Ventura is a laid-back coastal city located two hours away by train from Los Angeles. It's surrounded by mountains and is the gateway to Channel Islands National Park. Around town, you can stroll through museums and galleries, enjoy gardens and dine at beer gardens, cafes, diners and restaurants.. Ventura is a chill low-key destination to enjoy the California lifestyle without the crowds.
01 Stroll the Ventura Pier and Promenade
Established in 1872, the Ventura Pier is a town treasure. Fishing from either end is a favorite activity of locals. The restored wood and steel pier stretches 1,700 feet over the water, and many of the panels tell a bit of the history of this famous spot.
02 Explore the Ventura Botanical Gardens
Ventura Botanical Gardens is set dramatically across the slopes of a hillside overlooking the city and coastline. As visitors wind through well-kept trails, they encounter a variety of thoughtfully designed sections, each showcasing plants from Mediterranean climate regions around the world.
From California native plants to species from South Africa, Chile, Australia, and the Mediterranean Basin, the gardens highlight the diversity and resilience of these ecosystems. The elevation changes provide constantly shifting perspectives, with sweeping ocean and mountain views at nearly every turn. The combination of curated plant collections, terraced landscapes, and open vistas creates a peaceful yet visually striking environment that rewards exploration and invites visitors to slow down and take it all in. Bring good shoes.
03 Stroll down Main Street
Main Street in Ventura blends coastal calm with a lively, small-town energy. Running through downtown, it’s lined with historic buildings, colorful storefronts, and a mix of large thrift stores, vintage shops, and local boutiques that make it easy to spend hours browsing. The variety of cuisines stands out—everything from casual taco spots and sushi to Italian and vegan cafés—giving the street a constantly changing flavor.
Locals and visitors mix easily, from surfers grabbing coffee to families exploring the area. The Century 10 movie theatre anchors part of the street, adding a classic night-out option right in the middle of downtown.
On pedestrian days, Main Street closes to cars and fills with music, performers, and outdoor dining. Just blocks from the ocean, it captures Ventura’s relaxed pace while offering enough variety to keep things interesting every time you visit.
04 Learn About the Work of the Mission San Buenaventura
In historic downtown Ventura, you can see where the Franciscans founded the Mission San Buenaventura in 1782. Much of the original mission was burned down and rebuilt, but mass is still held in the church on the altar established in 1809 that has survived threats from war, earthquakes and even pirates. There is also a small museum where you can view the collection of period art and tranquil gardens to walk.
05 Catch a show at the Ventura Theatre
The Ventura Theatre is one of downtown Ventura’s most iconic landmarks, known for its vintage charm and intimate concert experience. Originally opened in 1928, the Spanish Revival-style building still features its original marquee, ornate details, and a nostalgic atmosphere that sets it apart from larger, modern venues.
Inside, the space is compact but energetic, with a standing-room floor that brings audiences close to the stage. It regularly hosts a wide range of artists—from indie bands and punk shows to hip-hop, reggae, and touring rock acts—making it a staple for live music.
Located right off Main Street, it’s surrounded by bars, restaurants, and late-night food spots, so a show often turns into a full evening out. The Ventura Theatre isn’t just a place to see music—it’s a piece of the city’s history that continues to shape its local culture.
06 Surfers Point Beach
Where the Ventura River starts lies the birding and surfing paradise called Surfers Point Beach. The beach is surrounded by a lagoon formed by the river, which attracts a variety of wildlife. Visitors come from all over for bird-watching and to take advantage of the big barrels that roll in for the best surfing.
07 Whale Watching
Whale watching in Ventura is a year-round activity, with distinct seasons in the Santa Barbara Channel. In winter (December–April), gray whales migrate through the area, with peak sightings in January–February. In summer (June–September), humpback and blue whales are most common, with occasional fin and minke whales. Dolphins are seen year-round, and orcas appear occasionally.
The main tour provider is Island Packers, which runs year-round trips from Ventura Harbor. Other nearby operators include Channel Islands Whale Watching, Channel Islands Marine Safari Adventures, and Channel Islands Expeditions.
Most tours head toward the Channel Islands, one of California’s richest marine ecosystems, making sightings frequent and varied.
08 Channel Islands Harbor and Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center
Channel Islands Harbor in Ventura is a relaxed waterfront destination known for its marina views, calm atmosphere, and easy access to the ocean. Lined with restaurants, cafés, and small shops, it’s a great place to walk along the docks, rent kayaks or paddleboards, or simply watch boats come and go. Seals and seabirds are common sights, adding to the coastal feel.
Right nearby, the Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center offers a deeper look into the islands just offshore. Inside, you’ll find interactive exhibits, maps, and displays about the park’s wildlife, history, and unique ecosystems. Rangers are often available to answer questions.
Together, the harbor and visitor center make for an easy, informative outing—whether you’re staying on the mainland or preparing to explore the Channel Islands themselves.
09 Take in a Production at the Rubicon Theater Company
For about 17 seasons now, the Rubicon Theater Company has provided quality entertainment for Ventura. Local talent will enthrall you with their excellent productions of plays and musicals. The intimate theater size will make you feel almost part of the drama--or comedy. Check their calendar before you arrive and make the Rubicon Theater Company part of your visit.
10 Swim and Surf at Emma Wood Beach
The waves are calling at Emma Wood Beach, located just two miles outside of Ventura. Swim, surf or walk the beach and search for blue herons and other wildlife abundant in the area. Fish are plentiful too, and fishing for perch, bass, among other marine favorites is a popular pastime at Emma Wood. Historical points of note are also here, including a Second World War artillery site.
11 Try California Wines at Four Brix Winery
Find this popular winery conveniently located downtown and known for its blends. They only produce a couple of thousand bottles a year, so you'll have to act early if you want to purchase some. Taste the best from the winery in their tasting room and enjoy their special events where they pair wine with local food and entertainment.
12 Get Away at Lake Casitas
If camping is what you're looking for, reserve a site at Lake Casitas Recreation Area. Part of Los Padres National Forest, Lake Casitas was created by the Casitas Dam on Coyote Creek. Now, it's a nature-lovers utopia with forest-lands, making it a getaway within a getaway.
13 Cruise along the Oxnard Bike Trail
Biking is a great way to see the outdoor beauty of Ventura. The Oxnard Bike Trail begins in San Buenaventura State Beach and ends in Oxnard Beach for a round trip distance of approximately 14-miles. Take in the breathtaking views and fresh air as you pedal this smooth trail appropriate for all fitness and experience levels.
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