Explore the Best Beaches in Ventura County

Ventura County offers some excellent beaches, conveniently accessible from Los Angeles for a quick day trip. Stretching approximately 50 miles from Point Mugu to Mussel Shoals, this coastal region boasts one of the finest beach experiences in Southern California.

The beaches here provide a wide variety of activities, making them ideal for all beachgoers. For surf enthusiasts, Ventura is notable as the place where surfing legend Tom Morey, known as Mr. “Y,” hosted the first professional surfing contest.

You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, overnight camping, playing with family, or simply soaking in the serene coastal scenery. Additionally, Ventura is an excellent spot for kitesurfing and kiteboarding thanks to favorable wind conditions and quality waves.

Be advised that the beaches may experience fog and mist during the annual “June Gloom,” when marine layers sweep inland. However, expect clearer skies in spring and fall. For more insights on June Gloom, refer to reliable guides and resources.

Generally, water quality is good in Ventura County, but if you have concerns, you can check the latest water quality warnings at the Ventura County website or download their VC Safe Beaches App for real-time updates.

In addition to the highlighted beaches, consider exploring Emma Wood State Beach or Rincon Beach, located near Santa Barbara, and Surfers Point at Seaside Park.

Camping at the Beach in Ventura County

If you’re looking to camp next to the ocean, Ventura County is one of California’s best destinations for beach camping. Explore campsites and RV spots offering various facilities and amenities suited for a memorable oceanfront experience.

Clothing Optional Beaches in Ventura County

Currently, Ventura County does not host any clothing optional beaches. However, you can find several options just a few miles north in Santa Barbara County. For detailed information, consult local nude beach guides.

Ventura County Beach Hotels

If you seek accommodations, consider staying at Embassy Suites Mandalay Beach in Oxnard, or the Inn on the Beach in Ventura for a beachfront experience.

Ventura State Beach and Pier

Officially known as San Buenaventura State Beach, this stunning two-mile stretch is one of Southern California’s largest beaches. Located centrally in town, it can become crowded during summer, especially near the parking lot and pier.

The sand is typically clean and, since pets are not permitted, it decreases chances of undesirable surprises.

What is There to Do at Buenaventura State Beach?

Ventura State Beach features a paved bike path alongside the extensive sandy shore, making it an ideal location for biking. If you need a bike, rentals are available from Wheel Fun Rentals.

Summer activities include volleyball and swimming, with lifeguards on duty. In winter, you may have the chance to spot whales passing by.

Surf fishing is another popular activity, but remember to obtain a fishing license. You can get further details from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

The surf conditions can be excellent in winter, while summer generally offers calm waters. For those interested in surfing or windsurfing, surf forecasts are available online.

Buenaventura State Beach Events

The annual Ventura Triathlon takes place each June.

What You Need to Know Before You Go to Buenaventura State Beach

Considering the beach’s length, it’s advisable to plan which section to visit beforehand, as it may influence what supplies you bring along.

Recent storms have eroded some sandy areas, exposing rocks—especially the southern part of the beach. The section with the most sand is located near the main parking area.

Entry to the state park incurs a fee, which includes parking fees. Alternatively, you may park in town and cross the freeway bridge, although this option may be challenging if you have a lot of gear.

Restrooms and showers are available on the beach, and eating options are nearby on Seaward Avenue and the pier.

Be advised that pets are not allowed on the beach.

Beach equipment rentals, including boogie boards and umbrellas, can be accessed at Wheel Fun Rentals, located at the beach.

Along the coast, it’s common to find tar balls washed ashore, a natural occurrence for this region. If you happen to get some on your skin, oils like baby oil or even peanut butter can help remove it.

Hollywood Beach

Hollywood Beach, located in Oxnard, provides a stunning mile-long stretch of soft, white sand, often enjoyed by local residents. Frequently uncrowded, this picturesque beach features charming beach houses nestled along the shore.

This beach has historical ties to the early film industry of the 1920s, serving as a backdrop for movies such as Rudolph Valentino’s “The Sheik” and Douglas Fairbanks’ “Bound in Morocco.”

Additionally, Hollywood Beach has an intriguing romantic connection, as it is said that stars like Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall had a beachfront rendezvous there. Clark Gable also reportedly spent time in the area.

What is There to Do at Hollywood Beach?

Visitors can enjoy swimming, bodyboarding, or relaxing on the beach. While a few surfers may frequent the area, wave conditions often do not meet the thrill-seeking needs of avid surfers.

Lifeguards are on duty during the summer weekends, and families can partake in beach games, making sandcastles, or simply walking along the shore.

The nearby Oxnard Harbor offers dining and recreational options, including a playground for children.

Additionally, some visitors have spotted dolphins in the surf or migrating whales off the coast.

What You Need to Know Before You Go to Hollywood Beach

Hollywood Beach serves as a neighborhood beach, running from W. Channel Islands Blvd south to Oxnard Harbor. Unlike state or county parks, it does not charge a fee for entry.

A free street parking option is available, along with a parking lot at the end of Mandalay Beach Road.

Restrooms are located at the northern end of the beach near La Brea Street, but amenities are limited.

Dogs must be leashed and are allowed on the beach during specific hours—before 9:00 a.m. and after 5:00 p.m.

It’s important to bring your own shade and picnic supplies, as neither is provided at the beach. Be conscientious in leaving no trace by cleaning up after yourself and your pets.

McGrath State Beach

McGrath State Beach stands out as a premier birdwatching location in California, thanks to the extensive environmental diversity found along the Santa Clara River and the surrounding sand dunes. More than 245 bird species inhabit this area throughout the year, and a nature trail connects visitors to the Santa Clara Estuary Natural Preserve.

Camping at McGrath State Beach

Primarily a camping park, McGrath State Beach offers limited day-use parking. Make reservations if you plan to camp. While it may seem that a beach campground would offer direct beach access, many sites are situated some distance from the shoreline. However, specific sites are closer to the beach, namely sites 35 to 37, 41 to 44, and 102 to 107.

What is There to Do at McGrath State Beach?

Swimming and surfing are popular activities at McGrath State Beach, but be cautious of strong currents and riptides, which may pose risks.

Fishing is permitted from the shore (license required), and birdwatching is an excellent way to enjoy the area’s abundance of shorebirds.

Additionally, you can enjoy a cozy beach bonfire using fire rings provided on-site.

What You Need to Know Before You Go to McGrath State Beach

Entrance fees apply, which include parking charges. Facilities include restrooms and showers.

Beach wheelchairs can be requested by calling 805-648-3321.

Dogs are allowed only in designated camping areas and must be kept on a 6-foot leash to protect the endangered Western Snowy Plovers nesting in the dunes.

Marina Park Beach

A section of Marina Park Beach is sheltered by a breakwater, creating a calm environment for kids at the southern end of the Ventura Harbor entrance. Further along the beach, there are more active oceanfront areas.

Marina Park offers grassy spaces, a playground featuring a pirate-themed climbing structure, and plenty of room for picnics. One user described Marina Park as an engaging combination of a playground, park, and beach.

What is There to Do at Marina Park Beach?

Visitors can enjoy wide-open spaces and beautiful sandy beaches. Come enjoy swimming at the north end of the park, where lifeguards are present part-time. Nearby, you can take sailing lessons or launch a kayak.

The playground, featuring rubberized surfaces, is suitable for younger children—providing play structures for different age groups.

Fishing from the dock is permitted if you have a valid fishing license, and the rock jetties offer additional exploration opportunities. Alternatively, you may simply relax and watch the sailboats come and go at the harbor.

What You Need to Know Before You Go to Marina Park Beach

Marina Park is a city beach in Ventura, located north of Los Angeles.

No entrance fee or parking fee is required, and facilities include restrooms and picnic tables.

Dogs are allowed on a leash not exceeding 6 feet. Remember to clean up after your pets.

Wind conditions can be harsh and might make your visit uncomfortable, so prepare accordingly.

Keep in mind that Marina Park can be quite crowded on holiday weekends and Sundays; visiting on weekdays is recommended.

Lastly, some visitors have reported unsatisfactory restroom conditions, so plan accordingly before arriving.

How to Get to Marina Park Beach

To reach Marina Park Beach, exit Hwy 101 at Seaward Avenue, then turn left onto Pierpoint and follow it to the end.

Alternatively, you can drive south on Pierpont Boulevard to the end where a large parking lot is available.