What to do for the day in Ventura, Ca ✨
Start your day with an early-morning jet ski adventure at Southern California Jet Skis in Oxnard. If you’re lucky, you might spot sea lions or even jet ski alongside dolphins 🐬
Afterward, drive about 15 minutes to downtown Ventura for lunch. There are plenty of great food options—we ate at Rice by Mama, a delicious Thai spot.
Once you’re done eating, take some time to explore downtown Ventura. Walk around, shop, check out the museum, and soak in the local vibe.
Next, drive just 2 minutes to the Ventura Botanical Gardens. Hike through the gardens until you reach the sign for Serra Cross, then continue up for a stunning ocean view overlooking Ventura 🌊
Hotel option:
We stayed at Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach, located about 7 minutes from the botanical gardens. It’s a great beachfront option within walking distance to the beach and pier. The hotel is beautiful and has its own restaurant and bar, plus several nearby dining options.
Spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing near the hotel. For dinner, we were craving pho and stopped by Pho Gyu, about 7 minutes from the hotel—it was so good 🤤
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Rice by Mama Ventura Botanical Gardens Southern California Jet Skis Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach by IHG Pho Gyu Vietnamese Noodle House
If you’re planning a one-day trip to Ventura, a well-rounded itinerary can let you experience the best of this charming coastal city. Starting off with Southern California Jet Skis in Oxnard is truly an extraordinary way to get your adrenaline pumping. I’ve personally tried jet skiing there, and it’s amazing to sometimes see sea lions basking or even glide past playful dolphins. It’s a reminder of how close Ventura is to nature. After working up an appetite, venturing to downtown Ventura is a must. I found Rice by Mama to have authentic, flavorful Thai dishes that offered the perfect midday recharge. The relaxed vibe in downtown is welcoming. Besides great food, the area is packed with unique shops and a local museum that adds a dose of culture and local history. A short drive leads you to the Ventura Botanical Gardens, which I highly recommend for a peaceful hike. The trail to Serra Cross offers breathtaking views of the ocean and the city, a perfect spot for memorable photos. It’s a refreshing mix of exercise and sightseeing in one place. For lodging, Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach by IHG offers a wonderful beachfront experience. The location is ideal since it’s close to the beach, pier, and downtown. Staying there made it easy to unwind after the day’s activities. The hotel’s restaurant and nearby dining spots provide plenty of tasty options. Finally, to satisfy dinner cravings, I suggest Pho Gyu Vietnamese Noodle House. Their pho is rich and comforting, a perfect way to end your day with hearty Vietnamese flavors. Overall, this itinerary balances adventure, nature, culture, and great food—giving anyone visiting Ventura an enriching and enjoyable single-day experience.
