15 Fun Things to Do Before School Starts

Your End of Summer Bucket List Awaits

Summer is in full swing, and we’ve got the perfect bucket list for families seeking adventure and unforgettable experiences in Ventura County Coast. Before the school bells ring, let’s make the most of August and September with activities and events that
celebrate the essence of summer in Camarillo, Port Hueneme, Oxnard, and Ventura. From beachside fun to cultural delights, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

1. Beach Bliss in Ventura County:

Grab your beach towels and sunscreen for endless days of sun, sand, and surf. Ventura County Coast has some of the best beaches across the California coast! Fun fact, Oxnard Beach Park was just voted number one Best Beach on the West Coast in USA Today 10Best Readers Choice Travel Awards! So come and experience it yourself in person.

2. Harbor Village Delights in Oxnard:

Explore Oxnard’s Channel Islands Harbor Village, a waterfront gem offering charming shops, delectable dining, and recreational activities. Rent a paddleboard or kayak, take a harbor cruise, or simply stroll along the promenade and soak in the peaceful views.

3. Family Friendly Events:

August and September are filled with family-friendly events throughout Ventura County Coast. Check out the local farmers’ markets, outdoor movie nights, and concerts in the park. These community gatherings provide an excellent
opportunity to bond with loved ones while enjoying the best of the region.

4. Camarillo’s Hidden Gems:

Discover Camarillo’s treasures, like the Camarillo Grove Park and its beautiful nature trails. Pack a picnic and immerse yourselves in the serene ambiance of this tranquil getaway.

5. Ventura’s Thriving Art Scene:

Explore the vibrant arts and culture scene in Ventura. Visit the Ventura Harbor Village Art Galleries or catch a live performance at the Majestic Ventura Theater. The city’s creative spirit will captivate both young and old.

6. Family-Friendly Farm Experiences:

Ventura County is known for its green and vibrant agriculture. Take the family to a local farm, where you can pick fresh produce, enjoy tractor rides, and savor delicious farm-to-table treats.

7. Port Hueneme Beach Park:

Spend a day at Port Hueneme Beach Park, where the little ones can frolic in the playground while you relax under the swaying palms. Enjoy the refreshing ocean breeze and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

8. Savor Coastal Cuisine:

Ventura County Coast offers a diverse culinary scene with delectable options for every palate. Savor mouthwatering seafood dishes, indulge in refreshing ice cream cones, or try a fusion of international flavors that will leave everyone delighted.

9. Outdoor Adventures:

Embark on thrilling outdoor adventures like hiking the Channel Islands National Park or biking along the Ventura River Trail. Explore the natural beauty of the region and create unforgettable memories.

10. Harbor Cruises & Island Hopping:

Venture on a boat tour or harbor cruise, and for a more daring experience, hopon a boat to Channel Islands National Park. Witness fascinating marine life, seacaves, and breathtaking island landscapes. Fun fact, the Channel IslandsNational Park is also known as the Galapagos of North America!

11. Stargazing on the Coast:

If this wasn’t on your bucket list before, we highly suggest adding it. Enjoy a magical evening with your family stargazing on the coast. Lay out a blanket on the beach or park to witness the wonders of the night sky.

12. Dive into Local History

Ventura County Coast is steeped in history, and offers lots of fun activities for the family. Visit the museums, historic sites, and landmarks to learn about the rich heritage of the region.

13. Family-Friendly Bike Rides:

Discover the joy of biking together as a family. Ventura County Coast offers bike-friendly paths with stunning scenery along the way and locations for bike rentals.

14. Wildlife Encounters

Ventura County is a hub for wildlife enthusiasts. The Ventura Botanical Gardens and Channel Islands National Park are perfect spots for local wildlife and sanctuaries to get up close and personal with nature.

15. Create Your Own Adventure

The best part of exploring Ventura County Coast is that you can create your own adventure! Whether it’s a leisurely day on the beach, a thrilling outdoor excursion, or an evening of stargazing, the possibilities are endless. To find your
VCC Vibe take our quiz and learn more about the region.

Back to School is Right Around the Corner!

Before the school doors open, make the most of your time in Ventura County Coast with these 15 fun-filled activities and events. From beachside bliss to cultural gems, there’s something for every family to enjoy. Don’t let summer slip away without experiencing the magic of this captivating region. So, pack your sense of adventure, gather the family, and let the unforgettable journey begin!

Tag your Ventura County Coast photos with #VCCVibes for a chance to be featured!

Ventura County Coast

Ventura County Coast is a string of four communities that radiate warmth from welcoming people and California sunshine. The region embodies the casual and active spirit of classic, where the seafood is fresh, the beer is handcrafted and the weather is the kind you dream about. Spend the day exploring miles of beaches, incredible harbors or lush green golf courses. Hop on a boat for a day trip to the Channel Islands National Park, where you can see breathtaking views of the Southern California coastline. With a bustling culture, high end and vintage shopping, a lively culinary spirit and beautiful outdoor experiences, Ventura County Coast calls on every visitor to find their vibe. From hiking and biking to sailing and snorkeling, from shopping and dining to just plain relaxing, Ventura County Coast will fill your days with a lifetime of memories.

Camarillo

An hour north of Los Angeles, Camarillo is nestled at the base of the Conejo foothills surrounded by verdant green fields and cool ocean breezes. With more than 300 days of sunshine a year, enjoy Camarillo alfresco. From outdoor shopping and concerts, to delicious dining and fun events, Camarillo has it all. With small town charm and a rich history, it is the place for romantic weddings and corporate venues. Visit the historical sites and museums during the day, and walk along Old Town for dinner and drinks at night. A great getaway for everyone, Camarillo is the ideal place to Come for the Sun, Stay for the Fun.

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Oxnard

Rally your tribe and head for the Central Coast. California cool, panorama-perfect, culturally authentic and vibrant beyond measure. Oxnard is home to miles of pristine white sand beaches, electric nightlife, some of the best taquerias in the state, historic Victorian era architecture, the California Strawberry Festival, and an expansively picturesque harbor that serves as the closest access point to the Channel Islands National Park. Just sixty miles northwest of LAX and in close proximity to Santa Barbara and other major destinations, Oxnard is one of California’s best kept secrets.