We love Ventura County Coast, but we’re not the only ones! Find out what makes this area so special from people who live in the “Local Vibe” spotlight. They’ll share their favorite places to eat, shop, and play as well as tips on what to bring when you visit.
Meet: Christian Brock
Do you have nickname? If so what is it?
Christian is normally what I go by, but some call me Coach, Brah Boss & Brock Mako.
Did you grow up here or end up here?
Born and raised in the 805 for 32 years now.
What is the name of your business?
Ventura Makos Surf Camp
Please tell us about your business.
We are the #1 Surf School & Instruction located in beautiful Ventura, California providing Surf Lessons (ALL AGES), Surf Camps (Ages 4-17), Surf Therapy & School Year Surf Programs for our surrounding communities. Here at Ventura Makos our mission is to provide a safe and positive atmosphere for our participants to thrive in. We also run the local Middle School & High School Surf Team programs for intermediate-advanced leveled surfers. Outside of our surf programs we also love working with local non-profits doing surf therapy and ocean therapy.
Why did you base your business in Ventura County Coast?
Ventura County has some of the most beautiful scenic beaches with rad local vibes spread throughout the county. Our local community here in Ventura & Oxnard share true California roots with some of the most consistent picturesque locations around. From the long sandy beaches, to epic local Harbors, to historic Ventura Pier, and who could forget driving PCH…. I can go on and on.
Do you work or go to school in Ventura County Coast?
I am a hard working, full time, local small business owner here in Ventura, CA. As well as a proud father of 2 beautiful girls, husband to my gorgeous wife Brooklyn Brock and follower of Jesus Christ.
Since I was 17 years old I have been working for Ventura Makos and have developed a strong passion for sharing the stoke of surfing and life to everyone around. Over the years I have now worked/connected with thousands of children, adults & families here locally sharing the love to all. As of recently I bought the business from the previous owner at the end of 2020 during the pandemic and am now the sole owner of the business that I worked for since I was a young teen. Each day I continue to share the stoke with local youth and everyone that comes along my path. Blessed to have such an amazing family, beautiful place to live and supportive community, we truly are so grateful for it all. So yeah haha, you could say I had a young surfers California Dream come true and thank God everyday 🙂
What is your favorite thing about Ventura County Coast?
- Surf Scene
- Skate Scene
- Hiking Trails
- Local Events/Contests
- Music & Art Scene
- Local Small Town Business Vibes
What 5 things would you recommend someone do when visiting Ventura County Coast?
- Learn to surf w/ Ventura Makos Surf Camp
- Drive PCH & 33 Hwy and enjoy any of the local views, beaches, creeks or hikes
- Ventura Harbor & Channel Islands Harbor both offer amazing activities, places to eat/drink and enjoy local music/art
- Check out any scheduled local events like surf contests, festivals, concerts, etc.
- Hike or drive up to the Cross in Ventura that overlooks the entire area.
“I would plan to wake up super early in the Fall, paddle out and score a morning sunrise surf session w/ offshore winds, tubes and the local crew. Get back to the house when the family is waking up and make some delicious homemade breakfast.” -Christian Brock
Christian Brock Approved
If someone is planning a visit to Ventura County Coast, what are five things you recommend they pack for the trip?
- Bathing Suit & Swim Attire for local beaches/hotels/resorts
- Windbreaker/Jacket (ocean sea breeze can get chilly)
- Shoes for outdoor activities (bike rides, hiking, boardwalks, downtown, etc.)
- Sunscreen for beach/mountains/snow
- Sweatshirt/Hoodie for early AM and late PM hangouts
What is your favorite restaurant in Ventura County Coast, and what is the best thing on the menu? Oh man that’s just too hard to pick one but I would highly recommend Toppers Pizza, Lure Fish House, Taqueria El Tapatio #5 and Cafe Nouveau.
What’s the best thing on the menu?
Toppers Pizza – Everything is mouth watering, but my personal favorite is the Hawaiian Heat and don’t forget a large side of ranch dressing
Lure – White Clam Chowder is THE best chowder ever
El Tapatio – Carne Asada Super Burrito or Sopes are next level authentic (cash only)
Cafe Nouveau – They have these beignets w/ powdered sugar and some type of unreal brown sugar syrup sauce that I just call crack sauce hahaha. SO GOOD!!!
Please explain your perfect day in Ventura County Coast. I would plan to wake up super early in the Fall, paddle out and score a morning sunrise surf session w/ offshore winds, tubes and the local crew. Get back to the house when the family is waking up and make some delicious homemade breakfast. Take the dog for a skateboard run/walk with the familia or go for a local hike. Eat out for lunch at In-N-Out, Frontside Cafe, El Tapatio or Strandwich and then for sure get another evening surf session in w/ head high to double overhead surf haha. Cap off the evening with some family/friends for a house fiesta and make some homemade asada tacos, good eats/drinks and music; then just vibe on into the evening.
Contact Information for Christian Brock
Contact Christian Brock
https://venturamakossurfcamp.comatelierclaramari.com
venturamakossurfcamp@gmail.com
(805) 426-0765
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