Discover the best beaches in Ventura County for surfing, swimming, and family fun. From hidden gems to popular spots, here’s your complete guide to coastal bliss in Southern California.
Without a doubt Ventura County has some of the best beaches. There’s something magical about the stretch of coastline running through Ventura County. Maybe it’s the scent of salty air that hits your nose as you roll down Pacific Coast Highway. Or the way the golden hour bathes the sand in amber light, casting long shadows from surfers catching their final wave of the day.
Whether you’re a seasoned surfer, a parent looking for calm waters for the kids, or someone who just wants to dip your toes in the Pacific while reading a book, Ventura County has the beach for you. Forget the crowds of Malibu or the hype of Santa Monica—this slice of the Southern California coast has its own rhythm, one that locals know well and visitors quickly fall in love with.
Let’s dive into the best beaches in Ventura County, broken down by what makes them shine—surf, swim, or simply soak in the view.
Table of Contents
Best Beaches in Ventura County for Surfing
For surfers, Ventura County offers a mix of classic point breaks, punchy beach breaks, and mellow rollers. Whether you’re waxing your board for the first time or you’re chasing your next barrel, here are the go-to spots.
Surfer’s Point at Seaside Park (Ventura)
Just steps from Downtown Ventura, Surfer’s Point is a local favorite. It’s not just about the waves—though the long right-hand point break definitely draws the crowds—it’s about the vibe. Early mornings see longboarders carving smooth lines, while afternoons bring out shortboarders hungry for punchier surf.
Why It’s Great for Surfing:
•Consistent swells year-round
•Right-hand point break ideal for all levels
•Easy parking and walkable from Ventura’s downtown
Rincon Point (Between Ventura and Carpinteria)
Nicknamed the “Queen of the Coast,” Rincon is legendary. It’s not technically all within Ventura County lines (part of it crosses into Santa Barbara County), but it’s close enough—and important enough—not to leave off the list.
Surf Stats:
•World-renowned right-hand point break
•Best during winter swells
•Watch for crowds; locals are protective of their lineup
County Line Beach (Near the LA/Ventura Border)
Straddling the border between Ventura and Los Angeles counties, County Line offers a punchy beach break with a loyal following. If you’ve seen it in surf movies, that’s because it’s a classic.
What to Know:
•Often more beginner-friendly than Rincon
•Strong rights and lefts depending on tide
•Great post-surf eats at Neptune’s Net just across the road
Emma Wood State Beach (Ventura)
Tucked just off the 101, Emma Wood has a rougher, more rustic feel—perfect for surfers who don’t mind rocky entries and reward themselves with solid waves. It’s not as forgiving for beginners, but advanced surfers love its power and variety.
Why Advanced Surfers Flock Here:
•Powerful right-handers on a good swell
•Fast, steep waves during the right tide
•Less crowded than nearby points
Best Beaches for Families and Swimming
If you’re lugging beach toys, sunscreen, and a cooler filled with juice boxes, Ventura County’s got some family-friendly beaches that make beach day feel like a breeze.
Harbor Cove Beach (Ventura)
Locally known as “Mother’s Beach,” Harbor Cove is the gold standard for families with small kids. The water here is protected by jetties, making it calm, shallow, and ideal for splashing around without worrying about strong surf.
Family-Friendly Features:
•Lifeguards on duty during summer
•Calm waters great for swimming
•Restrooms and plenty of parking
The Kiddie Beach (Channel Islands Harbor, Oxnard)
Tucked into the Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard, Kiddie Beach lives up to its name. With incredibly calm, shallow waters and almost no waves, it’s a safe haven for toddlers and young children just getting their feet wet. The gentle slope makes it easy for little ones to play while parents relax close by.
Why Families Love It:
•One of the calmest beaches in Ventura County
•No surf, perfect for toddlers and beginner swimmers
•Close to Harbor amenities and casual dining
Marina Park Beach (Ventura)
Just south of Harbor Cove, Marina Park is another gem for families. The grassy park nearby makes it easy to mix sand time with a picnic or a game of frisbee.
Why It’s Great for Kids:
•Calm waves and a pirate-themed playground
•Picnic tables and grills available
•Easy walk from parking to sand
Silver Strand Beach (Oxnard)
While Silver Strand has a reputation as a surf beach, the southern end—near La Jenelle Park—is perfect for families. The waves are typically smaller here, and the beach is wide, clean, and relaxed.
Highlights:
•Quieter than Ventura’s beaches
•Clean sand, great for sandcastle building
•Bathrooms and showers nearby
Port Hueneme Beach Park
With a long pier, playground, and wide sandy stretches, Port Hueneme is a peaceful spot that feels worlds away from SoCal’s more chaotic coastal areas.
Family Features:
•Long pier great for fishing or strolling
•Sand volleyball courts and picnic areas
•On-site café and ample parking
olołkoy Beach Park (Oxnard)
Formerly known as Oxnard Beach Park, ’olołkoy Beach Park was renamed in 2023 to honor the Chumash word for “dolphin.” This expansive 62-acre park offers a blend of beach and park amenities, making it a favorite for families seeking both relaxation and recreation.
Why It’s a Family Favorite:
•Large pirate-themed playground suitable for various age groups
•Rolling grassy lawns perfect for picnics and kite flying
•Free public barbecue areas and volleyball courts
•Wheelchair-accessible paths leading to the beach
•Proximity to Channel Islands Harbor for additional activities
Other Beaches Worth a Visit
Sometimes the best beach isn’t about surfing or swimming—it’s about the feeling you get when you find your perfect patch of sand. These beaches offer unique scenery, peaceful vibes, and unforgettable sunsets.
Mandalay State Beach (Oxnard)
If solitude is what you’re after, Mandalay delivers. There’s not a lot of infrastructure here—no snack shacks or beach rentals—but that’s the point. It’s quiet, natural, and ideal for walking or running along the coast.
What Makes It Special:
•Protected dune habitat
•Excellent birdwatching and photography spot
•Perfect for morning or sunset strolls
Hollywood Beach (Oxnard)
With its wide sandy expanse and views of the Channel Islands, Hollywood Beach lives up to its glamorous name. It’s rarely packed, even on sunny weekends, and you’ll spot everything from paddleboarders to dolphins just offshore.
Why Locals Love It:
•Close to Channel Islands Harbor for post-beach dining
•Dog-friendly during certain hours
•Wide enough to never feel crowded
San Buenaventura State Beach
This beach runs right alongside the Ventura Promenade, making it one of the most accessible and versatile beaches in the area. It’s great for people-watching, biking along the path, or catching a spontaneous drum circle on the weekends.
What to Expect:
•Fire pits available for evening hangouts
•Food trucks and vendors during summer
•Rent bikes or rollerblades nearby
FAQs: Beach Days in Ventura County
What’s the best time of year to surf in Ventura County?
Winter months (November through March) tend to bring the strongest swells, especially to point breaks like Rincon and Emma Wood.
Are dogs allowed on Ventura County beaches?
Some beaches, like Hollywood Beach, allow dogs during off-peak hours. Always check signage before bringing your furry friend.
Can I camp on the beach in Ventura County?
Yes, at certain locations like Emma Wood State Beach and McGrath State Beach (when open), beachside camping is available. Reservations are recommended.
Are there beach bonfire pits in Ventura County?
San Buenaventura State Beach has designated fire rings, perfect for s’mores and sunset gatherings.
The Takeaway: There’s a Beach for Everyone in Ventura County
Ventura County’s coastline isn’t just a place to cool off in summer—it’s a year-round destination filled with diverse coastal experiences. From world-class surf at Rincon to the peaceful sands of Mandalay, there’s a beach for every mood, moment, and member of the family.
Locals know there’s something special about this stretch of Southern California that you just don’t get elsewhere. Maybe it’s the way the sun melts into the Pacific every evening like clockwork. Or how every beach, even the popular ones, still feel a little like a secret.
So pack your sunscreen, grab your board or beach chair, and let Ventura County’s beaches remind you what makes coastal living so unforgettable.
If you loved exploring the best beaches in Ventura County, wait until you discover the Best Camping Spots in Ventura County where ocean views, starry nights, and outdoor adventure come together.
