We often travel to Ventura, California. For us, it is the gateway to Channel Islands National Park! But there is plenty to see and do in Ventura alone. Here's what we discovered!
VENTURA PIER
This long, wooden pier was originally constructed in 1872. With Eric Ericsson’s Fish Co and Beach House Tacos at it's base, on a clear day you can also see Anacapa and Santa Cruz Islands from the pier.
The pier is only a short walk from Clocktower Inn, which is where we lodged. The inn is central to downtown Ventura, with many destinations within walking distance.
MISSION BASILICA SAN BUENAVENTURA
The Mission Basilica San Buenaventura (yeah, it's a mouthful lol) was dedicated in 1782 and finally completed in 1809. It was dedicated by Father Junipero Serra, who established many Spanish Catholic missions throughout California.
Today all that remains of the original mission is the church and its beautiful garden. A small museum also sits at the mission with displays of native Chumash Indian artifacts and mission-era items.
MAIN STREET
This is the heart of downtown Ventura! Each Saturday, from 8:30 am until noon, they have a Farmer's Market along the 200 block of East Main Street. Here you'll find fresh produce, baked goods, fresh cut flowers, food vendors, etc. all sourced from the local region. Yum!
Some shops along Main Street and nearby we can recommend include B. on Main for beautiful coastal decor and jewelry, Fiddle & Fern for gorgeous potted plants, Olive Ventura for unique and delicious infused olive oils and vinegars, Sea Things Ventura for seashells and ornaments, and Blenders for delicious juices and smoothies, including non-dairy and vegan options!
The Mission Basilica, Museum of Ventura County, Taco District, and Century theater, all mentioned elsewhere in this post, are located in downtown as well.
MUSEUM OF VENTURA COUNTY
The Museum of Ventura County, on East Main Street, has historical information, local artist exhibits, and outdoor murals of native life in Ventura County.
TACO DISTRICT
The taco district of Ventura is a stretch along North Ventura Avenue, off of Main Street, where over a dozen Mexican restaurants and food trucks reside. From Johnny's Mexican Food to the South, to Lalo's Fast Food to the North, you'll find delicious specialty foods all along the way!
CENTURY VENTURA DOWNTOWN (MOVIE THEATER)
The Cinemark Century Ventura Downtown 10 was constructed in 1998. Made to resemble the classic mid-century neon facade movie theaters, this is the best place in town to catch a current blockbuster feature! Be sure to grab some delicious movie snacks at their concessions counter before you sit down!
VENTURA HARBOR VILLAGE
Approximately 5 miles to the South of downtown Ventura, and adjacent to Channel Islands National Park Visitors Center and Island Packers (more information below), is Ventura Harbor Village. A unique collection of shops and restaurants, it's a beautiful location to spend part of your day. For breakfast, lunch, or dinner, we recommend Le Petit Cafe Bakery & Restaurant. Grab a seat outside on their back patio if you can. The views of the marina, while nestled under the lights and trees, are gorgeous!
HARMON CANYON PRESERVE
If you are and avid hiker or enjoy the outdoors, nearby Harmon Canyon can provide a great outlet. The Harmon Canyon Preserve contains over 2,000 acres of wilderness, and six great hiking trails recommended by AllTrails! Below is the Harmon Canyon to Overlook Bench trail information:
Length: 7.2 miles
Elevation gain: 971 feet
Type: Out & back
Estimated time: 3 hours
CHANNEL ISLANDS NATIONAL PARK
Saving the best for last, this is the main reason we come to Ventura! In Channel Islands National Park we've ventured out to Anacapa and Santa Cruz Islands many times. Along the way you may spot great whales, dolphins, pelicans, cormorants, and sea lions!
Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center is on the mainland, just one-half mile North of Ventura Harbor Village. They have incredible exhibits of native wildlife, including a life-sized elephant seal replica! Their gift shop and theater are also worth visiting.
To reach the islands, you must charter an approximately hour long boat ride with Island Packers Cruises. Late Spring through early Autumn is the best time to go, with calm seas and warm temperatures. Hiking, kayaking, camping, and snorkeling are popular activities on the islands.
If you would like to go whale watching, Winter and early Spring are the best times to go. Early Spring is also when you can catch the coreopsis in bloom (a prehistoric looking, yellow flowering, tree-shaped bush). Just be aware that rough seas can occur during this time of year, which could potentially cancel any boat excursions.
Ventura, similar to many areas along California's coast, is a stunning seaside getaway. Situated around 70 miles north of Los Angeles, it provides art, music, delectable cuisine and beverages, along with a unique ecological marvel just offshore. We invite you to visit and explore the magnificent coast of California, a cherished treasure that we can all appreciate together.