Ventura is a lively beach town on California's sun-drenched coast, with easy access to the scenic Channel Islands. Spend your time strolling along Main Street, fishing off Ventura Pier and sipping your way through some of California's best craft breweries.

Things to do

It's hard to resist the charm of historic Ventura Pier. It's perched on San Buenaventura State Beach, a golden stretch of sand that's ideal for swimming, sunbathing and sandcastle building. Ventura is also known for its rolling surf at Surfer's Point, which is popular with local surfers and windsurfers.

Downtown Ventura is anchored by Main Street, a bustling thoroughfare lined with trendy cafes, juice bars and seafood restaurants. You'll also find historic sites like Mission San Buenaventura, home to a handsome Spanish colonial church built in 1809.

One of Ventura's biggest draws is its proximity to Channel Islands National Park. Boats depart from Ventura Harbor and whisk passengers to the uninhabited archipelago. You can kayak in Landing Cove, surf waves off Santa Rosa Island, snorkel at Scorpion Anchorage and spot a host of marine mammals, including humpback whales.

California is famous for its craft beer scene, and Ventura doesn't disappoint. Local institutions like Surf Brewery are making waves with session IPAs, dark porters and rye pale ales. Topa Topa Brewing Company is another local favourite, known for its award-winning Chief Peak IPA.

Getting around

Downtown Ventura is easy to explore on foot, with the beach minutes from Main Street. The drive to Ventura takes around one hour and you can get to Los Angeles International Airport in around 1.25 hours. Ventura County is also serviced by local bus routes.