7 Day Trips from Ventura, CA

Living in Ventura means more than just beautiful ocean views and a relaxed coastal lifestyle—it also offers easy access to some of the most diverse destinations in California. From charming beach towns to wine country escapes, there are countless places worth exploring just a short drive from home. Whether you're planning a spontaneous Saturday outing or a full-day getaway, these day trips from Ventura offer the perfect mix of nature, culture, and convenience.

Here are seven of the most rewarding destinations to explore when you’re ready to hit the road.

Just 30 minutes inland, Ojai is a serene escape tucked into the Topatopa Mountains. Known for its art galleries, boutique shopping, and organic farmers markets, Ojai offers a quieter, more spiritual alternative to the coast. Spend your day browsing the independent shops downtown, hiking Shelf Road Trail, or enjoying a spa treatment at the Ojai Valley Inn.

Don’t miss the chance to sample locally grown wines and olive oils, or catch the famous “Pink Moment” at sunset when the mountains light up with soft hues. For Ventura locals, Ojai is one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips from Ventura—no overnight stay required.

Often called the "American Riviera," Santa Barbara blends Mediterranean charm with California cool, all just about 30 minutes from Ventura. The downtown area offers upscale shopping, renowned restaurants, and historic sites like the Santa Barbara Mission and County Courthouse.

Stroll along State Street, rent a bike along the waterfront, or enjoy wine tasting in the Funk Zone. With its walkable layout and coastal views, Santa Barbara offers the perfect balance of relaxation and sophistication—ideal for a day-long reset that doesn’t require much planning.

Accessible via boat from Ventura Harbor, Channel Islands National Park is often overlooked—but it’s one of the most unique day trips in the region. Known as the “Galapagos of North America,” these islands offer a pristine natural environment with hiking, kayaking, wildlife watching, and underwater adventures.

Island Packers Cruises runs daily trips to several of the islands, with Santa Cruz being one of the most popular for its scenic trails and sea caves. It’s a full-day commitment, but the experience of being surrounded by unspoiled nature so close to home is worth the early start.

Roughly an hour from Ventura, Solvang is a Danish-style town in the Santa Ynez Valley known for its European architecture, wine-tasting rooms, and pastry shops. The town feels like stepping into another country, complete with windmills and cobblestone streets.

Start your visit with breakfast at a Danish bakery, explore the charming downtown, and then head out for wine tasting at nearby vineyards. Solvang is especially popular during the fall grape harvest season and during the holiday months when the town lights up with festive décor.

Located about an hour southeast of Ventura, Malibu offers a classic California coastal experience with a touch of glamour. Drive along the Pacific Coast Highway, take in the ocean views from Point Dume, or enjoy lunch with a view at Malibu Farm on the pier.

Zuma Beach is ideal for sunbathing or people-watching, and the nearby Getty Villa provides a cultural break with stunning architecture and art collections. For Ventura residents, Malibu is a quick and scenic getaway that balances natural beauty with luxury and lifestyle.

If you're in the mood for a more relaxed wine-country experience, Los Olivos—just over one hour from Ventura—is a charming alternative to larger wine destinations. This small town in Santa Barbara County is packed with tasting rooms, farm-to-table restaurants, and walkable streets surrounded by oak trees and vineyards.

Unlike larger wine regions, Los Olivos is approachable and easy to explore in a single day. Whether you're new to wine tasting or a seasoned enthusiast, it’s a great place to unwind and enjoy the agricultural heart of the Central Coast.

Just 20 minutes north of Ventura, Carpinteria is a hidden gem that’s perfect for a low-key beach day. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Carpinteria State Beach is less crowded than others along the coast, making it ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or simply relaxing by the waves.

Downtown Carpinteria offers quaint shops, local cafés, and even a small botanical garden. It's a great destination when you want to enjoy a change of scenery without spending much time on the road—making it one of the most convenient day trips from Ventura.

Living in Ventura means having access to more than just your own beautiful city. With the beach on one side and rolling hills, wineries, and cultural destinations on the other, the opportunities for exploration are nearly endless. Whether you're planning a romantic outing, a solo hiking day, or a family adventure, these day trips make it easy to reconnect with everything that makes California special.

They also add to the appeal of owning a home in Ventura—where you don’t just live well; you live within reach of so much more.

Ventura offers an ideal combination of coastal charm and central access to California’s most desirable destinations. If you’re thinking about making a move to the area—or simply want to explore properties that support your lifestyle of adventure and relaxation—contact the Madge & Hamilton Group. With local insight and a commitment to finding the right fit for every client, they’re here to help you make the most of home and what lies just beyond it.