Harboring Fun in Oxnard, Calif.
In Oxnard, locals like to take time to coast. Take their advice with these three top things to do.
Visit Anacapa Island
Oxnard is one of two launching points for Channel Islands National Park. Head to Anacapa Island from Oxnard’s Channel Islands Harbor aboard an Island Packers boat. “These islands are known as the American Galapagos,” says Josh Travers, executive director of Oxnard Convention and Visitors Bureau. Anacapa is the closest island to the mainland, an hour away by boat. Once there, walk 157-plus steps to the top of the island for gorgeous views. A historic lighthouse still operates. Spend the day or camp overnight.
Oxnard’s Channel Islands Harbor
Explore this working harbor that offers a ton of activities, including beach-lined parks, restaurants and shops. Explore it via a four-wheel surrey that fits six adults and two children. Rent one at the Embassy Suites Mandalay Beach Resort, Channel Islands Marine Emporium Landing or Hampton Inn Channel Islands Harbor. In December through April you can go on whale-watching excursions. Boat charters and diving tours are offered year-round.
After spending the day exploring, stop by Toppers Pizza for build-your-own pies and beautiful views of the harbor from the restaurant’s second-floor dining room.
The Collection at RiverPark
Still need outdoor gear or clothes for Yosemite National Park? Stop by REI, a part of The Collection, which features nationally known stores like Urban Outfitters and LOFT. Then let loose with laughter at a comedy show playing at Levity Live Comedy Club & Dinner Theater located at The Collection. The Annex, which is part of the development, is an open-air feeling space with craft breweries, local restaurants and boutiques.
For more information:
Discover Oxnard
California Welcome Center, 2786 Seaglass Way
visitoxnard.com
Ventura County Coast
venturacountycoast.com
Central Coast Tourism
www.centralcoast-tourism.com
Tours and Transportation to Channel Islands
Island Packers
(805) 642-1393
IslandPackers.com