Next door to Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ventura Harbor, Four Points by Sheraton Ventura Harbor Resort is also a quick stroll from the Harbor, and most rooms have balconies with water views. After kayaking or paddleboarding in the Harbor, relax by the hotel’s pool or soak those tired muscles in the hot tub. A meal at Alexander’s Restaurant is a great way to kick off your day or unwind after your Ventura explorations. Cheers to an unforgettable Harbor stay!
vta.cool/marriott
Holiday Inn Express & Suites
Ventura Harbor
It’s a 10-minute walk to Ventura Harbor Village from Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ventura Harbor. Guest rooms offer all the comforts of home—flat-screen TV, microwave, fridge, and free Wi-Fi. Start with breakfast on the outdoor patio before strolling over to the Harbor for a day by the water.
holidayinnexpress.com/venturaca
Ventura Harbor Village
Shop, dine, and relax with a seaside state of mind at Harbor Village. Whether you glide through the harbor on a colorful character pedal boat, embark on a whale-watching cruise with expansive views of Channel Islands National Park, or go for a dive trip from Ventura Harbor Village and explore a vibrant underwater world, the salty breeze carries a hint of adventure.
Nestled along the waterfront, Ventura Harbor Village restaurants reflect a variety of cuisines and fresh seafood, while ice cream, pastries, and other sweet treats are just as enticing. Browse Ventura Harbor Village’s laid-back boutiques to discover coastal-inspired goods and mementos. Sip California wines at a seaside tasting room, then wind down on a waterfront patio with a refreshing cocktail and watch the sunset over the harbor. From sunshine to dining, shopping, and play, Ventura Harbor Village has all you need to embrace a seaside state of mind.
venturaharborvillage.com | eG @venturaharbor
Harbor waterfront restaurants
Village coastal boutiques
Shop, dine, and play by the seaside
Find Your Vibe
VENTURA COUNTY COAST
While spending time in Ventura, you can also taste your way through Oxnard’s Taco Trail, relax on the uncrowded beaches of Port Hueneme, and shop at the Camarillo Premium Outlets. And that’s just the beginning!
If you’re up for an adventure, catch a boat ride to the picturesque Channel Islands National Park, located right off the coast of Ventura County. With awardwinning breweries, tasting rooms, and restaurants, Ventura County Coast offers endless possibilities for exploration and discovery. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time explorer, Ventura County Coast is the perfect destination for an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling inspired and energized. Get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime!
Fresh additions to the local scene. 16 HISTORY & HERITAGE
Honoring Ventura's earliest days.
17 PRESERVING PARADISE
How to keep Ventura’s beaches beautiful.
18 VENTURA MAP
Start charting your adventures!
20 WHERE IT’S AT
Shop, play, eat, and drink like a local in six different Ventura neighborhoods:
the vibe
38 HEAD TO THE BEACH
Find the perfect stretch of sand for you.
40 EPIC SUNSETS
Where to watch the sun go down.
42 SURFING HISTORY
Ventura’s top moments.
43 ON BOARD
Surfing and skateboarding details.
44 WELCOME TO THE CHANNEL ISLANDS
The ultimate guide to this remote national park.
50 HIT THE TRAIL
Where to hike or bike.
52 WATER FUN
How to get in, on, or above the water.
54 A PIECE OF VENTURA Shop hyperlocal.
56 STATE OF THE ARTS
Fine art, theater, and live music venues.
60 YES, CHEF!
Meet the people behind Ventura's restaurants.
64 DINING GUIDE
Where to grab a meal any time of day.
67 POP, FIZZ, TWIST Wine, spirits, and more.
68 WHAT’S ON TAP Craft beer scene update.
the visit
78 GETTING HERE
Transportation tips.
79 HOT TICKETS
Time your stay around an annual event.
Travel Well
Do your part to preserve Ventura’s natural beauty. Respect local business protocols; pack it in, pack it out when visiting our beautiful beaches and trails; pick up after your pooch; and don't forget your reusable water bottles and shopping bags. Happy venturing!
Catch a wave at Mondos Beach
Make Yourself at Home
Welcome to Ventura! We’re thrilled to have you here. Get ready to soak up our laid-back charm and spontaneous spirit— there’s always something fun happening! Take some time to explore, meet the locals, and dive into all the amazing experiences our community offers. Whether chilling at the beach or checking out local events or charming neighborhoods, we know you’ll feel right at home.
¡Bienvenido a Ventura! Estamos encantados de tenerte aquí. Prepárate para absorber nuestro encanto relajado y espíritu espontáneo, ¡siempre hay algo divertido occuriendo! Tómese tiempo para explorar, conocer a los lugareños y sumergirse en todas las experiencias increíbles que nuestra comunidad ofrece. Ya sea relajándose en la playa o viendo eventos locales o vecindarios encantadores, sabemos que se sentirá como en casa.
MARLYSS MUNGUIA AUSTER President & CEO, Visit Ventura
Experience the Best of the California Coast
Welcome to Ventura, a place that my family and I have called home for many years. Whether you’re exploring scenic hiking trails in the hills, relaxing on beautiful beaches, or taking in history at the iconic pier, Ventura has something for everyone! After a day of outdoor fun, you can treat yourself to some of the best taquerias and restaurants. The food scene is full of authentic flavors that will satisfy any craving. Ventura is the perfect destination to experience the best of California’s coastal charm.
¡Bienvenidos a Ventura! Un lugar especial a la que mi familia y yo llamamos nuestro hogar desde hace muchos años. Ya sea que esté explorando senderos panorámicos en las colinas cercanas, relajándose en las hermosas playas o disfrutando de la historia en el emblemático muelle de Ventura, ¡Ventura tiene algo para todos! Después de un día de diversión al aire libre, podrán disfrutar de algunas de las mejores taquerías familiares o restaurantes gourmet. La escena culinaria está llena de sabores auténticos que satisfarán cualquier antojo. Ventura es el destino perfecto para experimentar lo mejor del encanto costero de California.
DR. JEANNETTE SÁNCHEZ-PALACIOS
Mayor
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Follow @VisitVentura on your favorite social channels for the latest happenings, itinerary inspiration, and more. Use #VisitVentura so we can share your content, too!
GeÊúwk
ON THE COVER
This custom illustration by Dominic McLeod (e @domfishh) features everything there is to love about Ventura. Flip to the back cover for even more to discover. What’s your favorite find? Let us know by tagging #VisitVentura
meet the team
What's your go-to photo op spot when you have visitors?
MARLYSS AUSTER
President & CEO
“Ventura Botanical Gardens. It’s being added to constantly. Also, Ventura Harbor Village—when you see the boats, you feel away!”
JULIE MADSEN
Communications & PR Manager
“Snapping a pic on or underneath the Ventura Pier is a must!”
NICOLE TAYLOR
Visitor Center Supervisor
“My favorite spot is Marina Park. It’s lined with palm trees, and the view from the beach allows you to see from the Harbor to Ventura Pier.”
MIKE LAAN
Director of Marketing
“Downtown Ventura has striking architecture and a food scene that fills every corner with energy. There’s always something captivating to capture.”
LELA BRODIE
Destination Content Manager
“I love taking visitors to the Ventura Botanical Gardens for the incredible panoramic ocean views and stunning flowers.”
AUBREY ZAMBRANO
Visitor Services Representative
“The Ventura Pier gives you awesome coastline views. Arroyo Verde Park is a beautiful spot for taking photos along the trails, especially when the plants bloom.”
MICHELE FOSTER
Visitor Center & Office Manager
“What better place for a photo op than the promenade? Get the angle just right, and you take in the pier, surfers, ocean, and islands. It’s a perfect Ventura view!”
CAMERON YZAGUIRRE
Sales & Marketing Assistant
“My go-to photo spot is Arroyo Verde Park, a 129-acre park with ocean views, wildflowers, and more than 40 varieties of large trees.”
101 S. California Street, Ventura, CA 93001 | 805-641-1400 info@VisitVenturaCA.com
PRESIDENT & CEO Marlyss Auster
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING Mike Laan
VISITOR CENTER & OFFICE MANAGER Michele Foster
COMMUNICATIONS & PR MANAGER Julie Madsen
DESTINATION CONTENT MANAGER Lela Brodie
SALES & MARKETING ASSISTANT Cameron Yzaguirre
VISITOR CENTER SUPERVISOR Nicole Taylor
VISITOR SERVICES REPRESENTATIVE Aubrey Zambrano
POST YOUR PICS
Have great travel shots? Share with us and tag #VisitVentura
Visit Ventura and Wanderlust Content Studio have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of information presented in the guide, but assume no responsibility for errors, changes, or omissions.
the view
WHERE TO STAY 8 | WHAT’S NEW? 13 | HISTORY & HERITAGE 16
Rest comfortably at Ventura’s many hotel and camping options.
From nationally branded hotels to boutique inns, Ventura’s accommodations are varied. But what they all have in common is convenience and affordability. Ready to check in?
BEACH ACCESS
For a full-service resort right on the sand, Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach (near Surfers Point and the Ventura Pier) can’t be beat. Inn on the Beach is a boutique hotel overlooking Pierpont Beach. Comfort Inn & Suites, Pierpont Inn, and Ventura Beach Marriott are within walking distance of San Buenaventura State Beach.
HARBORSIDE
Access all the action at Ventura Harbor Village from two waterfront hotels: Four Points by Sheraton Ventura Harbor Resort and Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ventura Harbor
DOWNTOWN
Park your car and set out on foot from these centrally located hotels. Hotel San Buena is a new boutique property, set in a renovated 1928 Spanish Revival building, with loads of character and charm. At Clocktower Inn,
a converted 1940s-era firehouse, fuel up with free breakfast under a soaring glass ceiling. When you stay at Amanzi Hotel, you’re just a 10-minute walk from Surfers Point. Best Western at Ventura Pier is also within walking distance to Downtown and the beach.
COMING SOON
Residence Inn by Marriott on Seaward Avenue will open in 2025.
Glamping, anyone?
For something totally different, check into Waypoint Ventura to sleep in a renovated vintage trailer.
Hotel San Buena
Amanzi Hotel
Waypoint Ventura
Inn on the Beach
Unwind with the sights and sounds of the Pacific Ocean, just steps away. As Ventura’s only beachfront boutique hotel, Inn on the Beach is the perfect place to relax in coastal comfort.
The locally owned hotel is set on the sand at the end of Seaward Avenue. Every guest room has a fireplace and refrigerator and faces the ocean—take joy in watching sunsets and dolphins at play from your balcony or patio. Start your morning with continental breakfast before exploring all Ventura has to offer, from historic Downtown and Pierpont’s shopping and dining to nearby attractions such as Harbor Village, Surfers Point, and the iconic Ventura Pier. innonthebeachventura.com
where to stay
Amanzi Hotel
You’re just steps away from all that Ventura has to offer when you stay at the Amanzi! An unbeatable location in Downtown Ventura puts you within walking distance of shopping, dining, Ventura Pier, and other attractions. Renovated inside and out, the hotel boasts a fresh, new look and feel that extends to spacious guest rooms and modern amenities throughout. Look forward to the complimentary full breakfast offered daily and evening Bites & Drinks from Thursday through Saturday.
choicehotels.com/caf92 e @vchotel G @amanzihotelventura
Best Western Ventura Pier
Find everything you need for a great stay at Best Western at Ventura Pier. The recently renovated hotel boasts spacious guest rooms, stylish spaces, and an outdoor pool. You’ll appreciate being walking distance to the beach and of course, Ventura Pier—plus you’re close to shopping, dining, and nearby attractions like the Ventura County Fairgrounds. Unbeatable service enhances your stay.
bestwestern.com G @bwatventurapier
Comfort Inn and Suites Ventura Beach
With a great location and complimentary amenities, Comfort Inn and Suites Ventura Beach has everything you need for your Ventura getaway. The hotel is located one block from beautiful San Buenaventura State Beach, and it’s a short five-minute drive to the Ventura Pier and Ventura Harbor. Comfort Inn’s guest rooms and family suites are equipped with a microwave, refrigerator, and coffee maker, and hot breakfast and parking are included in your stay. Take a short drive to historic Downtown Ventura, Mission Basilica San Buenaventura, and Ventura County Fairgrounds. Take an adventurous excursion to Channel Islands National Park or enjoy golf and wine tasting in nearby Ojai. Enjoy endless hikes along the beach trails and watch the gorgeous sunsets.
vta.cool/comfortinn
San Buenaventura State Beach
Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach
Ventura is an ocean lover’s dream. Where better to live the dream than the Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach? Here, you’re steps away from the beach and the Ventura Pier, putting the California coastline within reach. Every room has a balcony, so you can catch the sunrise and sunset over the water. But there’s so much more than just the beach. A two-block stroll and you’re in historic Downtown Ventura, with its cool shops and restaurants. The water is irresistible, and so is a surfing lesson in front of the hotel. Dine on fresh seafood, steaks, and other local fare at Moofish Café, then head to Aqua Beachfront Bar, where cocktails at sunset make for a dreamy seaside evening.
cpventura.com
e @crowneplazaventura
e @crowneplazaventurabeachwedding
G @crowneplazaventurabeach
BY JULIE MADSEN
Jaguar Moon
Ventura is a bustling beach town filled with surprises on every corner. Feel like that friend in the know by studying up on this rundown of what’s new and now.
1 Where tequila and tacos collide, Jaguar Moon is an electric cocktail bar serving Mexican-inspired cuisine with a punch. Snap pictures inside for the ’gram with hot pink walls as the backdrop, or enjoy the evening outside in the cocktail garden.
2
Bring the whole crew for old school fun at Moby’s on Main. Play on retro Stern Pinball machines and then grab a Thrifty ice cream or a local brew after all that winning—you deserve it!
3
There’s more “barcade” fun at Loose Cannon, where you can eat, play, and dine harborside. Spend the afternoon chowing on pizza and burgers and playing arcade games as you watch the sun set over the water.
4
You'll feel at home at the Happy Place Eatery, where the game is always on and the food feels like a warm hug. The Western smash burger boasts crispy onions and housemade sauce. Vegetarians: Try the mushroom Philly fries.
The Bar at The Livery
Brunch at The Little Lion
Photographer Jen Ganzhorn’s work on display at Arthouse and Co.
5 If innovative cocktails and elevated comfort food is calling your name, Ten Tigers is your new spot. Chic, airy, and beachy, the outdoor patio is a perfect place to relax and tuck into fresh Baja fish tacos.
6 Dig into Ventura’s unique locally owned boutique scene and browse through ArtHouse and Co. Here, you can find colorful gifts, wall art, and a flower-press kit you never knew you needed.
7 Another unexpected delight, Backdoor Bento is a hidden spot serving Japanesestyle lunch boxes. Hidden behind two sister restaurants, it’s an IYKYK spot that’s worth the search. Pro tip: Order the juicy pork bento!
8
Shop and sip your way around The Livery at Rumfish Y Vino, a fun way to enjoy a cocktail while hunting for your Ventura keepsake. Browse artisan goods and vintage clothes, and then grab dinner at Rumfish next door.
9 Taylor Swift–inspired cocktails and savory eggs Benedict—need we say more? Visit The Little Lion, a breakfast and lunch bar (aka your new favorite brunch spot). With easy parking and fast service, you’ll return every time you’re in town.
10 The latest addition to Ventura’s robust taco scene is Mothers Tacos. Here, you’ll find what you’re looking for tucked into tortillas, from simple grilled beef and chicken to chorizo, chicharron, lengua, or purple potatoes. Don’t miss the loaded waffle fries and house-made horchata.
“We love Ventura, and we’ve been really grateful for the support of the community since we opened Bank of Italy in February 2021. Jaguar Moon is our first bar that really focuses on mezcal and agave spirits. It’s been really fun exploring those flavors, and supporting chef Ramon Velasquez’s incredible food.”
—Brandon Ristaino, managing member & beverage director of Good Lion Hospitality
Happy Place Eatery
History & Heritage
Learn about Ventura’s earliest days as sacred Chumash land. The Chumash are the region’s first people. They inhabited more than 7,000 square miles of coastal California, from Malibu to Paso Robles, including the land now known as Ventura. Chumash tribes also lived on the Channel Islands. According to Chumash elders, the word “Chumash” means “island people, makers of shell bead money,” a fitting nod to their relationship with the coast. Using resources from both land and sea, the Chumash were hunters and fishermen known for their extensive trade networking and commerce. The Chumash people are regarded as the finest boat builders of the time, fashioning tomols, or canoes, from redwood trunks, pieces of driftwood, animal sinews, and a tar-like substance called “yop.” Members of the mainland tribe traveled along the Ventura coast and out to the Channel Islands in tomols. Today, that seafaring heritage is celebrated through the Chumash Maritime Association. They built a 26-foot-long tomol named ‘Elye’wun (pronounced “El-E-ah-woon”), the Chumash word for swordfish. Once a year, Chumash crews paddle the boat out to Santa Cruz Island to complete the traditional crossing, a laborious 21-mile journey, to pay homage to their culture and tradition.
Scan the QR code to watch Visit Ventura's land acknowledgement video.
Portrait of two women Chumash basket makers
Preserving Paradise
Join the Surfrider Foundation in keeping Ventura’s beaches beautiful.
Few qualities are more important in a beach town than a clean, welcoming stretch of sand. One group helping to care for Ventura’s beaches is the Surfrider Foundation. Founded in 1984 by Malibu surfers wanting to protect the world’s oceans, waves, and beaches, the group today is 60,000 members strong.
The Ventura County chapter hosts monthly beach cleanups, and in 2023, approximately 1,500 volunteers collected more than 1,570 pounds of trash and 260 pounds of recycling.
Chapter Chair Alexandra Wall first became involved with Surfrider at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. She says, “I was looking to volunteer with a local environmental group as a way to get involved with the community, make friends, and spend time outdoors.”
You too can get involved— whether you live in Ventura or are passing through. Check ventura.surfrider.org for upcoming events, and follow Wall’s tips for responsible beachcombing:
If you see trash, pick it up and throw it away. Consider
keeping a bag in your car to stow items for later disposal, when trash cans are hard to find.
Leave no trace. After a beach day, be sure you’ve collected all of your trash and toys. Says Wall, “We always find plastic toys during cleanups, which get smashed into smaller plastic fragments.”
If you smoke, utilize proper receptacles. “Cigarette butts are the number one item collected at beach cleanups,” says Wall. “We are working with the City of Ventura to install cans throughout town.”
TRAVEL RESPECTFULLY
It’s never been easier to be a kind traveler in Ventura. Follow these simple tips to lessen your impact on your next visit.
1. Go car-free. Take the train into town and explore on foot. Ventura is super-walkable; you can stroll from Downtown restaurants to the beach in less than 10 minutes. The Pacific Surfliner—which serves stations from San Diego to San Luis Obispo—arrives at the Ventura County Fairgrounds, which is a half-mile walk to Downtown.
2. Pack smart. Don’t forget your reusable water bottle and cloth shopping bags to bring home all your treasures. (If you forgot anything, check out the carefully curated selection of goods at the Ventura Visitor Center!)
3. Shop local. There are tons of locally owned small businesses that call Ventura home, including several that are a certified B Corp or participate in 1% for the Planet. Don’t miss The Refill Shoppe, where you can stock up on home, bath, and beauty products while minimizing waste. Turn to page 54 for more local goods.
4. Support farmers. Shop the weekly Saturday or Wednesday farmers markets; turn to page 65 for more details.
The Surfrider Foundation leads beach cleanups
Mission Basilica San Buenaventura
Ventura Botanical Gardens
LUCIE RICE
The Ventura Botanical Gardens overlooks Downtown.
Where It's At
Go beyond the beaches and explore Ventura’s diverse, eclectic neighborhoods— with insider tips from local residents and business owners.
BY LEEANNE JONES
Downtown
Hit the heart of Ventura with longtime local shop owner JoAnne Hadley.
While recovering from back surgery years ago, JoAnne Hadley was told to wear Birkenstocks. That perfect recommendation ultimately led her to purchase Birkenstock Footprints of Ventura—already a longtime Downtown business. Here are a few of her favorite things near the shop:
Quick Lunch: “I’m in my store morning, noon, and night, so it’s great to have Banzai Marina next door. The sushi is excellent and so fresh. I watch the fish come in, so I know. My favorites are the lobster dynamite roll and the baked green mussels.”
Hike & Drinks: “I’m a member of the Ventura Botanical Gardens, so I visit often with friends. They’re doing a great job up there. Then we go to Lure Fish House for lemon-drop martinis!”
Sweet Treat: “If you want good ice cream, go to Rori’s Artisanal Creamery. It’s high end and a little more expensive, but it’s worth it. There’s a chocolate espresso malt that is fantastic. The malt is like a meal. Get it midday and then don’t eat for the rest of the day.”
Area Architecture: “I love the Somerset Apartments. [The Tudor Revival building was constructed in 1926 as the Fosnaugh Hotel.] I take a lot of pictures, and that is one of the
The recently reopened Ventura Pier
Try your luck with a round of blackjack at Players Casino
Rori's Artisanal Creamery
NEIGHBORHOOD INSIDER
most gorgeous buildings around here, to me. Right now, it’s covered in ivy.”
Evening Entertainment: “I go to the Players Casino on Friday nights with friends. We play three card poker.”
THE VENTURA PIER IS BACK
When it was built in 1872 to handle lumber, produce, and petroleum, 1,620-foot Ventura Pier was the longest wooden pier in the state. It has been modified over the years, and its seaward end is now supported by steel piles. But after heavy storms in the winter of 2023–24, it was closed for several months.
Reopened in June 2024, the historic pier is once again a gathering place. It is most popular for sports fishing, with anglers going after tomcod, shark, and halibut. A fishing license isn’t required, and a basic rig can be picked up for very little at one of the nearby tackle shops. Those who don’t want to catch their own lunch can stop in at the nearby taco shack, fish restaurant, and MadeWest Brewing Company
Bundle up for a sunset stroll, as nights are chilly on the water. In fall, Pier Under the Stars features live bands and dancing, regional wines and local brews, and vendors offering up tacos, seafood, and other treats. Funds raised support repairs and enhancements to keep the pier open into the next century.
MORE IN DOWNTOWN
See & Do
• Mission Basilica San Buenaventura
• Museum of Ventura County
• The Majestic Ventura Theater Shop
• Ormachea Jewelry
• vomFASS
• Jockamo Records
• Copperfield’s Gifts & Rarities
• B.’z Paperie
• Latitudes Gallery
• American Flags & Cutlery
• Ema’s Herbs
• Iron & Resin
• Patagonia
Great Pacific Iron Works
• Chapter 11 TV Surf Shop
Eat & Drink
• Prospect Coffee Roasters
• Immigrant Son Caffe
• Cafe Fiore
• Peirano’s
• Paradise Pantry
• Cajun Kitchen Cafe
• Dargan’s Irish Pub & Restaurant
• Finney’s Crafthouse
• Model Citizen
• Jaguar Moon
Ventura City Hall
Mission Basilica San Buenaventura
The Majestic Ventura Theater
Ventura Botanical Gardens
Moby’s on Main
Set among Downtown Main Street’s collection of local businesses is Ventura’s first family-friendly arcade bar experience. Moby’s on Main offers a curated collection of pinball and video games along with state-of-the-art VR and retro arcade games. Enjoy a cold beer from the selection of local brews and grab a scoop or two of iconic Thrifty ice cream while you play!
mobysonmain.com e @mobysonmain
Downtown Ventura
Street fairs, X Games, Wine Walk— there’s something for everyone in Downtown Ventura. With so many locally owned shops, you’ll find everything from upscale boutiques to surf shops, record stores, and vintage and antique shops. An expanded pedestrian walkway immerses you in Downtown’s shopping and dining scene.
downtownventura.org eG @downtownventura
Birkenstock Footprints of Ventura
This woman-owned store carries a full range of classic and comfortable Birkenstock styles for women, men, and children. Birkenstock Footprints of Ventura is celebrating more than 40 years of business in Downtown Ventura. birkenstockusa.com G @birkenstock footprintsofventura
Ormachea Jewelry
Stunning, one-of-a-kind, handcrafted custom jewelry made by the Ormachea family in Downtown Ventura for more than 30 years. From rings and pendants to bracelets and earrings, husband-and-wife team Hugo and Bertha Ormachea blend the aesthetics of contemporary design with the timeless influence of ancient ancestry. Visit the gallery to explore Ormachea’s creations. ormacheajewelry.com eG @ormacheajewelry
American Flags & Cutlery
This specialty shop is the only one of its kind in Ventura County. Discover a curated collection of high-quality knives, utility tools, and accessories for sports and outdoor recreation, cooking, and collecting, along with a wide variety of U.S., international, and military flags. americanflagsandcutlery.com eG @americanflagsandcutlery
Paradise Pantry Cheese Counter and Artisan Market
Along with an expansive cheese counter and well-stocked wine shop, Paradise Pantry Artisan Market carries a curated selection of local and international food specialties—including cheese, salami, olives, wines, craft beers, jams, chocolates, and more. Let the experts behind the counter guide you on pairing wine and cheese and ask about grab-and-go and custom gifts. Worked up a hunger while shopping? Head to Paradise Pantry Restaurant next door and order a cheese plate, a great meal, a wine flight, and a delish dessert. paradisepantry.com | e @paradisepantrymarket
vomFASS
Explore this European-style tasting room and market in the El Jardin Courtyard in Downtown Ventura to sample the finest culinary oils, balsamic vinegars, spices, rare spirits, and liqueurs before you buy. Visit the barrel room and try craft whiskeys, cognacs, brandies, and other cask-aged spirits. As one of the most unique tasting experiences in Ventura, vomFASS specializes in exclusive small-batch and artisanal offerings and has something delicious for all palates. The store can even ship your purchase home for easy traveling.
vomfassventura.com eG @vomfassventura
The Livery
Discover the ultimate sip and shop experience in Downtown Ventura. Located next door to Rumfish Y Vino, The Livery is a new mercantile showcasing fine goods and provisions from local makers and artisans. Enjoy a cocktail from the pop-up bar and shop for Central Coast wines and locally made spirits, vintage clothes, jewelry, leather goods, handmade homewares, and even surf gear in a chic, inviting space. Open Friday through Sunday from 12 to 8 p.m.
eG @theliveryventura
Industrial
Explore the edge of town off Telephone Road with coffee expert Leah Corbin.
As wholesale manager of Beacon Coffee, Leah Corbin oversees the delivery of sustainably sourced beans from the Industrial neighborhood roastery to coffee shop partners around the region. The on-site cafe evolved by demand, as the scent of coffee on the wind lured more and more passersby. Here are a few of Corbin’s area picks:
Happy Hour: “We have a great neighbor in Poseidon Brewing Company. The staff comes in for coffee every morning, and we go there for beers after work. I’m a sucker for the
MORE IN MIDTOWN
See & Do:
• 1927 Barbershop and Shave Parlor
• Ventura Music Hall
• Harmon Canyon Shop:
• Dexter’s Camera
• Lynn’s Consignments
• Poppies Vintage
• Midtown
Ventura Certified Farmers’ Market
• Purrmission
Lingerie & Swim
Eat & Drink:
• Pete’s Breakfast House
• Golden Egg Cafe
• Copper Coffee Pot Cafe
• Edenic Smoothies
• Pizza Chief
• Mai’s Cafe
• Clemente Baking Company
• Buddy’s Wine
• Midtown Wine
• Bench Warmer
• Butter & Fold
seasonal fruit beers, like grapefruit IPA or watermelon blonde ale. They are so refreshing.”
Ocean-Fresh Fish: “The best, freshest seafood in Ventura is at Ocean Pride. I love to pick up salmon, halibut, or scallops, and cook it at home. We sometimes have customers say, ‘I’m just going to go grab my fish, and I’ll be back for my drink!’”
Active Fun: “There’s an old-school roller rink, Skating Plus, and it is so fun. They play good music and have a snack bar with beer and nachos. It’s great exercise, too.”
Midtown
Celebrate the area’s eclectic spirit with resident illustrator and educator Claudia Pardo.
Originally from Peru, Claudia Pardo has lived in Ventura since she was a teenager. She highlights her bicultural heritage in the illustrations she creates for books, magazines, and advertisements by using vibrant colors, empowered and diverse characters, and organic shapes. Here are her neighborhood favorites:
Coffee & Books: “Our indie bookstore, Timbre, is right next to Singing Sun Coffee. So I often grab my iPad, pick up a latte at Singing Sun, and then go to Timbre. The atmosphere is so cozy and conducive to being productive.”
Gift Shop: “If I want to give someone a gift, I give them a plant. Plant Shop 805 has beautiful succulents in unique pots and hanging air plants. And there’s more: I go there sometimes just to see what new stickers they have.”
Hiking Trails: “You can choose your own hiking adventure at Arroyo Verde Park. If you’re looking to get a workout, not just a stroll, keep going up into the hills. If you want low intensity, you can loop the park green, which is beautiful.”
Dinner Destination: “A very popular brunch spot is Cafe Nouveau, but I like getting the chèvre [goat cheese] enchiladas at dinner. There’s a patio with twinkle lights, and as the sun is setting and the light is changing, it has a beautiful mood. It’s very comfortable yet elevated.”
Fireworks & Frozen Dessert: “Whenever there’s a big event at Ventura College, like Fourth of July fireworks, we love to stop at Fosters Freeze. We get shakes for everybody, walk while we’re sipping, find a spot to spread out a blanket, and wait for the show.”
MORE IN THE INDUSTRIAL AREA
See & Do
• Golf N' Stuff
• Buenaventura Golf Course
• Olivas Links Eat & Drink
• Plan B Wine Cellars
• Four Brix Winery
• The Cave/ Ventura Wine Co.
• Wildflower Winery
• Lester Family Cellars
• MadeWest Brewing Company
• Seaward Brewing Company
• Bright Spark Brewing
• Topa Topa Brewing Co.
CHECK OUT THE MAKER’S DISTRICT
For a collection of breweries, cideries, wineries, restaurants, coffee shops, and more.
NEIGHBORHOOD INSIDER
NEIGHBORHOOD INSIDER
The Avenue
Adventure around North Ventura Avenue with automotive restoration pro Matt Noble.
Matt Noble’s first car was a clunker he was always fixing. But he was always learning, too, and soon he was fixing other people’s cars and experimenting with custom upgrades. Ultimately, his side hustle turned into a main gig, and Noble Fabrications has been serving the custom and classic car community for 20 years. Here are places he frequents near the shop:
Top Taquerias: “It’s hard to choose one. Taqueria Tepatitlan has been there forever, and the service is great. I also like Maggie’s on the Avenue, which is a walk-up window. My go-to order is the same everywhere: two chicken tacos and a margarita.”
Clean Eats: I have a client from out of town that I always take to Harvest
Cafe. It’s a vegan health cafe that’s very raw and casual and supercool— and the food is excellent. My client goes there for the waffles and says they are out of this world.”
Skate Scene: “Ventura had only one skateboard store for many years, but now there’s BlackHole Skate Shop, too, and it’s right down the street from the future Westpark Skatepark. We’re all looking forward to that opening.”
MORE ON THE AVENUE
• Lovewell Tea & Coffee
• Bell Arts Factory
• El Jarocho Seafood
• Lalo’s Fast Food
• Himalaya Restaurant
• Ventura Spirits
• Indian Rasoi
Harvest Cafe
El Jarocho Seafood
Noble Fabrications
Ventura Spirits
NEIGHBORHOOD INSIDER
Lovewell Tea & Coffee
Lovewell Tea & Coffee
South SeawardPierpont
Explore this seaside zone with aerial yoga instructor Carmen Curtis.
Carmen Curtis always hoped to raise a family in Ventura, and after touring the world with Cirque du Soleil, she and her husband made that dream reality. In 2012, they founded The Aerial Studio in South Seaward. Here are Carmen’s neighborhood faves: Healthy Meal: “Keith Repult opened Surf’N Yogurt for the kids. Then he created something for the adults: Juice Swell. There’s a juice for everything—if you want to wake up, if you’re feeling a little sick—but there are amazing bowls and sandwiches, too.”
Destination Shop: “If I want new clothes, Rowan Boutique is the place for unique, beach-vibe style. It’s also
great for gifts. I’ve bought splashproof boho bags, leather key chains, inspirational journals, and loungewear that is the softest in the world!”
All-Day Beach: “Not only is it beautiful, but Pierpont Beach is completely convenient in that you can spend all day there. There’s parking, there’s bathrooms. If you get hungry, there’s sushi and a taco shop. You can sit and hang out, or you can walk all the way to the pier or to Marina Park.”
MORE IN SOUTH SEAWARD
Eat & Drink
• Sushi House Ventura
• Lucky Thai
• Spasso
• Social Tap
• Pierpont Tacos
• Duke’s Beach Grill
Juice Swell
Rowan Boutique
Pierpont Beach
Ventura Harbor Village
Tour the waterfront with the team from Andria’s Seafood.
MORE IN VENTURA HARBOR VILLAGE
See & Do
• Ventura Boat Rentals
• Ventura Vision Electric Boat Rental
• Ultimate Escape Rooms Shop
• Hats Unlimited
• Treasure Cove
• Harbor Village Galley & Gifts
• Ventura Pottery Gallery
• Anja’s Boutique
• Barefoot Boutique
• Casa De Regalos
Eat & Drink
• Brophy Bros.
• On the Alley
• Harbor Cove Cafe
• Boatyard Pub
• Le Petit Cafe
• The Greek
• Deep Sea Wine Tasting Room
• Loose Cannon
ADJACENT TO THE HARBOR
Check out Portside, a mixed-use community with live events in the scenic courtyard, plus a bevy of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
Before Ventura Harbor Village, there was Andria’s Seafood Restaurant and Market. For 42 years, owner Michael Wagner and his family have watched the promenade and shops build up around them, all the while serving their famous scratch-made clam chowder. Here are some area favorites from his daughter, Andria, and her husband (and Andria’s CEO) Brian Bargiel: Best Bite: “On a break, we go to Baja Bay Surf N Taco,” says Brian. “We love their fish tacos, and that’s something we don’t have at Andria’s. The Baja style, garnishes, pickled onions, microgreens, habanero salsa—it all comes together for a great meal.”
For the ’Gram: “They have ‘fishzookies’ at Coastal Cone. It’s ice cream
in a fish-shaped pastry—and it’s very Instagrammamble,” says Brian. “Share a picture, and you’ll get a bunch of likes and comments.”
Outdoor Adventure: “We like to take an Island Packers boat to the Channel Islands to go camping,” says Brian. “It’s only a 45-minute trip to Santa Cruz Island, and then you’re in the middle of nowhere. No cars, nothing around. And the wildlife—the birds, dolphins, and whales…it’s like walking into National Geographic.”
Mani-Pedi: “I go regularly to Frenchies nail salon, and they do a great job,” says Andria. “They offer all the gel services, plus they have a line of polish called Dazzle Dry, which is completely dry in five minutes. You can put your shoes right back on!”
NEIGHBORHOODINSIDERS
Seaside Sight: “Ventura Harbor is a working commercial harbor,” says Brian. “It can hit some of the highest tonnage because of the squid. Just yesterday, almost half a million pounds! This is not a trophy harbor. Things do look good, yes, but there is an undercurrent of hard work and productivity that imbues the vibe here. Come sit on a bench and watch.”
Coastal Cone
If you like ice cream, you’ll love Coastal Cone’s imaginative and delicious creations. Choose from the biggest variety of flavors on the West Coast, along with signature soft-serve cones that are almost too cute to eat. Plus waffle cones, oversize sundaes, and delightful fishshaped cones to make all your ice cream dreams come true. And those Ventura Harbor views? Sweet! coastalcone.com | eG @coastalcone
Andria's Seafood Restaurant and Market
Island Packers
Deep Sea Wine Tasting Room
The Deep Sea Wine Tasting Room offers a memorable wine and food experience for visitors and locals. Siblings John, Sally, Gillian, and Tom Conway have created a relaxed, hip vibe in the picturesque Ventura Harbor. Enjoy more than a dozen varieties of handcrafted, locally produced Deep Sea and Conway wines by the glass, bottle, or in one of the Signature or Reserve Tasting Flights. The expanded food menu features artisanal flatbreads, cheese and charcuterie boards, and even chocolate and wine pairings. Indoor seating is available, while the outdoor patio overlooking the Harbor is an excellent spot to enjoy a glass of wine. Bring your furry friend—Deep Sea Wine Tasting Room is dog friendly! conwayfamilywines.com e @deepseawines | G @deepseawineventura
Ventura Boat Rentals
Ventura Boat Rentals is your destination for spending a day on the water. Choose from kayaks, electric boats, SUPs, charters, or classic swan, duck, or dragon pedal boats. Night rentals available by appointment. Ventura Boat Rentals is conveniently located in Harbor Village. venturaboatrentals.com G @ventura boat rentals
On the Alley
This casual eatery in Ventura Harbor Village is a famly-friendly destination for a relaxing meal with great views. OTA (On the Alley) is the place for a with a signature egg sandwich and a smoothie (or a Brophy’s Bloody Mary) for a harborside breakfast, burgers for lunch, or Baja shrimp tacos with a cocktail or other refreshing beverage any time. Dine on the patio and soak in the harbor vibes, or pick up tasty fare to go.
onthealleyventura.com e @onthealley_vta
Andria’s Seafood Restaurant and Market
Andria’s offers the freshest seafood available, prepared to order any way you like (think grilled, fried, or baked). Start with a bowl of house-made clam chowder, then try the grilled halibut or fish and chips. See why Andria’s is consistently named a Ventura’s “Reader’s Choice” top pick for more than 40 years running. andriasseafood.com | eG @andriasseafoodrestaurant
Portside Ventura Harbor
There’s always something to see, do, and savor at Portside Ventura Harbor. This luxury harbor-front community encompasses 27 acres with more than 100 boat slips, and boasts a variety of cool shops, tasty eateries, and year-round events in a scenic courtyard setting.
Fill up at Harbor Mart, a European-style market offering wine, spirits, or craft beer along with excellent burgers and made-to-order sandwiches. For a sweet pick-me-up, CRAVE offers organic coffee, sublime small-batch gelato, and other desserts made with organically sourced ingredients. Browse art studios like the Art is Passion gallery and studio, and visit Bespoke by Custom Styches for custom tailoring and apparel. Explore the wellness offerings at Portside Yoga and Vasquez Reiki, and sign up for a stand-up paddleboard session at Focus SUP Ventura. Monthly indoor and outdoor events like pop-ups and Movie Night Under the Stars are always fun. Enjoy all that Portside Ventura Harbor has to offer! portsideventuraharbor.com e @portsideventuraharbor | G @portsideventuraharborapts
CRAVE
This modern coffeehouse is located in the heart of Portside Harbor. Step inside the bright, art-filled space and try an artisan-crafted espresso, matcha, or flavored latte. Pair your organic coffee with one of CRAVE’s signature vegan scones or a house-made gelato. Enjoy a speciality baked focaccia bread, house-made cheeses, and breakfast paninis served between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. e @gelatokofibar
Harbor Mart
ventura harbor village
NMBL Vault by Custom Styches
Movement meets comfort in NMBL Vault tactical wear. Created by Custom Styches, NMBL Vault’s proprietary performance suits are expertly crafted for demanding professions. Apparel is designed with mobility and functionality in mind, without sacrificing style and ease of wear. NMBL Vault is the dealer for Original S.W.A.T. tactical footwear. Located in Portside Harbor, Custom Styches also offers tailoring for men.
nmblvault.com | customstyches.com
Harbor Mart is more than just goods, it’s about convenience and community. It’s where friendly faces greet you like family. Let the aromas guide you in and discover a world of possibilities, from burgers and sandwiches to groceries and snacks from around the world. Harbor Mart is your one-stop shopping oasis in Portside Harbor.
harbormart.net | eG @harbormart.ventura
the vibe
HEAD TO THE BEACH 38 | EPIC SUNSETS 40 | SURFING HISTORY 42 ON BOARD 43 | WELCOME TO THE CHANNEL ISLANDS 44 | HIT THE TRAIL 50 WATER FUN 52 | A PIECE OF VENTURA 54 | STATE OF THE ARTS 56 YES, CHEF! 60 | DINING GUIDE 64 | POP, FIZZ, TWIST 67 | WHAT’S ON TAP 68
Ventura Pier at sunset
Head to the Beach
With 43 miles of coastline and more than 300 days of sunshine a year, Ventura is a beach lover’s dream. Here’s where to go.
BEST ALL AROUND
San Buenaventura
State Beach Park
Anchored by the Ventura Pier, this beach has plenty of parking, picnic tables, grills, bathrooms, showers, beach volleyball, and a Wheel Fun Rentals outlet to borrow a bike and hit the coastal trail. Don’t miss The Jolly Oyster, open every weekend.
BEST FOR FAMILIES
Harbor Cove Beach
Nicknamed “Mother’s Beach” for its protective breakwater that creates calm waves, Harbor Cove is across the street from Ventura Harbor Village. Take the kiddos to Coastal Cone for ice cream to end your day.
Bring your best friend to the beach
BEST FOR PUPS
Marina Park
With a large grassy area and a pirate ship–themed playground, this 15acre spot is perfect for the whole family—and leashed dogs, too!
BEST FOR LOCAL VIBES
Pierpont Beach
It’s an easy stroll from the sand to Social Tap or Duke’s Beach Grill. (That post-beach burger and beer hits different!)
BEST FOR BEGINNER SURFERS
Mondos Beach
With a low-key vibe and small waves, this south-facing cove is a mellow spot for budding surfers. There’s free park-
ing right off the Pacific Coast Highway, but it fills up fast, so arrive early!
BEST FOR ADVANCED SURFERS
Rincon Beach
Find this classic California point break on the northern border of Ventura County. Rincon’s long waves are renowned by surfers the world over.
BEST FOR ACTION
Surfers Point
To the west of Ventura Pier and running parallel to the Promenade, Surfers Point is beloved for its long waves and favorable winds—aka optimal conditions for surfers and kiteboarders.
Riding bikes along the promenade at Surfers Point
THE PROMENADE
A perfect place to stroll or pedal and take in the action at Surfers Point.
BEST FOR CAMPING AND FISHING
Emma Wood State Beach
Tents aren’t allowed on the beach, but this is a popular oceanfront place for RVs and trailers. Emma Wood is a prime spot for surf fishing; sea bass, corbina, and halibut are common catches.
BEST FOR ALL ABILITIES
San Buenaventura State Beach has a boardwalk, accessibility mats, and wheelchair-friendly picnic sites. At Ventura Harbor Cove Beach, a 100-foot-long mat stretches across the sand, allowing wheelchair users and those with mobility challenges to get to the shore. For beach wheelchair rentals, call Ventura Harbor Patrol (805-642-8618) or San Buenaventura State Beach (805-648-3321) for reservations.
Catch a wave at Surfers Point
“I’ve lived in Ventura since I was three years old. My memories of the pier range from childhood fishing trips to romantic sunset strolls in my adult life. Once you reach the end of the pier, you can turn around and look in wonder at our beautiful hills—and gaze towards the Channel Islands to watch pelicans diving into the Pacific. The views reenergize the soul.”
—Jenise WagarHernandez, executive director of Pier into the Future
The Ventura Pier from the promenade
Surfers Point at sunset
Epic Sunsets
Ventura’s sunsets are true works of art. And while there’s no bad place in town to take in nature’s masterpiece, check out these prime viewing spots. Tag #VisitVentura in your sunset pics and selfies.
1 Ventura Pier
Grab a beer at MadeWest Brewing Company and raise a glass to another day in Ventura.
2 Emma Wood State Beach Savor that golden hour glow against classic California coastline views. It doesn’t get much better than this.
3 Grant Park
For an elevated view, drive up to Ventura Botanical Gardens and watch as the sun spreads its last light across the city and ocean.
4 South Seaward Catch the sunset where the locals go. Drive to the end of Seaward Avenue to find a quiet beach.
DID YOU KNOW?
5 Ventura Harbor Village Watch the sun dip behind the boats docked in the harbor. Pro tip: Time your sunset stroll before a dinner reservation at one of the many Ventura Harbor Village restaurants.
Ventura’s great sunsets are even more spectacular IN THE WINTER. That’s due to the visible and angled light coming from the sun at this time of year. the Light interacts with and is altered by particles in the air, resulting in Vibrant colors.
“I have lived in Ventura pretty much all my life. I grew up in a household of surfers and fell in love with the ocean pretty quick. I love the surfing community here. Everyone is so nice, and it’s like I have family everywhere I go. My favorite surfing spot would have to be C Street. You could catch me there almost every day!”
Malia Ilagan , 2024 Queen of the Point series title holder
VENTURA’S
Surfing History
Milestones that put Ventura on the global surf radar.
1955
One of the first wellknown female American surfers, Mary Monks (a.k.a. “Mondos Mary”), surfs Ventura’s coast for the first time.
1959
Hollywood releases Gidget, the hit film credited with bringing surfing into American pop culture, and Ventura’s surf scene is put on the map as aspiring surfers pick up the sport in Southern California.
1965
Tom Morey’s Nose Riding Contest, one of the region’s first professional surfing competitions, is held at C Street.
1979
A group of locals stage the first Rincon Classic competition, which remains a celebrated community tradition.
1981
Local surf legend Steve Walden, considered the “Father of the Modern Longboard,” releases his Magic Model, which becomes the blueprint for all-around surfboards and noseriders.
2011
Ventura’s own Mary Osborne is the first woman to surf China’s Silver Dragon, the tallest tidal bore in the world.
On Board
Whether you’re propelled by wheels or waves, here’s a handy guide to gear, lessons, and venues in Ventura.
BY JULIE MADSEN
Ventura’s history of surfing the waves or the sidewalk runs deep. What better place to try your skills? Whether on land or in the sea, here’s how you can get in on the action!
LAND
Before you can start ripping in the bowl, stock up on all the essentials. Five Points Skate/ Snowboards and Revolution Skate and Surf have been outfitting Ventura skaters for years with everything they need, from shoes to wheels to wax. (Don’t forget a helmet!) For expert advice, talk to Dave Balton at BlackHole SkateShop who’s been setting up custom decks for decades. Once you have your own board, surf the pavement at Ventura’s three skate parks: Hobert, Pacific, or Westpark The latter will reopen in spring 2025, newly expanded from 3,200 to 22,000 square feet! Or, if you’re looking to cruise, you can’t beat the ocean views along the Ventura Promenade
SEA
Jump in and surf the waves in Ventura! Opened in the early ’60s, Ventura Surf Shop has a long history in the surf community. Here, you can find custom, new, and used surf gear and even rent a surfboard for a day on the water. Seaside Surf Rentals, Revolution Skate and Surf, and Traveler Surf Club— Ventura rent surfboards, wet suits, and swimwear. Bonus: TSC will throw in a beach cruiser with
a board rack to make getting to the right spot that much easier. Looking for beginner waves to shred? Mondos Beach is known for its easy and consistent waves. But if you’re not quite ready to hang ten solo, Ventura Surf School offers five-day surf camps as well as individual lessons. Also check out Mary Osborne Surf Camp, Ventura Makos Surf Camp, and Surfclass.com for fun and personalized classes to ease you into the waves.
GEARING UP GENERATIONS
Dave Balton got his first skateboard in 1974 as a gift from his mom. “It had clay wheels,” he says. But he got his first real board in high school—and he’s been skating on the daily ever since. As the co-owner and manager of BlackHole SkateShop (along with professional skateboarder Mike Anderson), he helps keep each new generation of skaters outfitted with the best boards, accessories, shoes, and clothing. Plus, as skateboarders themselves, Balton and staff can offer authentic knowledge as well as a safe place for kids to learn about the sport, purchase gear, and get to know other skaters.
“The Ventura skate community is much like the community as a whole. It is very tight knit, it’s very passionate, and loves its craft,” says Balton. “I love the people that are in it. I have watched kids grow up and have their own kids, and even those kids are having
Westpark Skatepark
Mondos Beach
Surfclass.com
Hiking on Santa Cruz Island leads to panoramic ocean views
OFF THE GRID
Welcome to the Channel Islands
Curious about visiting Channel Islands National Park, but not sure where to start? Let this be your guide to a totally epic adventure.
KEEP IT WILD RESPECT SANTA CRUZ ISLAND’S RESIDENTS
Santa Cruz Island is home to dozens of animals and birds found nowhere else on earth. Be on the lookout for the orange-crowned warbler, Peregrine falcon, island scrub jay, and the rare brown booby. Roughly the size of a small house cat, island foxes can be spotted at the campgrounds, wandering around in search of snacks. Don’t feed them, don’t get too close (they don’t want to be in your selfie), and treat them with respect. Remember, you’re on their home turf.
Hop aboard an Island Packers boat
Did you know that one of the country’s least-explored national parks is just 20 miles off the Ventura coast?
Channel Islands National Park is an isolated chain of five islands that are often called the “Galápagos of North America” because of the varied plant and animal species that can only be found there. You can get to the largest island, Santa Cruz Island, via daily ferry service from Ventura Harbor. Here’s how to do it.
The night before: Double-check the time of your Island Packers ferry ticket, plus any guided excursions you have booked. Pack all the food and water you’ll need for your adventures. (For more tips, see next page.)
5:30 a.m. Call Island Packers’ hotline to ensure weather hasn’t cancelled your journey. If you plan to grab food on the way, the Vons supermarket on East Harbor Boulevard opens at 6 a.m.
7 a.m. Arrive at Ventura Harbor Village and head to the Island Pack-
Customize Your Adventure
ers ticket office to check in. Grab your boarding pass and a map of Santa Cruz Island. If you’re prone to seasickness, the Island Packers office sells ginger candies and antinausea meds—just in case! Check in with the Channel Islands Adventure Company rep to get your kayak tour tickets.
7:30 a.m. Line up for the boat. Head to the upper deck and sit outside for the best views.
8 a.m. Island Packers departs Ventura Harbor for Santa Cruz Island. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife while crossing the channel. You’ll probably spot dolphins and sea lions, and if you’re lucky, whales.
9 a.m. The boat docks at Santa Cruz Island’s Scorpion Anchorage. Marvel at the turquoise-green water, gather your backpack and gear, and make your way off the boat.
9:15 a.m. Store your gear at the Channel Islands Adventure Company shed and take a quick stroll to get your bearings. Don’t go too
Hiking on Santa Cruz Island
Adventure Hiking:
If you’re here for an overnight stay, you’ve got plenty of time for the roughly eight-mile hike to Smuggler’s Cove.
This trek leads down to the beach of a shallow bay on the west side of the island.
This itinerary follows an 8 a.m. departure and 5 p.m. return to Ventura, but there are lots of options for your Santa Cruz Island day trip. Island Packers offers multiple departure times from Ventura Harbor, and Channel Islands Adventure Company has different tour options based on time and preference. You can also visit Santa Cruz Island without booking any guided tours.
Scorpion Ranch
far: You’ve got a 10:00 a.m. sea cave kayak tour to prepare for! Walk the half-mile path to Scorpion Ranch, a self-sufficient settlement dating to the late 1800s when the island was primitively staffed for livestock ranching.
10 a.m. Meet your Channel Islands Adventure Company guide and get outfitted for your kayak excursion. Change into your wet suit, life vest, helmet, and water shoes (the beach is rocky). Place your phone in a dry bag, and make sure you’re wearing plenty of sunscreen.
10:15 a.m. Your guide will demonstrate kayak safety, then you’ll take a few minutes in the shallow water to practice changing direction and paddling in tandem with your partner. Once you feel comfortable navigating the kayak, it’s time to launch.
11 a.m. After paddling away from shore, your guide will lead you through a series of sea caves, coaching you how to navigate them based on the ceiling heights, rock outcroppings, and waves. Paddle through one at a time. (Don’t forget to cheer each other on!) While you wait your turn, look down into the nutrient-rich water, dense with kelp. Common sightings include sea lions, sunflower stars, harbor seals, garibaldi damselfish, and spiny lobsters.
2 p.m. Paddle back into Scorpion Cove and drag the boats out of the water. Change out of your wet suit and head to the picnic tables by the shoreline for lunch. You’ve definitely worked up an appetite.
3 p.m. Properly refueled? It’s time for a hike. (Pro tip: Now is a great time to reapply sunscreen.)
The Cavern Point loop is a two-mile round-trip hike, and you’ve got two choices here: Set off on the trailhead near the boat launch site and take the steep route, or to avoid an uphill climb, hike clockwise beginning from the campground. Either way, you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world as you take in panoramic coastal views as far as the eye can see. Worth it!
4:30 p.m. Gather your gear and walk to the boat ramp to line up. The boat waits for no one.
channel islands
Island Camping:
For a truly rugged adventure, book a campsite at Scorpion Canyon Campground, an accessible but primitive spot just a half mile from the landing. Pitch your tent in the fragrant eucalyptus groves and fall asleep under the stars.
5 p.m. It’s time to depart Santa Cruz Island. Head to the ferry snack bar, grab a beer, and then sit on the upper deck to watch the islands slowly fade from view. Toast to your epic day trip to Santa Cruz Island—and start planning your next visit.
WHAT TO PACK
• Refillable water bottle Refill at the Scorpion Canyon Campground and the Channel Islands Adventure Company shed.
• Layers Wear a jacket for the boat ride over; temperatures will rise as the day goes on. Avoid cotton for any water activities.
• Sun protection Bring sunscreen (don’t forget to reapply often), a sun shirt, and a hat.
• Water gear In addition to a swimsuit and towel, you’ll need water shoes like Teva sandals, plus a waterproof phone case.
• Food There are no food vendors on the island. Pack simple snacks like trail mix and energy bars. Harbor Cove Cafe, located in Ventura Harbor Village, has prepackaged lunch boxes and opens daily at 7:30 a.m.
• Trash bag Pack it in, pack it out. Everything must come back on the return boat with you. There are no trash cans on the island.
View of Scorpion Anchorage
Sea cave kayak tour
Scorpion Canyon Campground
Island Guide
Explore Channel Islands National Park & Marine Sanctuary with tips from a park ranger.
When you step off the ferry at Scorpion Anchorage on Santa Cruz Island, you might see the smiling face of Reuven Bank. As one of the lead interpretive rangers at Channel Islands National Park, Bank works to improve the visitor experience, from offering orientations to leading guided hikes.
One of his favorites is the five-mile, round-trip trail to Potato Harbor.
“You’ve got views looking over the edge of tall sea cliffs—you know, from a safe distance. Below, there’s waves crashing over a kelp forest and brown pelicans soaring above," he says. “On a clear day, you can see the mainland.
To me, that’s pretty special; you can almost forget you’re on an island.”
For first-time visitors, Bank recommends bringing lots of water because there’s not much available for drinking. And don’t leave anything unattended: Common ravens and island fox are out for food and shiny objects, and they manipulate zippers.
Says Bank, “They stole one of our volunteer’s car keys, and a fox took my hat once!”
THE 411 ON KELP
The more you know
• One-third of southern California’s kelp forests are found within Channel Islands National Park and Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary.
• More than 1,000 marine plants and animals live in these nutrient-rich kelp forests. The kelp canopy offers fish protection from predators.
• Kelp can grow up to two feet per day.
Cruising to Anacapa
Prisoners Harbor
Kayaking in Potato Harbor
Reuven Bank
Island Packers
Discover Channel Islands National Park with Island Packers, the authorized concessioner for transportation to Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Santa Barbara Islands. Hike for the day, camp, or kayak on one of the islands. Also available are non-landing Anacapa Island shoreline cruises, winter and summer whale-watching trips, and special excursions. Connect to nature and create your Channel Islands National Park adventure!
islandpackers.com | eG @islandpackerstours
Channel Islands Adventure Company
Stunning, one-of-a-kind, hand caves of Channel Islands National Park on a world-class guided kayaking tour at Scorpion Anchorage with Channel Islands Adventure Company. Watch for whales, dolphins, and endemic species of the islands. With a variety of trips perfect for first-timers and seasoned adventurers, there’s something for everyone. Book this bucket-list adventure today!
islandkayaking.com e @islandkayaking G @ciadventure
DIANE EDMONDS
CHUCK GRAHAM
Hit the Trail
From rolling hills and sandy beaches to flat and easy paths, find the trail that’s right for you.
BY BROOS CAMPBELL
Ventura is surrounded by foothills and coastline, with trails for hiking and biking running through them. Plus, the city streets themselves beckon a stroll. What is your speed?
FOR FAMILIES
The hillsides at Arroyo Verde Park are great for cardio workouts, while the lower trails offer shady strolls around the park. The 10,750-square-foot playground is designed for children
of all physical abilities, with a sensory garden, musical play areas, embankment climbers, and a carousel featuring an inground platform.
VARIETY
At 2,123 acres, Harmon Canyon Preserve is the largest permanently protected open space in the area with public access. Hikes here range from an easy walk along the central fire road to steep treks among the
Hike at Arroyo Verde Park for pops of color from California wildflowers
chaparral and oaks. Cyclists are welcome, and non-electric bikes with bells are allowed.
SIGHTSEEING STROLL
Starting at the parking lot at Main Street and Highway 33, the ADA-friendly C Street and Seaside Promenade passes along the Ventura River, swings past Ventura Point (a.k.a. “Surfers Point,” “Pipe”), and then meanders along the
Marina Park
enthusiasts often gather at the west end of Main.
GREAT VIEWS
The Ventura Botanical Gardens were damaged in the Thomas Fire in 2017, but volunteers have since rebuilt the trails and replanted exotic palms and shrubbery from South America. The graded trails offer panoramic views of the city and the northern group of the Channel Islands. A short detour down a paved road will bring you to Serra Cross overlooking the city, once blackened by wildfire but still standing tall in its grassy plot at Grant Park
BIRDING HAVEN
ocean to the pier. Turn left onto California Street past the bank building where Erle Stanley Gardner penned the first drafts of the Perry Mason series. Hang another left at Main Street for window shopping, restaurants, the Museum of Ventura County, Mission Basilica San Buenaventura (founded in 1782), and the old adobe where Emilio Ortega began roasting chiles in 1897 (now sold at supermarkets under the Ortega brand). Car
The Ventura Water Treatment Plant wildlife ponds on Spinnaker Drive can be a bit tricky to find, but that’s what makes them special. The reeds and willows around the ponds yield herons, ducks, and diving birds like grebes, as well as turtles sunning themselves on old logs.
BEST BIKING
The 12-mile Rincon Bike Trail originates at the same parking lot as the perhaps better-known Ventura River Trail, at Main Street and Highway 33, but almost all of it is flat and all of it overlooks the ocean. For rentals, try nearby Ventura Bike Depot on Main Street.
“I grew up hiking and camping and exploring nature, and I studied biology in college. I am passionate about preserving natural spaces and helping others learn about their importance. Ventura Land Trust is working on opening its newest preserve in 2025, which will allow visitors to summit steep, sandy hillsides and enjoy amazing views of the ocean, the Channel Islands, and the urban and agricultural landscape of Ventura County as it stretches toward the Santa Monica Mountains.”
—Melissa Baffa, executive director of Ventura Land Trust activities
Water Fun
Explore Ventura’s coastline.
BY BROOS CAMPBELL
From Ventura, it’s plenty peaceful to gaze out at the Pacific. But it’s so much more fun to get in it! Here are some ideas for getting in, on, or above the water.
BOARD SPORTS
While it isn’t popular for surfing (find surfing recommendations on page 38), Emma Wood State Beach welcomes standup paddleboarders—and kite surfers and sailboarders will find as much wind as they want here. At the southeast end, where the Ventura River flows into the sea, you can spot songbirds and
great blue herons.
Want to try surfing? Rent boards from Ventura Surf Shop or buy a board from Walden Surfboards. Turn to page 43 for more.
BOATS AND SEA CRUISES
For some serene splashing about, head down to Ventura Harbor and Portside Ventura, where sailing dinghies and self-propelled craft like stand-up paddleboards and kayaks can be rented. No skill is needed, though there may be a learn-
ing curve. Pedal boats, electric boats, and private, narrated harbor tours are also available from Ventura Boat Rentals, and at Vision Electric Boat Rentals you can do a self-guided, eco-friendly scavenger hunt.
SNORKELING
Near the Channel Islands
National Park Visitor Center, Island Packers sets out on voyages to Anacapa and Santa Cruz Islands for hiking, camping, and whale watching. (For more, turn to page 44). Book a snorkel and sea caves kayak tour with Channel Islands Adventure Company, for a chance to see
bat rays, garibaldi damselfish, and kelp crabs up close.
PICNIC AND PLAYGROUND
West of Ventura Harbor, Marina Park features a protected beach and a grassy expanse to keep kids and dogs entertained while the grown-ups get the coals ready for a cookout. On the other side of the harbor mouth, Harbor Cove Beach (a.k.a.
Mother’s Beach) is a wide, sandy wading playa with restrooms and showers, beach wheelchairs on a first-come, first-served basis, and numerous restaurants across the street at Ventura Harbor Village.
Paddleboard around the Harbor
Ventura Harbor
Ventura Boat Rentals
Grassroots Yoga
Grassroots Yoga is committed to creating a welcoming, diverse community while giving 5 percent of annual revenue back to a local charity. Grassroots’ two spacious studios offer more than 80 classes with options of infrared heated or classically unheated, ranging from gentle and meditative to high intensity and flowing—all in a calming environment that puts you at ease.
grassrootsyogaventura.com | e @grassroots.yoga.vta
Pierpont Racquet Club
With a prime oceanside location, Pierpont Racquet Club offers recreation and wellness for members and guests of all ages. Take advantage of the Club’s nine tennis courts, eight pickleball courts, racquetball court, and league play. Enjoy year-round swimming in heated indoor or outdoor pools. Enhance your fitness journey with group classes, personal training, and tailored health and wellness programs.
pierpontrc.com | eG @pierpontracquetclub
Wheel Fun Rentals
Providing a full range of bike and beach rentals, including electric bikes, the flagship four-wheel Surrey, beach cruisers, kids’ bikes, go-cart inspired specialty cycles, kid’s attachments, boogie boards, beach chairs, umbrellas, and more! Located at the base of the historic Ventura Pier, Wheel Fun Rentals is the perfect launching spot for a self-guided e-bike tour inland to Ojai or a ride up the coast bike trail to Carpinteria. With six area locations, Wheel Fun Rentals has all you need for fun in the sun in Ventura. wheelfunrentals.com/ventura eG @wheelfunrentalsofficial @wheelfunrentals
A Piece of Ventura
Bring home a unique souvenir crafted by a local artisan or made by a Ventura-based brand.
Sea glass jewelry from Betty Belts
Hats for every season from Patagonia
Gorgeous edible confections from Ex Voto Chocolates
Wilder Gin from Ventura Spirits
Stone sculptures by Michele Chapin
Oceanview Woodworks by Carrie Adams
Balcom Canyon Cider
Wearable art by Ormachea Jewelry
Craft hard seltzers from Leashless Brewing
State of the Arts
When it comes to entertainment, Ventura has it covered, from world-class theater productions to edgy street murals.
MUSEUMS AND MURALS
Learn the history of the region at the Museum of Ventura County, which has a collection of 30,000 works of art and historical artifacts. The Victorian-era Dudley House holds monthly tours plus a holiday boutique with locally made crafts.
Community collective Bell Arts Factory hosts monthly open studios on the first Friday of each month. Vita Art Center is home to three galleries highlighting local artists. Dama Gallery has rotating exhibits and artist talks in its large first-
floor gallery. Meet up-and-coming artists at the New Media Gallery at Ventura College. Harbor Village Gallery and Gifts and Ventura Pottery Gallery specialize in local art and ceramics. Indoek celebrates coastal creative culture. The Wants/Needs space highlights unconventional makers. There are also many individual artist galleries, such as photography from Steve Munch and Stephanie Hogue at Latitudes Gallery and stone sculptures by Paul Lindhard at Art City Studios Street art is everywhere in Ventura—and it’s always evolving. For example, in Jurassic
Art, dinosaurs appeared on water tanks off Highway 33 last summer. You’ll find a handy guide at vta.cool/murals
LIVE MUSIC
The historic 1920s Majestic Ventura Theater features visiting artists and big-name bands. The contemporary and intimate Ventura Music Hall books touring and local acts, and serves food from Ruff House BBQ The Grape, House of Jazz and Spirits is the place to go for live jazz. Many restaurants serve up tunes on the side, including Twist on Main, The
Cave, Tony’s Pizzaria, and Winchesters Grill & Saloon. To shake your groove thing, head to Bombay Bar & Grill, which has two stages and two dance floors.
Olivas Adobe Historical Park becomes the venue for Music Under the Stars in the summer. And Ventura Harbor Village gets into the rhythm on summer weekends with DJs and steel drummers.
STAGE SHOWS
For 25-plus years, Rubicon Theatre Company has set the stage for renowned regional theater productions. Theater “incubator” New Art City Theatre hosts live readings and workshops and a summer festival of new works. Be sure to check the calendar at Namba Performing Arts Space, which hosts touring acts and welcomes local performers including improv comedy and open mic nights.
Mark Your Calendar: More than 200 artists and dozens of venues join ArtWalk Ventura, which happens annually in September. the community-led weekend of art exHibits, live performances, film screenings, and more shows the passion for the arts in ventura.
Salt + Mane Salon
The Saloon Ventura
arts & culture
THE POWER OF A PLAY
In the mid-1990s, actors, arts marketers, and married couple Karyl Lynn Burns and James O’Neil were lured to Ventura from Santa Barbara to help revamp the Ventura Music Festival—and they never really left. “I fell in love with the people and the community,” says Burns. “There was a great sense of discovery and excitement around the arts here.”
They ended up cofounding Rubicon Theatre Company in 1998, and over the past 26 years, the company has produced more than 150 shows, not to mention special events and youth education programs. It has won two prestigious Drama Desk Awards.
Each season brings a mix of classic and contemporary works. Among the 2025 highlights are a twist on Shakespeare’s The Comedy of Errors (in collaboration with The Acting Company of New York) and the world premiere of Crazy Mama by Ojai-based playwright Sharon Scott Williams.
“There is nothing more moving to me than standing in the back of the theater and watching an audience quietly leaning forward, fully engaged in what is happening on stage—people of different backgrounds and beliefs sitting together in the dark, laughing and crying at the same thing,” says Burns. “In this moment of division in our world, I think art can be a great unifier.”
The Museum of Ventura County
The Museum of Ventura County engages participants in meaningful experiences with history, art, culture, and each other by sparking curiosity and encouraging compassion to build community and connection. The museum is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m, Thursday through Sunday. venturamuseum.org e @museumofventuracounty
Rubicon Theatre Company
At Ventura’s acclaimed Rubicon Theatre Company, housed in an historic former church, audiences have a rare opportunity to see actors they know from television and film, as well as major stars of Broadway, in an intimate, live setting. Rubicon’s 26th season, “Dare to Dream,” presents innovative dramas, comedies, and musicals, including world premieres; and a Ventura LIVE! series with concerts, comedy, and more. Season subscriptions and group discounts are available.
rubicontheatre.org
eGÊ @rubicontheatre
In the Heights by Lin-Manuel Miranda, directed by Luis Salgado
Mission Basilica San Buenaventura
Founded in 1782, the Old Mission is the last of nine missions founded by Saint Junípero Serra. Today, Mission Basilica San Buenaventura is an oasis in the historic district and remains an active Catholic parish. Lovely gardens, a museum and gift shop, and sacred works of art, including a statue of Michelangelo’s Pietà endorsed by the Vatican, evoke reflection and serenity. Open daily for tours; check website for Mass schedule. sanbuenaventuramission.org | G @sanbuenaventuramission
New Art City Theatre
Witness the birth of new plays and musicals at New Art City Theatre, the freshest addition to the Ventura performing arts scene. The company’s annual festival features staged readings, audience feedback sessions and opportunities to meet the writers. Best of all, the festival is presented to the community for free. Running June 12–14 at the Museum of Ventura County, it’s a must-see event! Visit the website for full details.
newartcitytheatre.org | eG @newartcitytheatre
The Reagan Library
The Reagan Library offers a fascinating look at President Ronald Reagan and pivotal moments in American history. Tour an actual Air Force One plane and a Marine One helicopter, and marvel at an F-117 Nighthawk stealth fighter and M1 Abrams battle tank at the Peace through Strength Pavilion. Visit reaganlibrary.com to learn about upcoming programs and special exhibitions. reaganlibrary.com
eú @reaganfoundation G @ronaldreagan
LORE PHOTOGRAPHY
Lamont Oakley in Swimming Up the Sun by Nicole Burton
Yes, Chef!
Meet the talents behind some of the most delicious dishes in Ventura.
BY CASEY CANTRELL
KELLY BRIGLIO PARADISE PANTRY
For Kelly Briglio, food is a family affair. Growing up in Ojai, Briglio never lived more than a few houses away from her Italian grandparents, and her mom and grandma would cook meals for the family almost every night.
“Being one of five kids, with my parents and grandparents, the dinner table was always full,” says Briglio. “As I got older, bringing people together around food was second nature.”
She continues that community legacy at Paradise Pantry, a restaurant and market where every dish is a celebration of the local. Briglio is committed to using ingredients from regional farms, and her seasonal menu highlights the bounty of the area. The restaurant’s website even includes biographies for vendors alongside staff profiles.
The menu is complemented by the selection of local and imported beers, ciders, and wines, plus a doggie menu for your furry friends.
Briglio constantly experiments, serving up a long list of weekly changing specials and a few favorites (with seasonal touches) available year-round. The Pantry cheese plate, a platter of four cheeses served with fruit, marcona almonds, toasted walnuts, and marinated olives, has been a staple at Paradise Pantry since it first opened in 2007. Kel’s Killer Mac, a special, is pure indulgence with pasta smothered in three cheeses and accompanied by black truffle, caramelized onion, and roasted garlic.
“I am passionate about representing and supporting all the people who give my craft meaning,” she says. “I believe in the people behind the food and wine we serve—real food, real people, real stories.”
Seasonal-inspired plates at Paradise Pantry
STEVEN DU STRANGE BEAST
He’s the head chef at two restaurants and the catering lead at another—plus, he runs a separate, lunch-only takeout service. To say Steven Du is busy is an understatement.
A Ventura native, Du acquired his work ethic from his parents. On their one day off, the family would cook together, preparing meals for the week. “At first, I hated it, thinking it was more chores on the weekend,” he says. “But as I got older, I began to appreciate the time I had with my parents while learning to love the art of cooking.”
After culinary school, Du spent 10 years in Las Vegas, where he visited and worked at some of the best izakaya spots in the country. That inspiration is on full display at Strange Beast, a moody, izakaya-style restaurant that evokes one of the coolest neo-noir films you’ve ever seen.
As head chef, Du puts a modern spin on classic Japanese dishes—like the salmon soboro don with rice, salmon flakes and roe, and a marinated egg, or the chicken karaage, Du’s signature dish of fried chicken served with tosazu vinegar and spicy mayo. And then there’s the popular Ramen Sundays, a weekly event featuring a rotating ramen that often sells out. All of this is paired with a pop culture–inspired cocktail menu that’s big on Japanese whiskeys and sake.
“It’s all about the passion that fuels me,” says Du. “My favorite thing is creating something that I can share with friends, family, and customers, and seeing their faces light up.”
R to L: Steven Du, Tyler Peek, and Ryan Simorangkir
JOEL HUFF
FRONTSIDE CAFE
Frontside Cafe exudes California cool: airy, beachy ambiance; delicious, freshly roasted coffee; and a flavorful, health-focused menu.
Co-owner and head chef Joel Huff is a Ventura County native whose regional roots run deep: He is a descendant of the Maulhardts, a prominent agricultural family that migrated here more than 150 years ago. His passion for cooking took him across the country and back, working under the likes of José Andrés and Nori Sugie and helming restaurants in Miami, San Francisco, and Santa Barbara. He returned to Ventura, and in 2020, Huff and his wife, Charne, opened Frontside.
“This is where our kids want to grow up,” says the fifth generation Venturan. “I’d travel to work for chefs, and kept hopping, skipping, and jumping around, but wherever I went didn’t feel like home. Ventura is my home.”
You’re sure to feel right at home with Frontside’s elevated takes on cafe classics like the smashed avocado toast and the açai bowl, as well as tastes of Down Under inspired by the cuisine of Charne’s native Australia. A favorite is the Fresh Aussie, a nutritional powerhouse of smoked salmon, avocado, spinach, tomatoes, pistachio pesto, and poached organic eggs served with sourdough toast. And with weekly specials, there’s always room for a surprise on the menu.
“I love working with different ingredients,” says Huff. “Tackling things I’m not used to doing, making dishes, and being like, ‘Whoa, I did that.’ After 35 years of cooking, I truly still love it.”
Joel Huff (foreground) plates appetizers.
FIVE FOR FIDO
1. Beg for bacon at Pete’s Breakfast House. (We won’t tell!)
2. Slurp a cup of pup-cream at Coastal Cone in Ventura Harbor Village. (Don’t worry dog parents— it’s made with probiotic yogurt.)
3. Take a snooze on the patio at Peirano’s or Rumfish Y Vino while the humans have dinner.
4. Sniff out a sunny spot on the patio at one of Ventura’s breweries, and settle in for a fun afternoon with your human. (Pro tip: Each of Ventura’s 10 breweries are dog-friendly!)
5. Shop for accessories, treats, and toys at Dogtown
Dining Guide
Where to grab a great meal any time of day.
BUT FIRST, BREAKFAST
Start your day the right way. For classic a.m. favorites (think eggs, pancakes, and bacon), check out Cafe Nouveau, Golden Egg Cafe, Busy Bee Cafe, and Pete’s Breakfast House. Mornings are made even better when the first meal of the day has an international twist: Head to Immigrant Son Caffe for Italianinspired plates (the breakfast lasagna has béchamel marinara, prosciutto, and a fried egg) or Frontside Cafe for a proper Australian breakfast or toasted Japanese milk bread. Spice things up at Cajun Kitchen Café (jambalaya and eggs, anyone?) and save room for beignets. Grab a bite at Harbor Cove Cafe before a late-morning ferry. On the lighter side, try a Seaster smoothie, a bright and creamy blend of pineapple, mango, and coconut milk, from Edenic Smoothies, an avocado toast from Caje Coffee, or a fresh, cold-pressed juice at Juice Swell
MIDDAY MEALS
Let’s do lunch—the Ventura way! For hearty sandwiches that are perfect for taking to the beach, consider Paradise Pantry, Peirano’s, Ventura Sandwich Company, or Harbor Mart Try the tri-tip sandwich or chicken burrito at Marshall’s Bodacious BBQ. But this is Ventura, after all, so you simply must try a taco (or three) while you’re here. Go for fish tacos at Spencer Makenzie’s Fish Co., made with your choice of grilled or tempura-battered sushi-grade fish. Craving authentic Michoacán-style carnitas? Head to Carnitas El Rey. For more Mexican options, consider La Parilla, Limón y Sal, Taqueria Cuernavaca, and Yolanda’s Mexican Cafe.
A DELICIOUS DINNER FINALE
From global flavors to seafood and steak, Ventura is a great dinner date. Globetrotting flavors infuse dinner menus around town. For pho, ramen, and rice bowls, head for Asiatique Eatery. Indian food is on the menu at Himalaya Restaurant, including classic chicken tikka masala. Find Central American-inspired dishes such as cochinita pibil tacos and Caribbean fish stew at Rumfish Y Vino
Head off the beaten path to The Cave restaurant, located inside The Ventura Wine Company, for an ever-changing menu of small plates, pizzas, and salads. The restaurant at Paradise Pantry also keeps diners guessing (in the best possible way!) with its changing menu; weekly mac ’n’ cheese specials keep in-the-know locals coming back. Caje Coffee transforms into Ten Tigers in the evening, serving craft cocktails with elevated bar bites like Greek lamb sliders.
Another cocktail bar, Model Citizen, serves small plates, such as kanpachi crudo, that emphasize local and regional ingredients.
Cafe Zack is known for its filet mignon, encrusted in peppercorns and topped with porcini mushrooms. At Aloha Steakhouse, the filet mignon is prepared tableside, flambéed with Grand Marnier.
If you’ve spent the day at the beach, follow the surfers to Tony’s Pizzaria, a local institution that’s been slinging pies since 1959. Or, if you still have the energy to party, head for Toppers Pizza Place for inventive pies like Hawaiian heat or carnitas chipotle.
CAFFEINE FIX
• Beacon Coffee
• Cafe Ficelle
• CRAVE
• Kaapicat Cafe
• Lovewell Tea & Coffee
• Palermo
Coffee
• Palm and Boy Coffee and Acai
• Prospect
Coffee
Roasters
• Singing Sun
Coffee
MARKETS
Saturday’s Downtown Ventura County Certified Farmers’ Market is a feast for all the senses and a beloved local ritual. Peruse the produce, flowers, honey, baked goods, and more. On Wednesday mornings, the Midtown Ventura Certified Farmers’ Market is held in the Pacific View Mall parking lot.
If it’s seafood you crave, head to the Harbor Saturday mornings for the Ventura Fisherman’s Market Arrive early for the best selection.
Paradise Pantry
Aloha Steakhouse
Peirano's
The Cave
Rumfish Y Vino
There is something for everyone at Beach House Tacos
Seaside Seafood
Where to drop anchor for ocean-fresh fish at restaurants around Ventura.
SHELLFISH
At San Buenaventura State Beach Park, The Jolly Oyster serves its sustainably grown oysters. Shuck your own, slurp them with sauce on the half shell, or try them grilled or fried. Hungrier? Head to Crab N Spice for all-you-can-eat crawfish or crab served family style with your choice of sauce (try Cajun coconut) and sides. For more elevated fare, Boatyard Pub offers sea scallops in rich garlic butter.
CLAM CHOWDER
Andria’s Seafood Restaurant and Market makes its chowder daily from scratch. After a bowl, pop over to its seafood market for fresh catch—a delicious souvenir for regional visitors. The New England–style chowder at Water’s Edge Restaurant and Bar boasts red potatoes and smoked bacon.
FISH TACOS
At Beach House Tacos on Ventura Pier, there are myriad options: grilled or fried white fish, grilled salmon, popcorn shrimp, seared ahi, or fried calamari. Or try a
shark taco with pickled onions and chipotle crema at Baja Bay Surf N Taco. Want more? The grilled fish and shrimp burrito at Spencer Mackenzie’s Fish Co. was named America’s Best Burrito by polling website FiveThirtyEight.
CEVICHE AND AHI
Downtown hotspot Rumfish Y Vino makes Peruvian ceviche with red snapper, ginger, lime, and habanero, and a halibut version with mango, jicama, and avocado. At Aloha Steakhouse, seared ahi soars with ginger-soy butter and wasabi cream sauce. For ahi in a taco or in a poke bowl, head to Eric Ericsson’s Fish Co.
FRESH CATCH
For pasta, you can’t go wrong at two multilocation regional favorites: Lure Fish House serves a lobster ravioli striped with squid ink, while the seafood pasta at Brophy Bros. boasts fresh shrimp and scallops sauteed with garlic, lemon, and wine. If you feel like fish and chips, head to Harbor Cove Cafe for fried cod or mahi-mahi.
Sustainably grown oysters from Jolly Oyster
Pop, Fizz, Twist
From tasting rooms to cocktail bars, sip the spirit of Ventura.
BY CASEY CANTRELL
THROUGH THE GRAPEVINE
Overlooking the Ventura Harbor, Deep Sea Wine Tasting Room pairs a maritime theme with delicious vinos from Conway Family Wines. Internationally inspired and locally made, Four Brix Winery showcases the versatility of Central Coast grapes. Wildflower Winery offers low-intervention wines that emphasize the vibrant flavors of each grape variety. With an focus on small-batch wines, Lester Family Cellars
and Trois le Fou share a tasting room and a passion for winemaking, while Plan B Wine Cellars’ down-to-earth vibe makes for a great tasting experience and even better wine. Happy Accidents focuses on natural, organic, and avant-garde-style wines.
Perfect for a date night or winding down with friends, Buddy’s Wine Bar and The Cave pair intimate settings with a wide selection of local and imported wines and regular events, including live music and even tarot readings.
SPIRITED AWAY
Start your cocktail journey with a tour and a tasting at Ventura Spirits. The distillery highlights the region’s agricultural bounty with its selection of unique handcrafted spirits and canned cocktails. Then take a vacation during your vacation with a visit to VenTiki Tiki Lounge & Lanai, a groovy, Hawaii-inspired cocktail bar that serves up some of the best vibes in town.
Looking to impress your date? Rocks & Drams is a delightful
mix of cozy and classy with its inviting ambience and masterful mixology paired with Japanesestyle cuisine. Or spend an evening at Bank of Italy Cocktail Trust, a former bank-turned-bar pouring Italian-style libations.
One of the newest cocktail bars in town, the modern, stylish Ten Tigers presents a menu of classics with a twist and bold originals alongside a menu of elevated, Pan-Asian cuisine. End the evening with dancing: Bombay Bar & Grill offers craft cocktails and two dance floors.
Ventura Spirits
Deep Sea Wine Tasting Room
SOAK UP THE VIEWS FROM MADEWEST
Located at the base of the Ventura Pier. For more on the pier, turn to page 23.
What’s on Tap
With 10 breweries (and counting), Ventura is a craft beer destination.
BY CASEY CANTRELL
In 2000, Anacapa Brewing Company (now closed) introduced Ventura to the craft beer craze. Today, the trend is a tidal wave, thanks to the city’s rapidly growing collection of breweries.
Set the vibe for your beach town getaway at Poseidon Brewing Co. This maritimethemed brewery boasts a massive selection of year-round, seasonal, and one-off beers, so order a flight and sample favorites like Ironclad Irish red ale, Chocolate Starfish stout, and Dive! Dive! Dive! double IPA. For brews with a view, you can’t do much better than MadeWest Brewing Company’s pier location. Order from nearby Beach House Tacos and pull up a chair overlooking the ocean as you sip on one of the award-winning beers created by Mike Morrison, a rising star in the craft beer
scene. (We highly recommend the West Coast pale ale.)
Make it dinner and a brewski at Transmission Brewing. Located in a converted auto shop, the hyper-sleek taproom is next door to Toppers Pizza, ideal for pairing your crisp, German-style lager with a freshly made pie. (Pro tip: Grab a table in the rooftop dining area for incredible ocean views.) Or pay a visit to BellRinger Brew Co, one of only three breweries in town to offer its own food. Enjoy a pint from the rotating tap of BellRinger brews and guest beers complemented by a menu of classic American eats. Rincon Brewing serves up delicious bar fare—from house-made clam chowder to overloaded burgers—that goes perfectly with its extensive draft list of refreshing lagers, crisp IPAs, and malty ales.
Like your beer with flavors of sustainability and a hint of poetry? Leashless Brewing uses only 100% certified organic ingredients for its Belgian-style beers, and pairs each brew with an original haiku. Try the Tri-Fin Tripel: “Stalwart companion / Gliding thru difficult days / Refreshing resolve.”
Great beer always draws a crowd, so it’s no coincidence that Topa Topa Brewing Co. is consistently bustling. It has earned a reputation for having some of the best brews in SoCal, and with a regularly changing lineup of seasonal beers, there’s always a new favorite to discover. If you’re looking for laid-back vibes, Ventura Coast Brewing Company is your go-to spot. The bright, open-air taproom in Downtown Ventura is ideal for afternoon hangouts or winding down after dinner, and the well-rounded selection of IPAs, ales, and lagers means there’s something for everyone.
For an impromptu beer crawl, head to Ventura’s manufacturing district-turned-brewery haven off Telephone Road. Along with Topa Topa and MadeWest’s sister locations, you’ll find Seaward Brewing, a small but mighty taproom that treats every visitor like family (go for the Low Tide IPA and High Tide double IPA) and Bright Spark Brewing, a welcoming, family-friendly space that offers craft beer staples alongside wine, kombucha, and hard seltzer. For beer with a twist, try the shandy—your choice of beer blended with a shot of house-made lemonade.
“I think any created product is a reflection of the environment and the people that made it. There’s just something in the water in Ventura! At a small brewery like Ventura Coast Brewing Company, you have to experiment to stay relevant. See our creative side on Thursdays, when we put on a single keg of a unique beer, such as watermelon pilsner or Tajín Mexicanstyle lager.”
—Kyle
Thille, founder of Ventura Coast Brewing Company
Bright Spark Brewing
Mothers
The journey to open Mothers, Ventura’s newest full-service Mexican restaurant, taqueria y churrería, started in the Napa Valley but is deeply rooted in la cultura de Mexico. A partnership between good friends—some stateside and some permanently fixed in CDMX—Mothers aims to celebrate the doña presence in Mexico City.
The menu is built around a lineup of classic street tacos, all served on hand-formed tortillas made with heirloom corn and filled with premium meats, cooked al carbon—over a charcoaland mesquite-fired grill. Accompanying the tacos are a variety of entradas like aguachiles and crispy chicharrón bites, traditional Mexican soups and salads, and a small but striking list of platos fuertes meant to be ordered and enjoyed familia style. The restaurant will also feature an authentic churrería serving freshly fried churros with dipping chocolate to finish your meal. In true cantina style, Mothers will boast a full bar with a variety of beverages, including cold beer, tequila and mezcal margaritas, and made-fromscratch aguas frescas. Mothers will open in Spring 2025.
motherstacos.com | eG @motherstacos
Paradise Pantry Restaurant
Paradise Pantry serves the neighborhood as a great restaurant, an acclaimed cheese counter, and a remarkable wine shop. Co-owner chef Kelly Briglio uses the seasonal bounty of the Central Coast to create dishes like house-made pasta, made-from-scratch soups, and farm-fresh salads that entice every palate and pair well with co-owner Tina Thayer’s curated wine list. Begin with a cheese plate, enjoy a seasonal main dish, and end with a delicious dessert. Dine on the patio or inside, or order takeout. Don’t miss shopping next door at the Paradise Pantry Artisan Market. paradisepantry.com e @paradisepantrymarket
Rumfish Y Vino
Owners Pam and John Solomon opened the first Rumfish Y Vino in Belize, and their Downtown Ventura gastro-bar evokes the tropical charm of the original. Sip on specialty cocktails and feast on Central American-inspired plates on the gorgeous patio under a canopy of lemon trees and twinkling lights. On weekends, visit The Livery next door and shop for locally made wine, spirits, and artisan goods.
rumfishyvinoventura.com eG @rumfishyvino
Yolanda’s Mexican Cafe
Yolanda’s Mexican Cafe celebrates more than 40 years of serving authentic Mexican dishes in a fun, friendly atmosphere. Don’t miss tasty drinks and appetizer specials during happy hour every Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. (bar and patio areas only). Find Yolanda’s Mexican Cafe in Ventura, Oxnard, Camarillo, and Simi Valley. yolandasmexicancafe.com eG @yolandasmexicancafe
Aloha Steakhouse
As Ventura’s only beachfront steak house, Aloha Steakhouse is a must when visiting. It’s located just a few yards from the ocean and Ventura Pier.
Inside, the Aloha vibes continue. Teak wood chandeliers and local ocean-themed artwork fill the space. You can see the ocean from every table inside the restaurant and on the patio. Every item on the menu is made from scratch, down to the hand-cut steaks and seafood dishes. Try the seared ahi with ginger-soy butter, or make a big impression with a peppered filet steak flambéed tableside.
Savor Aloha Steakhouse’s ambince with a leisurely lunch (11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.) Or, time your reservation for sunset and snag a table on one of the dog-friendly outdoor patios. Come enjoy a two-hour vacation at Aloha Steakhouse.
alohasteakhouse.com
e @aloha.steakhouse | G @alohasteakhouse
Asiatique Eatery
At Asiatique Eatery, original Pan-Asian recipes combine Thai, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese influences and flavors into a uniquely unified cuisine. Ramen, udon, and other noodle dishes and specialties are made with the finest ingredients, and are served in an elegant space in Downtown Ventura.
asiatiqueonmain.com e @asiatique_eatery G @asiatique-eatery
Carnitas El Rey
Legendary tacos meet excellent service at this popular Ventura eatery. Carnitas El Rey specializes in slow-cooked Michoácan-style carnitas, heaped into homemade tortillas or stuffed into gigantic burritos. Dress up your tasty tacos at the salsa and topping bar, and enjoy them with an agua fresca, horchata, or ice-cold Mexican Coke. Feeding a crowd? The family pack is sure to hit the spot. Carnitas El Rey is also located in Oxnard (the original) and Santa Paula.
e @carnitaselreyoficial
Joe Kapp Real Estate Inc.
Make yourself at home in Ventura County. Since 1973, Joe Kapp Real Estate Inc. has helped countless clients put roots in and around Ventura. The locally owned firm serves all of Ventura County, including Ojai, Ventura, Oxnard, Port Hueneme, Santa Paula, Fillmore, and Camarillo. Owner, broker, and Ventura local Bridget Goncalves and her team bring deep insights and expertise to help buyers relocate to the area and find the real estate investment that’s the perfect fit. From buying a permanent home here to rental services, investment homes sales, and responsive property management, Joe Kapp Real Estate Inc. makes your Ventura real estate plans a reality. Email info@joekapprealestate.com for more information. joekapprealestate.com | eG @joekapprealestate
DRE #01958206
Getting Here
Whether you prefer planes, trains, or automobiles, getting to Ventura is easy.
EXTENDING YOUR STAY
It’s a common scene for many longtime Ventura visitors: That last sunset over the ocean on the final night of vacation leaves you thinking, I could live here. With its laid-back vibe, pristine beaches, and a lively Downtown, it's understandable why Ventura draws so many people in, and visitors keep returning again and again. Here, it’s easy to strike the right balance between work and play. Imagine waking up with a walk on the sand or an early-morning surf sesh, then heading back to your home office to start the workday. When the clock strikes five, a quick jaunt puts you in the middle of a walkable Downtown with dozens of locally owned breweries and restaurants. Now that’s the good life.
FLY
Ventura is a straight shot from three airports. Just 60 miles south, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is a popular gateway for nonstop flights. Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) is a small facility with an Amtrak stop and is a great launch point roughly 70 miles south of Ventura along US-101. Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) is 30 miles north via California’s iconic Highway 1 (part of US-101 for this stretch).
RIDE
Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner is a convenient, eco-friendly way to travel. Connecting cities from San Diego to San Luis Obispo, the train stops Downtown. Dogs (up to 20 pounds), bikes, and skateboards are welcome aboard. And since Ventura is fantastically walkable, with hotels, restaurants, theaters, beaches, and historic sites within a 10-block radius of Downtown, you’re all set when you arrive.
DRIVE
Ventura is the perfect place for an overnight stop on a Pacific Coast Highway road trip. If you’re flying in, rent a car for the duration of your trip, or book a seat with a shuttle service, such as Smart Shuttle and Ventura County Airporter, from all three airports. Whether you’re driving your own car or using a rental, Ventura is easy to navigate and offers ample parking. So buckle up and head out on the open road.
Hot Tickets
WINTER
Holiday Tree Lighting (December) downtownventura.org
Winter Wine Walk (December) venturawinterwinewalk.com
Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights (December) venturaharborvillage.com
Dia de Los Muertos (November) diadelosmuertosventura.com
Ventura County Farm Day (November)
Tequila & Taco Music Festival
Santa Paula, Fillmore, and Piru
Discover the vibrant Santa Clara River Valley, where outdoor adventure meets local charm. Santa Paula, Fillmore, and Piru beckon with scenic landscapes along Highway 126, framed by citrus groves and rolling hills. Start your journey with a Sunburst Railbike tour and pedal through lush orchards with a farm stop at Prancer’s for fresh produce and family fun.
Art and history lovers can explore the Union Oil Building, Aviation Museum, Fillmore’s Towne Theatre, the Santa Paula Art Museum, and the Agricultural Museum, all steeped in early 20th-century architecture. For nature enthusiasts, Lake Piru offers boating, fishing, and serene camping beneath the stars, while Santa Paula’s KOA promises a cozy retreat for families.
Enjoy local flavors with stops at roadside stands offering fresh fruits and vegetables. Explore Santa Paula’s cozy cafes and Mexican eateries, Fillmore’s farm-to-table restaurants, and Piru’s charming diners, all perfectly complementing your outdoor adventures and nostalgic escapes. heritagevalleyca.org | G @heritagevalleyca | e @destinationhv
Sunburst Railbike Experience
Lake Piru
Ventura Beach Marriott
For work, play, and everything in between, Ventura Beach Marriott’s fresh, modern spaces and thoughtful amenities make it the perfect locale for bringing business to the beach.
The hotel offers a contemporary Ventura Beach location just blocks from the beach and close to all that Downtown has to offer. Stay focused and energized with more than 16,000 square feet of flexible indoor and outdoor meeting space. Gather in the expansive pre-function space for collaborative meetings in an inspiring atmosphere, and kick back with post-meeting cocktails in the hotel’s sunlit venues. Dedicated expert event planners can help ensure that your gathering or business function is a success. For downtime, Downtown Ventura’s relaxing coastal vibes beckon with shopping, dining, and exploration.
