One of the most popular attractions the county offers is The Channel Islands National Park and Marine Sanctuary. Five islands make up this archipelago. The closest - Anacapa - is located 11 miles off the mainland. It plays host to abundant marine life such as Sheep Head fish, red Sea Urchins, and 21 different spices of kelp. Transportation to the Channel Islands is available through Island Packers Cruises (3600 S. Harbor, Oxnard, CA. Phone: 805-642-1393). A 64 foot boat carrying 80 people hauls hikers to Anacapa. The ride is about 1 hour and 15 minutes. The fee for a day trip to Anacapa is $42 for adults, $25 for children ages three-twelve. Camping on the island is permitted at an extra cost. The other four islands - Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, Santa Barbara, and San Miguel- are between 22 and 70 miles off the coast, and require more transportation time.
Back on land, Oxnard offers a multitude of activities for visitors. Heritage Square (715 South A Street; Oxnard, CA 93030. Phone: 805-483-7960) is a single block of renovated, turn-of-the-century homes and historic structures. Walk along brick pathways, and through manicured gardens. Stop by the visitors center, or catch a production at the Petit Playhouse community theater. Guided tours of the Victorian and Craftsman-style homes are available.
Carnegie Art Museum (424 South C Street; Oxnard, CA 93030. Phone: 805-385-8157), the neoclassical building which was once the library, is now home to Oxnard’s premier art museum. Permanent and temporary exhibits of international art, California Impressionism and Hollywood photography fill this historical space. Special events such as poetry readings and docent guided tours take place throughout the year.
For the small tykes visiting Oxnard, the Gull Wings Children's Museum (418 West Forth Street; Oxnard, CA 93030. Phone: 805-483-3005) provides kids an interactive, hands-on experience. Children ages two through twelve can explore a geological area, pretend to shop at a farmer’s market, learn about x-rays in the medical room, or "pet" underwater creatures in the ocean touch tank.
Nautical buffs will be delighted with the Ventura County Maritime Museum (2731 S. Victoria Ave.; Oxnard, CA 93035. Phone: 805-984-6260.) Two of the largest collections of antique sailing ship models in the United States are on display. Seven rare bone models made by French prisoners-of-war-in the 18th century sit regally under glass. Maritime art adorn the walls, giving an all encompassing seafaring encounter.
What seaside town would be complete without a stellar seafood restaurant? The Whale’s Tail (3950 Bluefin Circle; Oxnard, CA 93035. Phone: 805-985-2511) is situated on the water in Channel Islands Harbor. Large plate-glass windows provide spectacular views of schooners and fishing boats. Fresh oysters on the half-shell, buffalo shrimp, and salad Louie are just a few of the tasty treats. The Sunday Brunch Buffet includes free-flowing champagne.
Written by: Maggie Espinosa
