Ventura California

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.

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.

Where To Stay

• Emma Wood State Beach,


• Ventura Beach RV Resort or


• McGrath State Beach.

Ever think about moving here or having your own vacation home in Ventura? Click here to see an overview of Ventura real estate, including information on home values, demographics, and much more.

Click here for Ventura California beach hotels

Getting There

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).