Ventura's Best

This year, organizers have announced a new location for the festival’s return. It’s at the Ventura County Fairgrounds May 20-21, 2023 with all the same great fun that keeps people coming back year after year. Whatever you do, make sure you come hungry– enjoy strawberry-inspired treats like build-your-own strawberry shortcake, chocolate-covered strawberries, strawberry beer, plus 40 more unique and tantalizing food venders and craftswomen. The exciting beachside location provides spectacular views with easy access to Ventura’s vibrant downtown just a few blocks away, including Clocktower Inn, our favorite restaurants, and nightlife. The Fairground's convenient location right off the 101 freeway offers parking onsite, free shuttle service, and close proximity to the adjacent Amtrak station, making it easier than ever to get to the Festival. Join us this month for a juicy sweet experience! It’s the perfect summer kickoff that benefits charity, too.

One of the easiest ways to recenter is simply to get outside for a walk. Ventura State Beach may be the most obvious place to go, and is surely one of our favorite destinations, but why not take a nature walk through Arroyo Verde Park? With a number of hiking trails on 132 acres, you’re sure to find your bliss. Want company? Join Venture Well and Grassroots Yoga for an outdoor class or lesson on the green. If it’s a spa day you’re after, we like Coastal Skin Care Day Spa, Sugar Junkie, and Skin Magician, each with services to relax your every muscle.

After your relaxing day, head somewhere to find tasty bites and drinks. There are plenty of options: Barrel 33, Rumfish y Vino, and Paradise Pantry are just a few delicious spots. Craving a meal with a view? Try Beach House Tacos located on the pier! Remember, self-care isn’t selfish, book your rejuvenating weekend at Clocktower Inn today.

The Ventura Botanical Gardens is a 107-acre world-class site with spectacular views of the California coastline, beautiful patchwork farm vistas, the Channel Islands, and Ojai’s Topa Topa peak. With a 40-year master plan and already more than 30,000 plants in the ground, the Gardens represent the five Mediterranean climate zones of the world; Chile, the Cape of South Africa, Southern Australia, the Mediterranean Basin, and California. See the large Chilean Wine Palms and take a deep breath in our old-grove eucalyptus forest. Ramble through the olive grove and the Karoo Gardens abundant with aloe.

Nothing says Spring Break like a trip to Golf n’ Stuff for a round of mini golf on their 18-hole course, a spin on the go-kart track, or a float in their splash-tastic bumper boats. All the details are online. Book your stay at Clocktower Inn to access all the fun!

The Rubicon Theater Company has been dazzling audiences for 20 years, with reviews hailing the production house as the best place in the city to see world-class talent on stage. From Shakespeare and dramas to musicals and monologues, the Rubicon makes the perfect spot to spend a date night, to entertain your entire family, or to let go of an exhausting work week. Staff and directors take great pride that the Rubicon has been able to serve the Ventura County community with innovative storytelling, education and outreach programs, and enrichment opportunities for more than two decades. On special occasions, the theater company also offers behind-the-scenes tours of the facility, acting classes, and more. They’re truly interested in engaging the curious and spirited audience members. So visit the Rubicon Theater Company website to see what’s playing while you’re here, feel free to ask our concierge how to get to the theater on the night of your show.

Four Brix Winery’s smaller production makes their tastings all the more exclusive. Visit to sample internationally-inspired wine blends with grapes sourced from Central Coast vineyards.

Old Creek Ranch Winery boasts a rich history of farming, cattle, and fruit orchards. Grapes are new to the land and were harvested for the first time this year.  The soil tells a story and the wine is better for it.

Labyrinth Winery toasts to elegance and balance in every glass– a wine made better by the passion on the three people who made the vineyard a reality. Visit their tasting room for an unforgettable experience.

Speaking of balance, while you’re in Ventura, don’t miss Winter Whale Watching at Ventura Pier. Walk to the end of the pier for your best chance at spotting the migrating grey whales, humpback whales, and orcas.

And finally–especially if you’ve come to the coast with the kids–save time during your stay to enrich your minds at the Museum of Ventura. Featured this month: the surprising history of prohibition in Ventura County.

Santa to the Sea is truly a race for the ages, with a half marathon, quarter marathon, 5K, kids 1K, Diaper Dash, and costume contest all happening December 11th. But more than a competition, it’s a toy drive and fundraiser with every dollar given back to the community in Ventura County. 

On Friday, December 16th and Saturday, December 17th, Ventura Parade of Lights will brighten the harbor. Soak up some holiday cheer with a shimmering light display on the water, whirling kids’ carnival rides, boutique gift shopping, kayaking, comedy, delicious dining, fireworks, and more. The event and parking are free!   

Finally, don’t miss Snow n Glow at Sufer’s Point Live in Ventura where you can snow tube down a giant hill packed with real snow and enjoy a million glowing lights in a Winter Wonderland. Sip on hot cocoa as you go, and watch the fireworks from your own private igloo! 

Learn more about these events and more when you book your stay this holiday at Clocktower Inn.

Every kind of retail outlet lines Ventura’s streets, from clothing boutiques and antique stores to home and garden shops, art galleries, and specialty gift shops. and specialty shops that almost defy description. Park for free or save the gas and walk. Visit our stylish Buffalo Exchange for consignment treasures, or stop in Patagonia’s flagship store from name brand confidence. Folke sells off-beat home decor and Timbre Books shelves all the latest bestsellers. Get beachy at B. On Main or glamorous at Ormachea Jewelry. Find the unexpected at Betty Belts and comforting scents at The Refill Shoppe. If it’s souvenirs you’re looking for, make your way to Ventura Harbor where you’ll find the perfect gifts for any ocean lovers in your life. We recommend Ventura County Potters’ Guild. However you slice it, shop til you drop and spend the night with us at Clocktower Inn.

Celebrate this Halloween weekend by supporting the Housing Authority of the City of San Buenaventura's Scholarship Program. The Scholarship Program provides money to residents of the HACSB’s public, affordable housing communities, and participants and household members of the Housing Choice Voucher program who are or will be attending a four-year college, university, community college, or technical/vocational school. You’ll start near the entrance to State Park at 901 San Pedro St., head onto the bike path for a long loop that takes you back to the finish line. Be sure to bring your costume, and even wear it for the race! All participants will receive a T-shirt and Finisher’s Medal and are invited to enjoy post-run refreshments. For more information about the race, to sign up, and to make a donation, check out the event website. It’s something the whole family can enjoy and we here at Clocktower Inn will be thrilled to host you on Race Day and beyond!

Scattered in the Pacific about 40 miles offshore, Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Barbara, Santa Rosa, and San Miguel Island make up the Channel Islands National Park, and they’re waiting to be explored. Known as the “Galápagos of North America,” these islands are home to over 2,000 plant and animal species; 150 of those species exclusive to this region! Exploring the different islands is a great opportunity to connect with the pacific coast’s unique ecosystems, with numerous tours available. September is an excellent time to try and catch a glimpse of this earth’s largest animal, the Blue Whale. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot both Blue and Humpback Whales with the help of Island Packers Cruises, getting you from Ventura to the Islands for half and full-day excursions. Offered daily in the summer and 4 days a week during fall, Island Packers include extended, further-out routes to increase your chances at spotting one of the whales. If you find yourself on Santa Rosa Island, you’ll be amongst the oldest recorded human remains of North Americans, found within the walls of the Arlington Canyon.

As you say bye to summer, explore in awe as you take in the diversity of vegetation and animals around you at the Channel Islands National Park. A long day of adventure pairs perfectly with top-tier accommodations; book direct with Clocktower Inn to ensure our latest special offers.

The Boots & Brews Country Music Festival

The highly anticipated hometown country festival of the year is back on August 20th! Pack your best pair of dancing shoes; The Boots & Brews Country Music Festival kicks off at 1 pm running through 10 pm, with a buzzing lineup including country stars Cole Swindell, Eddie Montgomery of Montgomery Gentry, and Raelynn. Sip on an ice-cold brew and enjoy delectable bites from popular vendors. Head online to purchase your tickets now, with the chance to upgrade to the exclusive VIP experience, or rent a private cabana! 

Aloha Beach Festival

On September 3 & 4, the seaside will transform into the Big Island, celebrating the heritage of Hawaii while giving back to the community. Aloha Beach Festival partners every year with an organization, donating proceeds and sticking to the commitment of supporting Ventura’s social and environmental non-profits. Between live musical and dance performances, mouth-watering local favorites, a surf competition, and the highly anticipated K9 Frisbee Championship, the FREE Aloha Beach Festival is a family favorite. 

Settle your accommodations at Clocktower and book direct now to receive 15% off!

The thrill and excitement that’s returning to the Ventura County Fairgrounds this summer pairs perfectly with Clocktower’s calm and relaxing beach-town atmosphere. It’s time to liven up the energy and get your adrenaline rushing; the Ventura County Fairis back from August 3-14, with popular carnival rides, games, exhibits, entertainment, and delicious food.

Every day of the fair’s duration, a new adventure awaits with daily family-fun events! As the countdown begins, make sure to check back online as the page updates with day-by-day scheduling.  Sprinkled through the first week of the fair, guests can look forward to 8 free concerts presented by Firestone 805. Musical guests include the popular KC & The Sunshine Band on August 4, The All American Rejects on August 5, and The Beach Boys on August 8. Wrapping up the final weekend, The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association will be hosting rodeo shows. A pending shuttle schedule will be available soon, so make sure to check back to see if you can catch a ride from Clocktower Inn.

Book your accommodations directly through our site now and receive 10% off your 1-2 night stay with Promo Code: SUMMER2022.

Get a taste of the wild west in Ventura this summer as the city’s #1 music festival returns to the county. Get your dancing boots and bikinis ready for the Surf Rodeo, returning to the coast from July 15-17th.

This year, the festival extends to three days, meaning more time for dancing and enjoying over 40 bands, some from overseas! The famous Surf Contest will have you on your toes as those waves crash on pro and local surfers. Some of the best cornhole competitors in the world flock to Ventura around this time of year for the Cornhole Tournament, and make sure to be around for the Bikini Cowgirl and Cowboy contest! Enjoy an ice-cold brew from the world’s biggest sand Beach Bar as the festivities take place around, and muster up the liquid courage to ride the mechanical bull!

Not only does this festival bring the best seaside fun, but it also gives back to the community. A list of charitable organizations working with Surf Rodeo can be found online as you purchase your tickets. Party in luxury with one of the VIP Cabanas offered for Friday and Sunday, as Saturday is already sold out. A full list of ticket options is found here, and selling fast!

Just minutes from Clocktower, immerse in the nature Ventura has to offer and get lost in the trails of Seaside Wilderness Park, where you can do some birding, then cool off at Surfer’s Point. Surfer’s Point also connects to a trail that will lead you to the must-see historical Ventura Pier. If you’re looking for more of a colorful walk, head to the nearby Ventura Botanical Gardens. Snap a pic at the California Spring Wildflower Meadow, or see how many Chilean Matorral flowers you can spot. To honor our fallen heroes, admission will be free on Memorial Day.

While on your stay in Ventura, try to make time in the day to head to Santa Barbara; a popular neighboring beach town and home to Stearns Wharf. Coined as Santa Barbara’s #1 attraction and California’s oldest wharf, this favorite local hub is currently celebrating its 150th birthday, and is home to delicious eateries, the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center, Celebration Cruises, and more.

Book your stay now and start planning!

Accommodate the kids at the start of the day with The Hunt, Ventura’s largest free holiday egg hunt. From 10:00 am to 1 pm, children will be grouped into their age group for their respective hunts and can enjoy bounce houses and rides in the meantime. Registration is a must to participate! From 12 pm- 8 pm, the streets of Downtown Ventura, from the Museum of Ventura County through the 600 block of Main Street, will be buzzing with free goodies and live entertainment. Aside from the free vendors, attendees also have the option to buy delicious local food and crafts. The boozy refills begin at 4 pm with the Wine Walk, offering over 50 wine, sparkling wine, and craft beer stops.

Don’t miss out on the event of the year. Get your tickets now!

First, beat the afternoon heat by catching up on some summer reading indoors. Grab your favorite paperback novel, audiobook, or trade magazine, and get immersed in the story.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, indulge in some of Ventura’s best food without ever leaving your room. Authentic Mexican cuisine and over 500 tequilas from our on-site restaurant, The Blue Agave, are just a phone call away.

After dinner (and maybe even dessert!), it’s time to get ready for bed. Climb into your PJs, hop into bed, and find your favorite movie channel on TV. Drifting off into a sound night’s sleep is just moments away.

Then, check out the Wine Walk from 3 pm to 6 pm. This event will offer champagne, sparkling wines, and tons of craft beer to sample. Every guest will receive a Wine Walk wristband, a tasting cup, and a map of the tasting sites throughout Downtown Ventura.

Spending the entire day tasting? Make sure to check out the VIP Bunny Lounge. Enjoy mimosas, chocolates, desserts, champagne, and live entertainment all in an exclusive spot. VIP Guests are also able to enter any of the 40 General Admission tasting locations throughout Downtown Ventura. Gather your friends, and start planning—there’s no better way to celebrate spring!

With over two miles of soft sand and gorgeous wildlife, this beach is the perfect place to kick-back for the day or go exploring. Brimming with scenic sand dunes, everything about this sandy paradise is one-of-a-kind. If you plan on relaxing over a picnic, each area has tables and grills for anyone to use.

For those planning on making a day of it, The Jolly Oyster, Good to Go Juice Truck, and Wheel Fun Rentals are located on-site during weekends and holidays, with delicious food and drinks as well as bike rentals—the local bike trails connect to other beaches and also lead to Ventura Pier. With two miles of sandy shoreline and six acres of turf, this beach has something exciting for everyone, from sunbathers to explorers. 

Whether you’re here on business and want to stop by between meetings or you’re here for a getaway and want to bring something special home with you, this amazing outdoor shopping experience is open year-round, rain or shine.

Charming visitors and locals since1989, and open from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, this market offers products from over 25 California farmers and food vendors every week and is located at the Pacific View mall.

Walk around, grab some food, and enjoy the outdoors. The market is brimming with fresh fruits and vegetables brought to you by California farmers, along with fresh-cut flowers, potted plants, honey, eggs, herbs, artisan bakery treats, and ethnic foods—so prepare to indulge.

Ready to shop? Visit their website for more information and start planning your visit today!

From December 13th to 14th, this incredible boat parade with a “SEAing is Believing” theme, will light up the sea with holiday cheer. Make sure to stick around for the fireworks too!

Sound like fun? The celebration continues in the same place the following weekend on December 21st. The Winter Wonderland & Holiday Marketplace will be brimming with live reindeer, holiday characters, festive carolers, fake snow, and of course, holiday gift shopping.

Planning on making a day of it? Restaurants close by and accepting reservations include Margarita Villa Mexican Restaurant, The Greek Mediterranean Steak & Seafood, and Water’s Edge Restaurant. After the festival, we highly suggest stopping by Coastal Cone Ice Cream for a special treat.

Planning on spending the day? Make sure to check out the amazing marine life at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center! This highly interactive marine education facility offers close encounters with marine life from the Santa Barbara channel—they even offer a Live Dive series. Think sharks, stingrays, sea stars, sea urchins and more—all on display to interact with on their wet deck.

Foodie? We’ve got you covered. For casual dining, check out Char West, where you can sit back and indulge in fish and chips, cheeseburgers, and more. If you’re looking for more of an upscale dining experience, we highly suggest The Harbor Restaurant. Offering a stunning view and an exquisite menu of fresh fish and steaks, prime rib, cocktails, and select fine wines, this restaurant is all part of the Santa Barbara experience. Plan your visit today! 

Participating breweries include the Lagunitas Brewing Company, Institution Ale Company, Leashless Brewing, Poseidon Brewery, Red Tandem Brewery, Rincon Brewery, Seaward Brewing, Ventura Coast Brew Co., and Topa Topa—and festival participants can purchase up to 20 tasting tickets.

Not a fan of craft beer? Not to worry, local food trucks will be at the festival selling breakfast and lunch. After you’ve found the grub, make sure to check out the demos and deals from local and national vendors.

On October 19th from 10:30 am to 3:30 pm, get ready to drink some beer and jam out to blues and funk. The purchase of tickets will also include a limited edition Ventura Brew Fest glass stein—learn more today.

Join their passionate tour guides for free tours that cover botany, wildlife, geology, and photography. Whether you’re visiting with the family, you’re here on business, or on a romantic getaway, they offer programs for everyone.

Seeking a day of rejuvenation? On September 12th, beginning at 9:30 am, refresh your mind, body, and spirit with yoga in the Gardens. Surrounded by wildflowers and coastal views, all you need to bring is a positive mind and your yoga mat!

On Tuesday, September 17th, you can also head to their Library in the Gardens program for a relaxing day of reading under the sun—the Ventura Mobile Library visits with books on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month.

Plan your visit today to discover the beauty of Ventura Botanical Gardens.

From its place in a special section of Grant Park, visitors can marvel at bustling Downtown Ventura, the hulking Anacapa and Santa Cruz Islands, and more. The Cross is an attraction in and of itself, too: Designated as a city and state landmark, the current edition is the fourth to be built since the original was erected nearly 250 years ago.

Getting there is easy. Set atop La Loma de la Cruz, the Cross is a brisk one-mile hike from our front door. So, lace up your walking shoes and head for the hills; you’re in for a rewarding workout.