Free and Nearly Free Movies All Summer Long Around Ventura County 2026

Stay cool this summer of 2026 with several hundred free and nearly free ($1 to $6) movies in and around Ventura County and surrounding areas!

Rancho Simi Rec & Park District Movies in the Park at Rancho Madera Community Park, 556 Lake Park Drive. Pre-movie activities start at 6:30 p.m.

• June 12: A Minecraft Movie

• August 7: The LEGO Batman Movie

Also, Dive-In Movie “Rango” at the Rancho Pool at 1765 Royal Ave, Simi Valley, on Sat, July 11th. $7 admission.

Oak Park Movie at Oak Canyon Community Park on Friday, June 19th featuring The Greatest Showman.

City of Westlake Village Movie in the Park on Saturday, July 18th, featuring Shrek.

City of Moorpark Movies in the Park on Saturday nights at Arroyo Vista Community Park.

• June 13: The Goonies

• July 11: Cars

• August 8: The Princess and the Frog

• September 12: Super 8

• October 10: ParaNorman

City of Agoura Hills Summer Movies in the Park on Saturday nights at Reyes Adobe Park.

• June 20: Surf’s Up

  July 11: Guardians of the Galaxy

  August 15: How to Train Your Dragon

Free Movies at the Park at Thousand Oaks Community Park on Friday evenings.

• August 14: Zootopia 2

• September 12: Wicked: For Good

Studio Movie Grill at the Simi Valley Town Center is offering $6 Children's Summer Movies (includes small popcorn and small drink) 10am Mondays through Thursdays from June 23 to August 7.

• June 8-11: The Wild Robot (PG)

• June 15-18: The Secret Life of Pets (PG)

• June 22-25: The Land Before Time (G)

• June 29 - July 2: How to Train Your Dragon (PG)

• July 6-9: The Bad Guys 2 (PG)

• July 13-16: Shrek 2 (PG)

• July 20-23: Kung Fun Panda (PG)

• July 27-30: Dog Man (PG)

• August 3-6: Trolls (PG)

CineMalibu Summer Movies at Malibu Bluffs Park on Saturday evenings:

• Sat, July 11: Kicking & Screaming

  Sat, Aug 22: The Sandlot

AMC Dine-In Thousand Oaks 14 hosts Summer Movie Camp - $3 family movies for 8 weeks - Mondays and Wednesdays at 11am and 2pm, from June 23 to August 13.

• June 22 and 24: Paddington in Peru

• June 29 and July 1: David

• July 6 and 8: How to Train Your Dragon

• July 13 and 15: The LEGO Movie

• July 20 and 22: Sonic the Hedgehog 3

• July 27 and 29: The Bad Guys 2

• August 3 and 5: The Spongebob Movie: Search for Squarepants

• August 10 and 12: Muppet Treasure Island

Regal Theaters in Thousand Oaks, Camarillo, and Simi Valley present the Regal Summer Movie Express - $1 family movies Mondays through Thursdays from June 1 to August 13. Times vary by theater. www.regmovies.com/promotions/summer-movie-express

• June 1-4: Sing and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem

• June 8-11: David and Kung Fu Panda 4

• June 15-18: KPop Demon Hunters and The Wild Robot

• June 22-25: The Bad Guys 2 and The Garfield Movie

• June 29-July 2: A Minecraft Movie and Sonic the Hedgehog 2

• July 6-9: How to Train Your Dragon and Sonic the Hedgehog 3

• July 13-16: Scoob! and Goat

• July 20-23: Animal Farm and The Spongebob Movie: Search for Squarepants

• July 27-30: Dog Man and Paddington in Peru

• August 3-6: Charlie the Wonderdog and Despicable Me 4

• August 10-13: The Sandlot and Muppets: Treasure Island

The Ojai Film Society presents a series of free summer films at Libbey Bowl on designated nights in July and the 2nd half of August.

• Thu, July 2: Hunt for the Wilderpeople

• Fri, July 10: Selena Y Los Dinos

• Fri, July 17: Cookie Queens

• Fri, July 24: Best in Show

• Thu, August 20: Arrival

• Thu, August 27: Jurassic Park

Cinemark Theatres Summer Movie Clubhouse at Century Riverpark and Cinemark Century Ventura Downtown 10 on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and some Tuesday mornings from June 1 to August 6.

• June 1-4: Paddington

• June 8-11: Sonic the Hedgehog

• June 15-18: KPOP Demon Hunters Sing-Along

• June 22, 24, 25: Shrek Forever After

• June 29, July 1, 2: The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants

• July 6, 8, 9: A Minecraft Movie

• July 13, 15, 16: Dog Man

• July 20, 21, 22, 23: How to Train Your Dragon

• July 27, 29, 30: The Bad Guys 2

• August 3, 4, 5, 6: Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie

Kids Summer Movie Series at Plaza Stadium 14 in Oxnard and Roxy 11 in Camarillo feature $3 family movies at 10am (Camarillo) and noon (Oxnard) on Wednesdays, from June 24 to July 29.

Roxy Stadium 11 in Camarillo:

• June 24: The Iron Giant

• July 1: Beethoven at Roxy Stadium

• July 8: Babe

• July 15: Free Willy

• July 22: The Great Muppet Caper

Plaza Stadium 14 in Oxnard

• June 24: Migration

• July 1: How to Train Your Dragon

• July 8: The Bad Guys 2

• July 15: Dog Man

• July 22: Kung Fu Panda 4

• July 29: The Wild Robot

Simi Valley Town Center Summer Movie Nights

• Fri, June 12: Finding Nemo (starts at 8pm)

City of Port Hueneme Free Movies in the Park

• Sat, June 27 at 8:15PM: Lilo & Stitch (Hueneme Beach Park)

• Sat, July 25 at 8:15PM: Mulan (Hueneme Beach Park)

• Sat, August 15 at 8PM: Zootopia 2 (Bolker Park)

• Sat, September 12 at 7:15PM: Pirates of the Caribbean (Hueneme Beach Park)

Seaside Movie Nights at Ventura Harbor Village

• Sat, August 22: Ferris Bueller’s Day Off

• Sat, September 19: Shrek

Movies/dates subject to change. Contact organizers to confirm.

AND HOW ABOUT FREE CONCERTS IN AND AROUND VENTURA COUNTY

Compilation of Public Beaches Spanning From Oxnard to Hueneme to Malibu

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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).

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

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

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.

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!

Labor Day Weekend Events In Ventura County and Surrounding Areas

Labor Day, the first Monday in September, is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It is a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country.

The first Labor Day holiday was celebrated on Tuesday, September 5, 1882, in New York City, in accordance with the plans of the Central Labor Union. The second Labor Day holiday was on September 5, 1883. In 1884 the first Monday in September was selected as the holiday.

Oregon was the first state to officially enact Labor Day as a holiday by law on February 21, 1887, followed that year by Massachusetts, New Jersey and New York. Since then, all 50 states have made Labor Day a state holiday.

2026 Labor Day weekend events around Ventura County and nearby areas:

Fri-Sun, Sep 4-6: The Carnival for Las Virgenes Schools in Agoura Hills

Fri-Mon, Sep 4-7: Malibu Chili Cook-Off and Carnival

Sat, Sep 5: Ventura Nationals at Ventura County Fairgrounds (9AM-5PM)

Sat, Sep 5: Live Music at Harbor View Park at Channel Islands Harbor (4-6PM)

Sat, Sep 5: Free Concert at the Plaza in Simi Valley - Ticket to Ride (6-9PM)

Sat/Sun, Sep 5-6: Aloha Beach Festival in Ventura

Sat/Sun, Sep 5-6: C-Street Classic Surf Contest in Ventura

Mon, Sep 7: CRPD Concert in the Park - 90’s Rock Show - Iconic Sounds of the 1990s (5PM)

LOCAL AREA BEACHES IN VENTURA COUNTY, MALIBU AND SANTA BARBARA COUNTY

Life's a Beach! Public Beaches Spanning From Carpinteria to the Ventura Harbor

The beaches of Ventura County have something for everyone, be it the sand, the ocean breezes, surfing, volleyball, sunning, picnicking or just chilling out to the sound of the waves. Here we have compiled a listing of beaches just north of Ventura County in Carpinteria down the coast to the Ventura Harbor. Separately we highlight beaches stretching further down the coast through Oxnard, Channel Islands Harbor, Point Mugu and Malibu as well as up the coast in and around Santa Barbara.

The Santa Claus Lane Beach Area in Carpinteria is a south facing beach area popular with surfers, boogie boarders and sunbathers. Get there from the 101 by taking the Padaro Lane exit towards Santa Claus Lane, then taking a left on Santa Claus Lane. You can park in a small dirt area (there's room for maybe 10 cars there) on the ocean side or find street parking, which is plentiful. This is not an "official" beach to my knowledge, as in city or county-run. Just a private beach. No restrooms to my knowledge. Oh yes, you'll have to cross the railroad tracks...so be careful! Down the street is Padaro Beach Village, where you can grab a bite to eat and do a little shopping.

On a separate note, you may be wondering why it is called Santa Claus Lane. Well the old-timers among you (including me) know that a gigantic roadside Santa used to reside here that now greets us off the 101 freeway in the Nyeland Acres section of Oxnard. Learn more about the history at this link.

Surfers, boogie boarders, body surfers and frolickers at the Santa Claus Lane area beach.

Just down the street is the quaint Padaro Beach Village, where you can grab a coffee, breakfast, lunch, do a little shopping, etc. Very relaxing little area.

Carpinteria State Beach is a mile long beach for swimming, surf fishing, tidepool exploring and camping. Dogs are allowed only at the picnic area. The park originally opened in February 1932. There are four campground areas with 216 family campsites and seven group campsites available. Seals and sea lions can be seen in the area December through May, as well as an occasional gray whale. Tidepools contain starfish, sea anemones, crabs, snails, octopi and sea urchins. Exit the 101 at Casitas Pass Road, go west to Carpinteria Avenue, make a right at the signal; then turn left on Palm.  The beach is at the end of Palm Avenue near 4th Street. Call 805.968.1033 or visit www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=599.

Note: Campfires are only allowed in the campground in fire rings provided. No fires are allowed on the beach.

Tar Pits Park in Carpinteria provides hiking and biking trails and a few benches, but no other park amenities.  Access to the park is very remote and it is suggested that you enter from the Carpinteria State Beach campgrounds or beach area.  Here you will see tar oozing out of the hills...so watch where you step! The Carpinteria Tar Pits is one of five natural asphalt lake areas in the world! Visit carpinteria.ca.us/parks-and-recreation/park-system for more information. The Carpinteria Harbor Seal Rookery can be reached by following trails east of the park.

Beach view from Tar Pits Park in Carpinteria.

Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve is 53 acres of open space situated overlooking the Pacific Ocean is a series of walkways, trails and open space for ocean views, whale watching and fresh air. There are restrooms and I believe parking is free. This is not a beach for hanging out on the sand. Visit www.carpinteria.ca.us/parks_rec/park_system.shtml for more information. Take the 101 Freeway to Ballard Avenue and turn towards the ocean.

Rincon Beach Park is near the Ventura/Santa Barbara County line just a few miles east of Carpinteria. Just take the Bates Avenue offramp off the 101 Freeway to the ocean and on the right you'll find plenty of free parking and easy beach access, with picnic tables and restrooms. Just steps to the south of Rincon Beach Park is Rincon Point, known as one of the best surfing spots in the world.

Great photo opps here at Rincon Beach Park :)

South of Rincon Beach Park is a newer (premiered September 2014) Class I bike path that takes you through the La Conchita Beach area to Mussel Shoals. La Conchita Beach is low key, with several access points from the La Conchita Bike Path area. You can park at Rincon Point and bike or walk to one of several access points from the path. You can also drive into La Conchita, find a parking spot and take the newer undercrossing that'll get you to the beach by walking under Highway 101.  No restrooms or other facilities to my knowledge at the beach. It’s several miles of beauty, directly adjacent to the 101.

La Conchita Beach

Mussel Shoals is a small beach community in Ventura with around 50 homes. There are about a dozen public parking spots along Old Pacific Coast Highway, paralleling the 101 near the Cliff House Inn. No restrooms. If you go there, perhaps have lunch at the Cliff House Inn and take in the peaceful views, while also checking out man-made Rincon Island.

Mussel Shoals

The beach between Mussel Shoals on the northwest and Seacliff on the southeast is referred to Oil Piers Beach. There used to be piers here until they were taken down in 1998. You get here either via the La Conchita Bike Path or by taking the Seacliff Exit (#78) from Highway 101, then take Pacific Coast Highway northbound to Mobil Pier Road, where you will drive under the 101 to find parking (and if there's no spots available, go back to PCH and you'll find some). No facilities to my knowledge at this beach.

Hobson Beach Park is located north of Faria Beach Park and the Rincon Parkway, at 5210 W. Pacific Coast Highway, Ventura. It is managed by the County of Ventura. Day use parking is free but limited. Restrooms available. Limited beach space. Camping and RV spaces are available on a first come, first served basis. CLICK HERE for more info or call 805.654.3951.

Rincon Parkway is located between Faria Beach Park and Hobson Beach Park on Highway 1 off the Ventura Freeway at 5275 Pacific Coast Highway, Ventura. 127 parallel parking spaces are available for RV use only; no camping. All RV's must be fully self-contained units as there are no hookups, utilities, etc. Minimal beach, mostly rocks. Next to a train track. But nonetheless fun to stop by from time to time. No day use parking. CLICK HERE for more info.

Faria Beach Park is located south of Hobson Beach Park is another popular RV/camping spot at 4350 W. Pacific Coast Highway, Ventura. Also managed by the County of Ventura with spots available first come, first served. There are restrooms. No dogs on beach but they are allowed in camping areas. CLICK HERE for more info or call 805.654.3951.

South of Faria Park and north of Solimar Beach is an area referred to as Mondos Beach. We recently rode bikes from the Ventura Pier past this area and saw plenty of families enjoying the sand and the water. There is parallel parking available on the old highway. I believe there are also some porta-johns available.

Mondos Beach area in Ventura, south of Faria, north of Solimar.

There's a strip of beach along Old Highway 1 between Mondos Beach and Solimar Beach that has parallel parking available, with large rocks separate the street from the beach. I don't know the name of this beach, but it is there, open to the public. There's not a specific street address but it is in the proximity of 3456 Pacific Coast Highway.

Solimar Beach is a strip of beach between Faria and Emma Wood known for surfing, swimming and fishing. Park along Old Highway 1. No facilities. There are about 60 homes along this beach.

Emma Wood State Beach** is popular for swimming, surfing and fishing.  The Ventura River estuary is at the mouth of the Ventura River at the southeast end of the park.  It attracts a variety of wildlife including raccoons, songbirds and great blue herons. Dolphins are occasionally seen just offshore. The park also features the crumbling ruins of a World War II coastal artillery site. Emma Wood offers family camping for self-contained vehicles only and group camping is available at Ventura River Group Camp. There are 90 campsites. There is a day use area in the park and beach access is available.  A bike path connects the park to Ventura and to the coast highway to the north. Parking is currently $10. Call 805.968.1033 or visit www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=604. Directions at this link. Campfires not allowed on the beach.

** Emma Wood State Beach - North Beach Campground will be closed for camping and day use from 8/25/25 through May 2026. See below.

We noticed a new sign at Emma Wood in the summer of 2015

The Downtown Ventura Promenade beachfront area stretches from Surfers' Point and Promenade Park at Figueroa Street and Shoreline Drive on the north, down the Promenade bike/walk path to the Ventura Pier. This is a popular area with lots of surfers, a cool kids' playground area just north of the pier and plenty of beach with lots of interesting looking rocks. There are several restrooms in the area. Great place to go bike riding with the family. Plenty of parking in the area on the north end. On the south side by the pier you may need to pay for parking at the Crowne Plaza on Harbor Blvd east of California Street or at San Buenaventura State Beach further east.

San Buenaventura State Beach stretches from the Ventura Pier down south past the homes of the Ventura Keys to Marina Park. There are two miles of sandy beach, sand dunes, picnic sites, fairly large parking lot, and the Jolly Oyster. Bike paths connect to other nearby beaches. Wheel Fun Rentals is located near the Ventura Pier if you need a bike. Campfires not allowed at this beach. Main parking lot access point is at San Pedro St and Pierpont Blvd. Additional parking in a lot off of Harbor Blvd north of Sanjon Road. Visit www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=600 for more information.

Marina Cove Beach is a very popular family spot located at Marina Park, with a newer, small playground area, lots of parking (though weekends can get pretty packed), restrooms and a nice family-friendly beach.. Walk from Marina Park south to Soter Point for picnic areas, mermaid statue and more.

Fun stone jetty to navigate at the beach adjacent to Marina Park in Ventura.

Harbor Cove Beach is located at the west end of Spinnaker Drive near Ventura Harbor Village and across from the Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center. It is a "still water" beach protected by jetties that is considered one of the safest family friendly beaches in the area (and also referred to as "Mother's Beach"). Restrooms and showers are available and across the street, next to the Visitor Center, is the Harbor Cove Cafe. Paid parking is in effect on Friday through Sunday and major holidays from 10am to 8pm - cost is $1 per hour up to 4 hours. $10 for the day. Less than an hour is free. See venturaharbor.com/parking. Parking on Spinnaker Drive is free.

Harbor Cove Beach Lifeguard Station

South Beach is located between Harbor Cove Beach and Surfers Knoll Beach off of Spinnaker Drive in Ventura.  This beach connects the two outer beaches and sits between two breakwaters and is good for relaxing, surfing, boogie boarding and more. Parking is available on Spinnaker Drive or park in the lot at the adjacent Harbor Cove Beach. As of July 2025, paid parking is in effect on Friday through Sunday and major holidays from 10am to 8pm - cost is $1 per hour up to 4 hours. $10 for the day. Less than an hour is free. See venturaharbor.com/parking. No restrooms available, but you can use the nearby Harbor Cove Beach restrooms.

South Beach in Ventura, between Harbor Cove Beach and Surfer’s Knoll Beach

Surfer's Knoll Beach is located in off of Spinnaker Drive in Ventura, across from Ventura Harbor Village. As its name implies, it is geared towards surfers, as well as others looking to relax and explore. Riptides are common here so be careful if you're a novice swimmer. There are restrooms and showers. But no lifeguards on hand. As of July 2025, paid parking is in effect on Friday through Sunday and major holidays from 10am to 8pm - cost is $1 per hour up to 4 hours. $10 for the day. Less than an hour is free. See venturaharbor.com/parking. Parking on Spinnaker Drive is free.

And there you have it! Let's take a break for now but as mentioned above, beaches stretching further down the coast through Oxnard, Channel Islands Harbor, Point Mugu and Malibu are covered in this separate post!

But wait! Here's a compilation of beaches in the City of Santa Barbara and surrounding areas!

Guide to Finding Family Friendly Bike Paths In and Around Ventura County

As a casual cyclist with young kids I usually steer clear of riding on busy streets, particularly those that don't have any type of bike lane on them. Thankfully there are nearly 80 miles of bikeways in Thousand Oaks, including 3 miles of bike paths, 20 miles of bike lanes and 54 miles of marked bike routes.  

Bike routes are shared with vehicles

Class I Bike Paths are separate from auto traffic and thus are great for family friendly cycling. Class II Bike Lanes are striped, painted and shared lanes adjacent to automobile lanes. Class III Bike Routes are marked by green signs that signify sharing with autos.

We also love taking our bikes to other places in and around Ventura County to enjoy other sights and surroundings. So how about if we highlight Class I Bike Paths throughout Ventura County, stretching from Thousand Oaks to Ventura.

Conejo Valley

The Conejo Creek Bike Path is a 1.2 mile path in the heart of Thousand Oaks that connects Gainsborough Road on the south to Conejo Creek Park and the Thousand Oaks Library. This is a nice, flat path, good for kids.

Another access point to the Conejo Creek Bike Path on La Granada Drive.

There is another Thousand Oaks bike path, the .5 mile Greenmeadow Drive connector bike path accessible on the west at Greenmeadow and Yellowstone, on the south side of Los Robles Greens. This is not a particularly interesting path but it does enable cyclists and walkers a path around the golf course to the Los Robles trailhead and Moorpark Road from Newbury Park. A bit hilly, too.

Entrance to Greenmeadow Avenue connector bike path in Thousand Oaks

There is also the .8 mile bike path on the north side of The Oaks mall as well as the .5 mile Read Road Connector path accessible off of Olsen Road just east of the 23 freeway.

Sign at the Read Road connector path on Olsen Road east of 23 Freeway.

Medea Creek Natural Park has hiking, biking and fitness trails that stretch from Calle Rio Vista and Oaks Hills Drive in Oak Park on the north, then south past Medea Creek Lane and Conifer Street to a cul de sac entrance to the park at the west terminus of Tamarind Street. About a mile to mile and a half of paths, including paved and dirt paths.

Nicely paved path at Medea Creek Natural Park in Oak Park

Ventura

My personal favorite bike path in Ventura County is the Omer Rains Trail that runs the entire length of San Buenaventura State Beach.

Senator Omer Rains Ventura Oceanfront Bikeway Sign on Main Street next to Ventura Beach RV Resort

We park the car at Marina Park in Ventura and ride a short distance north on Pierpont Blvd to the bike path entrance. This oceanfront path takes you past the Ventura Pier, through the Promenade area, adjacent to the Ventura County Fairgrounds, Emma Wood State Beach and beyond. Or you can get to the path from anywhere along the Ventura Promenade area.

Bike path along San Buenaventura State Beach.

Omer Rains Bike Path near Ventura Beach RV Resort on Main St.

Nice, newer paved section of Ventura beachfront bike path near Surfers Point.

The Ventura River Trail is a 6.3 mile asphalt pedestrian and bike path that follows the old Southern Pacific Railroad right-of-way from Main Street in Ventura to Foster Park inland towards Ojai. You can easily connect from the Omer Rains Trail to the Ventura River Trail up to the Ojai Valley Trail for quite a long, nearly automobile-free ride.

The Ventura Harbor Bike Path takes you 1.2 miles from Market St and Arundell Ave in midtown Ventura southwest through farmland to E. Harbor Boulevard and Schooner Drive, near Four Points by Sheraton.

Bike path from midtown Ventura to the Harbor is not the most exciting path but it is a convenient way to ride to Ventura Harbor, Marina Park and adjacent areas.

The La Conchita Bike Path between Rincon Point at the Ventura/Santa Barbara County Line adjacent to Highway 101 past La Conchita to Mobil Pier Road in Ventura was completed in September 2014. This path has leapfrogged into my own personal favorite in Ventura County because of its spectacular beach views. This is about 4 miles of bike path in the Oil Piers Beach to Mussel Shoals to La Conchita Beach to Rincon Point beach areas.

Bike paths rarely get better than this stretch along the southbound 101 and the Pacific Ocean in Ventura.

There's another short stretch of bike path at the east end of Navigator Drive that goes west, then south, around the Ventura West Marina.

Entrance to short bike path adjacent to Ventura West Marina.

There is a two mile biking and hiking on the east side of the lake at the Lake Casitas Recreation Area, 11311 Santa Ana Road, Ventura. The path starts at picnic area #1 and follows the east shoreline of the lake for a four mile round trip ride. The path is paved in the recreational area and becomes a dirt road outside of that. More information at www.casitaswater.org/hiking-and-biking-trail.

Ojai

The Ojai Valley Trail is a 9 to 10 mile trail that parallels Highway 33 from Foster Park on the outskirts of west Ventura, to Soule Park in Ojai. It connects to the Ventura River Trail.

The Ojai Trail runs parallel to Ventura Ave/Ojai Ave.

Simi Valley

The Arroyo Simi Bike Path is a two lane bike path in Simi Valley that runs from Madera Road, just south of Easy Street on the west, ending at Tapo Street on the east. Over seven miles.

Arroyo Simi Bike Path/Trail in Simi Valley.

Camarillo

We enjoy the newer, flat roughly 2 mile Calleguas Creek bike path from Pleasant Valley Fields up to the corner of Flynn and Upland Roads in Camarillo. Quick access from the Conejo Valley and a nice, relatively easy path good for all ages.

Look at how nice and flat this bike path adjacent to Calleguas Creek is!

Other Areas

There's an online bike map available on the Ventura County Transportation Commission website at www.goventura.org where you can find other Class I, II and II bike paths around the county. Here are some of them.

The Santa Paula Bike Trail takes you roughly 3 miles on the east near W. Main St and Peck Rd to (roughly) Dike Road on the west. 

The Fillmore Bike Path runs from south of Highway 126 (Telegraph Road) up past Shiell Park.

In Moorpark there's a .5 mile path at Country Trail Park, around the neighborhood to the west, back to Mountain Trail Street.

There's a bike path that starts at the ocean side of'olołkoy Beach Park and takes you south all the way to Hollywood Beach and Channel Islands Harbor. Cross Harbor Boulevard and make your way into Channel Islands Harbor, where you can ride all the way to the south end of the harbor.

Bike path near Oxnard Beach Park and Channel Islands Harbor.

In Port Hueneme there's a bike path that starts off of Bard Rd, west of South J St, through Richard Bard Running Springs Park and takes you southwest all the way to Hueneme Beach.

If you're willing to venture a bit further away from Ventura County, the Marvin Braude Coastal Bike Path stretches over 20 miles, from Will Rogers State Park in Pacific Palisades to Torrance. Flat, adjacent to the ocean, and so many things to do along the way!

Marvin Braude Coastal Bike Path in Pacific Palisades

That should be enough to get you started! Looking for local cycling clubs? Find some of them at this link.

Free Concerts and Live Music All Summer Long Around Ventura County

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

• 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.

• 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)

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 Attack - 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

• Summer Concert Series at Constitution Park at 7pm on designated Saturday nights.

  • Saturday, June 27: 90s Rock Show

  • Saturday, July 11: Savor

  • Saturday, July 25: Blue Breeze Band

  • Saturday, August 8: Yellow Brick Band

• Camarillo Community Band Free Concerts in the Park at 7 p.m. on Thursday evenings, July 9, 16, 23 and 30 at Constitution Park

• Free Concerts by the Sea at Harbor View Park at Channel Islands Harbor is on Saturdays from 4-6PM for 8 weeks - July 11 to September 5.

• Heritage Square Summer Concert Series from 6-8pm on Friday nights from June 12 to August 21 - reserved tables and seats available for a free. Free lawn seating available (donations appreciated) for this concert series that offers a wide variety of musical genres.

• Free Seaside Live Music at Ventura Harbor Village includes a variety of performers beginning Memorial Day weekend through August

• Rock the Collection Free Concert Series at The Collection at RiverPark

  • July 29: The K-Tel All Stars (70s Tribute)

  • August 12: DSB (Journey Tribute)

  • August 26: Twisted Gypsy (Fleetwood Mac Tribute)

  • September 9: That’s What I Like (Bruno Mars Tribute)

• Santa Paula Parks & Rec Concerts in the Park 2026 planned for Friday evening, June 19, July 17 and August 21 at Santa Paula Creek Sports Park, 301 Harvest Loop. Details at www.instagram.com/spparksandrec

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.

4th of July Fireworks, Parades and Other Events Around Ventura County

America's 250th birthday is Saturday, July 4, 2026! Here is a compilation of local holiday events and activities in celebration of Independence Day.

Fireworks Display Summary for 2026:

• Friday 7/3: Moorpark, Ventura, Fillmore

• Saturday 7/4: Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, Simi Valley, Ojai, Camarillo, Channel Islands Harbor, Santa Paula, Santa Barbara, Woodland Hills

• Sunday 7/5: Agoura Hills (Drone Show)

4th of July celebration parades to take place in Westlake Village, Ventura, Ojai, Channel Islands Harbor and Carpinteria (June 27).

Thousand Oaks/Newbury Park

The annual Conejo Recreation and Park District and City of Thousand Oaks 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular is launched from the hill behind the Hillcrest Center for the Arts in Thousand Oaks. Fireworks start at 9 p.m. Patriotic music simulcast by KHAY 100.7.

Other CRPD 4th of July events around town include a $5 family Pancake Breakfast and Home Run Derby in the morning at Borchard Park in Newbury Park, Concert in the Park at 5pm at Conejo Community Park and free swimming from noon to 4pm at CLU and NPHS pools.

CRPD also to host afternoon family games and activities at Conejo Community Center at 1175 Hendrix Ave. in Thousand Oaks. Festivities include a Youth Home Run Derby (1:00-3:00pm), Diaper Derby Baby Races (1:00-1:20pm), Potato Sack Races (1:25-1:45pm), Three-Legged Races (1:50-2:10pm), a Water Balloon Toss (2:15-2:35pm), Tug-of-War (2:40-3:00pm), and a Hula Hoop Contest (3:05-3:25pm). Also enjoy interactive musical experiences with the New West Symphony Music Van (1:00-3:30pm).

Independence Day Festivities at the Stagecoach Inn Museum in Newbury Park will take place on July 4th from 1-4PM.

4th of July Essentials

Westlake Village

The Westlake Village 4th of July Parade and Party in the Park starts at 9:30am at the corner of Lakeview Canyon and Agoura Roads, culminating at Berniece Bennett Park.

The City of Westlake Village presents its 11th Annual Fireworks Spectacular Show from the Westlake Village Golf Course, with additional viewing locations available. Activities begin at 6pm, including family-friendly activities, music and food trucks. The show will start at 9:10pm.

Westlake Yacht Club at 32119 Lindero Canyon Road opens its clubhouse to the public on the 4th of July for a Pancake Breakfast from 8:30am to 10:30am ($12; $6 under 10 yrs), Decorated Boat Contest and Boat Parade (11am judging, 11:30am parade), Sailboat Race at 1pm, live music 4:30-7pm, along with a mini bar, BBQ, jumbo hot dogs, and more. Flyer at THIS LINK.

Moorpark (3rd of July)

The City of Moorpark presents its 3rd of July Fireworks Extravaganza at Arroyo Vista Park, 4550 Tierra Rejada Road once again. A fun family event with festivities (games, food, entertainment) starting at 4pm. Tickets are $8 in advance; $10 at the gate. Onsite parking $5 (advance purchase only.)

Simi Valley

The Reagan Presidential Library 4th of July Celebration is back this year from 10am to 3pm on July 4th, featuring patriotic music, family entertainment, games, crafts and more.

The Kiwanis Club of Simi Valley presents the Star-Spangled Rock & Country Jam and Fireworks Celebration on July 4th at Rancho Santa Susana Community Park, 5005 E. Los Angeles Avenue. Gates open at 3pm. There will be music, food and craft vendors, beer and wine, shopping and a free kids’ fun zone. And of course, fireworks! Event is free of charge but VIP passes are available.

Calabasas

The City of Calabasas is hosting the Lakeside Fun Run 4 and 2 mile runs in the morning and Summer Splash Party at the Tennis & Swim Center from noon to 5pm.

Camarillo

The City of Camarillo is hosting a July 4th Fireworks Show at the Camarillo Premium Outlets again this year at 9pm. Park and enjoy the fireworks. Last entry is 8:45 pm.

The Commemorative Air Force Museum in Camarillo is hosting a 4th of July Celebration from 10am to 4pm. Enjoy hot dogs, ice cream, apple pie, WWII aircraft and exhibits, cockpit tours, a selfie booth, and more. $5 admission; kids under 12 free.

Oxnard/Channel Islands Harbor

The Channel Islands Harbor 4th of July Family Parade begins at 10:30 a.m. at Albacore Way, travels north up Harbor Blvd. and ends at Cabezone Circle, home to Marine Emporium Landing. Then from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. there will be farmers’ market, over 40 local artisans, live music, and other activities at Harbor View Park.

The Channel Islands Harbor will be offering activities and entertainment all day, followed by Fireworks by the Sea at 9pm on the 4th of July.

The Oxnard Downtowners is hosting a Stars, Stripes & Sounds America 250 Celebration at Plaza Park (500 S. C St) on Friday, July 3rd, from 3-9:30pm. Event to feature live music, classic cars, food vendors and food trucks, beer garden, entertainment, and more.

Ventura

The annual Ventura Rotary fireworks event at Ventura College will not be held in 2026, but will be back on July 4, 2027. INSTEAD, the City of Ventura is hosting a free community fireworks show on Friday, July 3, 2026 in Downtown Ventura. The fireworks will be launched from the top of the parking garage on Santa Clara Street, with viewing throughout downtown, including Plaza Park. There will be live music from 7-9PM, with fireworks starting at 9PM.

Additionally on July 3rd, Ventura Harbor Village presents 250 minutes of live music to celebrate America’s 250th, from 1-4PM.

The City of Ventura 4th of July Street Festival and Annual Pushem-Pullem Parade are back this year, with the parade starting at 10am, street fest on Main Street and side streets with artisans, food booths, vendor displays and live music.

Ojai

The annual Ojai Independence Day Parade will take place at 10am on July 4th.

Live music and fireworks show will take place on July 4th at Nordhoff High School Stadium, starting at 6 pm (gates open at 5:30pm). Fireworks will begin at 9:15 pm. Presale tickets for the nighttime event are available at www.4thofjulyinojai.com. $14.64 (includes fees) adults, $8.24 for kids, $33.85 for family of 4 pass. (pre-sale)

Free concert on Thursday, July 3rd at Libbey Bowl at 6pm featuring the Ojai Band.

Pancake breakfast at Chaparral Auditorium, 414 East Ojai Ave from 7am to 10am on July 4th hosted by the Ojai Lions Club. Cost is $7 for adults and $5 for kids.

Fillmore

The Sespe Creek 4th of July Car Show, Chili Cook-Off & Cornhole Tournament will take place in downtown Fillmore on July 4th from 9 am to 4 pm.

The City of Fillmore is hosting its annual fireworks show on Friday, July 3rd at 9pm at the Fillmore Middle School athletic field, 532 A Street. Residents and visitors will be able to enjoy the show from their homes and city parks.

Santa Paula

The City of Santa Paula invites the community to a day of celebration capped by a spectacular Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular at the Santa Paula Creek Regional Sports Park at Harvest at Limoneira (301 Harvest Loop). Festivities kick off in the afternoon from 4-8:30PM and include live music at the amphitheater, food trucks, face painting, lawn games, inflatable jumpers, and the City Corps Wagon Train. The fireworks show begins at 9:00 PM. Admission and parking are free.

Agoura Hills

There will be a fun Patriotic Drone Show after the free concert at Chumash Park on Sunday, July 5th (featuring Disco Inferno).

Woodland Hills

Valley Cultural Foundation presents a July 4th Extravaganza at 6pm, featuring live music, then fireworks at 9pm.

Carpinteria

The 29th Annual Rods and Roses Classic Car Show will take place from 10am to 2pm on Saturday, June 27th in Downtown Carpinteria, followed by an Independence Parade at 3:30pm.

Santa Barbara

The City of Santa Barbara is planning fireworks at West Beach at 9 p.m. this year and there will be other festivities during the day.

Malibu

The City of Malibu does not host a public fireworks display but the LA County Fire Dept approves permits for private fireworks displays off of barges in the ocean.