7 Reasons Why You Should Visit Ventura in the Spring

1. Beautiful Blooms and Greenery

Where sunlight, sea, and flowers merge: visit Ventura for the beautiful California wildflower blooms in the spring! 

Ventura is a great place to see the diversity of wildflowers, from the state flower, the California Poppy to the native Succulent Lupine. Head to the Ventura Botanical Gardens for incredible views of the Pacific Ocean, the mountains, and the city below all while taking in the colors of over 120,000 plants in full bloom during the spring. 

“If this year mirrors last, the ceanothus (California lilac) will be in full flower throughout the gardens,” said VBG long time board member Barbara Brown. “The blossoms of this lacy specimen range from a rich, deep purple to lavender to white. Yet, these brilliant hues are no match for its intoxicating fragrance.”

Harmon Canyon is also full of native plants in bloom during the spring. With over 2,000 acres of ridgelines and canyons that feature diverse plants and hiking trails, add this nature preserve to the itinerary of your spring vacation in Ventura. You can also bring your leashed pup along for the fun!

See the giant Coreopsis flower in full bloom on Santa Cruz Island, one of the five islands that make up the Channel Islands National Park. You’ll feel like you’re in wonderland as you hike along beautiful trails with 360 ocean views and incredible untouched nature along each trail. 

3. Less Crowded Beaches

Splash in the water, build sand castles, and enjoy the warmer weather without the crowds. 

Ventura has 30 miles of clean, clear, and uncrowded coastline where you can spread out and have an epic beach day.

With plenty of parking nearby, you won’t have to fight for a spot on the sand or struggle to find an empty beach volleyball court. Check out San Buenaventura State beach for plenty of space for a beach picnic or a game of frisbee or head to Mothers Beach to introduce your little one to gentle and calm waves. 

5. Local Seasonal Events

Add these spring events to your calendar and start planning your vacation Ventura. 

Springtime is primetime for marathons: the Mountains 2 Beach Marathon and Half Marathon and Seaside Marathon take place annually during the spring months (and yes, they are both Boston Marathon qualifiers!). Cal Tri Ventura and Bike MS are also outdoor endurance races that take place in the springtime, right along the coast. 

Season fun reigns supreme too: bring the family out for the annual Ventura County Saint Patrick’s Day Parade where Venturans go all out in green to celebrate the holiday, and in April, have some fun at the Spring Wine Walk. The California Strawberry Festival celebrate all things strawberry and the Findings Market Spring Fair celebrates local makers and creators at the annual Downtown art market.

7. Whale Watching in Early Spring

Early spring is prime whale-watching season in Ventura. Hop on an Island Packers boat tour from Ventura Harbor to catch gray whales on their migration north.

A fun opportunity to learn more about the Channel Islands National Park & Marine Sanctuary, each captain and staff member aboard will make sure to point out other wildlife

Pro tip: make sure to book in advance, whale watching season ends in early April.