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Ventura Harbor Village: Seaside Charm and Channel Islands Gateway

Discover waterfront charm, boutique shopping, and Channel Islands adventures at Ventura Harbor Village, a vibrant seaside destination.

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Ventura Harbor Village is a vibrant waterfront destination offering shopping, dining, entertainment, and access to the Channel Islands National Park. With its charming boutiques, art galleries, fresh seafood restaurants, and boat tours, the Village provides a delightful seaside experience for visitors of all ages.

A brief summary to Ventura Harbor Village

Local tips

  • Check the Ventura Harbor Village website for upcoming events, live music schedules, and festivals before your visit.
  • Arrive early on weekends and holidays to find parking, as the Village can get crowded.
  • Consider taking a boat tour to the Channel Islands National Park for a unique wildlife viewing experience.
  • Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants, taking advantage of the harbor's status as a major squid offloading port.
  • Take a stroll along the promenade to enjoy the ocean views and browse the unique shops and art galleries.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center, walk south along Spinnaker Drive for approximately 5-10 minutes to reach the heart of Ventura Harbor Village. Enjoy the views of the harbor and the various shops and restaurants along the way. There is no cost for walking.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Ventura County Transit bus to the Ventura Harbor Village. Check the local bus routes for the most convenient line from your starting point. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the Village. A single fare is typically around $1.75.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Use a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft) to reach Ventura Harbor Village. The address for drop-off is 1583 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura. A short trip from downtown Ventura will likely cost between $10 and $15.

  • Driving

    From US-101, exit onto Seaward Avenue and follow the signs to Ventura Harbor. Turn onto Harbor Boulevard, then left onto Spinnaker Drive. Free parking is available on Spinnaker Drive and at the Dolphin Lot. Paid parking is in effect Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and major holidays from 10 AM to 8 PM, costing $1 per hour (up to 4 hours) or $10 for a full-day pass. Overnight parking is allowed only in the Whale Lot with a special permit.

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Discover more about Ventura Harbor Village

Ventura Harbor Village, a vibrant seaside attraction, boasts over 35 unique boutiques, art galleries, and waterfront restaurants. Situated between the boats and the beach, the Village offers a beautiful walking promenade where guests can unwind and relax. The harbor serves as the headquarters for the Channel Islands National Park and is one of the largest offloading harbors for squid. Originally developed in the 1960s, Ventura Harbor Village has grown into a popular destination attracting over 100,000 visitors annually. The harbor's marina features over 1,359 slips and is home to various fishing companies. Visitors can enjoy boat tours, water sports rentals, and explore the Channel Islands. The Village hosts live entertainment, monthly festivals, and special events throughout the year. The harbor's history is intertwined with the local fishing industry. The Tran family, Vietnamese immigrants, established a thriving commercial fishing business and played a key role in founding the Saturday Fisherman's Market. This market has become a cherished tradition, attracting visitors with fresh seafood. Ventura Harbor Village offers a blend of maritime history, natural beauty, and recreational activities, making it a must-see destination on California's Central Coast.

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