King & Goebel Motors Opened in Thousand Oaks in June 1960

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King & Goebel Motors opened in mid-June 1960 as Thousand Oaks’ first new‑car showroom and service shop, located at 2594 Ventura Blvd (now Thousand Oaks Blvd). The dealership offered a full line of Simca models—Chrysler had purchased a major stake in the French automaker in 1958 and imported Simcas into the U.S. through the mid‑60s. K&G soon added British imports Hillman and Sunbeam to its lineup.

What followed at this location is perhaps the longest dealership timeline in Conejo Valley history:

  • 1961–62: King & Goebel Rambler → Goebel Rambler (Owner Gene Goebel was the son of Jungleland founder Louis Goebel.)

  • 1963–64: Conejo Rambler → Mayfield’s Conejo Rambler

  • 1966-67: Mayfield Car Co. Import Center (importing Datsun) → Mayfield–Hart Datsun

  • 1970s: Conejo Valley Datsun → Al Piano Datsun → Al Piano Honda → Conejo Auto Imports

  • Mid-70s-mid-80s: Westlake Volvo / Neftin Westlake Volvo

  • Late 80s: Acura of Thousand Oaks (Steven Piano)

  • 1990s: Thrifty Car Rental / Thrifty Car Sales / Coventry Jaguar → Bikers Dream Superstore

  • 2000s–2020s: Thousand Oaks Honda & Suzuki Off‑Road → Allen Motors (until its recent move to Westlake Village) → Malibu Automotive Group (2026) www.malibuautomotivegroup.com

A single building, witness to six decades of Conejo Valley automotive history.

Wine Tasting Options in Ventura County and Adjacent Areas

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According to Wine Business Analytics, there were 11,165 wineries in the United States in January 2026, 42% of which were in California. These wineries produced 272 million cases of wine in 2025.

So where can we imbibe here in Ventura County and adjacent areas? Here's a compilation.

(Note: Contact us for changes/additions. We have attempted to include only those places that currently offer wine tasting to the general public.)

Agoura Wine & Beer Co. in the Whizin Market Square, 28851 Agoura Road, offers 2 oz and 5 oz pours of all wines offered in the bar. The bar is open daily; hours vary. www.agourawine.com 818.337.8832

Alma Sol Winery wines are poured, on a limited, reservation only basis at Sunland Vintage Tasting Room, 1321 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd, #108, Thousand Oaks www.almasolwinery.com Schedule a tasting appointment on their website.

Beckmen Vineyards is a working vineyard located at 2670 Ontiveros Road, Los Olivos. Wine tasting daily 11am to 5pm. www.beckmenvineyards.com 805.688.8664

Boccali Vineyards and Winery at 3277 E. Ojai Avenue in Ojai. Open for wine tasting weekends from 12-5PM. 805.669.8688. www.boccalivineyards.com

Buddy’s Wine Bar is located at 1786 E. Main Street in Ventura. Open for tastings Wed-Fri 3-10PM, Sat 1-10PM and Sun 1-8PM. www.buddyswinebar.com

Buttonwood Farm Winery and Vineyard at 1500 Alamo Pintado Road in Solvang is open daily 11am to 5pm. Children welcome, as are well-behaved, leashed dogs. 805.688.3032 www.buttonwoodwinery.com

Cantara Cellars has a tasting room at 126 Wood Road, Suite 104 in Camarillo that is open Thursdays 2-8pm, Fridays 2-9pm, Saturdays 1-9pm and Sundays 1-6pm. www.cantaracellars.com 805.484.9600

Cavaletti Vineyards is an artisan winery that produces authentic wines from hand farmed estate vineyards in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties. Cavaletti offers outdoor tastings by appointment on Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 6pm at 165 Poindexter Ave, Suite D, Moorpark. www.cavalettivineyards.com

Cork Dork Wine Bar at 1125 Lindero Canyon Road in Westlake Village offers a selection of high-end wine pours that usually are not available by the glass at restaurants, as well as a full menu of farm-to-table, locally sourced California cuisine and a curated selection of local beers. Open Mon-Sat 4:30-9;30PM. www.corkdorkwinebar.com 818.532.7284

Cornell Winery and Tasting Room is located at 29975 Mulholland Highway in Agoura www.cornellwinery.com. Its tasting room is open noon to 7pm Thursday through Sunday. 818.735.3542

Deep Sea Wine Tasting Room opened at Ventura Harbor Village, 1591 Spinnaker Drive, Suite 115, Ventura in September 2022. Siblings John, Gillian and Tom Conway’s Deep Sea and Conway wines can be enjoyed by-the-glass, by the bottle or in one of the Signature or Reserve Tasting Flights. Chocolate pairings and cheese and meat plates available. Learn more at conwayfamilywines.com or call 805-321-9463.

Feros Ferio Winery Tasting Room is located at 310 E. Ojai Ave in the heart of Ojai, featuring wines by the tasting, the glass and the bottle. Open Friday through Monday (as of April 2025). Check website for hours at ferosferiowine.com. 805-669-8707

Fess Parker Winery and Vineyard at 6200 Foxen Canyon Road in Santa Ynez www.fessparkerwines.com 805-688-1545

Firestone Vineyard, 5017 Zaca Station Road in Santa Ynez Open for walk-in tastings 11am-4pm Thursday through Monday. 805.688.3940. www.firestonewine.com

Four Brix Winery is a craft winery with a tasting room open 12-4pm Friday through Sunday at 2290 Eastman Ave, Suite 109, Ventura. 805-256-6006 fourbrixwine.com

Friendly Noise Wines & Ciders is an independent winery with a tasting room at 111 Poindexter Avenue, Suite D, Moorpark. It opened in November 2024. Currently open 4-9pm Friday and noon to 7pm Saturday/Sunday. friendlynoise.com

Gainey Vineyard at 3950 East Highway 246, Santa Ynez Open daily 11am to 5pm. 805.688.0558 www.gaineyvineyard.com

Giessinger Winery & Tasting Room in Fillmore at 365 Santa Clara Street (open Wednesday through Sunday; closed Tuesday; hours vary) 805.524.5000 and 3059 Willow Lane, Westlake Village (open Wed/Sun 2-6PM, Fri/Sat 2-7PM) (805.405.5557) giessingerwinery.com

Herzog Wine Cellars at 3201 Camino Del Sol in Oxnard offers tastings daily, except Saturday, herzogwine.com. 805.983.1560

Labyrinth Winery and Tasting Room is located at 607 East Main Street in Ventura www.LabyrinthWinery.com Open Wednesday through Sunday; hours vary. 805.585.2238

Lester Family Cellars Winery and Tasting Room is located at 6650 Crescent Street, #8, Ventura. Open weekends from 1-6PM or by appointment. lesterfc.com 562.714.9465

Lucas Sellers Winery operates a tasting room at The Alley in Moorpark at 330 Zachary St #108. Open Tue-Fri 4-9pm, Sat noon-10pm and Sun noon-7pm. Live music on Sat night. www.facebook.com/LucasSellersWine

Magnavino Cellars is located at 961 N. Rice Avenue, Suite 5, Oxnard and its tasting room is open Fri 5-8pm, Sat 12-6pm and Sun 12-6pm. Visit www.magnavino.com or call 805.276.1353

Majestic Oak Vineyard is located at 321 East Ojai Avenue in Ojai. Their tasting room is open daily from noon to 6 pm. No reservations required. Visit majesticoakvineyard.com or call 805.794.0272 for more information.

Mizel Estate Wines is located in Hidden Valley in Thousand Oaks. Mizel offers wine tasting in its stunning vineyard every Saturday, February through November. Reserved seatings at 1pm and 2:30pm. Call 805-795-2506 or email info@mizelestate.com to reserve your spot. www.mizelestate.com

NABU Wines offers tastings at 2649 Townsgate Road, Suite 200, Westlake Village and is open for wine tasting daily at noon daily; closing times vary from 6pm to 10pm. Happy Hour 3-7pm Monday through Friday. Thursday Trivia Night 7-10PM. Visit nabuwines.com or call 805.778.1100.

Nectar of the Dogs Wine is a Simi Valley based boutique wine company with a tasting room at 791 Chambers Lane, Suite 110 in Simi Valley. Open 1-9PM Wed-Sat, 1-6PM Sun, Happy Hour Wed-Fri 3-6PM. www.nectarofthedogswine.com. Visitors must be 21+. No children allowed. Only well-behaved, leashed, service dogs are permitted inside the tasting room.

Oak Creek Ranch Winery is located at 10024 Old Creek Road, Ventura. Located on an 850 acre cattle ranch in the Ojai Valley. oldcreekranch.com 805-649-4132

The Ojai Vineyard Tasting Room is located at 109 S. Montgomery Street, Ojai. Open daily noon to 5PM. Visit ojaivineyard.com or call 805.649.1674.

Roblar Winery is at 3010 Roblar Avenue in Santa Ynez. Open daily for lunch and tastings. www.roblarwinery.com 805.686.2603

The Naturalist is located at 208 East Ojai Avenue in Ojai Tasting room hours are 1-5PM Mon-Thu, 12-6PM Fri-Sat and 12-5PM Sun. www.naturalistwine.com 805.640.1255.

Santa Paula Cellars is a small batch wine tasting room at 926 E. Main Street in Santa Paula that opened in summer 2025. Open Friday to Sunday. www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576292717600 805.625.4517

The Stonehaus at 32039 Agoura Road, Westlake Village is open 7 days a week (hours vary) for wines by the glass, coffee, and breakfast, lunch and dinner. Live music most Friday to Sunday late afternoons/early evenings. the-stonehaus.com 818.483.1152

Strey Cellars is located at 951 N. Rice Avenue, Oxnard and is open weekends from noon to 5PM. Visit www.StreyCellars.com or call 805.988.1087.

Sunland Vintage Winery and Tasting Room in Thousand Oaks www.SunlandVintageWinery.com is open Thursdays/Fridays 6-9PM, Saturdays 1-6PM and Sundays 1-5PM. 805.379.2250

Sunstone Winery at 125 North Refugio Road, Santa Ynez is open for walk-in tastings 11 am to 5pm daily, with the last seating at 4PM..www.sunstonewinery.com 805.688.9463

The Barn at Cielo Farms at 31424 Mulholland Hwy, Malibu offers wine tasting Wed through Mon. Reservations required at woodstockmalibu.com/wine-bar 424-234-7242

The Cave offers wine tasting at 4435 McGrath St #301, Ventura thecaveventura.com 

Wades Wines Wine Tasting at 30961 Agoura Road, Ste 321 Westlake Village www.wadeswines.com Tasting room is open Friday to Sunday. Retail store is open daily. Check their Instagram page for hours at www.instagram.com/wadeswines.

We Vino Restaurant and Wine Lounge opened April 15, 2025 at 31149 Via Colinas #601 in Westlake Village (Lindero Oaks, across the street from the Four Seasons Westlake), offering fine dining and a selection of over 5,000 wines in its cellar. Updates at www.we-vino.com.

West Tasting Room is located at 1867 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd in Thousand Oaks. Open Monday through Sunday, noon to 9pm. Showcases wineries from the California, Oregon and Washington, along with a food menu that includes flatbreads, pizzas, boards, salads, and dessertsLearn more at www.westtastingroom.com.

Art and Wine Sipping Options

Painting With a Twist in Camarillo

Ventura Spirits at 3891 N. Ventura Ave, #B2A, Ventura has a tasting room that is open for drop-in tastings Mon to Fri 12-5pm; reserved tastings available Fri-Sun.. venturaspirits.com 805.232.4313

HOW ABOUT A BEER!? LOCAL AREA FRESH BREWED BEERS

Wine No More

Gone West Cellars at 5963 Olivas Park Drive, Ste A, Ventura closed in December 2016.

We Olive & Wine Bar Tasting at The Oaks Mall closed permanently in August 2018.

The Tasting Room at River Ridge at River Ridge Golf Club (closed 10/6/17)

SIP Malibu Grapes in Agoura Hills www.sipmalibugrapes.com (SIP was destroyed by the Woolsey Fire of November 2018; but stay tuned at their website for possible rebuilding plans)

VinTura Tasting Room & Wine Rack at 14 S. California Street in Ventura (closed February 2019)

DeLiese Cellars opened a tasting room at 1850 E. Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Thousand Oaks in late December 2016. but closed in March 2021.

The Topa Mountain Winery property in Ojai was acquired by the Ojai Valley Inn but they continue operating online at www.topamountainwinery.com

Pantess Cellars Tasting Room was located at 537 Constitution Avenue, Suite D, Camarillo. It closed its doors in November 2023.

Boar Dough Tasting Room at 5015 Cornell Road, Agoura Hills closed December 2023.

Rancho Ventavo Cellars at 741 South A Street in Downtown Oxnard closed its doors in February 2024.

The Painted Cabernet in Oxnard closed its doors on March 18, 2024.

Very sad to report that the Rosenthal Winery and Tasting Room at 18741 Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu was destroyed by the Palisades Fire in January 2025 Check for updates for future rebuilding plans at www.rosenthalestatewines.com.

Lion’s Peak Winery Tasting Room in the Northstar Plaza at 1321 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks closed in late January 2025 but will continue selling wines online at lionspeakwine.com.

Plan B Wine Cellars at 3520 Arundell Circle, #107, Ventura closed its doors on August 30, 2025.

Barrel 33 was a wine bar at 1067 E. Thompson Blvd in Ventura that closed in March 2026.

Free Concerts and Live Music All Summer Long Around Ventura County

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We’re looking forward to another outstanding summer of free live music throughout Ventura County and surrounding areas here in 2026! The compilation below has links to more detailed information.

Concerts subject to change. List will be updated regularly as new events are added.

Thousand Oaks/Westlake Village/Newbury Park

  • Free Concerts in the Park in Thousand Oaks starting at 5pm

    • Memorial Day Monday, May 25: Garth Guy - The Premier Garth Brooks Experience

    • Saturday, July 4: The New West Symphony

    • Sunday, July 19: Twisted Gypsy - Fleetwood Mac Tribute

    • Sunday, August 9: Wild Night - Van Morrison Tribute

    • Labor Day Monday, September 7: 90’s Rock Show - Iconic Sounds of the 1990s

  • City of Thousand Oaks Pop-Up Arts & Music Festival every Friday/Saturday from June 5 to June 27 at 7PM. Eight free concerts at eight locations. (CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS)

    • Friday, June 5: Sally Baby’s Silver Dollars

    • Saturday, June 6: The Rebel Eves

    • Friday, June 12: 5-Star Theatricals presents Summer of Rock!

    • Saturday, June 13: New West Symphony presents Opera Cowgirls

    • Friday, June 19: Crystal Shawanda

    • Saturday, June 20: The Barefoot Movement

    • Friday, June 26: Mia Borders

    • Saturday, June 27: Boogaloo Assassins

  • Saturday Night Concerts at Berniece Bennett Park in Westlake Village at 7pm

    • Saturday, June 6: Stone Soul, Motown Dance Party

    • Saturday, July 25: Tom Petty/Stevie Nicks Tribute

    • Saturday, August 15: 90s Rockshow

    • Saturday, August 22: Surf City All Stars

  • City of Westlake Village TGIF Series of free events (time/locations below)

    • May 29: Agoura High School and Lindero Canyon Middle School Jazz Bands at Berniece Bennett Park at 7pm (food trucks at 6pm)

    • June 12: Thousand Oaks DJ, World Cup Watch Party of the USA vs Paraguay match at Berniece Bennett Park at 6pm (activities start at 5pm)

    • August 7: 5-Star Theatricals at 31200 Oak Crest Drive at 7pm (food trucks at 6pm)

  • The Promenade at Westlake hosts live entertainment on Saturdays from 6:30-9:30PM from Memorial Day weekend (May 23) through Labor Day weekend (September 5) near the fountain.

Agoura/Oak Park/Calabasas/Woodland Hills

  • City of Agoura Hills Free Summer Concerts in the Park at Chumash Park. Concerts start at 6pm on the following Sunday nights:

    • June 14: Skynyrd Reloaded (Lynyrd Skynyrd Tribute)

    • July 5: Disco Inferno (followed by patriotic drone show)

    • August 2: Fortunate Son (CCR Tribute)

    • August 16: Turn the Page (Bob Seger Tribute)

  • Valley Cultural Foundation’s Free Concerts at Warner Park in Woodland Hills on Sunday nights from June 14 to August 23 (except the July 4th Saturday event) at 5:30PM (emerging artist) followed by headline acts.

    • June 14: Dog n Butterfly - The Heart Experience

    • June 21: The Purple Generation - Tribute to Prince

    • June 28: Cali Country All-Stars

    • July 4: July 4th Extravaganza with Doctor Wu - The Music of Steely Dan

    • July 12: Flashback Heart Attach - 80s Tribute

    • July 19: Ridin’ The Storm Out - REO Speedwagon Tribute

    • July 26: Abbey Road - Beatles Tribute

    • August 2: New Romantics - Taylor Swift Tribute

    • August 9: Start Me Up - Rolling Stones Tribute

    • August 16: Super Soul Groove - Disco/Funk/Soul/R&B

    • August 23: Led Zepagain - Led Zeppelin Tribute

  • Sun Sets Summer Concert Series at Calabasas Lake on Sunday nights at 6pm.

    • June 14: Billy Nation - Billy Joel Tribute

    • July 19: Jumping Jack Flash - Rolling Stones Tribute

    • August 2: Gold Rush Country

    • August 23: Fantastic Diamond - Neil Diamond Tribute

  • Music in the Park at Oak Canyon Community Park in Oak Park at 6:30pm

    • Saturday, July 11 - Fantastic Diamond - Nel Diamond Tribute

  • The Thousand Oaks Elks Lodge is hosting a free summer concert series starting May 24th. More info at THIS LINK.

Moorpark/Simi Valley

  • Summer Music in the Park Free Concerts at Rancho Simi Community Park on Saturday nights at 6:30pm.

    • Saturday, June 20: Wallen Outlaws (Morgan Wallen Tribute)

    • Saturday, July 18: TLR (Eagles Tribute)

    • Saturday, August 15: Buffett Beach (Jimmy Buffett Tribute)

  • City of Moorpark Concerts in the Park at Arroyo Vista Park at 6pm

    • June 27: Fast Times (80s Music)

    • July 25: The 805 Social Club (Pop)

    • August 22: Blue Breeze Band (Soul/R&B)

    • September 26: Country Nation

  • Concerts at the Plaza at the Simi Valley Civic Center Plaza takes place from 6-9pm on the following Saturday nights:

    • 7/11: Soul Jukebox & The Funky Divas (Dance Soul)

    • 7/18: Sonic Kiss (Duran Duran Tribute)

    • 7/25: The Way (80s/90s Hits)

    • 8/1: Pre-Existing Condition (Classic Rock) and Pretty Boy Floyd (Hollywood glam band - not a tribute band!

    • 8/15: America Made (Toby Keith Tribute)

    • 8/22: JACK’D (Dance Band)

    • 9/5: Ticket to Ride (Beatles Tribute)

Camarillo/Oxnard/Port Hueneme/Ventura/Santa Paula

Santa Barbara

Free Thursday Night Concerts at Chase Palm Park in Santa Barbara on Thursday nights, July 2, 9, 16 and 23 from 6-7:30pm.

Have something to add to this list? CONTACT US!!

Check the Events Calendar for things going on around town as well as the Local Events and Community Forum sections of Conejo Valley Guide.

Compilation of Public Beaches Spanning From Oxnard to Hueneme to Malibu

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In a separate post, we highlighted beaches ranging from Carpinteria down south to the beaches at the Ventura Harbor. This is the 2nd installment of local area beaches that stretch from McGrath State Beach on down to the beaches gracing Malibu. We hope these compilations prove useful in guiding you to all the oceanfront fun Ventura County and adjacent areas have to offer!

Additionally, here's a compilation of beaches in the Santa Barbara area (excluding Carpinteria).

McGrath State Beach has been closed due to flooding issues since 2019. Visit parks.ca.gov/?page_id=607 or call 805.968.1033 for more information.  McGrath has 2 1/2 miles of beach available. Swimming, surfing, and water sports are discouraged because of rip currents. McGrath is 5 miles south of Ventura off the 101 freeway via Harbor Boulevard.

Mandalay State Beach is 94 acres of undeveloped beachfront land located south of Reliant Energy's Mandalay Generating Station. The natural sand dunes and the wetlands ecosystem are recognized for their important natural value and houses several threatened bird species. This is a passive, natural open space park with no support facilities. The sandy ocean beach and adjacent coastal dunes are available for public day use only. The beach is managed by the County of Ventura on behalf of the California State Parks Department. Located at the corner of Harbor Boulevard and 5th Street in Oxnard. Visit www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=609. No dogs allowed.

‘ololkoy Beach Park (formerly Oxnard Beach Park) has one of the best kids play areas around town, restrooms, lots of grass, and easy access to miles and miles of beach. The park is located at 1601 S. Harbor Boulevard. visitoxnard.com/directory/oxnard-beach-park

Oxnard Beach Park looking towards the beach.

Oxnard Beach Park looking towards the beach.

Hollywood Beach is a great spot for swimming, sunning and viewing the Channel Islands. Free public beach volleyball courts, public restrooms on the north end of the beach, on-street parking and lifeguards on duty between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Located right next to Channel Islands Harbor off of Harbor Boulevard. Dogs are allowed at Hollywood Beach on leash before 9am and after 5pm. West-facing beach means it’s great for catching the sunset!

Hollywood Beach

Hollywood Beach

Silver Strand Beach is a 1 mile long beach near Channel Islands Harbor, about 150 yards in width. It is capped by north and south jetties, both of which have small parking lots; one next to San Nicholas Avenue (at Ocean Drive), the other next to Sawtelle Avenue. Free parking from sunrise to sunset with limited restroom facilities. This is a sandy bottom beach break which may have rip tides and an undertow, so be careful. Dogs on leash allowed before 9am and after 5pm. Lifeguards on duty daily during summer months. Accessed via S. Victoria Avenue. Visit visitoxnard.com/things-to-do/beaches/silver-strand-beach for more information.

There's a Kiddie Beach Park off of S. Victoria Avenue at Sunset Drive with available parking, restrooms and benches. It is a small sliver of sand that fronts the south end of Channel Islands Harbor and thus does not face ocean waves.

Hueneme Beach Park is a 50 acre area with picnic tables, barbecue pits, walking paths, a fishing pier, sand volleyball courts, Surfside Seafood snack bar, lifeguards and restrooms. Beach parking lots and Surfside Drive parking available for a fee. No dogs allowed. Visit www.ci.port-hueneme.ca.us/index.aspx?NID=926 for more information. Located at 550 E. Surfside Drive, Port Hueneme. 

Ormond Beach is a 1,500 acre area composed of agriculture, industry and wetlands. A two mile long beach extends from Port Hueneme on the north to Naval Base Ventura County on the south. This is one of the few areas in southern California with an intact dune transition zone marsh system, hosting over 200 migratory bird species. The California Coastal Conservancy is restoring these wetlands. A bit off the beaten path, it is probably more geared towards bird watchers and hikers. Get there via Hueneme Road, going south on either Perkins Road on the north and Arnold Road on the south.

Naval Base Ventura County occupies roughly 6 miles of oceanfront space between Ormond Beach on the north and Point Mugu State Park on the south. This space is not accessible by the general public. However, there are periodic opportunities for civilians to catch a glimpse of the Pacific Ocean from NBVC during organized events open to the public.

Mugu Beach is the first publicly accessible beach area south of Naval Base Ventura County off of PCH, located adjacent to the prominent Mugu Rock. For the most part this is the most quickly accessible beach to Camarillo and Conejo Valley residents. There is paid parking ($12 last time I was there) as well as parking available on PCH. Popular with fisherman. One thing to be aware of here is that there is a significant undertow. If you bring the little ones, best to stay out of the water or just be extra careful.

South of Mugu Rock there is also some beach that is accessible with plenty of parking on PCH. No facilities and not a lot of beach, but beautiful views and a quick place to explore.

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Thornhill Broome Campground and Beach is also part of Point Mugu State Park, located a mile or two south of Mugu Beach. This is a campground right on the beach with a capacity for about 60 or so RVs. But of course you can visit for the day for a parking fee. Plenty of parking also available on PCH. Porta-potties available. Dogs are allowed around here as long as they are on a leash (and paleeeze...pick up after them).

Across the street on PCH is a gigantic, steep sand dune that I've always found to be interesting. Learn more about that sand dune here.

Unusually large sand dune on the east side of PCH across from Thornhill Broome Campground

Unusually large sand dune on the east side of PCH across from Thornhill Broome Campground

Sycamore Cove is at the southernmost beachfront portion of Point Mugu State Park. Point Mugu State Park features 3.6 miles of ocean shoreline (Sycamore Cove to Mugu Beach), with rocky bluffs, beaches, sand dunes, rugged hills and uplands, two major river canyons and wide grassy valleys dotted native trees.

Sycamore Canyon Campground across PCH from Sycamore Cove has 58 campsites. For a challenge, ride or hike down through Sycamore Canyon from Rancho Sierra Vista/Satwiwa in Newbury Park. You'll most likely have to pay to park here (most recently $12 for day use) as there are not many spots on PCH available on the south side...watch out...there are no parking signs all over the place.

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Sycamore Cove Beach has a number of picnic benches shaded by trees and is thus a popular spot on summer weekends for the BBQ crowd as well as with the campers from the campground on the other side of PCH. Located at 9000 Pacific Coast Highway. Visit www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=630.

Trees shade the picnic tables at Sycamore Cove Beach

Trees shade the picnic tables at Sycamore Cove Beach

In the 3.3 mile stretch of PCH between Sycamore Cove Beach and County Line Beach (below) there are three or four places where you can park on PCH and access the beach.

One of these beaches I refer to as Call Box 1-35 Beach, about a mile southeast of Sycamore Cove Beach. This is not the official name of this beach in the unincorporated section of Ventura County northwest of Malibu city limits. But since the dilapidated staircase leading down to the beach is next to this call box, it seems appropriate. The address is approximately 9649 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu (yes, technically not Malibu, yet in Google maps the address says Malibu).

About half a mile southeast of Call Box 1-35 is Call Box 1-27 Beach, which I also refer to as 26 Steps Beach. 26 Steps Beach is approximately 1.9 miles northeast of County Line Beach (see below) and 1.5 miles southwest of Sycamore Cove Beach (see above), at approximately 9999 PCH, just west of Deer Creek Road. I made up the name 26 Steps Beach because there is a well-worn, tagged up staircase that leads you from your parked car on PCH near the 1-27 Call Box sign to the beach. This is not a bad little section of beach that rarely has many people. No restrooms. Parking is free on PCH.

County Line Beach is located across the street from the iconic Neptune's Net, 3 miles south of Sycamore Cove at 42505 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu. Lots of surfers and places to explore. Park on PCH. Watch out for bikers...there can be hundreds of them hanging out here on many a weekend. There are outer reefs for scuba diving that have an abundance of sea life. Activities include diving, surfing, and tide pools. No lifeguards on duty. There are a few porta-johns here. Technically, County Line Beach is located in Solromar, an unincorporated community in Ventura County - but they use the Malibu zip code so hey, it’s ok to say it is in Malibu.

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Before the main Leo Carrillo State Beach area while heading south on PCH is the Leo Carrillo State Park Staircase Beach area. There’s a California State Parks parking lot at 40000 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu. Parking is available for approximately 50 cars. There’s a moderately narrow trail that takes you down to the beach, which is also a fairly narrow beach with lots of rocks. You can also walk to this beach from the main Leo Carrillo Beach. Dogs allowed on leash.

Leo Carrillo State Park Staircase Beach parking lot.

Leo Carrillo State Park Staircase Beach parking lot.

Leo Carrillo State Park consists of 1 1/2 miles of beach for swimming, surfing, windsurfing, surf fishing and beach combing; one of our favorites for exploring sea caves, rocks and tidepools. Located at 35000 West Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, Leo Carrillo is about 1 1/2 miles south of County Line Beach. On the north side of PCH, there are 135 campsites in over 2,500 acres. Visit www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=616 or call 805.488.1827. Dogs on a leash are allowed in day use areas, campground and north beach (north of lifeguard tower 3). Dogs are not allowed on back country trails or south beach (south of lifeguard tower 3). Park on PCH or in the state lot ($12) and take the tunnel under PCH to the beach. More details on how to get to Leo Carrillo from the 101 freeway at this link.

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Nicholas Canyon County Beach is one mile east of Leo Carrillo at 33850 Pacific Coast Highway. Great beach where you can hang out, fish, picnic, surf and more. About 150 parking spaces available. Generally $10 to park on summer weekends, or park on PCH. More info at beaches.lacounty.gov/nicholas-canyon-beach. Restrooms available.

A view of Nicholas Canyon County Beach, just a mile east of Leo Carrillo.

A view of Nicholas Canyon County Beach, just a mile east of Leo Carrillo.

Located between Leo Carrillo and Point Dume State Beaches, Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach is made up of a number of cove or cliff-foot strands known as "pocket beaches" along the west end of Malibu, including El Pescador, La Piedra and El Matador. www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=633 Dogs are not allowed on state beaches.

El Pescador State Beach is 1.4 miles east of Nicholas Canyon at 32900 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu. Steep, uneven stairs lead to about 10 acres of narrow, sandy beach. It is just east of Decker Canyon, the curvy, steep road that takes you up to Hidden Valley/Westlake Village. Dogs are not allowed on state beaches. Limited parking is available (fees vary) or park on PCH. Small, secluded beach. When the tide is not too high, you can trek you way east towards La Piedra Beach and back.

Porta-potty available. www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=633.

Sign on PCH east of Decker Canyon Road, prior to El Pescador State Beach to the west of it.

Sign on PCH east of Decker Canyon Road, prior to El Pescador State Beach to the west of it.

La Piedra State Beach is .3 miles east of El Pescador at 32700 Pacific Coast Highway. A fairly long hiking path (may be a bit challenging for those lugging a lot of stuff) leads to 9 acres of narrow, sandy beach. Dogs are not allowed on state beaches. Limited parking available for a fee (which vary) or park on PCH. Porta potty available. www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=633.

El Matador State Beach is .3 miles east of La Piedra at 32350 Pacific Coast Highway, just east of where Encinal Canyon Road intersects with PCH. A dirt path, then dozens of stairs, leads to 18 acres of narrow, sandy beach with stunning, rock formations and caves.

Dogs are not allowed on state beaches.  There is a parking lot with room for 25 or so cars where you can pay $3/hour or $10 for all day (as of June 2025).  You can also park on PCH, but on the north side...for whatever reason parking is prohibited on the south side of PCH. This means you have to cross PCH, which can be a challenge. There are porta-potties available. www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=633

Stunning rock formations at El Matador State Beach.

Stunning rock formations at El Matador State Beach.

Lechuza Beach in Malibu, a mile east of El Matador State Beach, is maintained by the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority. It is a small, sandy beach with beautiful rock formations and views up the coast. Accessible via the northeast end of Broad Beach Road.  More information and specific access points at mrca.ca.gov/parks/park-listing/lechuza-beach. Dogs not allowed on the beach.

Zuma Beach is located at 30000 Pacific Coast Highway about 3.5 miles east of El Matador. With 1.8 miles of beach, Zuma is one of the largest and most popular beaches in Los Angeles County, Zuma is known for its long, wide sands and excellent surf. Plenty of facilities, including several food stands, restrooms, showers, volleyball, etc. Plenty of street parking on PCH and over 2,000 parking spaces (currently $8 weekdays and $15 weekends). Visit beaches.lacounty.gov/zuma-beach for more information. Zuma is known for riptides, so do be careful out there.

NOTE: Fires, including BBQs, are not allowed on any beach in Malibu; the exception is that fires may be allowed in designated spots at some state beaches. Dogs not allowed on the beach also.

Zuma Beach

Zuma Beach

Point Dume State Beach is a 63 acre promontory that juts out into the Pacific and features headlands, cliffs, rocky coves and vast beach access for swimming, surfing, scuba diving and fishing. Westward Beach borders Zuma Beach at Zuma's south side. There is plenty of parking on Westward Beach Road, which parallels Westward Beach. To the southeast of Westward Beach is a small 300 foot or so beachfront area called Pirate's Cove Beach (which due to its seclusion was once used as a nude beach).

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At the end of Westward Beach Road (WBR), access to the protected 34-acre Point Dume Natural Preserve begins from the cul-de-sac. A gradual ascending trail leads to an ancient coastal bluff sand dune with spectacular views...we've seen whales, seals and dolphins over here. A stairway from the east side of the bluff-top preserve allows access to a more isolated beach and tidepools (look but don't touch). Location/Directions: Take Kanan south to PCH and turn right. WBR is over the rise, at the foot of the hill. Park free on WBR or pay a fee at Westward Beach lot. No restrooms at the Preserve but some can be found on WBR. Call 310.457.8143 or visit www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=623 for more information.

NOTE: Dogs are not allowed on trails in the Point Dume Natural Preserve or on the beach.

Looking down on the beach at Point Dume

Looking down on the beach at Point Dume

Paradise Cove Beach is located at 28128 Pacific Coast Highway, accessed via Paradise Cove Road. Parking (as of June 2026) is $10 weekdays ($15 weekends/holidays) for if you spend up to 4 hours at the Paradise Cove Beach Cafe (and spend at least $30 there) or $45/$65/day (weekdays/weekends) if you park there just for the beach. Or, you can park on PCH and walk there. There are restrooms, cabanas, lounge chairs and chairs for rent, and a small pier. Visit www.paradisecovemalibu.com.

Escondido Beach is a short, narrow strip of beach accessible just west of Geoffrey's Malibu via a long stairway at 27420 PCH or near the corner of Escondido Beach Road and Malibu Cove Colony Drive. Look for access signs. No dogs allowed. No facilities.

Dan Blocker Beach is located at 26000 Pacific Coast Highway (between Solstice Canyon and Corral Canyon Roads. A sandy, narrow beach that draws surfers and scuba divers. Limited free roadside parking. Restrooms are available. Corral Canyon (trail map HERE) is located across the street at 25623 PCH. The trailhead is on the north side of PCH next to Malibu Seafood restaurant. The beach can be accessed via a seasonal trail under PCH. 310.305.9546

On June 14, 2016, a new beach stairway access was completed at 24038 Malibu Road. Very little parking available there and no facilities at the beach.

Malibu Beach is a 167 acre beach at 23050 and 23200 Pacific Coast Highway that includes Malibu Lagoon, Malibu Lagoon Museum and the Malibu Pier. Malibu Surfrider Beach next to the pier is quite popular with local surfers. Parking available for a fee, or park on streets surrounding Malibu Country Mart and walk across PCH at the signaled crosswalk at Cross Creek Road.

Malibu Surfrider Beach viewed from the Malibu Sportfishing Pier

Malibu Surfrider Beach viewed from the Malibu Sportfishing Pier

Perhaps the most expensive strip of beach in the world is Carbon Beach, which stretches about a mile and a half between the Malibu Pier and just east of Carbon Canyon Road. This wide beach is a beautiful strip of sand, but public access points can be challenging to find and parking can be a challenge. Learn specifics at THIS LINK but specifically, the public accessway points are at 22670 PCH, 22466 PCH and 22126 PCH. No restrooms and no dogs allowed at this beach.

Las Tunas Beach is located at 19444 Pacific Coast Highway, about 4 1/2 miles east of the Malibu Pier. It is a narrow beach beneath the bluffs that holds a special attraction to surf casters. Free parking lot. Located between Tuna Canyon and Las Flores Canyon Roads.

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And there's more...the California Coastal Commission Shoreline Public Access Program helps maximize public access to the beach along the California coast. When you see one of those "Coastal Access" signs, that means you can get to the beach. More on the program at www.coastal.ca.gov/access/accndx.html. The L.A. County Dept of Beaches and Harbors has published Malibu beach accessways at file.lacounty.gov/dbh/cms1_151453.jpg, including 11 accessways on PCH, Malibu Road and Broad Beach Road. But if you do check them out, be mindful of those who live there!

Bakeries, Cupcake Places and Donut Shops in the Conejo Valley

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There’s nothing wrong with enjoying an occasional donut, cupcake or pastry as long as they are consumed in moderation. And moderation for me is a dozen donuts. So on that nutritional note, we’ve compiled a list of local area bakeries and donut shops in Thousand Oaks, Newbury Park, Westlake Village and Agoura Hills for those of you looking to expanded your baked good horizons.

Bakeries

Boule de Pain French Bakery Cafe is now open at The Shoppes at Westlake Village, 30770 Russell Ranch Road, Suite G, offering fresh baked goods, breads, and breakfast from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. It is co-located with Novo Cafe. Learn more on the IG page at @bouledepainla

Cafe Ficelle Boulangerie & Patisserie opened its doors on April 9, 2024 at 1710 Thousand Oaks Boulevard in Thousand Oaks. Also with locations in Ventura and old town Camarillo, Cafe Ficelle offer freshly baked goods, breakfast and lunch items, coffees, teas and more.  www.cafeficelle.com (805) 908-0200

Carrara Pastries is an Italian pastry shop located in the Whizin Market Square, 28914 Roadside Drive, Agoura Hills. Carrara offers fresh cakes, pastries like cannoli, cream puffs, tiramisu and fruit tarts, www.carraras.com (818) 661-9006

Emil’s Bake House is located at the Shops at Kanan Village, 5005 Kanan Road, Agoura Hills (at Agoura Road, where IHOP and Islands are located). Emil’s opened in December 2019, offering freshly-baked pastries, breads, desserts, fruit tarts, cakes, muffins, fresh quiche, Lavazza coffee, fresh juices and more. www.emilscafe.com (818) 532-7664

Francis Bakery Panaderia is located at 1080 E. Avenida De Los Arboles, Thousand Oaks (next to Cajun Crab Shack), offering Mexican baked goods, pastries and cakes. (805) 241-8682

Historia Bakery Cafe is located at 11 E. Hillcrest Drive, Thousand Oaks (at Moorpark Road), in the Grocery Outlet plaza. Historia opened in October 2019, serving a variety of decadent creations, including danish, crepe cakes, pastries, croissants, as well as sandwiches, juices, teas and coffees. www.instagram.com/historiabakerycafe (805) 371-1127

La Casa Del Pan Dulce Panaderia opened in the spring of 2026 at 1362 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks. Same owners as the adjacent Siesta Market.

La Cereza Cafe & Bakery opened at 280 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks in September 2023, offering fresh baked pastries, bagels, empanadas and other goodies. www.instagram.com/la.cereza.cafe

La Princiere French Bakery, Patisserie and Cafe is now open in the Northstar Plaza in Thousand Oaks, 1321-1345 Thousand Oaks Blvd. La Princiere offers long-fermentation artisanal breads, French baguettes, sourdough and a full French breakfast, lunch and eventually, dinner menu. www.facebook.com/frenchbakerypatisseriecafe.

Le Macaron French Pastries is now open at Janss Marketplace, in the small space to the right of Old Navy, across from The Mighty Axe. Le Macaron is a dessert shop serving French macarons, pastries, and gelato, as well as European style coffees. Learn more at lemacaron-us.com/locations/thousand-oaks.

Le Pain Quotidien opened in March 2015 at the Westlake Plaza, next to Gelson’s, at 2728 Townsgate Road, Westlake Village. They offer croissants, pastries, tarts and other baked items, as well as breakfast and lunch items. Pronounced “Luh Pan Koh-Ti-Dyan.” www.lepainquotidien.com (805) 322-4696

Mercados Guadalajara Tortilleria Y Panaderia is located at 2454 W. Hillcrest Drive, Newbury Park. They offer Mexican cakes, pastries and other baked goods as well as tamales and other foods and drinks. (805) 375-2333

Nothing Bundt Cakes is located at 1610 Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Suite D, Thousand Oaks. Everything you could ask for in bundt cakes is right here - different sizes, multi-tiered cakes, “bundtlets” and more. www.nothingbundtcakes.com/find-a-bakery/ca/thousandoaks/bakery-7.html (805) 446-3082

Paris Baguette is soft opening Monday, June 15, 2026 at 650-658 N. Moorpark Road, Thousand Oaks, in the Whole Foods Plaza. This bakery cafe serves pastries, wraps, cakes, sandwiches, salads, and more. https://parisbaguette.com/locations/ca/thousand-oaks/650-658-n-moorpark-rd 805-574-7745

Sarai Bakery Panaderia is located at 226 E. Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Thousand Oaks in the Select Plaza (at Conejo School Road, across from The Lakes at Thousand Oaks). They carry a variety of traditional Mexican baked good specialties as well as other Mexican foods (burritos, tortas, tamales, tacos, etc.) (805) 494-1584

Siblings Bakery opened on January 14, 2021 in the former home of Jaime Cakes at 1625 E. Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Thousand Oaks. They offer custom cakes and other goodies…muffins, cupcakes, brownies, etc. www.siblingsbakery.com

Mamolo’s Fine Pastries & Coffee Bar (formerly Viktor Benês Bakery) is located inside Gelson’s Markets at 2734 Townsgate Road, Westlake Village (805-496-0045) and 1736 E. Avenida de Los Arboles, Thousand Oaks (805-493-4301). They offer high quality pastries, cakes, bread, danish, cupcakes, cookies, coffee cakes and snacks as well as custom cakes. www.gelsons.com/recipes-wine-and-food/the-bakery

Village Bakery & Cafe is located at 5839 Kanan Road, Agoura Hills in the Agoura Hills City Mall. They offer delicious pastries, cakes, bagels and breads, not to mention a full range of breakfast and lunch items, smoothies and Turkish coffee. www.agouravillagebakery.com (818) 736-9898 Open daily at 7am.

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Cupcakes and Cookies

Sweet Arlene’s is located in the Westlake Plaza at 960 S. Westlake Blvd., Westlake Village. Sweet Arleen’s is a 3-time winner of the Food Network Cupcake Wars, offering a wide variety of flavors - red velvet, vanilla, chocolate, lemon, carrot walnut, peanut butter, chocolate marshmallow, strawberry cream, banana caramel, coconut snowball, mocha truffle, pina colada, cookies and cream, Boston cream pie, peach cobbler…the list goes on. sweetarleens.com (805) 373-7373

Cookies, anyone? Crumbl Cookies opened at The Shoppes at Westlake Village, 30768 Russell Ranch Road, on July 14, 2022, offering fresh baked cookies from a rotating weekly menu. crumblcookies.com (805) 601-6653.

Crumbl Cookies also operates a 2nd Conejo Valley location at The Village at Newbury Park, 935 Broadbeck Drive, Unit B.

The Cookie Cafe opened at 30651 Thousand Oaks Boulevard in Agoura Hills in December 2024, serving, among other things, its delicious, old-fashioned chocolate chip cookies in most any quantity. www.thecookie.cafe 747-222-6221

Donut Shops

We are not lacking a variety of donut shops in the Conejo Valley - Thousand Oaks, Newbury Park, Westlake Village, Oak Park and Agoura Hills.

Star Donuts is located in the Smart & Final plaza at 2160 Newbury Road, Newbury Park. Open nearly 24 hours a day and also offering boba drinks and sandwiches. (805) 499-3877

Sugarbox Donuts is located in the Wendy-Kimber Plaza at 3303 Kimber Drive, Newbury Park. Also offers croissant sandwiches and iced drinks. (805) 498-4318

Judy’s Donuts is located at 2393 Michael Drive, Newbury Park. Offering an array of standard donuts but specializing in custom donuts for any occasion. (805) 498-6877

Newbury Donut is located at 766 Wendy Drive, Newbury Park, offering donuts, ice blended drinks and sandwiches. (805) 498-6454

Foster’s Donuts is located at 1398 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks, offering donuts, croissant sandwiches and drinks. (805) 495-1174

Best Donuts is located near the Thousand Oaks Auto Mall at 3900 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Westlake Village, offering mostly donuts, (805) 495-4436

Donut Depot is located in the Select Plaza, just east of the The Lakes at Thousand Oaks at 2354 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd, Thousand Oaks., offering donuts as well as ice blended drinks. (805) 494-9840

Fresh Donuts is located in the Trader Joe’s plaza at 409 E. Avenida de los Arboles, Thousand Oaks, offering donuts, croissant sandwiches and ice blended drinks. (805) 492-0566

Gladstone Donuts is located at 664 Lindero Canyon Road, Oak Park, offering donuts, breakfast bagels, croissant sandwiches and ice blended drinks. (818) 777-4400

Heart-shaped Valentine’s Day donuts at Dunkin.

Dunkin’ (they removed donuts from their name years ago) operates at 30895 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Westlake Village (at Lindero), offering donuts, sandwiches, espresso drinks and more. www.dunkindonuts.com (818) 991-5555

Mochinut is coming soon to the Ventu Park Shopping Center (anchored by Ralph’s) at 587 Ventu Park Road in Newbury Park. Mochinut offers mochi donuts, which have a chewy texture and are made with rice flour. They also offer crispy Korean rice corn dogs and drinks such as smoothies, coffee and matcha. www.mochinut.com

Yum Yum Donuts is located at 5833 N. Kanan Road, Agoura Hills, offering donuts, bagels, breakfast sandwiches, croissants and more. yumyumdonuts.com (818) 706-1402 Open 24 hours.

Donut hesitate to CONTACT US with any updates to this list.

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And How About Some Bagels

Here are places in the Conejo Valley serving up fresh bagels:

Western Bagel at 3825 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd, Suite G, Westlake Village has been a popular bagel place for decades. westernbagel.com (805) 496-0344

East Coast Bagel in the Westlake Plaza (next to Sea Casa) at 1014 S. Westlake Blvd, Suite 2, Westlake Village is another long-time bagel standby. eastcoastbagelco.com (805) 494-9099

Noah’s NY Bagels is an old standby at 33 N. Moorpark Road, Thousand Oaks. Next to Jamba Juice. locations.noahs.com/us/ca/thousand-oaks/33-n-moorpark-rd (805) 381-9893

Baking No More

Cake Monkey Bakery at 2805 Agoura Road in Agoura Hills closed in September 2019, just 13 month after opening in August 2018.

E. T. Donuts in the Oakbrook Plaza in Thousand Oaks closed its doors 3/1/21.

Flatiron Bagel at 1817 Thousand Oaks Blvd, Thousand Oaks in the Oak Leaf Square is officially closed as of April 2021.

The beloved Chocolatine French Cafe at 2955 E. Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Thousand Oaks, served its last croissant on Sunday, August 27, 2023.

Karma Baker opened in the Pavilions Plaza at the southwest corner of Lindero and Kanan in October 2014 and closed its doors on March 30, 2024.

Sprinkles Cupcakes was located at The Promenade at Westlake from October 2013 until it closed its doors in late January 2025. One of my favorite treat places when the kids were little.

Itala Magdalena Bakery opened on the 2nd floor of The Oaks Mall (east side, top of the escalator, near Macy’s) in July 2021 and closed in late 2025.

Eleven of My Favorite Things to Do In and Around the City of Ventura

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Incorporated in 1866, the City of Ventura is the county seat of Ventura County. The official name of Ventura is the city of San Buenaventura. Mission San Buenaventura was founded by Franciscan priest Junipero Serra on March 31, 1782 and was named after Saint Bonaventure. Enough with the history lesson...here are some of my favorite things to do in this beautiful city!

You can't miss the 1,600 foot long Ventura Pier, with its panoramic views, fishing and ocean breezes. There's a cool little playground area in the sand just west of the pier, bicycle rentals nearby, miles of beachfront bike path and Surfers' Point. San Buenaventura State Beach stretches from the Ventura Pier down south past the homes of the Ventura Keys. Eateries on the pier include Eric Ericsson’s Fish Co., MadeWest Brewing Company Taproom and Beach House Tacos.

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Ventura Harbor Village is home to 33 acres of harborside activities, shopping and restaurants. There's an arcade with an antique carousel, boat rides, kayaking and sailing and quick access to family-friendly Harbor Cove Beach and Surfer's Knoll Beach. Also within a short walking distance is the Robert J. Lagomarsino Visitor Center, an inspirational and interactive source of information about the Channel Islands National Park. Bring the kids!

Ventura Harbor Village is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Ventura Harbor Village is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

For some of the most spectacular views of Ventura, stop by Grant Park / Serra Cross Park. You can drive up there, or park above the historic Ventura City Hall building and walk to Grant Park via the Ventura Botanical Gardens trail. This nice one mile trail will give you a nice little workout, with views along the way.

A view from the Ventura Botanical Gardens Trail near Grant Park

Golf N' Stuff is a family favorite, especially when it's really hot in the Conejo Valley and you're looking for an outdoor alternative to the beach.  The kids never tire of the two 18-hole mini golf courses, bumper boats, large, nicely appointed arcade, go karts and bumper cars.

Mini golf fun at Golf N' Stuff Ventura.

Mini golf fun at Golf N' Stuff Ventura.

Another popular family choice is oceanfront Marina Park in the Ventura Keys, a decent sized park with plenty of grassy area, a newer playground and path to adjacent picnic and viewing area Soter Point. We enjoy riding bikes from the park to the Ventura Beach Path.

Marina Park Beach

Marina Park Beach

In Downtown Ventura, the Museum of Ventura County hosts a collection of over 30,000 pieces of fine art and historical items and a changing lineup of exhibits displaying items of local relevance. The Museum's Research Library houses over 150,000 resources related to the history of Ventura County. And the Museum regularly hosts public events geared towards all ages as well as free admission the first Sunday of each month.

The city closed off five blocks of Main Street in Downtown Ventura to create “Main Street Moves.” in 2020. This allowed many businesses to thrive with outdoor dining during the pandemic, but it also caught on as a great opportunity to roam the streets of Downtown Ventura in a leisurely way, without automobile traffic. City Council voted to extend Main Street Moves on a year-round basis in November 2024. Updates at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/2165/Main-Street-Moves.

It doesn’t feel like it is in Ventura, but Lake Casitas Recreation Area, technically in Ventura (though it feels more like it is in Oak View), is a wonderland of outdoor fun - boating/kayaking on the lake (no swimming though…it is a water source), camping, disc golf, picnicking, bicycling, exploring and more.

Kayaking at Lake Casitas.

Moby’s on Main opened at 369 E. Main Street in Ventura, in late May 2024. Moby’s is Ventura’s first family-friendly arcade and bar, offering a collection of vintage arcade games, pinball machines, classic Thrifty ice cream, snacks and more. www.mobysonmain.com

Summer Camps and Programs In and Around Ventura County

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Looking for a summer camp within range of Ventura County? Here's a list of summer day camps and residential camps and programs in the area.

We've categorized the camps into three main groups; Traditional/Learning, Sports and Music/Arts, though many camps cover numerous fun activities all in one.

Know of more? Submit them here!

No doubt there will be some typos/errors on this list, so let us know if you find one.

FEATURED CAMP: CTRL ALT IDEA summer STEM camps in Thousand Oaks for ages 8-12 from July 6 to August 14 from 9am to noon. Learn Robotics and 3D Design! www.ctrlaltidea.com/summer-camp

Traditional Day Camps, Overnight Camps and Other Camps

Sports Camps

Music/Arts/Science Camps