Beaches, Hotels, Campgrounds and The Harbor In Ventura California
The delightfully unassuming beach town of Ventura California is located 62 miles north of L.A. and about 30 minutes south of Santa Barbara. A beach vacation here is more of a quiet, laid back affair compared to most other Southern California beaches.
There is a small historical downtown which includes the Ventura County Museum of History and Art. Nearby is the Mission San Buenaventura, founded in 1782.
The Beaches
The beach just north of the old fashioned pier is called Seaside Park. It has a wide promenade that goes along it. The Ventura County Fairgrounds are adjacent.
South of the pier has San Buenaventura State Beach, which bears much wider sands. A bike path runs along the coast and there are lifeguards, a snack stand and volleyball courts.
Marine Park is a great place to bring kids and kites. There is a small sandy beach next to the old (play) pirate ship, but the water is rough and current strong. A playground sits just behind the beach with a large, hilly grass park beyond.
A better place for children to swim is the beach across from the Channel Islands National Park Visitor's Center near Ventura Harbor Village. This beach is protected by jetties, so has no waves and a roped off swimming area with an overlooking lifeguard stand. However, check signs or the lifeguard if you go because the water quality is sometimes not good for swimming.
For a real back to nature Southern California coastal experience, you can take an excursion to the
Channel Islands.
Ventura Video
Here's a short video of Ventura California:
The Harbor
The Ventura Harbor Village is nice for a stroll along the walkway overlooking the fishing boats and sailboats. Waterfront restaurants afford pleasant views of the picturesque marina. Whale watching, kayak rentals, pedal boats, electric boats and harbor cruises can all be found here.
Ventura is right off the 101 freeway near the junction of the 126, which goes inland through the beautiful Heritage Valley towards Santa Clarita and the Interstate 5 freeway (about 45 minutes away).