Photo: Visit Ventura
Editor’s Note: This post is presented by our partners at Visit Ventura.
Nostalgic for the quiet surf towns of days gone by? That vibe is still alive and well in Ventura.
With year-round average temperatures of 70 degrees, world-class surf breaks, and a vibrant yet laidback community, Ventura has “classic California surf town” written all over it. The 30-mile stretch of coastline has been a favorite of surfers since the golden age of boardsports. But despite the reputation of world-renowned hotspots like Rincon and Mondo’s beaches and local favorite Surfer’s Point/C-Street, Ventura has managed to retain its unassuming, local charm — a rarity in today’s world.
Want to see what the California surf town of the good old days feels like? Here’s how to experience Ventura for yourself.
Get the Lay of the Land
Photo: Noah Lipstiz//Visit Ventura
Outdoor adventures are a way of life in Ventura. Miles of hiking and biking trails wind in and around the town, making it easy to get to know the area on foot. Along the coast, the Rincon Bike Trail and Ventura Promenade offer a collective 17 miles of paved pathways and ocean views. Bike rentals are available at Ventura Pier.
Or head to the mountains for a wholly different experience. Ten minutes from Ventura by car, Arroyo Verde Park offers 100 acres of protected public land. The hilly paths are a favorite of trail runners, and the ocean views from the park’s vantage point can’t be beat. Mountain and gravel bikers can pedal the 15-mile Sulphur Mountain Trail, which offers sweeping views of the Ojai Valley.
Local Tip: While you’re exploring town, don’t miss a chance to stock up on gear from Ventura’s unofficial outdoor brand — Patagonia. The famous retailer was founded locally in 1973 and maintains its Ventura headquarters and a flagship store downtown today.
Take a Day Trip Offshore
Photo: Noah Lipstiz//Visit Ventura
Just off the coast of Ventura, Channel Islands National Park and Marine Sanctuary is a must-visit. The chain of five islands is home to more than 2,000 flora and fauna, including 150 species unique to the islands — earning the park the nickname “The Galapagos of North America.”
Catch a boat from Ventura Harbor with Island Packers, the locally owned boat concessionaire that’s provided transport to the Channel Islands since 1968. Once you disembark, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to an era before cities popped up along the California coast. Set out on foot or by kayak to explore these magical islands to your heart’s content. Or, if underwater adventures are your thing, opt for a scuba tour to see the vibrant marine life under the surface.
Local Tip: Boats bound for the Channel Islands National Park depart from the Ventura Harbor. The bustling Ventura Harbor Village is a great spot to grab a bite after a day of adventure. Check out Brophy Bros. for a delicious meal with a side of harbor views. Or head to Andria’s Seafood & Market to try the restaurant’s famous fish n’ chips.
Turn the Whole Week into Taco Tuesday
Photo: Visit Ventura
Laidback surf towns are known for their affordable, yet delectable eats, and Ventura is no exception. Sample the town’s most famous fare in the Taco District. This mile-long stretch of Ventura Avenue is home to 14 local Mexican restaurants with authentic Mexican cuisine and deep community roots.
Each spot has its own flavor, which means you can’t try just one. Start at Surfer’s Point and make your way up the Avenue, letting your tastebuds be your guide. For top-notch fish tacos, Taqueria Ventura Doña Raquel’s is your spot. At El Taco de Jerez (aka the Red Taco Truck), ask for the off-menu quesarrito. Or for a truly unique taco, head to Indian Rasoi where you can try a chicken tikka masala taco on a naan shell.
Local Tip: Venture outside the Taco District for even more delicious Mexican eats. A local favorite since 1958, Casa de Soria is one of the oldest operating businesses in Ventura. While the restaurant has changed ownership over the years, the original Thompson Boulevard location and, more importantly, original recipes, like the famous double-cooked beans, are still part of the experience at this iconic eatery.
Go Surfing, Obviously
Photo: Visit Ventura
A visit to Ventura wouldn’t be complete without time on the water. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, Ventura’s wide variety of year-round waves offer a surfing experience for everyone. Intermediate and advanced surfers should check out one of Ventura’s most famous surf spots, Rincon Beach. Rincon’s reputation speaks for itself (good etiquette and patience is always a must so bring plenty of both). For a quieter experience, head to Emma Wood State Beach and take advantage of the spread out surf, or South Jetty for a mix of waves depending on conditions.
Beginners can get a feel for their surf legs at Mondo’s, where a steady stream of easy waves is always on offer. Don’t feel ready to venture out on your own? Give a local surf shop a ring to link up with an instructor. You can’t go wrong with any of these vendors:
- Surfclass.com
- Seaward Surf & Sport
- Ventura Surf School
- Mary Osborne Surf School
- Ventura Makos Surf Camp
Local Tip: If you’ve worked up an appetite catching waves, join the ranks of local surfers who’ve been refueling by the slice at Tony’s Pizzaria since 1959. Located on the corner of Thompson Boulevard and Figueroa Street, this locally owned pizza shop is less than half a mile from the famous Surfer’s Point, making it a popular spot for a post-session meal.
