Things to do in Oxnard, CA

About an hour north of Los Angeles, Ventura County looks out affectionately on the expansive Pacific Ocean. Initially settled by Chumash Indians, the region was discovered by Portuguese and Spanish adventurers in the mid-16th century. Not long thereafter, Spain began to construct missions along the coast, and San Buenaventura (Ventura's original, official name) was established in 1782. Small communities and sprawling ranches grew around it, giving rise to the eventual town. In the 19th century, California saw an influx of settlers, and Ventura County became an agricultural capital, a title it holds yet today. In fact, the town of Oxnard derived its name from brothers who built a factory there to process sugar beets, a profitable early crop. Thanks to fertile lands and abundant rainfall, the area now serves as a top producer of strawberries, lima beans, lemons, and celery. The oil industry and the military also rank as major employers, along with electronics and tourism. Throughout its periods of growth, Ventura County has had the foresight to maintain its communities' small-town charm, as well as their history. Naturally, the coast is a perpetual draw, and area beaches are frequented by residents and visitors alike....  Read more »

About an hour north of Los Angeles, Ventura County looks out affectionately on the expansive Pacific Ocean. Initially settled by Chumash Indians, the region was discovered by Portuguese and Spanish adventurers in the mid-16th century. Not long thereafter, Spain began to construct missions along the coast, and San Buenaventura (Ventura's original, official name) was established in 1782. Small communities and sprawling ranches grew around it, giving rise to the eventual town. In the 19th century, California saw an influx of settlers, and Ventura County became an agricultural capital, a title it holds yet today. In fact, the town of Oxnard derived its name from brothers who built a factory there to process sugar beets, a profitable early crop. Thanks to fertile lands and abundant rainfall, the area now serves as a top producer of strawberries, lima beans, lemons, and celery. The oil industry and the military also rank as major employers, along with electronics and tourism. Throughout its periods of growth, Ventura County has had the foresight to maintain its communities' small-town charm, as well as their history. Naturally, the coast is a perpetual draw, and area beaches are frequented by residents and visitors alike. Off the coast, the Channel Islands are a favorite of outdoor enthusiasts as well. While you're around, you'll definitely want to visit San Buenaventura Mission, Ventura Harbor, and Ventura's City Hall, not to mention Carnegie Art Museum and Heritage Square in Oxnard. They're just brief indication of the all-American appeal that brings folks to the county for business, for pleasure, and for fun.