Rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, dunes, and broad grasslands shape the coastline of Point Mugu State Park. Located at the westernmost edge of the Santa Monica Mountains, the park brings together a range of landscapes along five miles of ocean shoreline—from rugged hills and plateaus to two large river canyons and valleys. Here, coastal experiences and trails through varied terrain go hand in hand.
Coast, Trails, and Islands
Point Mugu State Park has more than 70 miles of hiking trails. At the beach, you can swim, body surf, and surf fish. McGrath State Beach offers a different setting: its two miles of beach provide opportunities for surfing and fishing. The beach is among California’s best areas for bird-watching, with lush riparian areas along the Santa Clara River and coastal dunes. Campsites near the beach round out the offerings. Check the current status of the sites before your trip.
Getting to Channel Islands National Park is another consideration: public boats operate year-round from both Ventura Harbor and Channel Islands Harbor. Check the schedule before you go. The mainland visitor center for the national park is also located at Ventura Harbor. It lets you explore the islands without taking a boat.
The Ojai Valley Trail is a different kind of route: it is nine miles long and runs parallel to Highway 33, from Foster Park on the edge of western Ventura to Fox Street in Ojai. Unlike the many hiking trails in Point Mugu, this refers to a single route with named endpoints. This makes it easy to see the difference between a specific route and an extensive trail network as ways to explore.
Art, History, and Special Collections
The Museum of Ventura County is a museum of art, history, and culture, as well as the largest historical archive in Ventura County. The Ojai Valley Museum, in turn, collects and displays art, artifacts, photographs, and paper documents related to the history, art, and culture of the Ojai Valley. The two institutions thus offer different perspectives: a broad historical archive on the one hand, and collections devoted specifically to the Ojai Valley on the other.
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library is a historical research facility of the U.S. federal government and a public museum. It sits on a hill and offers sweeping views across the Southland. Visitors can stroll through the grounds and board a real Air Force One aircraft that carried seven U.S. presidents.
In Santa Paula, the Agriculture Museum is housed in the historic Mill building, built in 1888 as an agricultural warehouse. Hands-on educational tours take visitors through learning stations on topics such as plant growth, seasonal produce, past and present farming methods, and water issues. At Santa Paula Airport, the Aviation Museum of Santa Paula also opens its “Chain of Hangars” to visitors on the first Sunday of each month. Inside the privately operated hangars, you can see historic aircraft, memorabilia, vehicles, and antiques.
Experience Agriculture
Ventura County Farm Day complements the museum experience with a public agricultural event: farm gates open to visitors, and free tours and activities are offered at more than 15 locations. The first annual event took place in 2012. Participating farms vary by edition, so check the date and program for the next event before your trip.
Discover More Destinations
Camarillo, Ojai, Oxnard, Ventura, Port Hueneme, Simi Valley, Fillmore, Santa Paula, Oak View, Thousand Oaks, Moorpark, Somis
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