What to do in Ventura, CA

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Ventura

Types of activities

Where to stay

Ventura travel guide

Channel Islands National Park which includes general coastal views and rugged coastline

Channel Islands National Park showing kayaking or canoeing, rocky coastline and a pebble beach

Ventura Harbor showing a bay or harbour, sailing and a river or creek

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What to do in Ventura

Popular places to visit

Ventura Harbor

Appreciate delicious seafood, sandy beaches, whale watching and charming friendliness in this waterfront area with access to Channel Islands National Park.

Ventura Pier

Enjoy seafood or tacos at the foot of this pier and wander along its old wooden planks for panoramic views of the Channel Islands.

Ventura City Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Ventura City Beach during your trip to Ventura? Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.

Emma Wood State Beach

Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Emma Wood State Beach during your travels in Ventura? Stroll along the area's waterfront or experience its lively festivals.

South Jetty Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at South Jetty Beach during your trip to Ventura? Stroll along the area's beautiful beaches or experience its lively festivals.

Ventura County Fairgrounds

Catch an event at Ventura County Fairgrounds during your trip to Ventura. Discover the area's top-notch restaurants and its entertainment choices.

Rincon Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Rincon Beach during your trip to Ventura? Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.

Solimar Beach

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Solimar Beach during your travels in Ventura. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.

San Buenaventura Mission

Find out about the history of Ventura with a stop at San Buenaventura Mission. Stroll along the area's seaside or simply savour its top-notch restaurants.

Explore areas of Ventura

Downtown Ventura

5/5(1 area review)

While visiting Downtown Ventura, you might make a stop by sights like San Buenaventura Mission and Ventura City Hall.

Pierpont Bay

5/5(1 area review)

If you're spending some time in Pierpont Bay, Ventura City Beach and San Buenaventura State Beach are top sights worth seeing.

Midtown

Though Midtown may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Ventura City Beach and Ventura Harbor.

Ventura Harbor Village

If you're spending some time in Ventura Harbor Village, Ventura Harbor and Channel Islands National Park are top sights worth seeing.

East End

While East End isn't home to many top sights, Golf N' Stuff and Olivas Adobe Historical Park are some notable places to visit nearby.

Westside

Westside might not have many top sights, but Ventura City Hall and San Buenaventura Mission are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Day trip destinations from Ventura

Oxnard

Carpinteria

Frequently asked questions

Is Ventura worth visiting?

Whether you're planning to experience the cultural attractions and local charm or sample regional foods and go on outdoor adventures, there are plenty of things to do in Ventura.

How do I spend a day in Ventura?

After you've visited major attractions like Ventura Pier and Ventura City Beach, spend the rest of your day experiencing Ventura's retail and dining scene.

What is the top tourist attraction in Ventura?

Ventura City Beach is one of the top tourist attractions in Ventura and should feature high on every sightseeing itinerary of the area.

Is three days enough to stay in Ventura?

Three days will be enough time to check out some popular city highlights, such as Ventura City Beach, Solimar Beach and Emma Wood State Beach. The average stay in Ventura is two days. If you have the time to extend your adventure, Santa Barbara isn't far away.

Is Ventura a walkable city?

That comes down to what you want to do and see in Ventura. Several key attractions, like Ventura City Beach and Emma Wood State Beach, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a stroll through some of Ventura's best neighbourhoods, Pierpont Bay is 3 kilometers away from downtown, while Downtown Ventura is 0.80 kilometers away from the centre and also within walking distance.

What are some activities to do in Ventura with kids?

If you're looking for activities and attractions for all of your group, check out these fabulous ideas for what to do in Ventura with kids.

What to do in Ventura for adults?

Whether you're a food lover, culture enthusiast or adventure seeker, there's lots of things to do in Ventura for adults including Ventura City Hall.

Are there free things to do in Ventura?

In Ventura, Ventura City Beach is a top spot for anyone planning to see the city without opening their wallet. Also, stroll around the local parks and neighbourhoods, and speak with a local tour guide. It's a good way to explore the best free things to do in Ventura.

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