Sand and Sun Family Fun

We are so lucky in the 805 to live along the Pacific Ocean coast with beautiful Southern California beaches. Below are our favorite local spots for family time in the sun. 

 

Featured
Harbor Cove Beach
Ventura Harbor
Harbor Cove Beach
Ventura Harbor

Our favorite beach for a play-date.  T he enclosed shoreline is protected from large waves making this beach a favorite for parents of young kids. It is located at the end of the Ventura Harbor Village peninsula across the street from the Channel Islands Visitor Center which has neat displays and an aquarium with free admission. 

FREE parking

Ventura Harbor
Marina Park Beach
Marina Park
Marina Park Beach
Marina Park

A family friendly beach famous for the large boat filled with sand. There is no longer a playground, however, we can still enjoy the large grassy park area. We especially like the sand dunes behind the beach.

FREE parking

Marina Park
South Seaward Ave Beach
South Seaward Ave Beach

This is the best spot for little (and big) rock collection and art on the beach. This beach is located at the end of S. Seaward Avenue which makes it a great place for an after meal walk.  

Free Parking 

 

Oxnard Beach Park/ Oxnard Shores
Oxnard Beach Park/ Oxnard Shores

An incredible view of the Channel Islands and lots of white sand. The waves are large, but the park and playground next to it makes it a perfect place for a family outing.  

Parking Fee

 

Emma Wood State Beach
Emma Wood State Beach

Just a few miles north of Ventura this beach along PCH is a must-stop point. Beautiful views of the ocean and mountains behind it.  Our favorite beach to play frisbee. 

Park Free along PCH and climb down rocks (be careful) to get to the beach. Parking/Camping area is for a Fee. More info

 

Carpinteria State Beach
Carpinteria State Beach
Carpinteria State Beach
Carpinteria State Beach

A great beach and location for camping and spending a warm summer day.  The sand is soft and the waves are calm which makes it a great family friendly beach. 

Parking Fee 

More info

Carpinteria State Beach
East Beach
East Beach

This beach in Santa Barbara is located by the Zoo and the perfect spot to get the kids to release the last of their wiggles before the drive back home. There is a small playground and the views of boats in the distance make this a fun beach. 

more info