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If you’re a weekend warrior, California road tripper or adventure seeker, chances are you’re familiar with Weekend Sherpa. Their skilled team of travel writers and outdoor enthusiasts have been introducing their growing community of readers, listeners and followers to local adventures throughout the Golden State since 2006. We are big fans because everything they write, post and podcast about has been road-tested by their storytellers to ensure they are always offering reliable advice, which has earned them a deservedly loyal following. So, we were beyond stoked when they hit Ventura County Coast recently to compile a series of guides and episodes featuring some of the best spots to explore the great outdoors, sip craft brews and get immersed in our laid-back coastal vibes. It’s all under the umbrella of “California’s Most Sea-nic National Park” and we’ve broken down the individual stories for you here.
Channel Islands National Park
Naturally, Channel Islands National Park was the top draw for this crew of intrepid travelers. Located 25 miles offshore and easily accessed via both Channel Islands Harbor and Ventura Harbor, the National Park is a pristine wonderland. So much so, it has captivated the imaginations of documentarians and creative minds and conservationists including author TC Boyle and ocean explorer Jean-Michel Cousteau. As Weekend Sherpa attests to, the chain of five uninhabited islands is surrounded by an incredibly rich marine ecosystem and home to flora and fauna often compared to the Galapagos for its distinctive diversity and rarity.
Their “Purely Wild” guide immerses you in the hiking experience on Santa Cruz Island with tips on how to get there, what trails to take and potential marine and wildlife sightings. In “Sea-splunking” they share the perspective from the water—specifically kayaking into the massive sea caves of Santa Cruz Island on a guided excursion with Channel Island Adventure Co. “Channel Islands for a Change” is a handy curated travel guide with more quick tips on how to experience the islands, from day trips to camping overnight.
Oxnard
Back on the mainland, it’s time to “Bike the Harbor, Catch the Sunset at Hollywood Beach” in Oxnard. Their coastal spin on fat-tire E-bikes takes them from Channel Islands Harbor to Hollywood Beach and recaps where to stay, eat and shop when based at Oxnard’s Channel Islands Harbor.
Camarillo
From the coast to the mountains, Weekend Sherpa’s next stop is “That’s Just Wildwood!” This adventure gains altitude on the Wildwood Canyon Overlook Trail near Camarillo, with guidance on hiking the three-mile loop. We heartily approve of their recommendation to pair this adventure with a tasting trek along Camarillo’s Wine Trail. And if wine isn’t your libation of choice, never fear, they didn’t neglect to cover beer! In fact, they compiled a dedicated “Camarillo Beer Trail” guide with brewery insights, local lodging and even more hiking trail tips. We can’t think of a better way to toast to a great stay than a day spent sipping craft brews under the Camarillo sun.
Check out the Weekend Sherpa: Take It Outside Podcast!
If you’re looking for more on this amazing Ventura County Coast outdoor adventure, podcast fans can tune into this iHeart Radio Adventure Channel episode for a deep dive on Weekend Sherpa’s island times.
Plan your trip with exciting activities
Find fun and amazing things to do in Ventura County with our activities travel guide.
Tag your Ventura County Coast photos with #VCCVibes for a chance to be featured!
