Pedal Your Cares Away in Ventura County Coast

Can’t beat a good bike ride…

There’s nothing like rolling down the road (or along the trail) on your bike, the fresh breeze in your face and warm sun on your back. Here are some fun ways to keep the hobby going as Ventura County Coast starts to reopen. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a biking beginner, our region has beautiful bike paths fit for all levels.

Getting here

Want to “go green” on your trip? Bring your bike with you on the train! Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner and Coast Starlight trains allow standard bikes of up to 50 pounds with a bike reservation. Follow the link for more information, including bike measurements.

Oxnard Bike Trail

The Oxnard Bike Trail starts at the ocean side of Oxnard Beach Park and takes you south past Hollywood Beach and Channel Islands Harbor. It’s a flat, easy ride that’s perfect for the whole family. Experience authentic SoCal vibes while coasting along this trail and soaking in the gorgeous ocean views. Channel Islands Harbor is an ideal spot to relax and refuel after a day of riding. Dig in to seafood, pizza, Indian or Brazillian food and more! Many of the restaurants offer outdoor dining, wine, or beer on tap.

Santa Rosa Valley/Hill Canyon

Enjoy the sunset over the trees while rolling through Hill Canyon Trail in Camarillo’s Santa Rosa Valley. Challenge yourself with a ride on one of the uphill portions to really get your heart racing, or if you prefer to take it easier, stay on the flat trails. Stop at Santa Rosa Valley Regional Park, just near the trailhead if you want to make a pitstop or hang out in the warm California sunshine. There are plenty of picnic tables, barbecue grills, and even horseshoe pits.The Calleguas Creek Bike Path takes you along the east side of Camarillo and features pleasant views of the valley fields. It’s an easy bike path that’s great for all ages and serves as a connector between the city’s north and south sides.

Calleguas Bike Path

If you’re looking for a kid-friendly location, make sure to check out the Calleguas Creek Bike Path. It’s an easy ride along the east side of Camarillo that features epic views of the valley fields. If the kids get tired of pedaling, stop at Calleguas Creek Park for a snack and playtime on the jungle gym!

Port Hueneme Beach

Beachside cruise, anyone? Either bring your own or rent a bike from Wheel Fun Rentals in Port Hueneme and cruise along with the warm sun and sea breeze on your skin. Want to bike as a group? Rent a surrey so you can pedal and chat with your crew at the same time. Check out this brochure for tips and a map of existing bikeways within the city.

Ventura Beach Bike Trail

Starting at the mouth of the Ventura River, the Ventura Beach Bike Trail takes you along the C-Street Promenade, past Surfer’s Point and the Ventura Pier, and ends at San Buenaventura State Beach. It’s a great way to work up a good sweat and see iconic Ventura County Coast sights at the same time. If you’re in the mood for an ice-cold beer after your ride, head to MadeWest Brewing Company on the Ventura Pier. The 30-barrel tasting room is known for its flavorful American-style brews and is dog- and bike-friendly.

The Coastal Trail

The Coastal Trail begins at Emma Wood State Beach in Ventura and takes you along Highway 101 and the Pacific Coast Highway for some breathtaking coastal views. You’ll hit multiple parks along this bike path, such as Seaside Wilderness Park, Farla County Park, and Rincon Beach Park, so don’t forget to pack a picnic or at least some snacks to enjoy along the way. One of the more popular trails along this route is the Rincon Bike Trail, which starts at locally owned Ventura Bike Depot. It’s a great place to rent a bike or have your own repaired before getting on the trail.

The Ojai Valley Bike Trail

In the mood for a cycling challenge? The Ojai Valley Bike Trail runs parallel to Highway 33 and the Ventura River. It’s a well-maintained path with stunning views of the Los Padres Mountains connecting Ventura to Ojai. The ride is about 30 miles round trip—a worthwhile trip for moderate to experienced cyclists. The trees along the river provide lots of shade for water breaks, a quick stretch or a mid-ride photo op. After you finish your ride, cruise over to Main Street for drinks, dining, and shopping in Downtown Ventura. There’s something for everyone!

Harmon Canyon Preserve

Find 2,100 acres of stunning scenery along the Southern California coastline at Harmon Canyon Preserve. This nature preserve offers biking and hiking trails that stretch for miles. Explore the oak groves, canyons and hills on a leisurely bike ride. Take time to feel the wind in your helmet as you pedal and take in the sights, from rugged mountain ranges to the Channel Islands National Park.

Bicycle Safety Tips:

Always wear a helmet
Make sure the bike is the correct size and fit for you
Know and obey the rules of the road
Wear sun protection and a mask, when needed
Stay hydrated, pack snacks to help fuel your ride, and hand sanitizer

For more information on cycling, please visit Cycle California Coast.

Plan Your Trip

So where are you starting first? Take a trip to Ventura County Coast to stir up an unforgettable and delicious cocktail adventure.

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.