Page 144 - 2015 Travel Guide to California

VENTURA
Beach haven and the “American Galapagos” islands
SURFING at C Street, Ventura, above;
Mexican tile fountain at Mission San
Buenaventura, below.
THE ORIGINAL NAME of this California
city, San Buenaventura, labels it as a city of
good fortune. And Ventura, with its beau-
tiful beach setting framed by mountains
and a series of offshore islands, does
indeed make visitors feel as if they’ve
stumbled upon a bit of good fortune in
finding this scenic spot along the Cali-
fornia coast.
Start with your toes in the surf, because
Ventura’s miles of beaches stretching from
Surfer’s Point to Ventura Harbor are one of
the city’s star attractions. Take a long walk,
lounge in the sun or grab a board and enjoy
the water yourself. The south-facing water-
front and breaks along the beaches are
essential qualities that lure surfers from
far and wide, so you owe it to yourself to
either try it out or settle down to watch a
few surf sessions.
Another reminder of how much the
Pacific Ocean figures into the daily life of
142 2015 T R AV E L G U I D E TO C A L I F O R N I A
B Y J I L L K . R O B I N S O N
Ventura can be found at Ventura Harbor
Village. Wander through the boutiques for
that perfect souvenir, or score an outdoor
table overlooking the ocean to enjoy a meal
of fresh, local seafood and wine. The
harbor arcade, carousel and ice cream shop
will easily figure into a child’s dream list.
Channel Islands Adventures
Adventures abound at the Ventura Harbor
Village—from kayak and stand-up paddle-
board rentals in the harbor to whale
watching trips to boat trips to visit the
Channel Islands National Park. Also
known as the “American Galapagos,” this
string of five islands and its surrounding
waters are home to an abundance of
wildlife, including whales, dolphins,
foxes and even bald eagles. Hike along
miles of trails to enjoy the spectacular
views of the islands’ rugged beauty, or
take advantage of the various water-based
DOUG MANGUM; BILL PERRY/SHUTTERSTOCK. OPPOSITE: DOUG MANGUM; DOUG MANGUM; HECTOR VARGAS