Ventura Solo Trip: 5 Outdoor Activities to Embrace on Your Own

Planning a solo trip can feel a little intimidating, especially if you’re venturing into the great outdoors on your own. But here’s the secret: Ventura is made for solo travelers.

If you’ve been dreaming about unplugging, reconnecting with yourself, and saying “yes” to a spontaneous adventure, Ventura is the place to do it.

Here are five outdoor activities in Ventura that are perfect for solo explorers. Whether you’re chasing waves, pedaling along the coast, or paddling through calm harbor waters, Ventura has just the right mix of excitement and serenity to make your solo trip unforgettable.

1. Catch Your First Wave with a Solo Surf Lesson

Let’s be honest—surfing solo sounds kind of intimidating. But it’s also kind of freeing, too.

Book a private lesson with a local surf school like Ventura Makos Surf Camp or Ventura Surf School. You’ll get one-on-one coaching, all the gear you need, and a front-row seat to that indescribable rush of catching your first wave. Whether you stand up for five seconds or just belly-laugh through wipeouts, it’s the kind of experience you’ll always remember.

Mondos Beach is the most popular beach for beginners — the consistent and gentle waves will get you introduced to the water in no time. Live out your California dream and book that surf lesson you’ve always wanted to do!

Explore Ventura beaches

2. Soak in Nature and Sweeping Views at Ventura Botanical Gardens

Take a peaceful solo stroll through the Ventura Botanical Gardens. Perched above downtown Ventura, this hillside haven offers over 100,000 plant species from Mediterranean climates around the world—plus panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Channel Islands.

It’s the kind of spot where you can bring a journal, walk at your own pace, or just sit on a bench and let the sea breeze do its thing. No one to wait for. No schedule to follow. Just you, the flowers, and the kind of stillness that solo travel is all about.

It’s an easy walk, but with a gradual incline. Make sure to wear good walking shoes and bring some water with you.

Tip: Fridays are free! Check their website for other monthly free days and events too.

3. Bike the Coast and Feel That Sweet, Solo Freedom

Hop on a bike and cruise the coast—one of the most relaxing solo activities Ventura has to offer. Rent a cruiser or e-bike from shops like Ventura Bike Depot or Wheel Fun Rentals and roll along the Ventura Promenade, through San Buenaventura State Beach, and beyond.

It’s an easy, scenic ride that hugs the shoreline, with plenty of places to stop for a cold drink, take beach photos, or dip your toes in the water. Keep going and you’ll hit the Ojai Valley Trail if you’re feeling ambitious (or adventurous), or continue along to coast along the Rincon Bike Trail.

Discover Ventura bike trails

outdoor activities in ventura: surfing and biking

4. Solo Day Trip to Channel Islands National Park

If you’re looking for the ultimate experience to unplug, recenter, and reconnect with yourself, this is it. The Channel Islands National Park, dubbed the “Galapagos of North America,” is the place to be if you want to find peace of mind surrounded by the great outdoors.

Hop on a boat from Island Packers from the Ventura Harbor and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime. On your boat ride out, you’ll see hundreds of dolphins dancing along your boat, sea lions lounging on buoys, and might even spot whales!

Whether you choose to kayak sea caves on Santa Cruz Island or simply hike the quiet trails, the feeling of being somewhere wild and untouched—and doing it solo—is nothing short of magical.

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What’s Happening in Ventura? Events in Ventura

Plan your trip to Ventura and learn what events and happenings are going on while you’re in town

5. Stand-Up Paddleboard Through Ventura Harbor

If you’ve never tried stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), Ventura Harbor is the ideal place to start. The water is calm, the views are incredible, and there’s something almost meditative about gliding across the surface on your own board.

Rent from Ventura Boat Rentals or Channel Islands Kayak Center and paddle past sailboats, sea birds, and maybe even a curious sea lion or two. No prior experience required—just a willingness to try something new and have a laugh if you wobble a bit (we all do at first).

Try your hand at SUP yoga, or simply meditate with the gentle ocean waves as your guide.

stand up paddle board in Ventura Harbor and Ventura keys

Ready to Book That Solo Adventure?

Whether you’re looking for adventures to get your adrenaline pumping or looking for quiet solace to reconnect with yourself, Ventura is the perfect solo trip.

Plus, with hotels that will match any budget, you won’t have to break the bank while traveling alone.

So stop dreaming of booking that solo adventure trip and do it! We can’t think of a better way to break out on your own and try new things than here in our small slice of the California coast.

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Mondos 3647 Pacific Coast Highway, Ventura, CA 93001