Welcome to Ventura
Classic surf town brimming with arts and culture
Surf breaks, pristine beaches, and lively community culture have established the charming Ventura as the quintessential California beach town, brimming with endless recreation, assorted eateries, and tons of entertainment. Set against the gleaming backdrop of the Santa Ynez Mountains, Ventura overlooks the Pacific, boasting stunning views of the coastline and proximity to the nearby Channel Islands. Its beautiful, palm tree-lined streets stretch toward a variety of homes evoking diverse architectural touches, from sleek contemporaries to Colonial Revivals.
Founded in 1866 and named after the Mission San Buenaventura, the town evolved around the mission compound, bursting with growth in the aftermath of the development of nearby oil fields in the 1920s. With ocean breezes to cool the atmosphere, residents revel in the pleasant Mediterranean climate enjoyed by most of SoCal. Miles of hiking trails wind throughout the city, museums, galleries, parks, and the Ventura Harbor with its fishing boats, seafood restaurants, and sprawling retail center. Perfectly tucked between Santa Barbara and LA, Ventura sits close enough to the bigger cities without actually thrusting denizens into the heart of the frenzy, an ideal escape for a relaxed, beachy getaway within reach of nearby cities.
What to Love
- Proximity to the beach
- Eclectic local eateries, galleries, and bars
- Dramatic views of the coastline
- Plentiful sunshine all year round
Local Lifestyle
A chill beach town for those who desire a laid-back California retreat with all the amenities and essentials of a bigger city, Ventura cradles a diverse populace at its heart, neighbors including people from different ethnicities, backgrounds, and lifestyles co-existing peacefully. Kids have access to some of SoCal’s greatest schools, and a great community college, while people tend to be friendly. Life here is full of activity, and it’s always easy to find like-minded people for all your interests!
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Ventura is a shoppers paradise, with charming local businesses spread out along its tranquil streets, from gift stores to chic boutiques, florists, and antique shops, everything you need can be bought in town! Stop into Bank of Books on Main Street for a vast selection of used or new books, and visit Folke if you’re looking for gorgeous vintage furniture and handmade home decor that weave together Scandinavian and California influences to give your space that Pinterest worth aesthetic. Order meticulously arranged bouquets from Fleur de Rye, or dash into Sea Things for enchanting sea-inspired treasures, including handmade jewelry, gift cards, and home decor.
For food, Brophy Bros., serves fresh local seafood catches in a casual harborfront space with a clam bar and refreshing Bloody Marys. Go in for small plates at the upscale Paradise Pantry, offering cheese platters, pastrami sandwiches, spicy soups, and puddings in a rustic-chic setting. At Casa Bella, you can treat yourself to delicious ribeye steak, mashed potatoes, and sea bass, or stop in for some great beers at Topa Topa Brewery.
Things to Do
Designated as a historical landmark, the Ventura Pier is the go-to spot for fishing and casual strolls especially at sunset when the views are resplendent and magical. The promenade runs right between the Pier and Surfers Point, used by walkers to get to the San Buenaventura State Beach area, where the promenade connects with a bike path that extends 15 miles all the way to Ojai.
Step out for an adventure through the Ventura Botanical Gardens, a spectacular destination with lush agricultural vistas and over 30,000 plant species from the Mediterranean climate zones of the world. Grab a few gifts from the artisan shop near the welcome center and take dazzling pictures to post on Instagram. Attend a concert at Surfer's Point LIVE, and if you’re in the mood for some water activity, the “Queen of the Coast”—Rincon Point—lies in wait for real surfing action, with its legendary surf spots boasting well-formed waves and long rides.
Schools
Alongside a community college, Ventura is home to some of California’s most prestigious schools renowned for their excellent programs and outstanding extracurricular activities. Top educational opportunities include: