Book Your Stay
By Brigitte Najarian-Mier on September 24, 2025
While the rest of the country may be bundled up watching the leaves change, fall in California is quite the opposite: warm, great weather, low humidity, and the best time of year for sunsets.
Specifically, here in Ventura County, we’re hitting the pumpkin patches in our sandals and tank tops. No, seriously, it’s a fact that our fall can sometimes feel warmer than summer, and it’s often called “California’s second summer” (formerly Indian summer) by the American Meteorological Society. There are a ton of reasons why this happens, one of which is a shift in atmospheric pressure that suppresses the coastal marine layer. What that means is, our weather stays warmer longer (hence “second summer”).
Just an hour’s drive from Los Angeles, Ventura County Coast is easily accessible and perfectly situated along the California coastline. So if you’re tired of the cold, trade it in for a warmer fall escape. Here’s the science behind it:
Marine Layer
During the summer, our cold California current offshore cools the air above the ocean, which produces a marine layer, when low clouds and fog keep coastal temperatures mild. So by fall, the ocean has warmed up and the marine layer becomes weaker. Less fog leads to more sunshine.
📷 Marine layer over Channel Islands National Park, photo by @random_amazing_world
Santa Ana Winds
You may have heard of this weather event before, but the Santa Ana Winds are a type of downsloping, offshore wind. Air moves from the desert toward the coast, accelerating through gaps in the local terrain. This helps push coastal temps into the 80s or 90s.
📷 Santa Ana Winds shaping perfect waves along Pacific Coast Highway in Ventura.
Ocean Heat Lag
The ocean takes longer to heat up and cool down than land, so by early fall, the sea is at its warmest of the year. This, in turn, affects the coastal air temperatures to be warmer in the fall. Another phenomenon that occurs is upwelling. That’s when high winds push out warm surface water, bringing up nutrient-rich water from the ocean depths. And you know who benefits the most from this? Blue and humpback whales, so keep your eyes out and book a tour!
📷 Couple snorkeling at Channel Islands National Park during the fall season.
Fall in California: What to Do During Your Visit
Now that we’ve clearly established why fall is the superior season to travel to the Ventura County Coast, these are some of my favorite things to do as a local.
Seasonal Festivities
Stop by Camarillo for some pumpkin patch fun and berry picking at Underwood Family Farms. There are also plenty of family-friendly breweries nearby, like Institution Ale Co. They use the yeast from their beer batches to make homemade pizza dough. You’ve got to try it.
📷 Underwood Family Farms annual Fall Harvest Festival.
Outdoor Adventures
The Channel Islands National Park is calmer and quieter this time of year that’s great for wildlife viewing or hiking. The tranquil scenery and impeccable views will make you feel transported to a different place in time. You can even snorkel, dive, or kayak in the Landing Cove on Anacapa Island. Just a heads up, you need to take the park concessionaire boats or a private boat to get there.
📷 Kayaker enjoying picture perfect weather at Channel Islands National Park in October.
Surfing and Beach Days
With warmer waters and fewer crowds, now’s the time to enjoy the coast. From surfing in Oxnard and Port Hueneme to relaxing with a picnic by the shore, our beaches have something for everyone. Fun fact: some of our beaches are dog-friendly, just be sure to check the rules and regulations before you go!
Pro tip: if you’re interested in surfing, be sure to check the water temperatures ahead of time to pack accordingly.
📷 Surfer enjoying warm water temps in October.
Coastal Shopping
Looking for a more urban scene? My husband and I love walking through downtown Ventura. It features charming harborside boutiques, local art galleries, and a variety of restaurant options. Betty Belts is one of my favorite jewelry stores for ocean-inspired designs and Rice by Mama has the best Thai food.
📷 Historic Downtown Ventura sign off Highway 101 and California Street.
Looking to Book Your Stay?
Looking to book your stay? Now’s the best time! Rates are lower since this is the offseason. Many of us locals take this opportunity to book our staycations as well. We love to enjoy our state just as much as visitors — it’s what makes this place so special.
