If you want a place where you can just kick back and relax, Ventura is one of the best spots. The town is one of the oldest in the state, dating back more than two hundred years to the late 1780s.
In contrast to many small towns that have lost their people to city life, Ventura remains a healthy and close-knit community. Here you can find many simple farmers mixing in with young up-and-coming artists. The people and the abundance of old buildings create a unique blend of culture in this place.
Artists from all over the state come to Ventura to enjoy its natural beauty. You will find no shortages of artists, musicians, dancers, and other performers. No matter where you go in the area, there is always a gallery or music festival just around the corner.
The arts are such a massive part of Ventura’s life that WAV (Working Artists Ventura), an organization, opens an open studio almost every Friday.
Culture comes in many forms, including food. With so many artists setting up shop here, you shouldn’t be surprised to learn that there are plenty of trendy restaurants here. Craft beers and fusion places are a common sight in the city streets.
Aside from artists, there is also a growing tech community here as some startups have set up shop in the quiet towns. Here they have room to think and enjoy nature as they work.
Compared to other parts of California, Ventura costs substantially less than neighboring Los Angeles and Santa Barbara. You can get a house for 400K, less than 600k in LA. Despite that, it doesn’t lack reasons to stay.
Ventura offers a wealth of amenities. It is a place of beaches where you can find yourself strolling on the sand and admiring the sunset every day. You can wade or surf and boogie boarding if you’re webbed footed. Waves are gentle and friendly for beginners.
Even if you wish to head back to city life, Los Angeles isn’t that far away, about 60 miles or so, and it’s close enough that thousands of Ventura residents make that commute every day for work or school.
Nature isn’t just beaches. Beyond that is one of the largest national parks in the area. Ventura allows you to spend time away camping or hiking, and it’s close enough to have a quick day trip or spend a whole weekend.
There is something for everyone in these parks, whether hiking, kayaking, or rock climbing. If not, you can just spend some time enjoying nature. With over 2000 species of plants and animals, there is bound to be something you like.
