Ventura pier, a dock overlooking Pierpont Bay and the Channel Islands, is one of the most popular spots to spend the day in Ventura.  Bring the camera to take some unforgettable snapshots of a fun day on the western coast.

Some of the best activities in Ventura include:

• Gaze out at the sea from Ventura Pier
• Hit the waves at Surfers Point
• Go tanning on the sands of Emma Wood State Beach
• Visit the various Channel Islands
• Explore the eclectic shops in Downtown Ventura

Ventura is famous worldwide for its choice waves. Make sure to bring sunscreen when you visit one of California’s most beloved surf spot, Surfer’s Point.

Check out popular things to do in Ventura:

• The Two Trees on a hill overlooking the city is a local landmark
• Rancho Ventura Conservation is a perfect place to go bird watching
• The Museum of Ventura County has a collection of modern and fine art
• Historic Mission San Buenaventura is where Ventura gets its name
• The Ventura Harbor Village is a fun place to watch the boats

Nothing says “Ventura” like a handmade gifts by local artisans. Main Street is filled with a variety of boutiques, jewelry stores, and thrift shops to explore and find the perfect gift for your friends or home.

Activities happening near Ventura today include:

• Eating at Eric Ericsson's Seafood Restaurant by the pier
• Watching the races at Ventura Raceway on the fairgrounds
• Sampling local cuisine with Ventura Food Tour
• Boating on the man-made Lake Casitas
• Hiking and camping at Foster Park

When the sun goes down, Ventura stays up. Originally a movie theater, the Majestic Ventura Theater is now a National Historic Landmark and popular concert venue for touring artists. Buy tickets to see one of the many up and coming performers that play on the stage, like the Red Hot Chili Peppers and The Doors.

Check out these popular nighttime activities in Ventura:

• Play pool at Paddy’s
• Hit it big at Players Casino
• Attend a concert at Discovery Ventura
• Hear live music at Surf Brewery
• Learn how to swing dance at Yeah Man

As the seat of Ventura County, Ventura has an active relationship with neighboring towns Ojai and Oxnard. Both of these towns have plenty of kid-approved attractions, like the Gull Wings Children's Museum in Oxnard and the Ojai Skate Park.

Top family-friendly things to do in Ventura include:

• Getting ice cream at Coastal Cone and Parlour
• Playing a round of putt-putt at Golf N’ Stuff
• Climbing the water playground at Casitas Water Adventure
• Flying kites at Arroyo Verde Park
• Renting a boat and being buccaneers with Pirate Boat Ride

After a day in the California sun, there’s still plenty of fun to be had indoors. The Museum of Ventura County is a center educates the public about art and history. When visiting the museum, be sure to check out the approximately 30,000 pieces of fine art and artifacts. If you have extra time, review the documents available in the research library.

Other things to do indoors near Ventura include:

• Customize a unique soap from The Refill Shoppe
• Sip on wine and paint a masterpiece with Paint Nite
• Watch a production at Rubicon Theater
• Sign up for music lessons at Harmony Music Center
• Pamper yourself at Coastal Skin Care Day Spa

Just across the water from Ventura is the Channel Islands National Park, a preserve on five islands that is home to a variety of wildlife. After riding a ferry from Ventura, visitors can take advantage of the many outdoor activities on the island, including hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Other outdoor activities include:

• Kayaking with Channel Island Kayak Center
• Riding the waves at Surfer’s Knoll
• Hiking in Arroyo Verde Park
• Catching some air while windsurfing
• Looking for wildlife with Lagoon Bird Walk