Best Things to Do Near the Ventura Pier

Ventura’s beautiful beach coastline wouldn’t be the same without our historic Ventura Pier jutting out into the ocean’s horizon. As California’s oldest and one of the most iconic wooden piers, walking along the Ventura Pier itself is a treat while you’re in town. And there is plenty to do near the Ventura Pier to fill your beach vacation in Ventura up!

If you’re looking to visit Ventura and not sure what there is to do, here’s a list of some of the best things to do near the Ventura Pier, perfect for travelers looking to soak up the local charm, enjoy good food, and make the most of Ventura’s coastal beauty.

Grab a Local Brew at MadeWest Brewing Co

Marlyss and Kelly having a beer on the pier

There’s nothing better than enjoying a cold beer with ocean views, and MadeWest Brewing Co’s taproom, located right on the Ventura Pier, is the perfect spot. Founded in Ventura, MadeWest has won numerous awards for its brews and can be found all across the coast. Their Hazy IPA and Blonde Ales are fan favorites to sip on as you watch the sunset on the horizon or surfers shred waves at C-Street. If you’re looking for things to do near Ventura Pier, grabbing a local brew here should be at the top of your list.

Enjoy Fresh Seafood

Family enjoying Eric Ericsson’s by the Ventura Pier

Beach House Tacos is a great taco spot by the Ventura Pier

No visit to Ventura is complete without indulging in some fresh seafood. Luckily, the area around the pier is packed with delicious dining options that cater to seafood lovers.

Right below MadeWest Brewing Co is Eric Ericsson’s, offering classic seafood dishes with a modern twist right on the pier — how much more California can you get? A casual spot to grab a bite to eat, order at the counter, and pick your table with the best view of the ocean (tip: there really isn’t a bad seat in the house!). Try their fish and chips and their house cocktails and get ready to sit and relax in this great seafood restaurant location on the Ventura Pier.

Beach House Tacos: Casual, fun, and right on the beach, Beach House Tacos serves up some of the best tacos in town. Across from Eric Ericsson’s, come as you are to Beach House Tacos — sandy feet and all! Order at the window and grab a seat right on the Ventura Pier.

Last but certainly not least Aloha Steakhouse is perfect for those who want a mix of surf and turf. Their oceanfront dining experience pairs perfectly with steak, seafood, and tropical cocktails. When you’re done, walk along the Ventura Promenade for the perfect sunset beach walk!

With so many delicious options, enjoying fresh seafood near Ventura Pier is a must-do!

Bike Along the Promenade

Family riding Wheel Fun Rental surrey bikes along Ventura Promenade

Looking for a great way to experience the beach with the warm golden Ventura sun on your face and the ocean breeze through your hair? Rent a bike from Wheel Fun Rentals and ride along the Ventura Promenade to enjoy cool ocean breezes and, on a clear day, views of the Channel Islands National Park in the distance. Stretching from the pier to Surfers Point, biking along the paved path is the perfect way to spend a morning or afternoon taking in the sights. Feel free to stop along the way, close your eyes, and let the sounds of the beach take you away.

Have a Beach Day at San Buenaventura State Beach

Just a short stroll from the Ventura Pier is San Buenaventura State Beach, where miles of clean, uncrowded coastline are calling your name for an afternoon of sunbathing, swimming, or beach volleyball. With picnic areas and plenty of space to spread out, you can boogie board and just dip your toes in the water. Safe for your kids to dive in, pack a lunch, bring a towel, and spend the day relaxing on the sand. When it comes to things to do near Ventura Pier, having a classic beach day in Ventura is a must!

Head to Jolly Oyster for a Picnic on the Beach

For a truly unique beachside experience, you have to head to the Jolly Oyster. Only open on the weekends, get ready to spend the afternoon shucking your own oysters right on the sand. Spread out on a picnic table and bring your own seafood picnic necessities. While you can also order seafood plates, trying fresh oysters from Jolly Oyster is a must. It’s a local hidden gem and an unforgettable way to enjoy the coastline while savoring fresh seafood. Then, run to the beach just across the way when you’re done! It’s a perfect Ventura day near the Ventura Pier.

Explore Downtown Ventura

Just a short walk from the Ventura Pier, spend an entire day exploring Downtown Ventura. Our Main Street is lined with boutique shops, tons of thrift stores, local eateries, cocktail bars, and history. Whether you’re in the mood for some retail therapy, a delicious bite to eat, or vintage thrifting, Downtown Ventura has something for everyone.

You never know what adventure you’ll go on while walking through Downtown Ventura. Maybe you’ll find a thrifted treasure at Coalition Thrift Store, or maybe you’ll stop in for some live music at the Twist. Or perhaps you’ll find sea glass jewelry that’s calling your name at Betty Belts or the perfect beach read at Smitten Bookstore. Grab dinner at Rumfish y Vino and then maybe a cheeky late-night drink at Strange Beast. Who knows?

Take a Photo by the Iconic Ventura Sign

You’ve probably seen the iconic Ventura Sign in posters, social media feeds, and magazines. While you’re in town, don’t forget to snap a photo by the historic Ventura sign that welcomes visitors to our laid-back beach town. Just a few blocks from the Ventura Pier, it’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking to capture the essence of their Ventura experience.

Discover Ventura’s History

Founded in 1782, there’s a lot of history in Ventura to uncover. From the Rancho period to the roaring 20s, there are a lot of historical landmarks you can visit right by the Ventura Pier to get a glimpse into the past.

Grab a Self-Guided Walking History Tour brochure at the visitors center and explore Ventura’s history with just your two feet! The self-guided history tour will lead you from the Museum of Ventura County to the Moreton Bay Fig Tree (where Theodore Roosevelt once stopped by in 1903) and many more historical landmarks.

When speaking about Ventura’s history, we’d be remiss not to mention the Mission Basilica San Buenaventura. Established in 1782, the mission is the ninth and final California mission and is one of the only missions in the state that is within walking distance of the beach, earning the rightful name of “Mission by the Sea”. Holding services to this day, learn about Ventura’s history and enjoy the peaceful grotto for an afternoon break.

Walk Through the Ventura Botanical Gardens

A family at Ventura Botanical Gardens during the spring, a great picturesque spot in Ventura

Enjoy a beautiful nature walk with colorful blooms all around you at the Ventura Botanical Gardens. Just up the hill from the pier, the Ventura Botanical Gardens offers breathtaking views of the ocean every step of the way. Home to well over 120,000 native and exotic plants, it’s a great way to capture views of the city below and the ocean beyond. Snap pictures of unique flowers for your feed or stop and enjoy the quiet.

Visit the Ventura Visitors Center

Last but certainly not least, before you leave, make sure to stop by the Ventura Visitors Center. Talk to locals to get the full scoop on how to make the most of your trip and pick up some Ventura swag. It’s the best way to discover even more things to do near Ventura Pier and beyond.

Things to Do

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