Free Family Fun in Ventura County Coast

Bring the kids along for a memorable vacation, fun for all ages!

Ventura County Coast offers a surprising amount of free and fun activities perfectly suited for families looking to keep their vacation expenses low. From beach days to museum trips and hiking to surfing, families will experience a relaxing and affordable California vacation when visiting Camarillo, Oxnard, Ventura and Port Hueneme.

Surfer’s Point

Just one of the many breathtaking beaches along Ventura County Coast, this tucked-away beach off C-Street in Ventura is a surfer’s paradise.

Downtown Ventura

Perfect for an afternoon stroll or bike ride, Downtown Ventura attracts crowds to its many free events all year long, including the Winter Wine Walk and Fourth of July parade and fireworks.

Photo Credit:@lightningkev

Camarillo Ranch House

Built in 1892, the Camarillo Ranch House is a beautifully preserved Queen Anne Victorian home, complete with acres of farmland, stables, and a barn. The Ranch House offers free tours and it’s also the home of many free Camarillo festivals all year long.

Silverstrand Beach

Located near the Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard, this gem of a beach is a treasure trove of shells! Silver Strand Beach is by far the most popular beach to visit in Oxnard, offering beach-goers great surfing, fishing, kayaking, long walks along the warm white sand, cool to moderate water temperatures, and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Photo Credit: @aquamarie101

Serra Cross Park

Watch the Pacific waves from Serra Cross Park high above the city of Ventura. The cross was originally erected as a visitor beacon in 1872 by Franciscan priest Father Junipero Serra at the same time he built the San Buenaventura Mission.

Marina Park

With a wide sandy beach, walking paths, fishing areas and plentiful grass expanses, Marina Park is the perfect spot for a beach picnic, playing sports with the kids and relaxing with the family. There are plenty of picnic tables and barbecue grills for parties and young kids can play on the swings and slides that overlook the beach below.

Photo Credit: @Ventura.Pop.Up.Yoga

Chumash Trail

Take in the ocean views of Ventura County on the Chumash Trail, a 6.5-mile loop beginning in Point Mugu. Hiking the Chumash Trail up the coastal mountain you’ll gain a significant amount of elevation in just a short amount of time so make sure to bring an experienced hiker in your group.

Ventura Harbor

Known as California’s Seaside Playground, Ventura Harbor Village is a must-see for families! The gateway to the Channel Islands National Park and Marine Sanctuary, the village offers fun harbor and water activities, a vintage carousel and arcade, ice cream and candy stores, more than a dozen ethnic eateries and boutique shopping, making it a top destination for all ages.

Photo Credit: @rorosfuzzyphotos

California State University Channel Islands

CSUCI has a rich history with Spanish-style buildings dating back to 1934, as well as one of the country’s most stunning university libraries. Make sure to stay for the sunset, which takes place right over the library courtyard.

Photo Credit: @csuci

Port Hueneme Lighthouse

One of many Ventura County historic treasures, the Port Hueneme Lighthouse has been shining since 1874. The lighthouse is open the third Saturday of each month for free tours.

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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.