Looking for the laid-back California lifestyle? Look no farther than Ventura.

Nestled between Malibu and Santa Barbara, the city’s original name, San Buenaventura, labels it as a city of good fortune. With the modern-day city curving along the Pacific Coast Highway and framed by mountains in the background, it remains your good fortune to spend a little down time in this picturesque town.

Early California history is evident throughout Ventura’s Historic Downtown Cultural District, which began as Father Junipero Serra’s final mission settlement. Here, streets are dotted with historic homes, museums, boutiques and restaurants—and the thriving music scene guarantees a great soundtrack nearly every day of the year.

Ventura’s south-facing waterfront and breaks along the beaches lure surfers across the globe, so get in the water to try it out. Or at least relax on miles of beaches stretching from Surfer’s Point to Ventura Harbor and watch a few surf sessions.

Families love Ventura Harbor Village, with its old-school carousel, arcade and ice cream shop. Later, pick your perfect spot at an outdoor table overlooking the Pacific Ocean to sample fresh seafood directly from the waters offshore. Travelling without kids? Downtown wine bars and the Ventura County Wine Trail offer opportunities for wine tasting in one of the world’s leading wine-growing regions. Be sure to bring home a bottle to remind you of your good fortune.

Travel Planner

To plan your Ventura getaway, visit ventura-usa.com