Visit Ventura

Ventura is a California coastal city, northwest of Los Angeles. It’s known for its beaches, like San Buenaventura State Beach, with a long, wooden Ventura Pier. Surfer’s Point is popular for surfing and windsurfing. Landmarks on downtown’s Main Street include the Mission San Buenaventura, with its 1809 church. Boats depart Ventura Harbor for Channel Islands National Park, a habitat for rare island foxes and scrub jays.

In many ways, Ventura still feels like a small town; the old-fashioned Main Street, wooden pier, historic buildings, but Ventura has a wide variety of things to do.  Ventura Harbor offers an array of water activities including harbor cruises, stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, and whale watching. It’s also the gateway to Channel Islands National Park and Marine Sanctuary just 14 miles off the coast that offers world-renowned diving through kelp forests. The park, known as North America’s Galapagos because it is home to 150 endemic species, is also a spectacular place to hike, camp, kayak, and view wildlife. Back on the mainland, Ventura Harbor Village surrounds the marina with opportunities to shop local, eat freshly-caught seafood, and view original artwork at galleries and studios.

Just four miles up the coast is historic downtown Ventura where the beach, shops, restaurants, and museums are all within walking distance. For arts and culture fiends, downtown is home to San Buenaventura Mission, one of California’s 21 missions along El Camino Real, as well as Rubicon Theater and the Museum of Ventura County. For scenery lovers, there is nothing like a sunset hike at Ventura Botanical Gardens overlooking downtown with sweeping views of the coast. For those seeking an authentic SoCal experience, Surfer’s Point is the best place to take in the beach town vibe and even give surfing a try.

Ventura has fantastic weather year-round, earning it descriptions like “the land of eternal spring.” Whether you want to surf, paddle-board, kayak, jet ski, catch a professional surfing tournament or take a surf lesson from a professional surfer, Ventura has it all. Enjoy the many wonderful beaches of Ventura, (you’ll find a list here), then come visit Ventura!

Weather – When to Visit

Much of California has a Mediterranean-like climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. On the coast, the average daily high temperature hovers around 70°F/21°C and up), but can occasionally spike to 80°F 27° C or more on hottest summer days; freezing temperatures are rare, even in winter. The state’s legendary fog often hugs the coast from roughly Monterey north, usually during summer months; it often burns off by midday before rolling in again at dusk. Farther inland, summers are hot and dry, winters cool and wet, with occasional brilliant blue days and temperatures cold enough to freeze puddles on the ground, but not much more than that. At higher altitudes, the weather reflects more of a four-season cycle, with beautiful summers, striking fall color, and cold, snowy winters followed by snowmelt springs (waterfall season!).

Most vacationers head to California during the peak summer months (June through August); that’s when you can expect the biggest crowds at top attractions, and high-season rates at lodgings and resorts. But even in the midst of summer it’s possible to hop off the beaten path and have forests, fields, and even beaches almost to yourself.

Springtime (typically March through early May) is one of California’s most beautiful times of year. Although it can still be cold at higher elevations, temperatures are comfortable and fresh throughout much of the state. Hillsides are blanketed with lush green grass and wildflowers. California’s deserts, awash with poppies, paintbrush, and other desert blooms, are much more pleasant during the spring than during the scorching heat of summer. During these months, you’ll also encounter shorter lines and better deals: Many of the state’s top tourist attractions are still operating at a slower pace, and hotels often charge low-season rates until June.

Autumn (September through November) brings mild weather and, in some parts of the state, spectacular foliage (especially the High Sierra). This is a great time to visit California’s beautiful wine regions during during grape harvest time, known as “the crush” (generally August to October). The San Francisco and North Coast regions, often shrouded in fog during summer, typically see some of their sunniest days during “Indian summer,” (September through October).

Things Not to Miss

Ventura Pier and Promenade

Built in 1872, the Ventura Pier is a symbol of Ventura’s past when the agriculture, construction, and oil industries were thriving. Today, the Ventura Pier is a tourist attraction, a favorite spot for fishing, and the best spot for admiring the sunset, ocean, coastline, and the Channel Islands. The ageing pier has been renovated many times, and its current length of 1,700 feet is about 300 feet shorter than the original.  It is made entirely of wood except the steel pilings, and it is the eighth longest pier in California. Besides great fishing, it has a nice sand playground at its base with kids’ swings. There are also many benches for pleasant sunset watching and numerous panels with photos and information about the pier’s history and the current efforts to raise funds for its restoration and conservation.

Emma Wood State Beach

Moderate temperatures help make Emma Wood State Beach popular for swimming, surfing and fishing. Catches include perch, bass, cabezon and corbina. The Ventura River estuary is at the mouth of the Ventura River at the southeast end of the park. It attracts a variety of wildlife including raccoons, songbirds and great blue herons. Dolphins are occasionally seen just offshore. The park also features the crumbling ruins of a World War II coastal artillery site. The offshore Channel Islands can be seen from the beach.

Channel Islands Harbor

Neighbor to the scenic Channel Islands, Channel Islands Harbor is a working harbor that offers fun-filled water activities for the whole family. The Harbor features several beach-lined parks and coastline for picnics and surfing, as well as nearby biking and walking paths. The Harbor has dive centers, boat charters and yacht clubs. For fishing enthusiasts, there are sport fishing excursions throughout the year. See majestic whales off the coastline from December through April on one of their daily whale watching excursions.

Discover the unique ocean environment of five offshore islands through the Harbor’s variety of excursions to the Channel Islands National Park. The islands are home to more than 2,000 terrestrial plants and animals, ranging from plankton to blue whales. These beautiful islands are an extraordinary experience, and just a short boat trip from the Channel Islands Harbor.

San Buenaventura State Beach

This beach features swimming, surfing and picnicking. The beach has two miles of sandy beach, sand dunes, picnic sites, and a parking lot. The Jolly Oyster and Wheel Fun Rentals are located on-site, offering visitors food service and bike rentals. Bike trails connect other nearby beaches. The beach is the site for a number of special events, such as weddings, triathlons, and volleyball tournaments. The 1,700-foot pier has a snack bar, restaurant and bait shop.

Things to Do

Calboat Diving – Spectre Dive Boat

Cal Boat Diving aims to ease you from your seat by the computer to a rocky reef beneath the kelp forests of the Northern Channel Islands. They are a specialized company devoted to getting you scuba diving under the waters of Anacapa and Santa Cruz islands. They take you to the best dive sites available, deliver rental gear to the boat, and make this one of the most memorable dives of your life.  For more information call 805-486-1166, or visit them on the web at Calboat Diving.

Lovewater Surf School

Lovewater Surf School, established in 2011, is a locally owned surf school serving Santa Barbara with surf lessons, after-school surf programs, summer travel surf camps, and international surf adventures. With a foundation of excellence and customer service, our experienced team is committed to inspiring a love for surfing through our surf lessons, after-school surf coaching and nonprofit community events.  For more information call them at 805-636-1552, or visit them on the web at Lovewater Surf School.

Blue Sky Kayak Day Tours

Day trips to Santa Cruz Island and more! Explore sea caves, pristine beaches, snorkel the crystal clear water…or stay overnight. They can help you arrange the vacation of a lifetime!  For more information call 805-290-3306, or visit them on TripAdvisor at Blue Sky Kayak Day Tours.

Adventure Sailing Charters

Welcome aboard sailing yacht Morning Star, a 72ft schooner offering half-day, full day, and multi-day charters departing from Ventura Harbor Village.  For more information call 805-794-8703, or visit them on the web at Adventure Sailing Charters.

 

 

Paddy Bex Surf School

Paddy Bex Surf School provides private lessons, group lessons, summer surf lessons, fall surf lessons and women’s surf clinics to all ages in Ventura. All instructors are certified in lifeguard training, CPR and first aid.  For more information call 805-653-SURF, or visit them on the web at Paddy Bex Surf School.

Best Rated Restaurants

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$$ – $$$  Beach House Fish

Located on the historic Ventura Pier, Beach House Fish is anchored right in the middle of the Ventura County State Beach promenade. Providing magnificent views of the Channel Islands, and moments away from downtown shopping and major hotels is the perfect place to grab a relaxing bite. Whether you’re watching the surfers at C-street, sipping on an after-work sunset cocktail or simply visiting our Fish Market, there is plenty for everyone to enjoy!  For more information call 805-643-4783, or visit them on the web at Beach House Fish.

$$  The Jolly Oyster

They are a small family business dedicated to farming top quality oysters and clams. Specializing in Kumamoto and Pacific oysters, they control the complete production cycle from their hatchery producing the seed, through their farms, to your table.  With no appreciable fresh water rain or river runoff to dilute the waters,  they offer an outstanding ‘Full Ocean’ experience from the cool pristine waters of Baja California.  For more information call 805-798-4944, or visit them on the web at The Jolly Oyster.

$$  Lure Fish House

Lure Fish House features fresh and sustainable seafood from trusted sources. They provide locally caught seafood, organically grown local produce, and wines from local vineyards whenever possible. They also feature a full bar with specialty cocktails, and an oyster bar serving a variety of fresh items that can vary daily. Lure specializes in Mesquite charbroiled seafood while also providing uniquely prepared selections by their chef. Menus are printed daily to reflect availability and guarantee freshness.  For more information call 805-567-4400, or visit them on the web at Lure Fish House.

$$  Brophy Bros Clam Bar & Restaurant

Brophy Bros has a fun, lively atmosphere with beautiful views of the mountains and harbor. Choose your spot – sit at the full length bar facing the view and the clam bar, grab a window and lean in or sit at a table either inside or out. Everyone is welcome at Brophy Brothers !  For more information call 805-639-0865, or visit them on the web at Brophy Bros Clam Bar & Restaurant.

Best Nightlife

Bombay Bar & Grill

A local landmark in the community, Bombay is dedicated to serving locals and tourists alike for over 35 years.  Bombay features a full restaurant, a cozy patio, two full stages with two dance floors and the friendliest staff in town, slinging Award Winning Food, Craft Cocktails and Local Beers.  For more information call 805-643-4404, or visit them on the web at Bombay Bar & Grill.

Barrel 33

Relax and enjoy their extensive wine list by the glass and bottle. Barrel 33 is your local wine bar and restaurant in Ventura, California. Their romantic outdoor patio with open flame and fine selection of wines provides you with an unforgettable experience.  Enjoy a quaint setting with their knowledgeable and pleasant service to accompany wines and wine-tasting together in a sophisticated style.  For more information call 805-652-1810, or visit them on the web at Barrel 33.

Brophy Bros

Brophy Bros has a fun, lively atmosphere with beautiful views of the mountains and harbor. Choose your spot – sit at the full length bar facing the view and the clam bar, grab a window and lean in or sit at a table either inside or out. Everyone is welcome at Brophy Brothers !  For more information call 805-639-0865, or visit them on the web at Brophy Bros Clam Bar & Restaurant.

Barrelhouse 101

With over one hundred craft beers and micro brews on tap and an exceptional food menu, Barrelhouse 101 in Ventura is every beer and burger lover’s dream.  For more information call 805-643-0906, or visit them on the web at Barrelhouse 101.

Ven Tiki Tiki Lounge & Lanai

Best Hotels

Four Points by Sheraton Ventura Harbor Resort

Kick back and enjoy the beautiful harbor location with activities like tennis and nearby golf. Dine at their restaurant, Alexander’s, or venture out and discover great local shopping and eateries.  Relax in the guest rooms, most with private balconies and spectacular views. The hotel features the Four Points Signature Bed, fast & free WiFi, and resort-style amenities. Enjoy this great location and take one of their beach cruisers for a spin, soak up the sun by the outdoor pool and hot tub, or try deep-sea fishing and whale watching.  For more information, pricing, or to reserve your room visit Four Points by Sheraton Ventura Harbor Resort.

Wyndham Garden The Pierpont Inn

Traditional panache, an outdoor pool, on-site dining and neighboring beach access flourish at the non-smoking Wyndham Garden Ventura Pierpont Inn. Built in 1910, the two-story Pierpont Inn has 77 rooms, all featuring flat-panel HDTVs and coffeemakers; some also include fireplaces, mini-fridges, microwaves and ocean views. Guests step outside for dips in the heated pool, open year-round. Worker bees have access to a 24-hour business center. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and limited room service are offered by the on-site restaurant.  For more information, pricing, or to reserve your room visit Wyndham Garden The Pierpont Inn.

Comfort Inn  Ventura Beach – Great Value

This property is a 6-minute walk from the beach. Centrally located between Santa Barbara and Malibu, this hotel offers thoughtful amenities for a comfortable stay within walking distance of the San Buenaventura State Beach in Ventura, California.  All rooms at the Ventura Comfort Inn include tea and coffee-making facilities, a fridge and microwave. The hotel provides all guests with a voucher for a complimentary hot breakfast at the Denny’s Restaurant next door.  A 24-hour front desk is available at the Comfort Inn Ventura. A business center complete with fax and photocopying services is also available.  Go golf, hiking, mountain biking or horseback riding in the beautiful Ojai Valley, which is just minutes from the Comfort Inn. The nearby Heritage Valley offers ballooning and train rides. For more information, pricing, or to reserve your room visit the Comfort Inn Ventura Beach.

Best Western Plus Inn of Ventura – Great Value

This property is a 4-minute walk from the beach. This hotel in Ventura, California is just off Highway 101 and features spacious rooms with free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV. The hotel has an outdoor pool and is next to downtown Ventura.  A refrigerator, a microwave and coffee maker are included in all of the rooms at the Best Western PLUS Inn of Ventura. There is a deck surrounding the pool with lounge chairs and a hot tub for relaxation. The business center has computers with free Wi-Fi, and laundry facilities are also available on site.  Guests at the Ventura Best Western PLUS can enjoy a complementary hot breakfast buffet each morning.  For more information, pricing, or to reserve your room, visit the Best Western Plus Inn of Ventura.