PLEASE BE ADVISED
Hazardous and dangerous beach conditions remain at Harbor beaches.
We ask that you please use caution and follow all signs, as it pertains to beach and surf conditions.
Please visit vcemergency.com for the latest updates.
For Event, Film or Wedding permits on Ventura Harbor Beaches please find information and rates below.
Beach Wheelchairs are equipped with large, wide wheels which can roll across the sand without sinking. They are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please call ahead for availability – (805) 642-8618
Lifeguard service is available on weekends only in May until Memorial Day weekend, and then from Memorial Day to Labor Day weekend, courtesy of Ventura Port District and California Department of Parks and Recreation.
Harbor Cove Beach
Beautiful views of the entire Ventura coastline and hills, small lapping waves, and windblown sand dunes are just a few things that attract local families to Harbor Cove Beach. Coined as one of the safest beaches in Ventura, locals often refer to this protected shoreline as, “Mother’s Beach.” Located at the west end of Spinnaker Drive, across the street from the Channel Islands National Park Visitor’s Center, Harbor Cove Beach serves as the perfect spot for waterfront activities such as kayaking, flying kites, and watching the boats go in and out of the harbor. Amenities include large parking lot, restrooms and outdoor showers. Food is available across the street at Harbor Cove Cafe.
South Beach
Nestled between Surfers Knoll Beach and Harbor Cove Beach is South Beach. Walk over the beautiful sandy dunes, and view the Channel Islands, surf break, and best location for Ventura’s colorful sunsets. This beach connects the two outer beaches and sits between two breakwaters. You can also frequently view boats coming in and out of the Harbor entrance, enjoy sunbathing, surfing, boogie boarding, dune walking, and wildlife viewing. Parking is available on Spinnaker Drive for access across the dunes. Ventura Harbor Village is across the street for shopping, treats and dining options. No restrooms available, but close to Harbor Cove Beach restrooms.
Surfer’s Knoll Beach
With its amazing views of the coastline and the Channel Islands, Surfer’s Knoll Beach serves as a wonderful sanctuary to relax, indulge, play, refresh, and explore. Located on Spinnaker Drive across the street from the Ventura Harbor Village, Surfer’s Knoll Beach offers a small separate parking lot or parking on Spinnaker Drive, and has a great surf break at the Santa Clara River Mouth. Fun for all including sunbathing, sea glass hunting, long walks towards the bird sanctuary along the beach. Swimming, unless an expert surfer, is not ideal due to common riptides. Amenities include restrooms and outdoor showers.
Beach Volleyball Courts
Ventura Harbor has beach volleyball courts! The Ventura Port District has partnered with Jack Richards, local coach, and owner of Rincon Volleyball Club, to bring this project to life. Richards installed two public courts for men and two for women on the sand at Harbor Cove Beach, at the end of Spinnaker Drive. When the beach courts are not in use for training or tournaments, the public is welcome to use them at no charge.
Parking at Harbor Cove Beach is free. Facilities include restrooms and outdoor showers, and snacks can easily be purchased at Harbor Cove Cafe, located across the street.