Welcome to Ventura County!
We are so incredibly excited to celebrate our big day with you. For those of you sticking around for the weekend or looking to explore the area, we’ve put together a curated list of our absolute favorite local spots.
Whether you stay right in Camarillo or venture a bit further up the coast to Ventura (a town very near and dear to our hearts!), you are bound to fall in love with this beautiful slice of Southern California.
Exploring Camarillo
From local brews to incredible shopping, here is how we recommend spending your time right here in town.
🍴 Local Eats & Drinks
Waypoint Café– Located right at the Camarillo Airport, this is an absolute local icon. It’s one of the most popular fly-in eateries in the state! Grab a seat on the outdoor patio to watch the planes take off and land while enjoying an incredible breakfast, their famous tri-tip, or a massive gourmet milkshake.
Institution Ale Co. – A fantastic local staple. Grab a pint of craft beer and share one of their signature soft pretzels or artisan pizzas.
Lure Fish House – If you want fresh, locally caught seafood in a great atmosphere, this is the spot. Don't skip the oyster bar or the clam chowder!
The Wine Closet – Located in Old Town Camarillo, this is a wonderful, cozy spot to relax with a wine flight, craft beer, or a custom charcuterie board.
Topa Topa Brewing Co. – Known for great vibes and even better beer. It's the perfect place to soak up the California sunshine with a cold IPA.
🥾 Things to Do
Camarillo Premium Outlets – If you love a good shopping spree, this is a massive outdoor mall featuring all your favorite designer brands at great prices.
Underwood Family Farms – Just a short drive away in Moorpark. It’s an amazing spot to pick your own seasonal produce, visit the farm animals, and enjoy the fresh air.
Go Horseback Riding – If you want to experience the area from the saddle, check out Rancho Potrero Equestrian Center for beautiful guided trail rides through the scenic coastal hills and open spaces.
Hit the Trails – If you want to explore on foot, Hill Canyon Park offers great paths with beautiful views of the valley very close to the rance, or you can head up to Wildwood Regional Park nearby to see Paradise Falls.
Venture a Little Further: Our Ventura Favorites
Ventura holds a truly special place in our hearts. It’s just a 15-minute drive up the 101, where the valley meets the ocean. If you have an afternoon to spare, we highly recommend making the trip!
🍴 Coastal Cravings & Craft Brews
The Jolly Oyster – Located right inside San Buenaventura State Beach park. You can buy fresh oysters and clams to shuck yourself right at the picnic tables by the ocean. This place is BYOB - so be sure to grab a bottle or a six pack to enjoy with your oysters!
Spencer Makenzie's – Famous for a reason! You must get their world-renowned fish tacos or a giant fish burrito. Be sure to try the Sweet Chili Fire sauce.
Rumfish y Vino – A gorgeous Central American gastro-bar with a stunning outdoor patio. Perfect for a handcrafted cocktail and elevated seafood plates.
Mothers Tacos – Incredible, authentic Mexican street tacos served on fresh, handmade tortillas.
Fluid State Beer Garden – Located right on Main Street, this lively, indoor-outdoor spot is famous for two things: incredible artisanal sourdough pizzas (the "Dr. Steve Brule" with hot honey is a massive crowd-pleaser) and a phenomenal, rotating tap list of 24 independent craft beers. It has a hip, rustic-industrial vibe and a spacious, dog-friendly patio.
🌊 Seaside Activities & Shopping
San Buenaventura State Beach – Skip the crowded pier and head straight here! It’s right next to The Jolly Oyster, making it the absolute perfect spot to grab some fresh seafood, spread out a blanket, and spend a relaxing afternoon enjoying the sand and waves.
Ventura Botanical Gardens – Take a scenic hike up behind City Hall. The trail offers breathtaking, panoramic views of the coastline and the Channel Islands.
Shop Main Street & The Livery – Take a stroll down historic Downtown Main Street for great local boutiques. Definitely stop by The Livery, an amazing historic building turned "sip-and-shop" market where you can grab a cocktail or glass of wine while browsing local vendors.
Downtown Ventura Farmers Market – If you are around on Saturday morning, this is a vibrant local tradition packed with fresh flowers, local fruits, and unique treats.
A Quick Tip for Travelers: The weather near the coast in Ventura can be significantly cooler and breezier than in inland Camarillo, so we always recommend bringing a light jacket or sweater just in case!