as he walked through.

He also made a wooden cross that he planted, this cross serve as a sign for those trying to know the location of the church.

Time saw to the destruction of this cross but after each destruction, it was always replaced by members of the community.

In 1918, 106 acres of land were donated by Kenneth and Tonie to the city which was converted to a park in this area in remembrance of this cross.

Over the years, the landscape has seen much improvement and is seen to be visited by many including locals and tourists.

Here you will also have a good spot to watch the sunset in the oceans while you enjoy the stunning view of the city.

8. Emma Wood State Beach

Would you like to go surfing or swimming, another place to visit for this is the Emma Wood State Beach .

This place is also popular among the local fishermen as it is a  place to get cabezon, perch, corbina as well as bass.

Due to the activity around here, it have a lot of people coming here during the day hence a place to meet the locals.

The availability of fishes in this area is due to the Estuary formed by the Ventura River which makes here a feeding spot for fishes, it is also a habitat for some wildlife such as great blue herons, raccoons and songbirds.

Another animal you may meet during your exploration are dolphins as they swim offshore.

Bring your camera as you explore this park, you may also want to take pictures of ruins from WWII.

This exploration is one of the fun things to do in Ventura, this also gives you a view of Channel Island which is just lovely from this site.

Would you like to visit some of the best bars in California, do not miss this guide on the best bars in Long Beach for a fun time in this city

9. Rubicon Theatre Company

When you talk about entertainment in Ventura, the Rubicon Theatre Company is not left out.

They are well known for providing educative entertainment to locals and tourist through theater performance, special events, educative programs as well as their annual festival.

Rubicon Theatre has to their name more than 120 production which includes comedies, dramas and musicals.

They also hold after school programs which are aimed at educating students through events and programs.

This has gotten them lots of awards for their theater productions and service to the area of Ventura, you can catch their performance at their main stage which is at Main Street, downtown Ventura.

Address: 1006 E Main St, Ventura, CA 93001, 805-667-2900

10. Island Packers

Want to have the best vacation in Ventura, you have to add a trip with the  Island Packers to your list of what to do in Ventura.

The Island Packers can give you a good tour throughout the Channel Island as they take you on their luxurious cruisers.

You can get to visit the five islands around Ventura to see the best plants and animals which will make your tour wonderful.

Their cruises range from day trips to camping on islands, camping can be perfect to allow you to get a good exploration of wildlife if you take fun at that.

Island packers are popularly known to give the best tours through the Channel Island since 1968, hence you won’t have to miss any detail about this Island going on this tour.

Address: 1691 Spinnaker Dr #105B, Ventura, California.

11. Ventura to Ojai Paved Bike Path

How would you like a bike exploration in Ventura?.

This is perfect for an evening exploration of this city and biking the paved Bike Paths, this is a very easy thing to do even without a masters grip on your bike.

You can ride to the city Ojai on a bike, this is a city with natural beauty and one dedicated to spirituality and healthy well being, giving it the nickname Shangri-La.

The Bike trail to this city from Ventura was designed on a railway line, as you ride on you would get to pass some industrial areas to meet Foster park towards the west, this creates a steep path which helps you get a good view of the city from the top.

Moving forward, you can decide to enter the Sulphur Road as the path branches here, this road seems steeper but you get to meet quite some nice views here, if you would not want to go down that road, you can continue to Ojai on this path.

Reaching your destination, take time to rest with a cold drink, also you could decide to do some sightseeing before taking a ride back.

12. Ventura Food Tours

Do you love good meals?, of course everyone loves a good meal, going on a food tour in Ventura can introduce you to some delicious meal you will fall in love with.

These food offerings ranges from Polynesian foods to delicious fish tacos, pastrami, Nepalese delights, biscuits and chocolates.

The Ventura Food tour activity could last more than three hours stopping at some of the best meal spots of Ventura.

Going on this tour would expose you to a lot about the city such as its beautiful architecture, bringing the best view of the city as you get your mouth busy.

Are you a in love with food or just feeling hungry, making a tour to get some good food in Ventura is one interesting Ventura activity.

All you just have to do is purchase a ticket and the Ventura Food Tour group will guide you through the best of Ventura delicacies. This is perfect to add to your list of what to do in Ventura.

13. Surf Brewery

If you are a beer lover, then you have to visit the tasting room of Surf Brewery, serving the best of beers in California, they also pride themselves as being the best in the world.

The decoration here sees the combination of surf and beers just like its name implies, you will find some famous surfboards hanging on the wall here, there are also TVs showing videos of people surfing.

Saturday is a perfect time to pay a visit to their tasting room as you will get to enjoy your drink with some cool live music.

If you will need food around here, you could get some in the food truck outside their building, you could also bring your food as you visit.

Address: 4561 Market St. Suite A, Ventura, California.

14. Lake Casitas Recreation Area

During your visit to Ventura, a good recreational spot to visit is Lake Casitas , this lake was created when the Casitas Dam was constructed and is today one of Ventura attractions.

You can come here with family members for camping as there are so many spots for camping around here such as among trees, on a hillside and lots more.

This is an excellent spot for hiking and biking as well, it is also a good place for kids to play and see some local wildlife.

The wilderness surrounding this recreational Area is home to mountain lions, deer, coyotes, raccoons, skunks and so many other wildlife.

If you enjoy golfing, you can also take on there challenging golf course, spending time in this recreational center is one of the fun things to do in Ventura on a weekend

Address: 11311 Santa Ana Rd, Ventura, California.

15. Lure Fish House

The Lure Fish House , is another place for some delicious meal in Ventura, here you get the freshly caught of the day, this brings the anticipation of not knowing what the menu will look like.

They also have a conducive atmosphere that features good lighting, a high ceiling, a lively arena and a stocked bar.

Getting a meal here can start your day, this will just get you fit to take up the day. You get the best of local and organic meals here, the wines included.

In the bar, you will be served some California wines and cocktails, you can always try out their recommended charbroiled fish.

Address: 60 S California St, Ventura, California.

16. Visit Four Brix Winery

Four Brix Winery , is located at the heart of Ventura and is known for their wine blends, this company meets the demand of Wine in this area, producing more than 2000 cases of wine in a year.

With wine blends that cut across several flavors, they have wines like Zeductive and Smitten, Scosso as well as Temptress and Rhondezvous.

A place not to miss during a visit is their tasting room where you get to identify the best wine blends for your taste.

You could look at attending one of their events which cuts across Concerts, Food Friday, Blend Parties, Pizza Nights and lots more.

Address: 2290 Eastman Ave # 109, Ventura, California.

17. Cafe Fiore

Would you like to get the best of Italian culture in Ventura, Cafe Fiore is the place for that.

With a perfect cozy environment that has a large space, high ceilings and beautifully placed chandeliers, this place is a place to get cozy and have a delicious meal.

Their Italian meals just like many others will get you wanting to have more, you can also order hand rolled pizzas, house made tortellaci and porchetta as you enjoy the live music in their Treehouse Lounge.

This is one place worth the visit in Ventura, and a good addition to your list of fun things to do in Ventura.

Address: 66 S California St, Ventura, California.

18. Pete’s Breakfast House Restaurant

Are you feeling in the mood for some fresh oranges or a nice breakfast, you can go to Pete’s Breakfast House Restaurant .

Known for serving the area with delicious meals, this diner is known by many in Ventura.

Here you can get some local eggs, baked biscuits, veggies and fruits, they also make corned beef from scratch which is way perfect than the canned one you know, just a taste will make you ask for more.

This Restaurant also has a welcoming diner which is designed for a cheerful feeling, when visiting Ventura this is a perfect spot for breakfast, you might just decide to skip lunch after having a meal here.

However, if you like to visit during the lunch period, they serve some specialties during this period.

Address: 2055 E Main St, Ventura, California.

19. Himalaya Restaurant

Himalaya Restaurant is a well-known place perfect to get India, Tibet and Nepal meals.

At this restaurant, you get to enjoy their menu of flavored dishes which are strongly influenced by Chinese and Indian delicacy.

Located on W. Main street, Himalaya is a charming restaurant and a nice place to go during your visit to Ventura.

Its walls are decorated with Nepalese and Tibetan artworks which leaves you enjoying your meal in the Nepalese culture.

They also have varieties of Indian dishes such as pakoras and naan spices with the best mix of spice and delicious yak meat.

This is a perfect spot to visit with love ones, if you are not used to the Himalaya way of life, its time to explore a new culture.

Address: 35 W Main St., Ventura, California.

20. Marina Park

Opposite the Ventura Harbor Village is the friendly park which is always sprawling with visitors.

A visit to this park is one of the unique things to do with kids in Ventura as they will have a lot of space to run around, you can decide to go fishing or watch the amazing Harbor view of this park.

Within this park, you can access Sotter’s Point through a trail which leads to the jetty, it is a perfect spot to watch boats coming from the ocean to Ventura Harbor.

21. Be Seen at Channels Islands National Park

The Channels Islands National Park is the best escape for the hassle of the mainland and a nice place to take your family.

Surrounded by the stunning view of the ocean, Channels island is what makes this island an attractive places.

Getting access to this Island from the mainland have quite some logistics attached to it, for start, you will need to board the ferry of the Island Packers, their departure point is the Ventura Harbor Village.

Channels islands comprise of five Islands which are the Anacapa Island, Santa Cruz Island, Santa Rosa, Santa Barbara and San Miguel Islands.

Anacapa Island is known for camping and hiking, you should take photographs here as it presents some beautiful views, whereas San Miguel, Santa Rosa and Santa Barbara is known to be the lesser activity Island.

Do make a good backpack before heading on this tour as there are no services offered in any of these islands.

To get detailed information about these islands, do pay a visit to the Robert J. Lagomarsino Visitor Center, this will provide a perfect guide to explore these areas.

22. Historic Dudley House Museum

Preserved by the San Buenaventura Heritage Inc., this historic farmhouse is among the list of the 35 historic places in Ventura, a visit to this house will open you to a glimpse into the world of the Dudley family.

Towards the north section, you meet a place dedicated to outdoor events, you also get to see its gardens which features more than 100 different plants.

Taking a walk to the basement is a visitor center which has been designed to host both small events while larger events are done outside.

Planning your tour to the Dudley House, you should do well to plan towards the first Sunday of every month as this is when they are opened for tours, these are free tours starting from 1 pm to 4 pm, your donations will also be appreciated here.

23. Ventura Raceway

The Ventura Raceway is operated by Jim Naylor who designed these tracks and also takes the Job of a track announcer.

This is a track of about 1/5 mile located in the Ventura Fairgrounds, it is a place to watch high sprint cars speed the raceway as well as serve as a Driving school for sprint cars.

Ventura Raceway was also known to be a ground for motocross racing in the 1990s down to the 2000s, this race was known to be attended by many featuring both local and professional racers such as Randy Moody and Bobby Moore.

Today they host motorcycle events every month which brings some pro racers to this speedway.

You can take a trip to the Ventura Raceway and take a tour around, you can as well plan your trip to catch one of their events.

24. Eat Tacos at Spencer Makenzie’s Fish

Being identified as one of the best Fish Tacos in American is The  Spencer Makenzie’s Fish , it is a place to get the best of fish and burrito in Ventura.

This is a nicely decorated restaurant that offers the best of homemade salsas and sauces, they also offer fish dishes as well as daily chowder.

When visiting this restaurant, do not miss to try out their shrimps and battered fish, these will make you to become a fan of this spot.

Address: 806 E Thompson Blvd, Ventura, California.

25. Olivas Adobe

This area was owned by Felipe Lorenzana and Don Raimundo Olivas after being granted about 4,000 acres of land for their military service to the Mexican republic.

Lorenzana however sold off his part whereas Olivas kept his and as Olivas family grew, this adobe was constructed.

Olivia’s Adobe is a two story adobe joined with other smaller adobe which is known to be housed by Olivas servants.

This adobe is a Spanish architectural design with a touch of Mexican culture, it was purchased by Ventura in the year 1963 and added as part of Ventura’s Park.

This Park features the exhibit, large gardens as well as renovated adobe buildings, Olivas Adobe is opened to the public from 10 am to 4 pm daily

Address: 4200 Olivas Park.

26. Old Creek Ranch & Winery

This is a 22,000 acre of land and its history goes way back to when it was purchased by Antonio Riva in 1906 which saw to the building of a winery on the property.

However, life was brought to this winery when it was managed by the Whitman Family in 1981, giving it the name Old Creek Ranch & Winery .

In 2015 this area also saw an overdo when being managed by The Holguin Family which saw to the working on its orchards, vineyard as well as the structural view of the ranch.

A visit to Old Creek Ranch & Winery can give you a relaxing time in its guest area, you can decide to have a picnic here with loved ones.

Other activities include playing the corn hole game, strolling its pathways and taking pictures of the beautiful Ojai Valley.

It’s a place to spend time and one of the wonderful stuff to do in Ventura.

27. The Robert J. Lagomarsino Visitor Center

A visit here will provide you with the necessary guide through this city as well as souvenirs, if you have any question as related to your tour, here is where you get them answered.

This center has quite a lot to give, which includes exhibits of each island, a bookstore and a section which displays aquatic lives, head to the auditorium to watch the movie titled “A Treasure in the Sea,” which is quite fun.

You can visit this place any time of the week from 8:30 am to 5 pm, they are however closed during the Thanksgiving holiday and December 25th.

Address: 101 S California St, Ventura, CA 93001-2803

28. Leashless Brewing

This is a certified brewery company located in downtown Ventura, as you visit downtown Ventura to enjoy the fun activities it has to offer with regards to beaches, motels, hotels and lots more, do make time to enjoy some drinks at Leashless Brewing .

Here you get to enjoy the best of live music as well as meals from food truck, it is not a place known for dullness as you have something happening here daily, ranging from fundraisers to live music, events and artist showcase.

Address: 585 East Thompson Boulevard Ventura, CA 93001.

29. Antique Adventures LLC

Antique Adventures gives the best antique shopping experience you can get in Ventura, offering different kinds of antiques ranging from handcrafted items to modern and rustic furniture, they also offer consignments.

Take a trip through memory lane in this mall, owned by Chuck Ackerman who is a California native this store is a 10000 sq feet mall featuring collections from various vendors.

Head to this mall and pick items of interest to remember your visit to Ventura.

30. The Ventura County Wine Trail

How would you like to go on a wine tour in Ventura, this is possible with the Ventura County Wine Trail .

This tour features the best of Ventura wineries, hotels, restaurants, sailing, shopping and lots more which could be done on a trail.

Going on this tour is an amazing thing to do with a loved one on a vacation, this will introduce a beautiful place in Ventura.

Before a tour, Ventura County Wine Trail gives out a map of places this tour would cover, giving you highlights to some of the best places in the county.

With this map, planning a visit becomes easy as you will see completely new areas, get the best of entertainment and shopping as well as diners around.

This project is aimed at giving the best to tourists and it has been joined by Ventura, Ojai and Oxnard Convention and Visitors’ Bureaus.

Creating a wine getaway is one of the top things to do in Ventura and the Ventura County Wine Trail got you covered with the perfect guide.

Address: 3201 Camino Del Sol, Oxnard, CA 93030.

31. The Ventura Theatre

Just a few minutes walk from the Santa Barbara valley is the Ventura Theatre, this is one building you should not miss in Ventura.

Featuring the mission style architecture of the 1920s this place is for a fact one of the best place to visit in Ventura.

Inside the theater will give you a feeling close to the band as its great acoustic gives you the best music experience desired.

This place is home to some legendary musicians of different genres of music.

If you love the sound of good music, this is a nice addition to your checklist of cool things to do in Ventura.

Address: 26 South Chestnut St. Ventura, CA 93001.

32. Ventura City Hall

The Ventura City Hall is a historic landmark in Ventura you should not miss, this place was known to be built in 1912 and it was known to be the used as the County Courthouse.

Listed in the Register of historic places, the City Hall is known for its astonishing design which features a copper dome, Italian marble and a cotta exterior.

Today, this place hosts some of the notable events in the county, you can as well decide to tour the area to have a view of its remarkable architecture during your visit to Ventura.

Furthermore, if you will like to host an event in this area, you can consider the city hall, for this building is opened for rentals.

Plan a Trip to Ventura

Ventura California brings a wide range of activities for everyone, these activities cuts across several interests, most visitors loves visiting the San Buenaventura state beach and Ventura Pier, which presents the stunning view of the ocean.

You can meet nature at the Ventura Botanical Gardens as well as visiting its historical buildings to learn the history of this area.

Explore this list of things to do in Ventura County during your visit here, these will present a fun time during your stay here, also check with your travel agent to see some events in the area which will be worth your time during your visit.

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Ventura Day Trip Things To Do Attractions

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Contrary to popular belief, some of the best things in life are free — like feeling the sun on your face, the sand between your toes, and the water over your feet. And those things and more await visitors in the City of Ventura.

Easily accessible via U.S. Route 101, State Route 33, or State Route 126, Ventura is located 70 miles northwest of Los Angeles on the California coast and is bordered by the Ventura River at its western boundary and the Santa Clara River at its southern edge.

With its Mediterranean climate, cool sea breezes whisking off the Pacific Ocean help keep temperatures moderate year-round in Ventura. Outdoor Activities are numerous. Surfing, swimming, boating, fishing, and sightseeing can be accessed from the city’s two bustling ocean harbors.

Ventura Harbor

First up on our Ventura day trip is the Harbor, a working hub of the local fishing industry intertwined with a thriving retail center. Many seafood restaurants, specialty shops, and entertainment can be found in and around the harbor.

Channel Islands Park

The Channel Islands Park Headquarters is in Ventura, and boats to the Islands depart daily. Day trips to the island and overnight camping adventures can be accessed via Island Packers Cruise. The Channel Islands visitor center is located at 1901 Spinnaker Drive.

Ventura Harbor Village

Not far from the visitor center is the Harbor Village, located at the southern end of the Santa Barbara Channel. The village serves as a quaint waterfront resort with hotels, recreation, and a dining marketplace. Activities include diving, boat charters, sea kayaking, sports fishing, and whale watching.

Ventura Harbor Dockside Fish Market

The dockside market provides customers with freshly caught seafood every Saturday morning from 8 AM to 10 AM. Usually, there is a long line; however, you can pre-order online and ensure you get the fish or crab before they sell out. 1449 Spinnaker Drive.

Marina Park

Located on the northern side of the Ventura Marina is a popular family destination called Marina Park. You will find a nice grassy area with picnic tables and a sandy beach next to the harbors rock jetty. A children’s playground with a pirate ship is also at the park. Address 2950 Pierpont Blvd.

Ventura County Fairgrounds

Nestled between Ventura’s two harbors are the Ventura County Fairgrounds, home of the annual Ventura County Fair, and the Ventura Raceway, known as “The best little dirt track in America.” The fairgrounds also serve as a train station for Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner route, which winds along San Buenaventura State Beach.

San Buenaventura State Beach

The largest beach in the area, San Buenaventura State Beach, is a favorite with locals who like to fish from or surf below its 1,700-foot wooden, which has a snack bar, restaurant, and bait shop.

Ortega Adobe

Several special events occur at San Buenaventura State Beach, such as the annual Pirate Festival, triathlon, and amateur and pro volleyball tournaments. Inland is the historic Ortega Adobe, once home to the Ortega family, now famous for their chili products. Today the early California Rancho home is operated as a museum and performing arts venue. The Ortega Adobe is located at 215 W Main Street.

Mission San Buenaventura

It is also home to the Mission San Buenaventura, the Albinger Archeological Museum, the internationally-acclaimed Rubicon Theatre Company, and the Majestic Ventura Theatre, known for some of the world’s performances most renowned theatrical productions and musical artists.

Downtown Ventura

Finally, the city’s vibrant downtown center is further east, yet only two blocks from the beach, home to many museums, art galleries, dining, and shopping choices.

Ventura provides a peaceful, relaxing weekend for those who live in the metropolis to the south and a different view for tourists who visit Southern California. Next time you are looking for a weekend getaway, Ventura should be at the top of your list.

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Posted: Friday, Mar 5th, 2021

By Visit Ventura

Thirteen Reasons Why Ventura Is the Perfect Road Trip Stop

Why is Ventura the perfect road trip stop?

Well for one thing, Ventura is in California, and if there’s a better road trip state than California , well, we’ll eat your wheels. A California road trip stuns you, beguiles you, seduces you, makes your heart race, your breath quicken, your soul soar. Yosemite, Joshua Tree, Death Valley, Mammoth, Mendocino, Morro Bay. Frankly, it’s ridiculous. California’s offerings make you doubt your sanity.

For another, Ventura is Ventura. With world-class surfing , hiking , biking and on; there may be no better outdoor playground than Ventura. So pull off the road, adventure, and decompress.

Things to Do

Music & Nightlife

Arts, Culture & History

Pet Friendly

Beaches & Surfing

Biking & Hiking Trails

Bird Watching

Food & Drink

Restaurants

Outdoor Dining

Wineries, Breweries & Distilleries

Happy Hours

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Besides, the only rational answer to “Why take a road trip?” is “Why not?”

As Jack Kerouac wrote in “ On the Road ” (if you haven’t read it, remedy that; you won’t be sorry), “There was nowhere to go but everywhere, so just keep on rolling under the stars.”

Hum of wheels, blast of radio , (warm, salty) wind whopping through the window … So why should your personal “On the Road” adventure include a stop in Ventura? Let us count the reasons.

Let’s start with the stars

We have some of the world’s best.  Channel Islands National Park  has some of the darkest night skies you’ll ever see. Book a  campsite  and finally understand what a river of stars means.

We’ve got your RV covered

Plenty of beachfront (or close to beachfront)  RV parking , perfect for several overnight and daily Ventura sorties — because there’s A LOT (NOTE CAPS) to do in Ventura …

Beside the beach just north of Ventura, along the Rincon Parkway, there’s a long string of RV spots right up against the Pacific. Pull your RV into a spot steps from the beach, your campfire and s’mores hung with the sighing of surf and, yep, the pop of bright stars. You’ll also find oceanfront RV spots at  Emma Wood State Beach , and just back from the beach — with plenty of cool amenities — RV spots at the  Ventura Beach RV Resort .

Didn’t bring an RV?

You won’t need a car once you’re here

When it comes to transport, Ventura can be summed up in three words. Almost all walkable.

You can walk the length of Ventura’s downtown in maybe ten minutes — and that’s if you really dawdle. And there is a WHOLE LOT (caps again) crammed into that space. Park for free and  wander,  inhaling the happy din of art galleries, boutique shops, wineries, antique stores, and restaurants of every ethnicity and taste.

Plenty of free parking too

Loads of wide open beaches

• Plan your Valentine’s Day dinner and support local
• The story of Ventura’s Two Trees
• What Can I Do in Ventura for Free?

Loads of wide open spaces and adventure ashore

Last but not least, Ventura’s newest hiking (and mountain biking) gem. Thanks to the diligent work of the  Ventura Land Trust , Harmon Canyon offers 2,000-plus acres of hillside nature preserve, a pastoral heaven of gnarled oaks, downy grasses, and wind-kissed vistas. A place to hike and mountain bike. A place to hear the things that matter.

Loads of wild island adventure offshore

Loads of craft beer

While you’re here, take a two-wheel road trip on the artistic side

Ventura offers you the rare and glorious chance to be inspired by the world’s largest road trippers

Oh right, and the weather

Last, but certainly not least, Ventura has your road trip memories — in every way, shape and form

Maybe they are.

In the end, it’s the small things that matter — the castanet click of palm fronds in a cool sea breeze, the sun slipping behind hummocked Santa Cruz Island — these things, they are here for the long haul. They are the things that matter.

Discover More

Get to know Ventura, and discover the best things to do around the city.

Why Ventura is the Best Place to Hike and Bike 

Seven reasons why ventura is the perfect getaway, 11 incredible experiences you can only have in ventura, why you need to stop by ventura on your california road trip, by land & sea: 72 hours in ventura, california, 10 memorable adventures in and around ventura, california.

View the current Ventura Inspiration Guide online . And prepare to be INSPIRED.

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ISLAND PACKERS

Boat transportation to channel islands national park, anacapa island, anacapa island day trips, camper transportation & island wildlife cruises, santa cruz island, santa cruz island day trips & camping transportation, santa rosa island, santa rosa island day trips & camper transportation, san miguel island, san miguel island day trips & camper transportation.

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Boat Transportation to Channel Islands National Park Island Trips, Wildlife Cruises, Camping & More

Island trips, camping information, whale & wildlife trips, kayaking information, general information, group charters.

ABOUT ISLAND PACKERS

Cruising the california channel islands for education, recreation and research since 1968..

Island Packers Cruises is the Official Boat Concessionaire for the Channel Islands National Park. We offer year round transportation to the “local islands” Santa Cruz and Anacapa. We offer trips to the “outer islands”, Santa Rosa, San Miguel and Santa Barbara (NPS Closure) from March through November on a limited schedule.

Island Packers Cruises also offer trips that get close to the Channel Islands without going ashore. These trip are designed for you to view the abundant wildlife found in the waters of the Channel Islands National Park and the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary. Seasonally, in summer and winter we offer Whale Watching trips.

Other special trips for birding and trips to special areas of Santa Cruz Island that are property of The Nature Conservancy are available as scheduled.

NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

Island day trip preparation.

• Please arrive at your harbor of departure 45 minutes before your scheduled departure.
• Pack food and drink for your time on the island. A small cooler or a backpack can protect your food from small animals and birds.
• There are no shops or restaurants on the island…

Protect Channel Islands National Park

Non-native, invasive species threaten endangered animals and plants on the Channel Islands and are costly to control. Please watch the following video on bio security regulations & guidelines to help prevent the introduction and spread of nonnative species before they become a problem.

Get the National Park Mobile App!

One app, every park at your fingertips. The NPS App is the new official app for the National Park Service (NPS) with tools to explore more than 400 national parks nationwide. Help plan your trip and enrich your visit to Channel Islands National Park with this official, free app.

Get the Latest Weather in Our Area

Weather is important. It can cause cancellations, a rough boat ride, or a truly beautiful day. Have the latest information to help plan your trip. Click the button below to view the latest Marine Weather Forecast from the National Weather Service.

Islapedia Celebrates 8 Years

ISLAPEDIA is a comprehensive California Islands encyclopedia covering hundreds of topics and thousands of entries on all eight California Channel Islands: San Miguel, Santa Rosa, Santa Cruz, Anacapa, San Nicolas, Santa Barbara, Santa Catalina, and San Clemente Islands.

• Chevron down Quick Links to a Few Great Topics
• Islapedia Homepage
• Non-Fiction Books & Articles
• Santa Cruz Island
• Anacapa Island
• Santa Rosa Island
• San Miguel Island

Camper Transport

• Please arrive at your harbor of departure a full hour before your departure time. Late arriving gear may not be loaded onto the boat.
• An Island Packers boat reservation.
• A campsite reservation. Please be prepared to give your campsite number at check-in as required by the National Park Service…

Santa Barbara Channel becomes the 9th Whale Heritage Area

The Whale Heritage Area (WHA) recognizes & accredits destinations that support / demonstrate responsible and sustainable whale & dolphin watching tourism. Island Packers is proud to be one of over 30 local organizations to promote sustainable practices to ensure the conservation of the Santa Barbara Channel.

Accessing Sea Caves

Many people like to experience sea caves from the water in a kayak. Visitors to the islands can kayak the caves three ways:

• Purchase a guided tour with Channel Islands Adventure Company.
• Bring your own kayak.
• Rent a kayak

Media Articles & Videos

The Channel Islands National Park and Island Packers Cruises have had many articles and interviews published over time. These articles are independently written, by professions journalists as well as bloggers, hikers, kayakers, divers, travel writers and happy visitors to the park. Click the button to view these articles and videos.

TOP-RATED FERRY TRIPS TO CHANNEL ISLANDS NATIONAL PARK

Island Packers is the only boat concessionaire approved to run trips to and from the islands within Channel Islands National Park. But it’s still a family owned company- with two children of the founder still operating the company! And even though you’re a captive audience, they still strive to provide an excellent experience - I’ve loved every trip I’ve taken with them!

Everything was smooth…Online tickets, picking up boarding passes, embarking…even the water. Found a table by the window and just enjoyed the view. Saw some sea lions on the way out chilling on a buoy. We landed at Scorpion Cove, and it was quite a day’s adventure. On the way back, I sat on the top deck. We saw so many dolphins, you just couldn’t count!

We cannot say enough great things about our experience with Island Packers! From the moment we checked in at the office, the staff was welcoming and friendly. The dock crew politely and efficiently instructed us how to load our camping gear and board the boat. The captain made special efforts to point out and share fun facts about the local marine life!

What a wonderful day! We went to Prisoners on Santa Cruz Island. Adam, the naturalist who was on the boat, led us on a hike toward Pelican Bay. He was so knowledgeable and thoughtful. We saw island scrub jays and even a couple of island foxes. Even the porta potties were clean. We saw dolphins on the ride out and a humpback whale on the return trip!

• CruiseMapper
• P&O Cruises

Cruise line P&O UK (P&O Cruises)

• Southampton (England)

Ventura current position

Ventura current location is at North East Atlantic Ocean (coordinates 41.27625 N / -9.30003 W) cruising at speed of 17.7 kn (33 km/h | 20 mph) en route to Lisbon. The AIS position was reported 4 minutes ago.

Current itinerary of Ventura

Ventura current cruise is 10 days, round-trip Spain France And Portugal . The itinerary starts on 20 Apr, 2024 and ends on 30 Apr, 2024 .

Specifications of Ventura

•   Itineraries
•   Review
•   Wiki

Ventura Itineraries

Ventura review, review of ventura.

The 2008-built MS Ventura cruise ship is one of the Grand-class P&O UK liners, with sistership MS Azura .

The vessel (IMO number 9333175) is currently Bermuda- flagged (MMSI 310562000) and registered in Hamilton .

History - construction and ownership

P&O Cruises is a subsidiary company and two brands owned by Carnival Corporation - P&O UK and P&O Australia. In 2000, P&O Cruises became subsidiary of P&O Princess Cruises, which merged with Carnival Corporation in 2003. P and O is the world's oldest cruise company, starting passenger shipping operations in 1822 on the routes connecting England with Iberia.

The 3100-passenger ship Ventura was christened in Port Southampton on April 16, 2008, by the famous British actress Dame Helen Mirren (assisted by a team of Royal Marine Commandos). The liner is particularly larger - by 30 % than any other vessel in the P&O Cruises fleet. This means there's more room for contemporary facilities, like expanded children-related amenities, recreational opportunities (bungee jumping) and different restaurants. What is more, it is difficult to find any sign of traditional P&O Cruises in the hardware - no card room, nowhere to have a sit in the library, no art auctions (all the pictures are on sale, but showed with the price) and no monotonous teak-and-cream coloring (there are cheery decor and modern artwork instead). The travelers are also distinct; still quite a lot of the retired cruisers that P&O Cruises is known for attracting, but also lots of families with kids.

Decks and Cabins

P&O Ventura staterooms (1556 total, in 35 grades) include 26x Suites, 853x Balconies, 223x Oceanviews, 434x Inside, 2x Family Suites, 18x Studios (single-occupancy cabins). Most cabins are sized 165 ft2 / 15 m2. Most cabin balconies are sized 45 ft2 / 4 m2. The largest passenger accommodations are the Aft Penthouse Suites (410 ft2 / 38 m2, with terrace sized 180 ft2 / 17 m2).

The boat has 18 decks of which 15 are passenger-accessible and 9 with cabins.

Shipboard dining options - Food and Drinks

The quality of food aboard Ventura is of a high standard for such a big ship. The menus offered in the three main dining rooms change daily, and there is a Gala Menu on formal nights as well, put together by Marco Pierre White. Cinnamon and Saffron (two of the main dining rooms) offer 'Freedom Dining', meaning that guests can turn up anytime between 6:00 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. and dine where and with whom they like. Bay Tree is the third MDR and offers set-time dining called "Club Dining" by the line. There are 3 specialty restaurants, 2 formal ones - Epicurean, serving molecular gastronomy cuisine and Sindhu by Michelin-starred chef Atul Kochhar. The one informal restaurant, which proved popular on sister vessel Azura and replaced Las Ramblas, is The Glass House by wine expert Olly Smith (for-fee tapas-style restaurant).

Follows the complete list of Ventura restaurants and food bars.

• Cinnamon Restaurant (528-seat, aft Dining Room; features Your Time dining from 6:00 to 9:30 p.m.)
• Saffron Restaurant (528-seat, forward Dining Room; with fixed seating dining at 6:30 and 8:30 p.m.)
• Bay Tree Restaurant (596-seat aft Dining Room; with fixed seating dining at 6:30 and 8:30 p.m.; also hosts bridge tournaments, card games, etc)
• East (138-seat Asian specialty restaurant by celebrity chef Atul Kochhar)
• The Glass House (steakhouse/seafood specialty restaurant and wine bar)
• The Beach House (324-seat buffet restaurant; serves as NYC deli for dinner 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.)
• Waterside (332-seat buffet restaurant; offers full English breakfast, lunch, Afternoon Tea, Noddy’s Tea/kids, dinner, night snacks; serves premium wines by the glass)
• Frankie’s Grill (fast food bar, complimentary pizza/ice cream bar, hotdogs, burgers)
• The White Room (182-seat Italian specialty restaurant).

Shipboard entertainment options - Fun and Sport

P&O company doesn't go in for huge West End-style productions. Instead, expect revue-type shows with an emphasis on the singing talents of the performer; ventriloquists, magicians, and tribute acts; British comedy. In the Arena Theatre, there are two main shows nightly. Times vary in order to accommodate the set dining times. Elsewhere on the ship, the main venues for live entertainment are Havana, at the back of the ship, and The Tamarind Club - a walk-through venue on Deck 7. In both these venues, guests will find bands or singers on at various times throughout the whole evening. There is usually a guest band too, depending on where the vessel is based. Havana is also the nightclub onboard ms Ventura. Additional amenities include: Complimentary 24-hour Room-Service, Internet/WiFi access, supervised kids program, laundry/self-serve laundromats.

Follows the complete list of Ventura lounges, clubs and other entertainment venues for kids, teens, and adults.

• Ventura Atrium (3-decks central open floor area and social hub);
• Atrium Shops - Regalia (clothes, souvenirs, gifts), The Wardrobe (brand fashion, watches, bags, hats), Chic (fashion boutique), Emporium (candy store), Eternity (jewelry), Essence (perfumes). Following the ship's drydock refurbishment in 2018, the onboard shopping was upgraded by adding new retail brands selling premium watches, handbags, cosmetics and perfumes, travel essentials. New is the Dufry store (travel retailer). Among the added new brands are BRICS (luggage, bags, Selfridges), Longines (Swiss hand-made watches), Olivia Burton (watches, V), Liu Jo (women's clothes, bags, shoes), Radley (designer leather handbags, purses, accessories), Cath Kidston (fashion, bags, gifts), Kipling (designer bags, backpacks, luggage, wallets, travel accessories). A new collection of British gins is also available.
• Tazzine Bar (by Costa Coffee; at night transforms into a cocktail bar)
• Chapter One (book shop and library); Cyb@study (24-hour Internet computers room, Internet packages)
• The Exchange Pub (sports bar); Brodie’s Pub; Breakers Bar; The Tamarind Lounge and Club (live music, comedy shows, cooking demonstrations, films, themed party nights)
• Metropolis Lounge; Peninsular Room (multi-purpose lounge); The Red Bar
• Arena Theatre (785-seat, 2-decks, featuring grand scale productions, live performances, game shows)
• Havana Lounge and Nightclub (live entertainment venue and disco)
• “Fortunes” Casino; Ivory Suite (vow renewal and wedding services)
• Photo Gallery and Shop; Whitehall Art Gallery; The Library (with Internet computers)
• Terrace Pool (adults only area, served by Terrace Bar); Beachcomber Pool and Bar; Laguna Pool and Bar; Aqua Park with waterside; 6 jacuzzis
• The Retreat (adults only area); Oasis Spa and Health Club (Treatment Rooms, Thermal Suite, Beauty Salon); Oasis /endless pool & bar
• Gymnasium (complimentary equipment, Fitness classes; Yoga and Pilates at surcharge)
• Kids Venues (Toybox, Jumping Jacks, Tumblers Nursery, The Den); Decibels (teen disco)
• Shuffleboard; Quoits; Sports Court (basketball, volleyball, tennis); Table Tennis; Golf Nets.

Itineraries

P&O Ventura itinerary program is based mainly on roundtrips from homeport Southampton England . The ship also used to operated Caribbean fly-cruises from Bridgetown Barbados , with Transatlantic repositioning crossings UK-Caribbean. Ex-Southampton voyages in Europe visit ports in Iberia (Portugal and Spain), Mediterranean, Canary Islands, as well as mini-cruises to Holland, Belgium, Germany. Transatlantic crossings (UK roundtrip voyages) also visit the USA and Canada and the Caribbean, with longer itineraries (30-40-days in length).

Due to the Coronavirus crisis, the ship Ventura was paused through October 2021.

Ventura - user reviews and comments

Photos of ventura.

Ventura ship related cruise news

P&O UK unveils summer 2026 cruises with early booking discount

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Cunard and P&O UK improve Wi-Fi connectivity with SpaceX's Starlink

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Barbie joining P&O Cruises UK's ships Arvia and Iona for summer 2023

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P&O UK's cruise ship Ventura rescues 3 people on a yacht off Mexico

The P&O UK's ship Ventura rescued 3 people stranded on a sailing yacht on Monday, March 20th, off Mexico. The sailors made a call to the USCG...

P&O UK's ship Ventura stuck in Southampton UK due to propeller issue

A P&O UK ship was stuck in Southampton (England) after something got wedged in the vessel's propeller. P&O Ventura was scheduled to leave...

Cunard's Queen Victoria and P&O UK's Iona among the ships visiting Southampton

Cunard's Queen Victoria and P&O UK's Iona are among the cruise ships scheduled to visit Southampton (England UK) this week. Vessels managed by...

P&O Ventura ship is the 3rd in fleet to restart international cruises

P&O UK's cruise ship Ventura is restarting operations on Sunday, October 3 as she sets sail for the Canaries after the demand for international...

International cruises to restart from England on August 2 following a 16-month break

International cruises are now able to restart from England on August 2, following a 16-month break. On Wednesday, July 28, the UK's Foreign...

P&O Cruises UK's deployment and phased restart plan for 2021

P&O Cruises UK announced its expected deployment and phased restart plan for the remainder of the year and into early 2022. MS Britannia will...

P&O UK cancels all international cruises through September 2021

P&O UK announced it is cancelling all international itineraries on 4 cruise ships (Aurora, Arcadia, Azura, Ventura) through the end of August...

•   show more news

Other P&O UK cruise ships

Ventura wiki.

The Fincantieri Monfalcone -built MS Ventura is one of PO's biggest vessels and also one of the biggest UK-based passenger ships, with sistership Azura (both of the Grand-Class). The ship was christened by Helen Mirren (1945-born British actress) who also sailed on the Inaugural Cruise/maiden voyage on April 11, 2008.

P&O Ventura (Monfalcone shipyard/hull number 6132) is powered by Wartsila marine diesel engines (models 8ZAV40S and 8L46C) generating total power output 67,22 MW.

Besides being a huge vessel as size and passenger capacity , Ventura is also one of the most family-friendly UK ships. Family fun activities at dedicated facilities on board are: "The Reef" (with kids club programming), Noddy (character greetings), open-air kids playing areas, "Beachcomber" and "Laguna" (family pools), "The Beach House" (casual family restaurant for dinner) and Havana Lounge (evening family shows).

During the whole summer of 2014, for the first time, P&O operated Ventura with exclusively fly-cruises to the Mediterranean from the UK. During winter, the liner offers Caribbean cruises from homeport Bridgetown Barbados , also operated with fly-cruise deals from UK ( Southampton England ). P&O UK's "flight and cruise" deals to the Caribbean are additionally inclusive of discounted airfare to and from Barbados.

The ship's current Captain (Master) is Paul Brown.

MS Ventura refurbishments review

The ship's drydock in 2018 (March 13-27, done by Damen Shiprepairs in Brest France ) resulted in the following changes:

The onboard retail shopping was upgraded by refurbishing all retail shops and adding new brands. The 2-tier Arena Theatre received a large, wall-mounted LED screen (similar to that on Azura), as well as a new sound and light equipment. Two bar lounges (Tamarind Club and Havana) were renovated and redesigned.

All passenger cabins and most public areas (the Atrium, Spa and Salon complex, all restaurants, lounges, and bars) were renovated with new carpeting. The main walkway area received new tiling, new carpet, new furniture.

New retail brands were added to the onboard shopping options selling premium watches, handbags, cosmetics and perfumes, travel essentials. New is the Dufry store (travel retailer). All the shops were completely renovated. Among the newly added brands are BRICS (luggage, bags, Selfridges), Longines (Swiss hand-made watches), Olivia Burton (watches, V), Liu Jo (women's clothes, bags, shoes), Radley (designer leather handbags, purses, accessories), Cath Kidston (fashion, bags, gifts), Kipling (designer bags, backpacks, luggage, wallets, travel accessories). A new collection of British gins was also added. To the shops on Deck 7 was added a large glass display window.

During the drydock refit were also refurbished the Waterside (24-hour buffet restaurant) and The Beach House (Select Dining restaurant).

Dixons Travel shop (deck 7) sells the latest technology gadgets and electronic equipment. During the refurbishment, the store's size was increased and new products were added, including by the brands Amazon, Apple, Bose, Canon, Fitbit, GoPro). The Photo Now (digital screen) was moved to the aft.

During drydock 2018, on the boat were installed 2 scrubbers (reducing fuel emissions and energy consumption). The hull was water blasted and painted with a new type of silicone paint (improving fuel efficiency). Also repainted was the liner's superstructure. Maintenance works included the vessel's propulsion, stabilizers, some repairs.

The list of deck plan changes after the ship's 2013 drydock (at Blohm+Voss shipyard in Hamburg Germany ) includes:

• (Deck 5) - new Atrium entertainment programme – now with a dance floor (also for lessons) and live band music at night. Internet Cafe was transformed into the Library, while the old library was refitted into a perfume shop.
• (Deck 6) - 18 new single cruise cabins, of which 12 oceanview and 6 Interior), at no single supplement rates.
• (Deck 7) - The Glass House (wine bar) replacing the Ramblas (Latin specialty restaurant)
• (Deck 7) - East (Asian specialty restaurant by Atul Kochhar, with new Southeast Asia menu.
• (Deck 17) - The Retreat (outdoor adults-only spa terrace).
• Better (shipwide) Wi-Fi coverage.

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Ventura

Things to do in ventura, explore popular experiences, tours in and around ventura.

Pacific Coast Highway: Smartphone Audio Tour, LA to Santa Maria

Ventura Surf Lesson

If you Hike, Bike, Rock Climb or play Tennis, Trails by Potter are your guides!

Ventura Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game

Calling all Standup Paddle boarders, learn to Sail on a SUP Board

Guided Hiking, Biking, Rock Climbing, Tennis and Pickleball

Private Surf Lessons with Santa Barbara Surf School

2- Hour Pottery Workshop and Studio Tour in Ojai

All-Inclusive Full-Day Wine Tasting Tour from Santa Ynez Valley

​All-Inclusive Full-Day Wine Tasting Tour from Santa Barbara

Tours & sightseeing.

Top Attractions in Ventura

Other Top Attractions around Ventura

Private & Custom Tours

What travellers are saying

• Ventura Pier and Promenade
• Ventura to Ojai Paved Bike Path
• Serra Cross Park
• The Robert J. Lagomarsino Visitor Center at Channel Islands National Park
• Mission Basilica San Buenaventura
• Ventura Botanical Gardens
• Surfers Point Park
• Marina Park
• Island Packers

Find cheap flights to Ventura from $37

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight to ventura departing on 5/14. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to ventura.

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Good to know

Faqs - booking ventura flights, how long is the flight to ventura, what is the cheapest flight to los angeles.

The cheapest airline ticket to Los Angeles from the United States in the last 72 hours was $37 one-way, and $38 round-trip on the route from Dallas to Los Angeles . The most popular route is from San Francisco to Los Angeles and the cheapest ticket found on this route in the last 72 hours was $38 round-trip.

Which airlines fly to Los Angeles?

Airlines flying the most to Los Angeles from United States are Delta, American Airlines and United Airlines. See the amount of flights per week for popular airlines flying to Los Angeles.

How to fly to Ventura?

You cannot fly directly to Ventura. KAYAK recommends you fly to Los Angeles (LAX) (55.67 miles from Ventura). From there you can rent a car or get a taxi.

What airports are near Ventura?

The closest airport is Santa Barbara (SBA) (32.87 mi). Other nearby airports are Burbank Bob Hope (BUR) (53.58 mi) or Los Angeles (LAX) (55.67 mi). KAYAK recommends you fly to Los Angeles.

How far is Los Angeles from central Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is 9 miles from the center of Los Angeles.

What is the name of Los Angeles’s airport?

Los Angeles is served by Los Angeles, also commonly referred to as Los Angeles or Los Angeles Intl. The airport code is LAX.

How does KAYAK find such low prices on flights to Ventura?

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights to Ventura.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket to Ventura?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to Ventura is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights to Ventura?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket. You could then fly to Ventura with an airline and back with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight to Ventura?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to Ventura up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Ventura

• There is no major airport in Ventura. It is instead served by Los Angeles Airport.
• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Ventura flight deals.

Top 5 airlines flying to Ventura

There was a loud squeaky sound the whole time we were flying.

Had a broken tray in business class. Crew just shrugged it off.

I didn’t like that I could not select my seat and was assigned a seat when I checked in at LAX

Great experience overall. Check in at Austin was congested as they only have about 6 check in kiosks, one was broken, and there was a lot of Spring Break travelers.

Bag drop off was slow and annoying. Only 2 agents at the entire delta desk, and no one directing traffic for what line to be in, many confused people slowed down the process. Boarding was fine. Seats in Delta comfort plus were fine. Snacks were great! Definitely a bonus. The entertainment system was awful — old, slow, not responsive, and completely unable to play games due to some kind of error. But on the other hand, thank you to Delta for the free WiFi. That made it better.

Everything was very good other than I had selected a specific seat when I booked the flight and they changed it once I checked-in the day before my flight. I was still in first class but lost my aisle seat for a window seat. Being tall, the aisle offers more comfort so I always select an aisle seat.

Flight diverted in SD. Later take off in Seattle by 1.3hrs

Crew was not friendly when I went to request a seat change.

Really impressive staff at airport and on plane, especially given how busy it was

Was a great smooth flight from Detroit to San Diego.

Great. Loved that there was WiFi on flight to keep in touch and excellent service of beverages and snacks.

Business class is great. New airplane, very comfortable, better than some of the major airlines I am used to

Terrible. Flight was cancelled due to the weather in the east and sout east(florida). Did not get any compesation of any kind. According to them, it was not under their control so I lost all the money paid for the 2 fairs from Raleigh, NC to Orlando, Fl.

great flight. Pilot was communicative, flight attendants were excellent. Really nice experience except my tv didn’t work.

Overall, the flight was better than the flight I took to go to Florida, which had a bunch of problems. The crew is really nice and the plane was new so it had a small problem when we were on the runway, but the flight itself was great. They even made some time back up, which is always a good thing.

Service for food to our seat was a bit slow. Snack choices were just pretzels or baked chips. My seat cushion was not attached. Other than Barbie, video choice were not very good or current.

It took an hour to get my bag after landing. Not exaggerating

I had a horrible experience with TSA at the airport. I had to go through TSA several times as there was some issue each time with a piece if clothing I had on. It was so busy & chaotic that I ended up forgetting my Apple laptop at TSA. It’s been days & I can’t get through to anyone to get useful info on how to get it back. I’m very angry because contacting lost & found shouldn’t be this difficult. Employees should know what is going on at their place of work. It seems no one knows as everyone’s answers are contradictory, or you can’t speak directly to anyone as the calls are automated. Very upsetting.

Everything was good instead change the gates! I missed my first flight because it was changed the gate and I didn’t know!

My experience with Eva sir was good except the long walk in LA Lex, that was inconvenient for my age,

delay several times and wait extra long to board. no entertainment service because there are problem for some rows. always encounter some delays for the last flight of the day.

On time every leg of the journey and exceptional staff at counter, gate, and on board. I haven’t travelled in US for a long time and was genuinely surprised how pleasant this was.

This was a Lufthansa flight. Disappointing main meal. Very rough over Canada and arrival at FRA. IFE was almost unusable.

Too many fees (but that seems to apply to all airlines nowadays)

For a 22 minute flight all you expect is for it to be safe and comfortable

I was not able to buy food in the flight. They refer to include your Credit card in the APP, and if you are not from USA (i have a credit card form Canada) it is not possible

Over two hours wait to get wheelchair assistance from arrival to the departure gate for LA was unreasonable even though there appreared to be heavy demand.

Airline did not explain reasons why flight was delayed two hours. Explanations were badly needed and rarely provided. Problem seemed to clearly be the airline’s fault and not the fault of the weather or airport.

I was delighted that we were able to get on the 4:40 pm flight rather than our original booking at 6:55 pm!! Other than that, the flight was comfortable and landed early😊

The flight and crew were fine. The entertainment- the sound was so bad through the headphones I could barely understand it and it was a show I had seen before. The food might have been fine but having to have an account with united in order to access the app in order to pay for the food was rage inducing. I had entered my credit card info at home and logged in as guest but that wouldn’t allow the “wallet” tab to open in the app. And then the wifi was so bad that it took about 45 minutes to fully log in and get all the info working at which time I missed the food. You shouldn’t have to give your address, email and phone number in order to get a hamburger.

Fight crew was not very attentive and the bastions were gross!

Our flight was great we left Kona earlier and got into LAX almost an 1hour earlier as well. LAX AA is in repair so to get out and found our bus to get pick up was a bit confusing.

Plane was good but was delayed. probably not AA fault but caused a 1 hour delay. Seating was cramped.

5 hour flight - full flight - not enough room to use my computer - slightly delayed - Admirals club was excellent quality food, drink made up for flight seating. No food offerred on flight, you ahd to prebook.

We experience delays on departure and connecting flights resulting in 14 hour to our next departure. We were accommodated with a night's stay but was only provided a 12 dollar meals accommodation. The airlines rules state.at least 50 dollars. In any case, it can not make up for the whole day missed on our vacation in Sydney Australia.

I can say I will not be taking this airline again any time soon. Seat were uncomfortable and too tight. Lack of chair screen and little overhead space.

Plane felt so crowded and tightly packed. The chair itself was not comfortable.

They attended to my needs as I couldn't walk and they provided a wheelchair for me.q

Poor availability of food. Cold cabin temperature. Extremely long waiting time for a flight attendant to respond to a call button signal.

2.5h delay due to unruly passenger in first class. Had to be removed from the flight. No food unless pre ordered. Didn't know we would need it because of delay.

They charged me 212.00 for a heavy check in bag at the gate. The pricing and process was so confusing - as if it was designed to purposefully gouge customers who need to board plane. That experience combined with the outrageous price charged will prevent me from ever flying Spirit again. And I’ll be sure to tell the story to anyone who cares to hear.

The text told me it was changed to Terminal E and Gate D5. But with no one on site to ask questions there was confusion on where to go as all the gates were E's. Then we took the skyline to the D area. We left to get something to eat. No announcement was made but my daughter happened to asked and they told her our gate was moved to D12. I will not fly Spirit again.

The agent at the check in desk was absolutely rude. The rest of the team after that was good, but the check in process at LAS was miserable. The woman at the desk spoke like we were stupid and was rude throughout the process.

Its so random that they only allow 40 pounds on checked bags when all airlines take 55. They then charge you for each 10 extra pounds, so my checked suitcase was $130 and the flight $30 ... its like whattt, im for sure not traveling with Spirit again

So bad. The check in process was laborious and the check in agent didn't seem to know how to manage the process efficiently and was confused about how to check in my son's sports equipment. The baggage fees were outrageous and so expensive. $90 for a carry on bag? And $200 additional for 2 check ins. The security lines were insanely long and the terminal was not very nice in the Spirit area. $5 for a water on board. It was my first and last time flying Spirit - I tried to save $ by flying them due to the accommodating schedule but I should have paid for Southwest, because it would've actually ended up less expensive due to the free bags with Southwest. There were no charging ports on the airplane, no wifi and really uncomfortable seating. The flight crew were great though, courteous and efficient in their boarding. Flight was delayed 1 hour, but we made up 15 minutes in flight.

My experience was better than expected. What I did find not so great was the seats. Very little room, they did not recline and the tray table was the size of a post card. There was no food to try, just standard snacks that you had to pay for and I don’t know of any entertainment. I would fly again even though everything was an upcharge. Flight was on time with little disturbance

thy don't even ofer water we have to buy it for $4.49 and paid for our cary on bags $100 each we never will fly in this company again.

Super cool and laid back, three lovely ladies. Couldn’t ask for better service.

It was fine. Boarding was a little rude. On flight staff was great. The cost to purchase everything was a bit annoying but I get that's the business model.

I liked the fast check in and boarding. The flight fare could be a lot less than what I paid…..

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THE 10 BEST Hotels in Ventura 2024

Ventura Hotels

Property types, distance from, traveler rating, hotel class, popular hotels in ventura right now.

• Best Value Properties ranked using exclusive Tripadvisor data, including traveler ratings, confirmed availability from our partners, prices, booking popularity and location, as well as personal user preferences and recently viewed hotels.
• Traveler Ranked Highest rated hotels on Tripadvisor, based on traveler reviews.
• Distance to city center See properties located closest to the center first with confirmed availability for your dates from our partners

1. Clocktower Inn Ventura

2. Ventura Beach Marriott

3. Shores Inn & Suites

4. Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach, an IHG Hotel

5. Amanzi Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection

6. The Pierpont Inn

7. Comfort Inn & Suites Ventura Beach

8. Cliff House Inn on the Ocean

9. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ventura Harbor, an IHG Hotel

10. Motel 6 Ventura Downtown

11. Four Points by Sheraton Ventura Harbor Resort

12. Waypoint Ventura

13. Motel 6 Ventura Beach

14. Crystal Lodge Motel

15. White Caps Motel

16. Bayshore Inn Motel

17. Harbortown Point

18. Vagabond Inn Ventura

19. La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Ventura

20. Viking Motel

21. Bella Maggiore Inn

22. Hobson Beach Park

23. Inn on the Beach

24. Victoria Motel

25. Faria Beach Park

26. Motel 6 Ventura South

27. Travelers Beach Inn

28. Mission Bell Motel

29. Rodeway Inn

30. Ventura Beach House Motel

Ventura Hotels Information

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Instruments stolen from Ventura County students in Chula Vista

CHULA VISTA, Calif. (KGTV) —A trip to San Diego for a performance ended on a sour note for students from Ventura County.

The students were in town for a concert performance at a church in Tierrasanta.

The group stayed at a La Quinta hotel on Bonita Avenue in Chula Vista. Early Sunday morning, they discovered their rental truck had been broken into and many of the students' instruments had been stolen.

The students are from the Newbury Park Adventist Academy. The school principal says 20 to 25 instruments worth $20,000 to $25,000 were taken.

The crime was reported to Chula Vista Police, who confirmed they are investigating.

In 2022, ABC 10News covered a similar crime at the hotel across the street where $58,000 worth of archery equipment was stolen from student-athletes from Kentucky.

Tuesday, the police wouldn’t call these crimes a trend but more a crime of opportunity, reminding people to park in well-lit areas and, whenever possible, bring valuables into their rooms.

The students are now preparing for an upcoming spring concert in a few weeks, hoping the instruments will be recovered or can be replaced at a low cost or with donations from the community.

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President Biden to visit Tampa on Tuesday

TAMPA, Fla. — President Joe Biden will make a stop in Tampa Tuesday, the White House has announced.

The president will be in the area on Tuesday. Additional details are expected be made available late Monday. 

The Biden campaign is investing more time in Florida, though a Democrat has not won Florida since 2012.

Donald Trump won the state in 2016 and 2020.

Biden's visit will come just weeks after the state Supreme Court energized abortion rights proponents with two rulings : one that paves the way for a six-week abortion ban and another that will give voters the opportunity to repeal the ban as they also cast their vote for president.

Democrats have new hope that a ballot question seeking to preserve abortion rights will put the state back in play as the nation’s largest presidential election swing state.