icon_hiking

Health and Wellness in Ventura

Breathe in the fresh ocean air, soak up the sunshine, and embrace Ventura’s laid-back approach to health and wellness!

Ventura empowers you to cultivate your health and well-being with an endless amount of scenic trails, fitness classes, and holistic therapies.

Ventura’s tight-knit and small beachtown scene will let you undergo the most intimate, personalized, and unforgettable experience yet. Fun fact: Patagonia was founded in Ventura and it’s no surprise why. The world-renowned outdoor clothing company known for its commitment to environmental conservation, local businesses, and residents all embody the spirit of community engagement throughout the city.

“We have the ability to participate in structured programs indoors and also participate outdoors with hiking, beach walks, fitness at our local parks, and so many other wellness activities that take advantage of our mild weather and prime location in California”

– Sarah Ingram, Grassroots Yoga founder

Whether you want to indulge in some beachside yoga, dine at a healthy and sustainable restaurant, or decompress with mind-body healing, Ventura has something for every wellness seeker. Discover how you can engage in healthy habits, foster vitality, and recharge during your next visit. 

yoga session at grassroots yoga in ventura

Yoga, Fitness, and Workout Classes

Enhance your physical and health, improve your sleep quality, and boost your energy levels with Ventura’s diverse fitness offerings.

There are a handful of yoga studios in Ventura. Grassroots Yoga welcomes everyone for yoga, regardless of experience. Classes range from traditional, contemporary approaches, level of expertise, and styles that range from gentle, meditative, to high intensity. Classes may also be held in a temperature-controlled environment (hot yoga), infrared headed space, or accompanied in a candle-light setting. Grassroots Yoga also offers a one-week travel passes for out of town guests that includes a yoga mat and towel rentals.

Fit Buddha Fitness Studio is much more than just a pilates studio, it combines physical fitness and spiritual awareness to evolutionize your body temple, spirituality, and mental clarity. Various pilates classes are available depending on your level of experience such as introductory classes and megaformer pro classes. Childcare is also offered at select times, refer to the schedule.

Looking for something more high-intensity based? Combat Cardio and krav maga are offered at Way of Orient Martial Arts, which has a focus on martial arts, self defense, and increasing confidence. 

Another martial art offered in town is Pu’u Muay Thai, a full-combat sport also known as Thai boxing. Throw on those gloves, get in the ring, and unleash yourself!

For a more holistic approach that heals emotional, mental, and physical ailments through the transfer of universal energy, explore reiki at Float Reiki and other wellness practices designed to restore balance. 

check out more fun and fit activities
jogging activities in ventura


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

What Events are Coming to Ventura This Year?Ventura Events
kayaking at the channel islands national park in ventura california

The Ultimate Trip Getaway: Channel Islands Hiking

Right off the coast of Ventura lies the Channel Islands National Park, an untouched hidden gem that is untouched and perfect for a wellness getaway. The national park is composed of five islands: Santa Cruz, San Miguel, Anacapa, Santa Barbara, and Santa Rosa — all are perfect to visit year-round.

Relax and take a dip in one of the numerous pristine and untouched coastline beaches. Marine activities include kayaking through sea caves and scuba diving. Keep an eye out for dolphins, seals, and sea lions, or paddle through kelp forests that attract schools of vibrant fish. Various companies offer rentals and guided tours such as Island Packers, Santa Barbara Adventure Company, and Channel Islands Kayak Center.

Hiking is a must when visiting the national park and its trails range from flat, rugged, mountainous, and of course spectacular views of the sea. Along the trails, bird-watching is another popular and laid back activity. Santa Cruz Island’s Prisoners Harbor and Scorpion Harbor are perfect for bird-watching and tracking down endemic species exclusively found on the island.

For the ultimate experience, think about overnight camping, available year-round on all five islands. Experience first-hand what it feels like to have the island almost all to yourself! Refer to the Channel Island National Park website to check which islands are open, the dozens of camping options, and what you should bring. Reservations are required and can be booked here. Tip: spots fill up quickly, so book ahead of time.

The absence of crowds and commercialization makes it the ideal place to nourish both the mind and soul. Whether you’re looking for a tranquil place to recharge, adventure, or connect with nature, the Channel Islands National Park offers a rejuvenating experience that’ll leave you inspired and refreshed. Ferry transportation can be booked through Island Packers.

Plan your trip to the channel islands
Hiking on Santa Cruz Island
Romantic Spot in Harmon Canyon

Hiking in Ventura

Dozens of hiking trails are found in Ventura across different levels and scenery, such as winding through the mountains, passing by the beaches, and the opportunity to spot wildlife. There is no other place better to hike than here in Ventura!

It is no surprise that hiking promotes wellness both mentally and physically, such as improving your cardiovascular health, stress reduction, creativity, and social connection. A highly recommended spot to get going on your wellness journey would be the Harmon Canyon Preserve, established by The Ventura Land Trust. Harmon Canyon is Ventura’s first landscape-scale natural preserve with incredible views of the ocean and Channel Islands National Park. Within these 2,123 acres of ridges and canyons, are six trails ranging from moderate to difficult and offer scenic views of the town, hillsides, and Channel Islands.

For up close up views of the beach, sounds of the crashing waves, and a more lighter trail to clear your mind, check out the San Buenaventura Beach Trail. The 2-mile trail takes an average of 35 minutes to complete and is open year-round. The route takes you past the Ventura Pier, the oldest pier in California, delicious restaurants, and is the perfect place for birdwatching.

Another local favorite, located in the midtown part of Ventura would be Arroyo Verde Park. This 132-acre park offers miles of hiking trails across different difficulties and stunning panorama views of hills and the ocean. The trails can be steep and have no shade, so don’t forget to bring some water and running shoes.

View more hiking trails
Roamaroo family Arroyo Verde Park
Courtesy of Roamaroo
mary osborne ventura beach surfing (1)

Ventura Surfing and Watersports

Embrace Ventura’s coastal charm with exciting water activities. Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, the beach waves offer endless ways to stay active and boosting your mindfulness while soaking up the sun.

Ventura’s stunning beaches are considered one of the top places to surf in the state. Ventura Surf School is great for beginners who are interested in connecting with nature and benefit from the physical and mental advantages. Didn’t bring your board with you? The Ventura Surf Shop has your back.

Another perk about Ventura’s beaches is that they’re perfect for swimming. Consider having a beach day at Emma Wood State Beach and spend the perfect day building sandcastles, tanning while reading sunbathing, and jogging along the beach.

Check out the Ventura Boat Rentals, located at the Ventura Harbor Village, for some aquatic fun ranging from kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, and pedal boats.

Looking for something more relaxing, de-stressing, yet memorable with your loved ones? Vision Electric Boat Rentals does not require a boating license, allows coolers, welcomes dogs under 25lbs, and provides life jackets in order for you to sail out on the harbor and have the most laid-back experience yet.

For some waterside activities, consider renting a double surrey, electric bike, or cruiser and ride along the Promenade and Ventura Pier with Wheel Fun Rentals!

EXPLORE MORE WATER ACTIVITIES
SUP, stand up paddle board ventura keys
Courtesy of Josiah Roe
wellness products sold at refill shoppe in ventura

Wellbeing Shops and Spas in Ventura

Explore Ventura’s wide range of spas, health, and wellness shops good for the body, mind, and soul.

Discover the unlimited amount of teas, supplements, and liquid vitamins at Ema’s Herbs, a local-owned business open since 1989 whose recipes are based on the research, training, and personal experiences of founder Ema Omanovic.

Venture Well, located in downtown Ventura, serves both as a somatic spa and herbal apothecary whose mission is to reconnect with your inner rhythms and the natural world. Check out Venture Well’s website for upcoming events and retreats they offer.

The Refill Shoppe is the ultimate eco-friendly apothecary. As a 1% for the Planet member, Certified B Corp, and Certified Green Business, you can find products ranging from skincare, all purpose products, and essential oils. Don’t worry if you forget to bring your bottle, they have you covered!

At the The Healing Portal, you can immerse yourself in reiki and sound healing, all inside this crystal and jewelry store. Curate a session with founder Kelle based on your needs and goals, located at one of the largest collections crystals, jewelry, and metaphysical tools in Southern California.

Treat yourself with to a spa day at Pueblo Luna, jam-packed with services and bundles such as customizable massages, shiatsu (a traditional Japanese massage), sauna, cupping, and much more. Parties are available per request!

Looking for a spa day that offers facials and other cosmetic treatments? Coastal Skin Care Day Spa is right up your alley. Dozens of facials, massages, and body treatments are offered to meet your goals. Waxing and makeup are also available, which only use natural and dermatologist recommended products.

Pueblo Luna Spa Ventura

Blog

healthy dining options at paradise pantry in ventura

Healthy Food in Ventura

Discover Ventura’s vibrant healthy dining scene. From farm-to-table restaurants, all vegan eateries, to hands-on cooking classes at Spicetopia, you’ll find flavorsome options that cater to every palate.

Grab some lunch at Paradise Pantry, a farm-to-table and entirely organic restaurant, whose menu constantly rotates depending on the supplier and seasons. You can also shop hundreds of cheeses and wines here!

Discover the vast and diverse menu Seed Ranger has to offer. As an an entirely planet-based restaurant, you can find sushi, Mexican food, salads, breakfast, and tons more of options you might’ve not known could be veganized.

If you find yourself in the downtown area on a Friday morning, hit up the Ventura Certified Farmers’ Market for some locally sourced organic and fresh products such as produce, eggs, jams, meats, and much more.

LEARN MORE ABOUT VENTURA’S HEALTHY EATS

Walking Tour Guides

Explore the beauty Ventura has to offer by foot through these walking and tour guide videos! For a more community-based and social feel, join The Walking Collective, a women’s walking club, for guided walks around Ventura every Wednesday at 6:00 pm at the Santa Cruz Market.

Read The Walking tour blog