Local Vibe: Carson Peterson

We love Ventura County Coast, but we’re not the only ones! Find out what makes this area so special from the people who know it best. Our “Local Vibe” stories provide an insider’s look at the region as we learn about favorite places to eat, shop, play and explore as well as tips on what to bring when you visit.

Meet: Carson Peterson

Did you grow up here or end up here? I have lived in Ventura for the past six years. I was here first from preschool through first grade, then moved away. But the beauty of Ventura called us back, so we moved here again.

Do you work or go to school in Ventura County Coast? Yes, I am a student at Ventura High School.

What is your favorite thing about Ventura County Coast? Ventura County Coast has the most supportive community ever. Ever since my experience on Top Chef Jr., Ventura County Coast has been so gracious and has opened many doors for me.

“Ventura County Coast has the most supportive community ever.” – Carson Peterson

What’s cookin’?

If someone is planning a visit to Ventura County Coast, what are five things you recommend they pack for the trip?

Boogie boards or surf boards
Sunscreen
Lots of beach toys
Swim trunks
A big appetite

What is your favorite restaurant in Ventura County Coast? I love Slate Bistro located in Camarillo. I also recommend Peirano’s and RumFish for Downtown Ventura.

What’s the best thing on the menu? Slate’s seafood is the bomb. Peirano’s has the best Italian sausage sub on the planet, and at RumFish, tacos are the way to go.

What 5 things would you recommend someone do when visiting Ventura County Coast?

Go hiking at Arroyo Verde
Visit Lake Casitas up in Ojai
Go see the Ventura pier
Take a swim by Marina Park
Go shopping in Downtown Ventura

Please explain your perfect day in Ventura County Coast. My perfect day in Ventura County Coast would start with an early breakfast at The Cajun Cafe, followed by a morning row session with the Lake Casitas Crew team, of which I am a varsity member. Then I’ll head down to RumFish for a nice lunch to fuel me up for swimming at Marina Park afterward.

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.

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Local Vibe: Carson Peterson

Meet: Carson Peterson

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It's Cookin' in Ventura County Coast