- The list below includes 144 free or cheap things to do in or near Ventura, California, including 82 different types of inexpensive activities like Parks, Beaches, Movie Theaters and Bike Paths.
- From Ventura to Ojai Paved Bike Path to Marina Park, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Ventura and in nearby cities within 25 miles like Moorpark, Ojai, Camarillo and Oxnard.
Showing 1-10 of
369
0.0 Miles
Participants explore the city via an adventure combining the fun of a scavenger hunt with the information of a self-guided tour
7.2 Miles
Cyclists get quite the workout on the Ventura to Ojai Paved Bike Path, which stretches between Ventura and Ojai. The smooth, paved surface is perfect for both racing and mountain bikes. Rollerbladers are also welcome.
2.7 Miles
Marina Park is a recreational outdoor park that features a zip line, a playground area, portable restrooms, barbecue grills, and an open space area. The grassy space can be used for football, soccer, and Frisbee.
3.5 Miles
Ventura Pier was originally built in 1872. Today, the pier wooden structure is 1958 feet long and offers a place for fishermen and women to line up with their lines as they fish.
9.4 Miles
From its location at the mouth of the Ventura River, Emma Wood State Beach is popular with anglers who often catch perch, bass, cabezon and corbina, as well as people who often spot dolphins just off the rocky shore. This beach offers several camping areas.
8.9 Miles
Mondos Beach is known for its waves, which makes it a popular location for surfers. The beach is also frequented by visitors for its longboarding and stand up paddleboarding, and many people bring their dogs.
2.9 Miles
Accessible by ferry, the Channel Islands National Park consists of five small islands and offers a variety of outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, and camping. Oftentimes visitors can spot whales, foxes, and other wildlife on their trip.
2.3 Miles
The only remaining Monterey-style adobe home from the Rancho era, Olivas Adobe is a California Historic Landmark with a house and courtyard guests may tour. The location may be reserved for weddings, fiestas, and receptions.
11.7 Miles
Ventura's Lake Casitas Recreation Area is a huge park with over 400 individual campsites. It is a popular fishing destination. Visitors also hiking, birdwatching and fishing. Campsites must be reserved.
3.6 Miles
A popular destination not only for surfers but also for stand up paddle boarders, Surfer's Point at Seaside Park is a rocky, slim stretch of beach with steady and reliable waves.
0.7 Miles
A sprawling county park covering 132 acres, Arroyo Verde Park features a nature center, as well as miles of hiking and running trails. The park also offers two playgrounds as well as picnic areas with barbecue grills.