The Ultimate 48-Hour Ventura County Itinerary

Ventura County is often the “drive-through” territory between LA and Santa Barbara, but those who stop discover a diverse landscape of wild beaches, high-end shopping, and mountain retreats. Here is your master guide to the 805.

Where to Stay
For a coastal vibe, Zachari Dunes in Oxnard offers luxury right on the sand. If you prefer mystery, the Glen Tavern Inn in Santa Paula is famous for its history (and ghost stories!). Looking for a wellness retreat? The Ojai Retreat or the iconic Ojai Valley Inn provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation.

• Clocktower Inn

  • Address: 181 E Santa Clara St, Ventura, CA 93001

  • The Vibe: A charming, historic gem in the heart of downtown. Perfect if you want to be steps away from the best breweries and the beach.

• Ojai Valley Inn

  • Address: 905 Country Club Rd, Ojai, CA 93023

  • The Vibe: The ultimate luxury escape. Think world-class golfing, a sprawling spa, and the famous Ojai “Pink Moment” sunset.

• Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach

  • Address: 2101 Mandalay Beach Rd, Oxnard, CA 93035

  • The Vibe: Southern California’s only all-suite beachfront resort. It’s chic, modern, and literally steps from the sand.

• Bella Capri Inn & Suites

  • Address: 2050 Ventura Blvd, Camarillo, CA 93010

  • The Vibe: Boutique comfort located in the historic Old Town Camarillo. Great for a cozy, local feel.

• Glen Tavern Inn

  • Address: 134 N 10th St, Santa Paula, CA 93060

  • The Vibe: A 1911 historic landmark. It’s beautiful, a little eerie, and packed with Old Hollywood history.

• Ojai Retreat & Inn

  • Address: 160 Besant Rd, Ojai, CA 93023

  • The Vibe: A peaceful, hilltop sanctuary. Ideal for those looking to unplug and recharge with mountain views.

• Westlake Village Inn

  • Address: 31943 Agoura Rd, Westlake Village, CA 91361

  • The Vibe: Feels like a trip to the European countryside, complete with a private vineyard and cobblestone paths.

Where to Eat
Start your morning in Ojai at The Dutchess for world-class pastries. For lunch, Otani’s Seafood in Oxnard is a local staple for fresh fish. If you’re looking for an upscale dinner, Cafe Zack in Ventura offers an intimate, cottage-style atmosphere, while Lure Fish House in Camarillo is the go-to for the freshest oysters in the county.

• Lure Fish House

  • Address: 259 W Ventura Blvd, Camarillo, CA 93010

  • Must-Try: The charbroiled oysters and the New England Clam Chowder.

• Cafe Zack

  • Address: 1095 E Thompson Blvd, Ventura, CA 93001

  • Must-Try: Their seasonal pasta dishes in a romantic, cottage-style setting.

• Junkyard Cafe

  • Address: 2585 Cochran St, Simi Valley, CA 93065

  • Must-Try: The “Kitchen Sink” breakfast—come hungry, the portions are massive!

• The Dutchess

  • Address: 457 E Ojai Ave, Ojai, CA 93023

  • Must-Try: Any of the morning pastries or their incredible Burmese-inspired dinner menu.

• Otani’s Seafood

  • Address: 608 S A St, Oxnard, CA 93030

  • Must-Try: The Tempura Fish—it’s a local legend for a reason.

• Mouthful Eatery

  • Address: 4000 E Thousand Oaks Blvd, Westlake Village, CA 91362

  • Must-Try: The “Lomo Saltado” sandwich for a gourmet Peruvian twist.

• La Flor Bonita

  • Address: 501 Central Ave, Fillmore, CA 93015

  • Must-Try: Their authentic street tacos and handmade salsas.

What to Do
Whether you’re a shopaholic looking for designer deals in Camarillo, a nature lover chasing waterfalls in Thousand Oaks, or a history buff hunting for ancient fossils in Simi Valley, there is a “hidden gem” around every corner.

• Underwood Family Farms

  • Address: 3370 Sunset Valley Rd, Moorpark, CA 93021

  • Highlight: Picking your own seasonal berries and visiting the friendly farm animals.

• Ventura Pier

  • Address: 750 Harbor Blvd, Ventura, CA 93001

  • Highlight: A sunset stroll over the Pacific followed by tacos at the end of the pier.

• Camarillo Premium Outlets

  • Address: 740 Ventura Blvd, Camarillo, CA 93010

  • Highlight: Scoring deals at over 160 designer stores like Nike, Gucci, and Lululemon.

• Coquina Mine (Trailhead)

  • Address: 5715 Evening Sky Dr, Simi Valley, CA 93063

  • Highlight: Discovering ancient sea shell deposits embedded in the mountains.

• Bennett’s Honey Farm

  • Address: 3176 Honey Ln, Fillmore, CA 93015

  • Highlight: The honey tasting bar where you can try rare local sage and orange blossom honey.

• Oxnard State Beach & Park

  • Address: 1601 S Harbor Blvd, Oxnard, CA 93035

  • Highlight: Exploring the massive sand dunes and the wide, uncrowded shoreline.

• Wildwood Regional Park

  • Address: 928 W Avenida De Los Arboles, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360

  • Highlight: The hike to Paradise Falls, a stunning 40-foot waterfall hidden in the canyon.