You know those perfect California days where everything just hits right? That was me standing on the Ventura Pier, watching surfers catch waves while dolphins played in the distance. And when I finally hiked up to Inspiration Point in the Santa Monica Mountains, the view of the coastline stretching all the way to the Channel Islands literally made me forget how out of breath I was.
From surf spots that’ll make you want to quit your job and buy a longboard to the most beautiful places in Ventura County, like the wildflower-covered hills of Ojai Valley, this slice of the California coast feels like the California dream come true. Let me show you 12 spots that’ll make you wonder why you haven’t moved here yet.
Bucket List-Worthy Places to Visit in Ventura County
Looking to explore Ventura County’s most beautiful places? From the stunning beaches of Malibu to the charming streets of Ojai, Ventura County is packed with stunning scenery. Stroll through the historic charm of Ventura, marvel at the natural beauty of Channel Islands National Park, or explore the vibrant culture of Thousand Oaks. Discover the tranquil allure of Camarillo, the picturesque landscapes of Point Mugu State Park, or the serene shores of Port Hueneme. Whether you’re into beaches, hiking, or small-town charm, here are 12 of Ventura County’s most breathtaking spots!
1. Channel Islands National Park
Skip the crowds at Yosemite and book a ferry to what locals call the “Galapagos of California.” Ferry tickets start at $70 for adults and $50 for kids (3-12), but honestly, it’s the best money I’ve spent on a day trip from LA. Island Packers runs boats year-round from Ventura Harbor, and the 90-minute ride gives you plenty of time to spot dolphins playing in the boat’s wake.
Santa Cruz Island and Anacapa Island are your best bets for day trips. I went to Santa Cruz last spring and couldn’t believe how untouched everything felt – like stepping back 100 years. The island foxes are ridiculously cute and have zero fear of humans. You’ll need to climb 157 steps from the boat to reach Anacapa’s plateau, but the lighthouse views are worth every step. Pack extra water since there’s none available on Anacapa. Winter’s actually perfect for whale watching, while summer gives you the clearest water for snorkeling. There’s no entrance fee for the park itself, just the ferry cost.
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2. Faria Beach Park
This narrow strip of sand between Highway 101 and the ocean doesn’t win beauty contests, but it delivers everything you actually want from a beach weekend. Campsites are literally footsteps away from the Pacific Ocean, so you’ll fall asleep to waves crashing outside your tent. The surf breaks here are legit – I’ve watched experienced locals get worked by powerful sets during winter swells.
What makes Faria special is what most “prettier” beaches lack: zero pretension and maximum value. RV camping is available but there are no electrical hookups or dump stations onsite. The tide pools during low tide kept my nephew entertained for hours collecting hermit crabs. I always hit Faria for sunset photos – the Channel Islands create this perfect silhouette on clear evenings. Pro tip: arrive midweek if you want the beach mostly to yourself, because weekends can get packed with LA families escaping the city.
3. Harbor Cove Beach
Parents with young kids, this is your beach paradise. Harbor Cove Beach features small lapping waves and soft sand thanks to the protected harbor location. I watched a mom actually relax and read a book here while her toddlers played safely in ankle-deep water – something I’ve never seen at other Ventura beaches.
The Ventura Harbor Village is right there when the kids inevitably need snacks or restrooms. Dogs are allowed on leashes, and I’ve seen golden retrievers having the time of their lives fetching tennis balls in the calm water. The beach is free and parking is also free, which is becoming rare in Southern California. The only downside? You won’t get that authentic crashing-waves beach experience here, but that’s exactly why families love it. Walk the jetty for killer harbor views and to watch boats navigate the channel entrance.
4. Mandalay State Beach
If you’re burned out from Instagram-perfect beaches crawling with influencers, Mandalay offers pure natural therapy. This completely undeveloped stretch of coastline feels like California before beach volleyball tournaments and overpriced taco stands. The wide-open sandy beaches are backed by natural dunes where wildflowers explode with color every spring.
I’ve spent entire Sunday afternoons here without hearing a single notification because cell service is spotty. The adjacent wetlands attract serious birdwatchers – I counted six different heron species during one walk. Beachcombers often discover abundant sand dollars and interesting driftwood sculptures. Mandalay draws way fewer visitors than neighboring beaches, so you can actually hear yourself think. During winter storms, the waves get genuinely dramatic without the crowds. Just remember there are no facilities whatsoever – bring everything you need and pack it all out.
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5. Marina Park
This brilliant combo of city park and beach access solves the eternal family dilemma: some people want grass and shade, others want sand and waves. The nautical playground keeps kids entertained while giving parents those rare moments to finish their coffee before it goes cold. Stairs lead directly from the grass to the sandy beach below, so you can literally have both experiences steps apart.
The beach volleyball courts create a lively weekend vibe that I actually enjoy – it feels festive without being chaotic. During Ventura’s famous sunsets, the lighthouse tower makes for perfect photo backdrops. Food trucks often visit on summer weekends, which saves you from packing elaborate picnics. I’ve brought out-of-town friends here because it showcases Ventura’s laid-back beach culture without requiring a major hiking commitment. The easy parking situation means you can be spontaneous about evening sunset visits.
6. Port Hueneme Beach Park
Weekend warriors who want maximum beach time with minimum hassle will love Port Hueneme. The impressive 1,250-foot pier extends far into the ocean, providing excellent fishing opportunities without needing a boat. I’ve watched guys pull decent-sized surf perch right off that pier during early morning sessions.
The wide, flat sandy beach stretches nearly a mile with a paved walking path perfect for morning runs. Lifeguards staff the beach during summer months, making it family-friendly for visitors with kids. What I appreciate most is the reliability – I’ve never had parking drama here like at more famous beaches. The beach gets regular cleaning, and the restrooms are actually maintained. The Alaska Pipeline monument adds some cool maritime history if you’re into that stuff. This isn’t the most Instagram-worthy spot, but it consistently delivers a solid beach experience without the attitude.
7. Rincon Parkway Campground
This 2-mile strip of beachfront RV camping puts you literally steps from some of California’s most legendary surf breaks. 127 parking spaces are available for RV use with no electrical hookups, dump stations, or water onsite, so you need a completely self-contained setup. But honestly, waking up to dolphins playing in the surf while sipping morning coffee makes the primitive conditions totally worth it.
Rincon Point break is just minutes away – I’ve watched world-class surfers pull into perfect barrels here during good winter swells. The campground operates on first-come, first-served basis, so arrive early on weekends or you’ll be driving home disappointed. I always visit midweek when you can actually snag one of these coveted oceanfront spots. Caltrans is working on permeable surface projects through July 2025 with some site closures, so check current availability before making the drive. Evening sunsets over the Channel Islands from your RV door are genuinely spectacular.
8. Seacliff Beach
This hidden gem delivers the kind of unique geological experience your followers haven’t posted a thousand times already. Fossilized whale bones are embedded in the cliff face, dating back millions of years – it’s like having a natural museum right on the beach. During low tide, the beach reveals incredible tide pools filled with colorful sea stars and hermit crabs.
I love coming here during winter storm season when massive waves crash against the weathered pier pilings. The remnants of the old Seacliff Pier create dramatic photo opportunities, especially during golden hour. This narrow beach gets completely swallowed during high tide, so check tide tables before visiting. The lack of crowds means you can actually hunt for sea glass and unusual stones without competing with weekend warriors. I’ve found some genuinely beautiful pieces here that now sit on my desk as reminders of perfect beach days.
9. Serra Cross Park
This modest 2.5-acre hilltop park delivers million-dollar views without the Malibu price tag or attitude. The historic cross, placed in 1782 by Junípero Serra, serves as a fascinating landmark while providing 360-degree vistas of Ventura, the coastline, and Santa Cruz Island. I’ve brought dates here because it’s genuinely romantic without being overly touristy.
My favorite time to visit is about 30 minutes before sunset when the fading light bathes everything in golden hues. The panorama includes downtown Ventura, the winding coastline, and on clear days you can see all the way to Santa Barbara. Picnic tables nestled among native plants make this perfect for sunset wine sessions with friends. The park represents Ventura’s best-kept secret viewpoint – locals consider this the premier sunset spot but somehow it never gets overcrowded. Clear winter days offer the best visibility for those epic Channel Islands views.
10. Silver Strand Bridge
This elegant span crosses the narrow channel between Channel Islands Harbor and the Pacific, creating an unexpected wildlife viewing hotspot. Standing midway across gives you unobstructed views of boats navigating the harbor entrance while sea lions and dolphins hunt in the churning water below. I’ve spent hours here just watching pelicans dive-bomb for breakfast.
Fishing enthusiasts gather along designated spots, especially during summer grunion runs when silvery fish come ashore to spawn. The sandy paths along the channel edge let you watch paddleboarders navigate the currents or simply enjoy ocean breezes. During holiday boat parades, decorated vessels pass beneath the bridge while colorful lights reflect off the water – it’s surprisingly magical. This isn’t a destination you’d drive hours for, but it’s perfect for morning jogs or sunset walks when you’re already in the Oxnard area.
11. Surfer’s Point
C Street, as locals call it, represents Ventura’s cultural heart where surf culture meets accessibility. The point faces south so waves coming from the west curl around it making consistent right-hand waves that roll toward the pier. I’ve spent countless mornings here watching skilled longboarders glide for hundreds of yards on single waves.
Parking costs $2 in the paid lot, though it’s free after the attendant leaves around 4:30-5:00 PM. The adjacent Ventura Promenade provides front-row seating to watch surfing action with a paved path perfect for morning jogs. When afternoon winds kick up, colorful kiteboarders perform aerial acrobatics above the waves. Winter brings the most consistent surf with northwest swells, while summer can be smaller. I always recommend early morning sessions before the wind picks up. The vibe here is way more welcoming than some of LA’s snobby surf spots, though weekend crowds can test your patience.
12. Ventura Botanical Gardens
This 107-acre hillside sanctuary offers the perfect escape for nature-starved professionals needing plant therapy and ocean views. The gardens showcase plants from five Mediterranean climate zones: Chile, South Africa, Australia, the Mediterranean Basin, and California. Admission is $7 for adults with free entry on Fridays – honestly, it’s the best seven dollars you can spend in Ventura.
The Summit Trail rewards hikers with increasingly dramatic ocean vistas at every switchback turn. Gardens are open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM, closed Mondays. I’ve found this to be the perfect place to clear my head between conference calls – the cell service is good enough for emergencies but spotty enough to encourage digital detox. Dogs are welcome on Wednesdays and Fridays. Spring brings spectacular wildflower blooms, while winter offers the clearest coastal views. The Chilean and South African plant sections are genuinely fascinating if you’re into unique flora. Despite 2017 fire damage, the gardens demonstrate remarkable resilience and continue expanding toward their 2040s completion goal.
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