39 Great Things To Do in Ventura County

Ventura with kids is an easy feat as there are activities and entertainment as far as the coastline stretches. Yes, there are that many things to do in this little city that is sunny seaside simplicity. Ventura has remained refreshingly authentic with a small selection of places to eat, beaches framed by privately owned houses, grassy parks, and tasteful walkways. Pile the kids in the car, and head up the 101 to this happy little spot—you won’t regret it. 

As a child, I romped on the seashore, swashbuckling in the pirate ship at Marina Park Beach in Ventura. As a teen, I collected vintage Coca-Cola memorabilia in the antique shops along Main St., sang “I Want it That Way” at the top of my lungs at the local roller rink, and sold kettle corn at the Ventura County Fair. 

In college, I lost the keys to my 2006 Toyota Matrix in the foamy breakers on the coastline. The night before I gave birth to my firstborn, my husband and I held hands and walked the Ventura seaside bike path. Now, I often bring my four littles to this slice of sandy paradise to make memories of their own because there are so many great things to do with kids in Ventura. 

Looking for more day trips from LA? Keep driving up the coast to check out Santa Barbara, or browse our ultimate beach guide to find plenty of sandy spots for your family. 

Best Things to do in Ventura with Kids

Little ones can play at Marina Park next to Ventura ocean views. 

1. Swashbuckle aboard a beached pirate ship at Marina Park 

This pirate ship has been lodged in the sand at Marina Park since I was a child. Right next to the pirate ship is a great little playground with ocean views (but make sure to bring your shoes- the turf gets hot!) Marina Park has beach access and a parking lot right next to the sand. Prepare to pay a bit for parking. 

2. Cultivate a day at Underwood Farms 

Arguably the most popular farm near Los Angeles, kids will love seeing farm animals and immersing themselves in an agricultural adventure. There are year-round pick-your-own fruits and veggies, and Underwood Farms hosts favorite seasonal events like a Fall Harvest Festival, Christmas on the Farm, and a Springtime Easter Festival. 

3. Paddle a duck boat around Ventura Harbor 

Choose your vessel: duck, swan, or dragon on your paddle atop the harbor. These paddle boats leave from a dock at Ventura Harbor Village and are first come, first served. Call to make a reservation if you want a light-up paddle boat for an evening ride. 

4. Go antiquing on the boulevard 

I went through a phase in high school where I wanted my bedroom to look like a retro diner. These little shops made that possible. In addition to antique stores, Ventura’s downtown boulevard is home to an excellent bookstore, trendsetting retail shops, jewelry stores, a record spot, and more. 

RELATED: Summer Festivals and Fairs in Los Angeles

A day at the Ventura County Fair is a treat for the whole family. 

5. Visit the “Country Fair with Ocean Air”

My favorite little fair sparkles every August on the shore at the Ventura County Fairgrounds, replete with concerts, carnival rides, fried food, livestock auctions, and rodeos. While the fair is only here for a few weeks, there are fantastic family-friendly events at the Ventura County Fairgrounds all year long, such as Snow N’ Glow in the winter and various concerts and outdoor movies when the weather is warm.  

6. Try Taiyaki at the Coastal Cone

Order ice cream shaped like a unicorn, monster, or in the mouth of a fish (Taiyaki), at this unique ice cream spot right on the harbor. 

7. Take home a flat of Oxnard strawberries 

There are colorful strawberry stands with the ripest, juiciest berries you’ve ever tasted all along the 126. Many stands only take cash. Go strawberry picking or attend the California Strawberry Festival, held annually right in Ventura County. 

8. Wander the Ventura Botanical Gardens 

There are 107 acres of gardens with rare and stunning flora and fauna to soak in at this botanical garden with an ocean view. Every Friday is a free day. 

9. Walk down the Ventura Pier 

This long, wooden structure is the oldest pier in the state of California. Grab some delicious Beach House Tacos, then stroll (or cast a line) on this piece of local history. 

10. Ride the Sunburst Railbikes

Pedal through scenic Ventura County soaking in 17 miles of avocado and citrus groves on family-friendly pedal-powered railbikes. 

11. Indulge in fish tacos at Spencer Mackenzie’s

These mouthwatering fish tacos are family favorites in Ventura County, and the casual counter-service atmosphere makes it a perfect dining option in Ventura with kids after a jam-packed day. 

12. Cool off at Lake Casitas Water Adventure

With a lazy river and a zero-depth play area, this smaller water park in Lake Casitas is ideal for younger kids looking to escape the summer heat. 

RELATED: Go Strawberry Picking near Los Angeles: Family Farms Where Kids Can Pick Berries

Olivas Adobe photo courtesy of City of Ventura Parks and Recreation

13. Celebrate Latino heritage at the Olivas Adobe

Step into the Rancho era and embark on an educational docent-led tour of this two-story 1847 Adobe home owned by Don Raymundo Olivas. 

14. Visit Mission San Buenaventura

As any student of California history will tell you, the missions dotting the California coast play a significant role in the state’s development. This one, built in 1782, is open daily for tours. Learn the history of Ventura and wander the beautiful gardens. 

15. Dig up some history at the Albinger Archeological Museum

Glimpse more than 3,500 years of history at this little museum with artifacts taken from the Santa Buenaventura archeological site.  

17. Create a custom chocolate bar at Top This

What’s better than a bar of chocolate? A bar of chocolate that you can customize yourself. 

RELATED: Family Travel Bucket List: Visiting California’s Channel Islands

 

Skate into nostalgic times. Photo courtesy of Skating Plus

18. Roll around the rink at Skating Plus

This roller skating rink touts the early 90s in the best possible way. Take a spin around the rink while listening to tunes and making requests. 

19. Wheel around in a family surrey

A broad bike path frames this stretch of the Pacific coastline, making it the perfect spot for a breezy bike ride. Rentals on the pathway offer beach cruisers and family surreys. 

20. Wave to the surfers at Surfer’s Point

Both wave surfers and windsurfers congregate in the ocean at this spot daily. If you are looking for a good surf show, perch here. 

21. Hit the (mini) links at Golf n’ Stuff 

This family-fun center has all the classic mini-golf castles, bumper boats, and arcade games that your kiddo’s hearts desire. 

22. Set sail to the Channel Islands

Island Packers leads expeditions to the five Channel Islands, where families can hike, swim, and search for (rare and local) tiny foxes. 

23. Can’t make it to the Channel Islands? Head to the Ventura Park Visitor Center

Get a glimpse of the Channel Islands without setting sail at this visitor center on Spinnaker Drive. Kids will love peeking at sea life. Watch the 25-minute film narrated by Kevin Costner to learn more about one of America’s least-visited national parks. 

24. Search for coastal birds

Seaside birds such as island scrub-jays, bald eagles, owls, horned larks, and more are visible from Ventura if you keep your eyes peeled (or grab your binoculars). 

25. Take a hike in Harmon Canyon Preserve

Mountain bike or hike in this hillside preserve. I suggest trying the 1.7-mile Farr Family Trail for your hiking ventures. Mountain bikers are encouraged to borrow a tiny cowbell and ring it when hikers come into view, as trails are shared. 

26. Sip a milkshake at the Busy Bee Cafe

This retro-style diner claims to have the best burger in Ventura, and you’ll feel like you’re at a sockhop in this eatery with checked floors and a hoppin’ jukebox.  

27. Swing Seaside at Ventura Promenade Beach Playground

Find a simple little playground right below the pier and Beach House Tacos—it’s the perfect place to swing while watching the waves. 

RELATED: Things to do with Kids on an Ojai Weekend or Day Trip

Dive into delicious seafood at Andria’s. 

28. Order clam chowder in a bread bowl at Andria’s Seafood 

Andria’s is a Ventura staple—we stop at this casual eatery every time we get the chance. It is right on the harbor, so it’s the perfect spot to watch boats and kayakers while dining on some delectable fish & chips or clam chowder. 

29. Want a sit-down dining option? Try Brophy Bros. across the way 

The menu at Brophy Bros. is slightly more elaborate than Andria’s, and if you want more of an elevated sit-down restaurant with a harbor view, this is our number one suggestion. 

30. Search for dolphins and whales

Sea life splashes in the waters right off the Ventura coast—book an Island Packers excursion to search for them, and have your camera ready. 

31. Admire the murals along Ventura Ave.

Larger-than-life art is all around the city, and this handy mural guide can help you locate all the best street art. 

32. Glamp at the Waypoint Trailer Hotel

Play cornhole, BBQ, roast s’mores, or rent a bike at this unique “trailer hotel” lodging experience not far from the beach. Whether you want to rent a trailer or bring your own, Waypoint has options to make your stay in Ventura comfortable and filled with memories. 

33. Play and hike at Arroyo Verde Park

There are two great playgrounds at this sprawling park. The loop trail is an excellent spot to see spring wildflowers. 

RELATED: Things to do in Santa Barbara with Kids

So many beaches to choose from in Ventura, but Harbor Cove Beach is great for tots. 

34. Take the little ones to Harbor Cove Beach 

Known as one of the safest beaches in Ventura due to its calm waters and protective breakwater, Harbor Cove Beach is a good option for tots just starting to get their feet wet. 

35. Induldge in Rocket Fizz Soda Pop & Candy Shop 

The mantra “it’s like taking kids to a candy store” will play out when browsing for interesting confections in this downtown Ventura sweet stockpile. 

36. Aim for a strike at Buena Lanes 

If the kids have had enough sun, bowling is always a fun indoor option. Buena Lanes has bowling, an arcade, and a VR experience. 

37. Devour everything at The Annex 

Got picky eaters? There is sure to be something to consume at this food hall in Oxnard. Parents will love the food options here too. 

38. Browse for books at Bart’s 

I dare you to leave empty-handed when browsing for used books in the heart of Ojai at this beloved outdoor bookstore.  

39. Camp near the ocean waves 

There are plenty of glamping and tent campsites within walking distance from Ventura beaches. If you prefer to be a hotel guest, the Ventura Beach Mariott and the Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach are both right on the water.  

All photos by the author unless otherwise indicated.