The Golden State and its golden beaches are a much-talked-about topic anytime it comes to beachy getaways. And between heavy-hitters like Santa Monica, San Diego, Santa Barbara, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and, well, you get the idea—California has no shortage of sunny destinations. But what about the towns that go a little more under the radar, with a bit of local charm and a lot of big beach energy? From one-of-a-kind North Coast gems to sunny South Coast treasures, grab your swimsuit and your sunblock for a trip along the coast to discover the best beach towns in California for a sunny weekend getaway.
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Table of Contents
- Dana Point
- Fort Bragg
- Capitola
- Cambria
- Pacific Grove
- Carpinteria
- Morro Bay
- Davenport
- San Clemente
- La Jolla
- Carlsbad
- Laguna Beach
- Trinidad
- Coronado Island
- Ventura
Dana Point
Tucked away between two juggernaut cities, San Diego and Los Angeles, Dana Point is a bit of an underrated gem when it comes to California beach towns. This picturesque getaway combines epic beauty, wild adventure, and tasty eats all in one cozy coastal town. And, like any good seaside town, the beaches are not to be missed—explore the tide pools at Salt Creek Beach, sunbathe on Doheny State Beach, and surf the waves at Dana Strand.
But Dana Point promises one highlight that’s unlike any other: whale-watching. Called the “Dolphin and Whale Watching Capital of the World,” whale-watching in Dana Point isn’t confined to a single season but enjoyed all year round, making it the perfect launching point for wildlife encounters. From Dana Point Harbor, visitors can indulge in countless seafaring adventures: charter a yacht, rent a sailboat, or head out on the water on a kayak or paddleboat. And during the summer, this turns into a hub for fun festivals, from the Festival of Whales to the Tall Ships Festival and more. Grab a bite from one of the sea-facing restaurants, treat yourself to a wine tasting, and take your time soaking up Dana Point’s endless charms.
Where to Stay in Dana Point
Lovely rooms, incredible views, and adventure at your fingertips—if your stay doesn’t have these, then you’re not doing Dana Point correctly. A hidden gem within a hidden gem, El Caminante Bar & Bungalows is a quaint, locally-owned stay with warm staff, cozy rooms, and incredible views, all just a short walk from the beach. But if you want a more upgraded option, the Blue Lantern Inn is a four-star oceanfront boutique perched on a bluff overlooking the Dana Point Harbor. This boutique hotel feels like a lavish bed and breakfast, with a complimentary breakfast, afternoon cookies, and top-notch service to keep you coming back on every visit.
Fort Bragg
Fort Bragg may have a population of less than 7,000 people, but it’s a town with a storied past that may surprise you. First a military garrison, then a lumber town, now a hot beach destination that’s surprisingly affordable—Fort Bragg keeps visitors on their toes. This city is home to oddities, delights, and unique experiences at every turn. The famous glass beach might be the city’s most recognizable landmark, with its trademark glass pebbles formed from glass trash left on the beach—truly a trash to treasure moment.
But the beach is just the first of Fort Bragg’s unconventional charms that’ll sweep you off your feet. Explore the giant redwoods aboard the historic Skunk Train or take your time on foot, wandering through spots like Jackson Demonstration State Forest and Otis R. Johnson Wilderness Park. The town’s slew of cool museums provides a peek into its layered past, from logging and train history to sea glass and marine science. And don’t forget to grab a bite! From Sea Pal Cove for seafood to Mayan Fusion for Yucatán-inspired eats, Fort Bragg will satisfy your heart and your stomach in every way.
Where to Stay in Fort Bragg
Everything about Fort Bragg is one-of-a-kind, from its beaches to its bites and even its stays. Weller House Inn is a historic mansion from the 1860s with beautiful interiors, eclectic rooms, and plenty of character. Guests can walk to Glass Beach or the Skunk Train in just minutes! But if you want to be even closer to the water, Surf & Sand Lodge feeds your beach needs with dreamy views of the ocean and spacious rooms, perfect for stretching out and recharging in between adventures.
Capitola
Colorful buildings, idyllic beaches, and a beautiful bay front promenade—Capitola stands out as one of the most picturesque beach towns in California. It also holds a couple of claims to fame, including being the oldest beach resort on the West Coast. From humble beginnings as a tent camp in 1874, known as Camp Capitola, the town has grown into a quaint beauty with Mediterranean-inspired beachside homes that add a touch of flair to the already gorgeous ocean views.
Simply wandering along the promenade and exploring the seaside shops and restaurants tucked into the hillside is an essential part of the Santa Cruz experience. But Capitola caters to those who want to relax without being bored and get swept away in a bit of beach town magic. Snap photos in front of the Venetian Court. Shop for handmade and quirky souvenirs from locally-owned shops lining the streets. Get into some fun on Capitola Beach, whether it’s surfing the waves, swimming the calm waters, or paddleboarding. Capitola’s waving palms, beach bungalows, and scented florals paint a picture you can’t help but fall in love with.
Where to Stay in Capitola
For a small town, Capitola has plenty of charming options for where to rest your head. The Inn at Depot Hill delivers charm and a fascinating history. Starting as a train depot, it became a private residence before being converted into a bed and breakfast sporting destination-themed rooms, a serene backyard complete with a fountain, and a wine and charcuterie hour in the afternoon. It’s also just steps from the beach. Or, head up the hill to Monarch Cove Inn. Originally the vacation home of a wealthy English family, the inn has a Victorian style with plenty of old antiques and an old-fashioned ambiance that feels like stepping back in time.
Cambria
All the best places are different from what you might expect, and Cambria lives to defy your expectations. Swap the classic charm of palm trees for the majestic beauty of pines in this town nestled in one of only a handful of native Monterey pine forests. Cambria’s unique tagline of “Pines by the Sea” paints a picturesque image that only gets more idyllic the more you add on. Cottages and Tudor-style buildings line the street, giving the town a storybook feel. And the rolling hills and scenic beaches feed into an air of quiet beauty that doesn’t feel like it needs to do much to be noticed. The laidback atmosphere makes it one of the best California beach towns for sitting around and doing nothing, but make no mistake, Cambria is full of adventures.
Take a trip to the coast and visit the beautiful Moonstone Beach to walk along the dark sand and snap photos of the moonstones and jade rocks. For a breath of fresh air and breathtaking views, Harmony Headlands State Park has an over four-mile round-trip trail to the ocean with rolling hills, colorful wildflowers, and more in view. And for a sight you don’t see every day in California, or the US in general, there’s the one-of-a-kind Hearst Castle. Between wine tastings, hiking trails along the bluff, and elephant seals at Piedras Blancas elephant seal rookery, Cambria promises a good time every time you visit.
Where to Stay in Cambria
For a town of only 5,000 residents, Cambria’s options for relaxation feel endless. Looking for some “me-time.” Moonstone Cottages is calling your name. With three individual lodgings, you have your pick of cozy rooms promising privacy, ocean views, and a complimentary breakfast to fuel the day ahead. For a more intimate stay, the Olallieberry Inn has charming garden views, private patios, and cozy fireplaces to sweep guests off their feet. And if not, then the sublime breakfasts, Happy Hour afternoons with wine, and exceptional service will likely seal the deal.
Pacific Grove
Looking for something authentic but with fewer tourist crowds? Pacific Grove sits nestled between the California beach towns of Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea, and compared to those popular kids, it feels like the shy younger sibling. But quiet doesn’t mean boring, and Pacific Grove delights visitors with a personality that’s as stunning as its location. Perched on the Monterey Peninsula, Pacific Grove’s charming town is backed by spectacular scenery. Victorian cottages line narrow streets which wind their way to a dramatic coastline marked by craggy rocks and flower-covered hillsides.
Once you park your car, you’re almost guaranteed to forget it exists because this little seaside getaway is the perfect beach town for walking and cycling. The 18-mile Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail might be the ideal place to start, with attractions dotting the entire trail, from Monterey Bay Aquarium to Fisherman’s Wharf and beyond. Couples can head over to Lover’s Point for scenic photos and a rare West Coast sunrise view. But Pacific Grove’s best rare treat just might be the butterflies. From October to May, the Monarch Grove Sanctuary fills with migrating monarch butterflies, creating some magical moments and adding another layer of enchantment to this charming seaside town.
Where to Stay in Pacific Grove
Pacific Grove is the perfect city to discover on foot, and if you truly want to love every step of the journey, it starts with finding the perfect place to stay. The Old St. Angela Inn sits just a block away from Lovers Point. Cozy rooms and breakfast in the morning make it feel like a stay with friends, topped off with charming vintage furniture and a garden patio. Or, just up the street lies Green Gables Inn, a perennial delight that combines the traditional charm and architecture of a B&B with the modern luxuries of a boutique hotel. Add on the view over the bay, wine & cheese hour, and the unbeatable location, and Green Gables Inn delivers an unforgettable stay.
Carpinteria
Carved out from the shadow of Santa Barbara, one of the most visited beach towns in California, Carpinteria is the cutest small beach town you’ve probably never heard of. And when you’re enjoying the breathtaking nature and crowd-free beaches, you’ll be glad of that. Carpinteria is best appreciated like a fine wine, slowly. Rather than rushing to get ahead of crowds or from one place to the next, slower living in Carpinteria is baked into the town’s DNA. This makes the town’s streets and secluded beaches all the more rewarding as you feel like you can take your time: go treasure hunting among the shops on Linden Avenue, take in a show at the Alcazar Theater, and stroll along the soft sands found at Carpinteria State Beach.
Carpinteria may be a small town, but it’s a big nature escape. Several hiking trails wind their way through this little area, from Franklin Trail, which pairs challenging climbs with gorgeous views, to Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve, which promises jaw-dropping panoramic views and even fun animal spottings of seals and sea lions on occasion. If you’re looking to relax, recharge, and enjoy the California Coast, Carpinteria is calling.
Where to Stay in Carpinteria
This small town is so small, you may not be surprised to learn that there aren’t a lot of options for stays within city limits. Short-term rentals along the beach are banned (which just helps make the beaches feel even more secluded). But for a charming stay in town, there’s the Carpinteria Beach Cottages, which encompass eight clean and spacious cottages, all decorated in a quaint vintage style. Best of all, they’re just blocks from the beach! Another option, outside of Carpinteria, is the Inn on Summerhill just up the road, with cozy fireplaces, Jacuzzi tubs, and complimentary breakfast.
Morro Bay
Driving down the scenic Highway 1, travelers are tempted to pull off at almost every turn, but that rings even more true for Morro Bay. Crowned by the famous Morro Rock, Morro Bay is a classic Central Coast getaway. Year-round, people come to Morro Bay to do nothing but dive headfirst into the water. There are so many ways to enjoy Morro Bay and the sea—from kayaking and fishing to sailing and surfing. You can even hop on a harbor or whale-watching cruise to explore the sea with someone else at the wheel. Even the city’s center, the Embarcadero, makes it feel like you’re still on the water, with the sounds of barking seals and fishing boats returning to the harbor.
Despite the bustling city center, Morro Bay lacks the overdeveloped feel that grips even the larger California beach towns, retaining its quaint coastal charm. Don’t miss out on exploring Morro Bay’s old town—you can find cool vintage shops, chic cafés, and colorful murals around every corner. When you’ve had your fill of the city, dive into nearby nature. Black Hill promises sweeping views of Morro Bay, while the boardwalk at Elfin Forest takes visitors on a 1-mile journey through an oak forest. The Montaña de Oro State Park boasts over 8,000 acres of rugged cliffs, sandy shorelines, and plenty of trails for mountain bikers, hikers, and equestrian riders. Morro Bay feels like an infinite adventure, where the only limit is how much time you have.
Where to Stay in Morro Bay
With so much to do in Morro Bay, you’ll never want the sun to set, but when it does, there’s the Sundown Inn. Clean rooms and cozy beds are just the start. With this hotel, it’s all about location, location, location. Just minutes away from the water, state parks, and city attractions, guests are never too far from adventure. Or try out the Estero Inn, a boutique hotel with bay views from private balconies, toasty fireplaces for chilly nights, and shops and restaurants within easy reach for everything from souvenir hunting to quick, tasty bites.
Davenport
Davenport puts the “small” in “small town.” With a population of less than 800 people, it’s easy to speed by this tiny coastal town without a backward glance in your rearview mirror. That easy-to-overlook exterior is why many consider Davenport a bit of a hidden gem. But others know all too well why Davenport is one of the best beach towns in California and the perfect getaway.
For starters, Davenport’s natural beauty never fails to impress. Rugged bluffs, flower-filled fields, and secluded, sandy beaches are just the start. Shark Fin Cove is an Instagram favorite for its photogenic beach and fin-shaped cliff sitting just offshore. But, in general, Davenport’s coastline doesn’t disappoint, from the idyllic beaches dotting the shoreline of Coast Dairies State Park to the rugged and wild beauty of Davenport’s Bluffs. From sunbathing and swimming to picnicking and hiking, there are endless ways to soak in the sunshine, beauty, and history. Hike up the cliffs for a view of what remains of the Davenport Pier. Snap photos in front of St Vincent de Paul Church and the bucolic countryside rolling into the distance. And take a trip to the Davenport Jail to see the jail-turned-museum and learn a bit of Davenport’s charming history.
Where to Stay in Davenport
With its small population and Slow Coast living style, it’ll come as no surprise to some that Davenport doesn’t sport the kind of accommodations found in other beach towns in California. Travelers won’t find very many places to stay in Davenport itself. But with Santa Cruz just minutes away, travelers won’t find themselves without options. West Cliff Inn is a breezy Victorian B&B perched atop a hill with views of the beach and a complimentary breakfast just fifteen minutes away from Davenport.
San Clemente
Not everyone will have heard of San Clemente. Lying just south of big California beach towns like Newport and Laguna Beach, it’s easy to classify it as underrated. But San Clemente is a number one getaway where the sun’s always shining and the beach is life. When you roll into town, don’t be surprised if you find you keep rolling until you wind up at the shore. Classic California beach vibes thrive in San Clemente, from surfing on T-Street and Trestles to kicking back on the scenic San Clemente State Beach and taking in the rugged beauty of Bluffs Beach. In San Clemente, you can never travel too far from the water, whether you’re enjoying a whale-watching cruise, teeing off at the waterfront golf course, biking down the San Clemente Beach Trail, or strolling along the iconic San Clemente Pier, perfect for jaw-dropping sunsets and breathtaking ocean views.
But you can’t just be mesmerized by the water in San Clemente; the town is just as spellbinding. Called the “Spanish Village by the Sea,” visitors will be charmed by San Clemente’s red tile roofs and off-white stucco walls. The Spanish colonial architecture dotting the town transports visitors to a European getaway right in Southern California. Shop along Avenida Del Mar, pop into the Cabrillo Playhouse for a theater show, and learn about the city’s history at the Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens. From city to shore, San Clemente is an experience you won’t forget.
Where to Stay in San Clemente
If you can’t stay away from the ocean, no one will blame you—certainly not The Volaré. Located in historic downtown San Clemente, The Volaré puts you in the middle of the action, with easy access to everything this beach town has to offer: the shore, the shops, and the famous pier. Or, for a cozier bed and breakfast stay that makes it feel like you’re living in San Clemente, rather than just visiting, there’s Always Inn San Clemente B&B, with breakfasts included and spa baths with jets to help you unwind after a long day of play.
La Jolla
Believe it or not, La Jolla isn’t its own city but a specially designated community within San Diego. If you’re visiting San Diego, it’s likely among your list of places to visit. But, if it’s not, La Jolla certainly deserves its own spot on your travel itinerary. Reason number one is the beaches. La Jolla boasts some of the best beaches in San Diego, perfect for spending your day beach-hopping to find your perfect beach spot. Enjoy classic beach activities at La Jolla Cove, kick it with the locals on Marine Street Beach, and watch the expert surfers hit the waves, or join them, at Windansea Beach. Every La Jolla shore has something different to offer, and you’re bound to find your favorite activity, whether it’s surfing the waves, snorkeling with leopard sharks, or exploring tide pools.
Another reason to visit this little beach town is the wildlife. La Jolla’s marine life is abundant, and you don’t need to go to the zoo or head out on the water to see it. In places like La Jolla Cove, it comes to you. Visitors can frequently see sea lions sunbathing on the rocks and swimming in the water, making La Jolla a perfect getaway for wildlife spotting. The city’s endless array of unique quirks, fun adventures, and beachside beauty make this one a must-see California beach town.
Where to Stay in La Jolla
For easy access to everything La Jolla has to offer, consider a stay at the Shoal La Jolla Beach, which has restaurants in easy walking distance, beach gear for rent, and, best of all, beautiful sunset views every night. Or, if you want to treat yourself to the upscale village vibe that La Jolla is famous for, then a stay at the La Valencia Hotel is in order. Called the “Pink Lady” because of its blushing facade, guests can enjoy views of La Jolla Cove, classic California coast food at the ocean-facing restaurant, and an ideal location to explore.
Carlsbad
Craving a weekend away in sunny Southern California? Then Carlsbad is just the place to tickle your fancy and satisfy your small-town craving. This charming coastal city has it all: brilliant beaches, picturesque bluffs, a lively downtown, and fun attractions the whole family can enjoy. Springtime holds the crown as the best time to visit Carlsbad, as it’s when the Flower Fields of ranunculus bloom in dazzling fashion, and visitors can go strawberry picking at Carlsbad Strawberry Company. But make no mistake, this is a year-round destination.
For many, the shore is the first getaway. Carlsbad claims seven miles of beach, plenty enough to find your ideal patch of sand: ride the waves at Tamarack Surf Beach, take in the bluffs and ocean views at Turnarounds Beach and Terramar Beach, or gather the kids for a trip to Carlsbad State Beach’s scenic shoreline. Once you dry off and shake the sand from your shoes, Carlsbad doesn’t disappoint. Explore the enchanting Carlsbad village, with its mural-adorned walls and charming Victorian-inspired architecture. Travel through time and nature in the Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park, keeping an eye out for peacocks. Between trips to Legoland, fun museum visits, and more, Carlsbad is the perfect getaway for all ages.
Where to Stay in Carlsbad
For the epitome of a beachy getaway, Carlsbad Inn Beach Resort lies just steps from the beach. With a location that can’t be beat—the sand at your fingertips and downtown just minutes away—and a property that puts the luxe in luxury—with a beautiful courtyard, a pool and adult jacuzzi, and clean, spacious rooms with private balconies—this boutique hotel will have you coming back for another stay soon after your trip ends. Or, if you don’t mind staying just outside of Carlsbad, the Green Room Hotel in Oceanside offers a just as stellar stay with a completely different ambience, one defined by curated designer rooms, private patio spaces, and cozy communal fireplaces for a cooler, more laidback accommodation.
Laguna Beach
California beach towns each have their own vibe. Laguna Beach is an upscale resort town that’s all about the art and surf. With 37 beaches stretched over nearly eight miles of shoreline and more than 100 art galleries and studios crammed within the city limits, you can see how Laguna Beach earned its reputation as a place for wave riders and creative souls. But you don’t have to be a surfer or an artist to enjoy Laguna Beach; this is truly a destination for everyone. Laguna’s standard weather of sunny with a high of 75°F means it’s always time for a beach day, a must-do for visiting Laguna.
But the water isn’t the only way to enjoy this unique beach town. A fun, lazy way to explore the city is to hop on the free trolley—a great way to avoid parking and see all the best Laguna has to offer. Heisler Park is the perfect amalgamation of everything to love about Laguna: relaxing nature, public art, ocean views, and stunning sunset picnics. Downtown has its own delights, with plenty of boutique shops and public art to draw your eye. And plenty of adventure awaits around every turn: hunt down the pirate tower on Victoria Beach, take some photos on scenic Treasure Island Beach, and hike to the Top of the World for jaw-dropping panoramic views. Laguna Beach delights with every step.
Where to Stay in Laguna Beach
Visitors to Laguna Beach have plenty of options for a relaxing, indulgent stay. Le Petit Pali Laguna Beach is a charming two-story boutique hotel with French flair. Guests enjoy access to a scenic pool area dotted with palm trees, complimentary breakfasts, and a sun deck to soak in the California sun and admire the ocean views. Or choose to recharge at Casa Laguna Hotel & Spa, a dreamy getaway boasting an idyllic setting, luxe amenities, and friendly staff to make your stay a five-star experience.
Trinidad
Small-town magic is big in Trinidad, where even the simplest of things seems a touch enchanted, from the craggy cliffs to the towering redwoods. Just an hour south of the Oregon border, Trinidad is an affordable getaway that’s a lot different than other beach towns in California in all the best ways. With a population of just over 300 people, the town of Trinidad may be small, but its charms are plenty. The town sits above the ocean, looking out over the harbor and a rock promontory called Trinidad Head. It’s the kind of view that takes visitors’ breath away, and it isn’t even the best Trinidad has to offer!
Down on the coastline, Trinidad State Beach boasts picturesque views featuring arches, caves, and sea stacks. Drenched in fog, it appears like something out of a fairytale. But the pristine beaches don’t stop there; Trinidad is established as a California Coastal National Monument Gateway, so you’ll find incredible shores, offshore rocks, and islands all along the coast. And though you’re sure to enjoy the views from town, the area around Trinidad isn’t short on beauty. Hike the Trinidad Head for spectacular ocean vistas and viewings of whales, dolphins, sea otters, and more. You can’t miss checking out Trinidad’s two iconic lighthouses: Trinidad Memorial Lighthouse, with its charming red roof, and Trinidad Head Lighthouse, with its breathtaking views of Trinidad Bay. With magic around every corner, Trinidad is one of those California beach towns you dream about staying forever.
Where to Stay in Trinidad
If you were to sum up the accommodations in Trinidad in one word, it would be quaint. The View Crest Lodge is a perfect example of this. Located just north of Trinidad, it’s the perfect rustic retreat, with private cabins, cozy fireplaces, and a serene outdoor picnic area. The Trinidad Bay Bed and Breakfast Hotel is another charming getaway. A seaside home in Trinidad Bay, the bedrooms are named after Trinidad attractions, like Redwoods and Crab Pot, with beautiful views of the bay and garden. With such small and cozy lodgings, anywhere you stay ends up feeling like a home away from home.
Coronado Island
San Diego is full of sandy gems, from La Jolla to Del Mar, but Coronado Island might just be the ultimate beach destination. A small-town getaway just minutes from downtown San Diego, this little peninsula sports soft sand, gentle waves, and incredible vistas, from Coronado Beach, with its backdrop of mansion homes and the iconic Hotel Del Coronado, to Glorietta Bay, with its breathtaking views of the Glorietta Bay Hotel and the San Diego-Coronado Bridge. All of that idyllic California shore makes Coronado the ideal place to kick back, soak in the sun, and dig your toes in the sand.
And when you’re not on the beach? Well, to be fair, on an island that’s arguably half naval base and half beaches and neighborhoods, the beach is the biggest draw. But Coronado Island does hold a few aces up its sleeve for non-beach activities. With well-marked cycling paths up and down the island, it’s the perfect spot to rent a bike and explore on two wheels. Check out the Silver Strand Nature’s Bridge to Discovery, which has scenic viewpoints and displays on everything from the local birds to the fascinating marine life—you can even see some of the Navy obstacle courses from here. Or take it easy: enjoy a picnic at Tidelands Park, wander the shops along Orange Avenue, or hunt for the sunken shop, SS Monte Carlo, that’s visible during low tide. Coronado Island is a laid-back breath of fresh air.
Where to Stay in Coronado Island
With the island crowned by the Hotel Del Coronado, it seems only right to book a stay at this iconic resort. Having played host to royalty, celebrities, and beach-goers for centuries, you can be sure it won’t disappoint, whether you opt for the seaside cottages with dreamy sunset views or the Victorian villas with their timeless charm. For a more understated stay with a modern spin, there’s the Rambler Motel. Ensconced among San Diego’s biggest attractions, it’s as equally big on comfort as it is on beachy vibes and offers a bit of the best of both worlds when it comes to a small-town getaway inside a big-city adventure.
Ventura
Not every small town feels like a small town, and Ventura is living proof. Sure, it’s got the small-town classics—locals waving to one another, a main street called Main Street, and very few chain anything—but this town packs a punch that’s unlike any other California beach town getaway. Whether you’re interested in beaches or parks, history or art, music or culture—Ventura is a cheap California getaway with something for everyone. As with all beach towns in California, the beaches here are the place to start. San Buenaventura State Beach is the go-to place for everything: sunbathing, surfing, swimming, or even playing a game of volleyball. There are countless ways to enjoy the water in Ventura, from harbor cruises and whale-watching tours to kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.
But what about out of the water? Even if you wander away from the waterfront, Ventura pulls you in. Take a scenic stroll down the pier for fresh seafood bites and epic views. Explore the shops and restaurants along the pedestrian-only main street in downtown Ventura or admire the scattered art around the city and historic buildings like Mission Basilica San Buenaventura. And, of course, adventure lies around every corner, with places like Harmon Canyon Preserve, Arroyo Verde Park, and Channel Islands National Park promising unreal hikes with showstopping views. Ventura is a small town with a big heart and endless adventure right at your fingertips.
Where to Stay in Ventura
Ventura’s accommodations are as eclectic as the town itself. The White Caps Motel proves budget stays are still possible, even in this day and age, and that you can’t judge a book by its cover. Clean rooms, comfy beds, and a five-minute drive to the beach are hard to beat. Unless, of course, you end up (practically) on the beach. Waypoint Ventura is just steps from Ventura Beach and sports cool retro travel trailers from the mid-1900s. With private decks, luxe linens, and plenty of amenities, it’s a classic luxury experience in one-of-a-kind packaging.
