Must-Do Water Activities in Ventura County Coast

You packed a swimsuit, right?

Good! Because here in Ventura County Coast, the sun is shining and the weather is warm – it’s the perfect time to get in the water! The Channel Islands and beach cities of Oxnard and Ventura offer tons of harbor and ocean fun in the sun. Here are some must-do water activities.

Channel Islands Parasail

Channel Islands Parasail is the premier parasail operator based at the Marine Emporium Landing in Oxnard’s beautiful Channel Islands Harbor. Guests launch right from the boat and into the clear blue skies like gliding pelicans, capturing views of the Southern California coastline like no other way. Even greater than the physical lift of a parasail is the emotional lift that the serenity of soaring brings!

📷: Visit Oxnard

Go on a snorkeling adventure at Scorpion Anchorage

Go on a guided snorkel tour at Scorpion Anchorage with Channel Islands Adventure Company and explore the beautiful kelp forests, sea caves, and sea life at Channel Islands National Park! Gear rental is included and all levels are welcome.

Kayak through Ventura Harbor

Located in Ventura Harbor Village, Ventura Boat Rentals offers kayak, electric boat, stand-up paddle board, wave runner, and paddle boat rentals. They also offer public harbor tours and there are plenty of dining options, boutique shops, and games for the kids making it a great all-day destination.

📷: @venturaharbor

Kayak through sea caves off Channel Islands National Park

Take one of the Sea Cave Kayak Tours at Channel Islands Adventure Company and spend the day exploring the sea caves around Scorpion Anchorage on Santa Cruz Island. Kids ages 6 and older are welcome with an adult. Snorkel gear is also available for rent at their storefront on the island.

📷: @islandkayaking

Take a Venetian gondola cruise through the Channel Islands Harbor

Spend a romantic and peaceful gondola ride with friends and family. Gondola Paradiso takes you around Oxnard’s beautiful Channel Islands Harbor in a private gondola at a reasonable price.

Whale watch with Island Packers

Go on a wildlife cruise with Island Packers! Humpback whales and the endangered Blue whales along with other species of whales can be seen as they feed on swarms of krill. You might also see dolphins, sea lions, and birds.

📷: @whales.n.things

Go Catch Some Waves

With pristine beaches comes amazing surfing. We got you covered with our top 11 popular and reliable spot for surfing.

📷: @ventura_salt

Take a stroll down the Port Hueneme Pier

Sometimes the best way to spend time at the beach is to take a quiet walk down the pier. Port Hueneme Pier is definitely the place to go, with few crowds, an expansive beach, and easy parking.

📷: @reactone1

Spend the day at the beach in Oxnard

Spending the day at Oxnard State Beach Park or Mandalay State Beach in Oxnard is always a great idea. Walk along the path or shore, take a nap on the sand, catch some waves, or have a picnic at these easily accessible and clean beaches.

Go Float Tubing at Mother’s Beach

Mother’s Beach is a protected beach, free from strong currents and crashing waves making it the ideal place for water activities. This beach is the perfect place for kids, swimmers, paddle boarders, and float tubers! This serene beach is located right next to Ventura Harbor just past the Channel Islands National Park Visitors Center.

📷: @venturaharbor