It is hard to think of any California beach as NOT being a great place for a day trip. But a few unique features, combined with a lack of crowds, nudge one of them toward the top of the list. It is a lovely beach bordered by a quiet town in Ventura County, one that I have been coming to since I was a teenager, long before I actually lived nearby. Port Hueneme Beach Park in SoCal is a stellar destination for the perfect summer beach day.
Port Hueneme Beach Park is a wide sandy stretch of shoreline rimmed with palm trees, located at the end of Ventura Road in Port Hueneme.
This beautiful south-facing beach has tiny dunes, a seasonal lagoon, and generally gentle waves. Being north of Los Angeles, the weather is milder, too, perfect for walking, jogging, or playing in the surf.
Just one of the things that makes Port Hueneme great for a beach day is that it is rarely ever crowded. Even in summer months, there is always plenty of room to claim a nice bit of space near the water, even if you have a good size group with you.
You can take a walk on the fishing pier and take the stairs down to the sand, or stroll to the end for beautiful views and to see what the fishermen are catching.
There are picnic tables on concrete slabs, ideal for enjoying a sand-free snack or lunch, and there are swings for the kiddies (or if you are like me, for the grown-ups).
Between the parking area and the sand, you will find a long, winding bike trail (also enjoyed by joggers, runners, dog walkers, tiny tykes, etc.) and a few wide grassy mounds where you can find a bit of shade and enjoy the sights, sounds, and breezes without getting sand in your shoes - if that’s your thing.
There are cool little hidden gems along the walking trail, like this dolphin-clad sundial toward the east end of the beach…
… or the old lighthouse all the way down at the west end.
Whether you bring a picnic lunch but stay til dinner time, or you didn’t feel like making sandwiches, you don’t have to leave the beach to enjoy a fantastic meal. One of the best places in SoCal to enjoy fresh seafood is right on the sand in Port Hueneme.
From fresh crab and lobster to crispy fish and chips to tacos and burgers, there is something delicious for everyone at Surfside Seafood.
It may get a bit chilly toward the evening so bring a sweater and stick around; you don’t want to miss one of our gorgeous sunsets over the Channel Islands.
This is one beach that does not disappoint. Have you been to Port Hueneme Beach? We would love to hear your thoughts, and your favorite place for a summer beach day! If you don’t live in the area, consider a little weekend getaway to Port Hueneme. This lovely hotel is just a 5-minute walk from the beach park and even closer to more little restaurants, a convenience market, a coffee house, and more.
We are here to inspire, so be sure to check out some more of our favorite day trips in Southern California!
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