48 Hours in Ventura, CA: Your Perfect Weekend Guide
Ventura is located approximately 60 miles north of Los Angeles and is renowned for its classic California beach-town charm. Along with a small-town coastal feel, the city offers plenty of places to explore. Whether you are here for a quick visit or a relaxed weekend trip, Ventura has something suitable for you, thanks to its welcoming atmosphere and wide range of activities.
Though Ventura shares the popularity of many Southern California hotspots, it still has its own peaceful pockets. Numerous beaches feel more remote and echo the rocky beauty of California’s central and northern coastline.
If you’re planning a 48-hour trip, this guide will help you make the most of your time by highlighting famous activities and popular places to visit in Ventura.
How to Get There
Travelers flying in will likely arrive at Los Angeles International Airport, Santa Barbara Airport, or Hollywood Burbank Airport, which are the closest options. Santa Barbara Airport is about 30 miles north of Ventura, while LAX and Burbank are roughly 60 miles south. From any of these airports, you can rent a car or take a shuttle into town.
If you're arriving by car, Highway 101 is a direct route into Ventura. Another excellent option is Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner, which stops in downtown Ventura and offers a scenic, stress-free way to reach the city.
Accommodation
For a comfortable and budget-friendly stay in Ventura, Victoria Motel Ventura is an ideal choice. Located near downtown and just a short drive from Ventura Harbor, this motel offers clean, well-maintained rooms with essential amenities such as free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and complimentary parking. Its central location makes it easy to explore Ventura’s top attractions, beaches, and restaurants, making it perfect for travelers seeking convenience and value.
Getting Around
Having a car can be helpful, but it isn’t strictly necessary. If you’re spending most of your time in downtown Ventura, restaurants, shops, and attractions are easy to reach on foot.
Other options include:
- Ventura Downtown–Harbor Trolley– A free trolley running between Ventura Harbor Village and downtown.
- Public buses and rideshares– Convenient for longer trips.
- Bike rentals– Perfect for exploring Ventura’s scenic coastline.
Day 1
7 a.m. – Breakfast at Corrales Mexican Food
Start your morning at Corrales Mexican Food, known for some of the best breakfast burritos in Ventura. Enjoy a filling meal, as you’ll need energy for a full day of adventure.
8 a.m. – Check In at Ventura Harbor
Head to Ventura Harbor and meet Island Packers for your Channel Islands day trip. The Channel Islands feature eight islands, five of which are protected under Channel Islands National Park. Because of preservation efforts, the islands and surrounding waters remain intact and full of wildlife.
9 a.m. – Boat Ride to Scorpion Anchorage
Board the Island Packers boat and make your way to Scorpion Anchorage on Santa Cruz Island. Try to sit on the upper deck for the best views of marine life—you may spot dolphins or even whales.
10:30 a.m. – Hiking on Santa Cruz Island
Explore the island on foot. The Cavern Point Loop is about 1.5 miles and offers remarkable coastal views. Watch for island foxes and plant species found only on the islands. Stop for lunch at a scenic viewpoint along the trail.
1 p.m. – Kayak the Sea Caves and Kelp Forest
Experience Santa Cruz Island from the water. Join a guided tour with Santa Barbara Adventure Company or bring your own kayak. The thriving kelp forest, crystal-clear water, and dramatic sea caves make this a must-do adventure.
6 p.m. – Dinner at Rumfish y Vino
Return to downtown Ventura and dine at Rumfish y Vino, a welcoming gastro-bar with indoor and outdoor seating. The menu features burgers, fresh fish, and tacos, perfect for a post-adventure meal.
8 p.m. – Visit Topa Topa Brewing Co.
Wrap up your day with a visit to Topa Topa Brewing Co., located beneath the mountains that inspired its name. With 16 rotating taps of handcrafted beer, it’s a great way to unwind after a full day outdoors.
Day 2
8 a.m. – Start at Marriott Ventura Beach
Enjoy breakfast at the Marriott Ventura Beach, located between Downtown Ventura and Ventura Harbor, just steps from San Buenaventura State Beach Park.
9 a.m. – Relaxed Morning Walk on Ventura Pier
Take a stroll along the historic Ventura Pier, originally built in 1872. Enjoy views of the Channel Islands in the distance and Ventura’s rolling hills behind you—a perfect way to ease into the day.
11 a.m. – Explore Ventura County Fairgrounds
Visit the Ventura County Fairgrounds, home to the Ventura County Fair and year-round events such as concerts, flea markets, trade shows, and festivals.
1 p.m. – Lunch & Strolling in Downtown Ventura
Spend your afternoon exploring Downtown Ventura with its art galleries, vintage shops, boutiques, bars, and gourmet restaurants. Enjoy lunch, browse, or simply soak in the atmosphere.
3 p.m. – Visit Ventura Harbor Village
Explore Ventura Harbor Village, featuring casual restaurants, waterfront views, boutique shopping, and a vibrant harbor full of yachts and boats. Walk the sunny promenade and enjoy one of Ventura’s classic coastal scenes.
6 p.m. – Enjoy Wine at The Wine Rack
Head back to downtown and visit The Wine Rack for a relaxed wine tasting. With over 100 wine labels, try a “wine flight” and sample selections from around the world.
8 p.m. – Dinner at Watermark Restaurant
Finish your trip with dinner at Watermark Restaurant, housed in a former 1920s bank. The rooftop lounge, W2O, and Seafood Raw Bar, along with the old bank vault showcasing premium liquors, create a unique dining experience.
Other Popular Things to Do
Seafood Lunch at Brophy Bros Restaurant
Overlooking Ventura Harbor, Brophy Bros offers excellent seafood and stunning waterfront views. Must-tries include pan-blackened local sea bass and steamed mussels in flavorful broth.
Waffles at Harvest Café
A farm-to-table café using fresh, local, organic ingredients. Their focus on healthful, flavorful dishes makes it a popular breakfast spot.
Fish Cone at Coastal Cone Ice Cream
Try a Taiyaki ice cream cone—a fish-shaped waffle cone filled with your choice of ice cream. Coastal Cone offers 46 flavors, perfect for a sweet treat with a twist.
Historic San Buenaventura Mission
Founded in 1782, the Mission offers a peaceful place to learn about Ventura’s history. The mission gardens are serene and ideal for a quiet break.
Village Carousel and Arcade
Located in Ventura Harbor Village, the arcade features vintage games like racing, basketball toss, and other nostalgic favorites. Collect tickets and trade them for small prizes for a playful experience.
Spending 48 hours in Ventura, CA, gives you a mix of outdoor adventure, coastal charm, and relaxed California living. From strolling downtown streets to exploring the untouched beauty of the Channel Islands, every Ventura attraction provides a memorable experience. Whether you’re here for food, nature, or a peaceful weekend escape, Ventura proves that two days can feel wonderfully full.
About Author
Alex is a successful travel blogger; he gives great tips to travel enthusiasts regarding how they can save money on their vacations. He's been to 40 + countries, and he mainly focuses on how to cut down costs during travel.