A protective peninsula surrounds Ventura Harbor’s five marinas and oceanfront dining and shopping. Savor fresh seafood, play on sandy beaches or get out on the water to boat, fish or observe birds and marine life.
Explore the Pacific Ocean from Ventura Harbor. Rent watercraft ranging from kayaks and paddleboards to powerboats and Jet Skis. Try sportfishing. Harbor tours or dinner cruises offer stress-free hours on the water. Go whale watching to spot sea creatures including humpbacks, orcas, dolphins and sea lions. Catch a boat to Channel Islands National Park for outstanding wildlife viewing, sea kayaking and diving. Hike inland and camp overnight.
Put on your swimsuit and enjoy the sun and surf. Harbor Cove Beach, also called Mother’s Beach, is known as one of the area’s safest beaches. Appreciate the stunning views of the Ventura coastline and boats coming in and out of the harbor. Go kayaking or swim in the blue ocean.
Catch a wave at Surfer’s Knoll Beach. Search for shells and sea glass in the sand or walk along the beach’s bird sanctuary. Experienced surfers take advantage of the surf break at the mouth of the Santa Clara River. Because of rip tides, swimming is not recommended here.
Sample fresh seafood at Ventura’s many restaurants and cafés. Get your own catch of the day at the weekly Saturday Fisherman’s Market. Tuna, halibut, prawn, crab, sea cucumber and more are available fresh off the boats. If you prefer, have seafood prepared for you at Andria’s Seafood Restaurant and Market, a famous local institution.
Visit the one-of-a-kind boutiques and restaurants under red tile rooftops at Ventura Harbor Village. Play arcade games or ride on the indoor carousel. Relax and laugh at the Ventura Harbor Comedy Club.
Travel conveniently on the fun and free Downtown Harbor Trolley. Go between the downtown Ventura Visitor Center and Ventura Harbor Village on a classic open-air trolley car, with stops at hotels and attractions.
Ventura Harbor has moderate weather for pleasant visits any time of year. Drive here in 15 minutes from the center of Ventura or about 90 minutes north from Los Angeles.
