Ventura, California

Gateway to coastal adventures

Coastal Ventura cityscape at twilight, vibrant lights, ocean in the background.

At the crossroads of coastal charm, culture, and endless adventure.

Surfer riding a wave at sunset, with an orange sky and distant mountains.

Known for its golden beaches and scenic beauty, Ventura is a proud surf town located on the Pacific Ocean, offering visitors plenty of outdoor activities on both land and sea.

The city is also a vibrant cultural hub with many art galleries and an active culinary community specializing in craft beverages and delicious seafood. The Chumash and Tongva peoples have lived in this area for generations and their influence continues to enrich Ventura’s culture.

What makes Ventura special?

Narrow rocky peninsula extending into bright blue ocean under a clear sky.

Access to the Channel Islands

As the gateway to Channel Islands National Park, Ventura offers the best way to experience this remote and beautiful archipelago home to many species found nowhere else.

Beach at sunset with birds by the shore.

Relaxing beaches

Ventura’s serene and beautiful beaches are perfect for sunbathing, surfing, or playing volleyball.

Humpback whale breaching in the ocean with distant hills in the background.

Whale watching

During winter and summer, Ventura is an excellent whale-watching spot, offering boat tours and shore-based viewing of migrating gray, humpback, and blue whales.

Street with palm trees leading to a white building under a clear blue sky.

Historic architecture

Ventura’s downtown features Spanish-style buildings, with some dating back to the 1700s, such as the historic San Buenaventura Mission. Other famous landmarks include the City Hall and Ventura Harbor Village.