Few places allow you to reconnect with nature quite like Southern California. With its golden sandy beaches, legendary surf spots, mountains for hiking and biking, and picturesque vineyards for tasting, Southern California is one giant outdoor playground. Here we put the spotlight on some of the area’s hottest beach towns and inland hideaways, ideally suited for weekend escapes, raising a family, or simply retiring on the beach.
VENTURA | The City of Good Fortune
This “under-the-radar-charmer” is perhaps one of the California real estate market’s best kept secrets—and the classic beach town wouldn’t have it any other way. Known for its panoramic mountain vistas, miles of uncrowded beaches, and mild year-round climate, Ventura offers a relaxed vibe, ideally situated on one long stretch of sand that has been transformed into several popular beaches for surfing, windsurfing, and sunbathing beneath big blue skies and salty ocean breeze.
Located just 27 miles south of Santa Barbara and 60 miles north of Los Angeles, Ventura is the gateway to Channel Islands National Park, which encompasses five remarkable islands for exploring — Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Santa Barbara. Each island is abundant with wildlife, plants, and archaeological resources found nowhere else on Earth. At the heart of town lies its centerpiece, a revitalized downtown with a thriving arts district reflecting the charms of a bygone era. Here you’ll find boutiques, wine bars, restaurants, inns, galleries, and stage theaters for endless entertainment.
“The in-between of coastal Heaven. Ventura is a unique beachfront town, wonderful because almost anywhere you are you have a view of the ocean. Well known for its surfing, sailing and other water sports, but also very close to Ojai Valley, minutes from Santa Barbara and an hour from LA—making it a highly desirable location.”
—Larry Krogh, Managing Broker
Downtown Ventura’s Main Street also includes notable landmarks like the historic Mission San Buenaventura with its iconic church circa 1809, and the wooden Ventura Pier where people can watch boats depart from one of California’s last working harbors. The town is also home to more than 700 acres of parkland and facilities for unbeatable outdoor recreation. Home styles can range from sprawling estates to beachfront cottages. Residents enjoy pristine bike paths, lush parks, numerous historical sites, and designated areas for sailing, surfing, tennis, and league sports. With postcard views and pristine California beachfront, it’s easy to see why Ventura is called “The City of Good Fortune.”
OJAI | The Charms Are Many in Ventura County’s Smallest City
First populated by the Chumash Indians, Ojai’s name was originally derived from the native word Ahwai, meaning moon. Although it is just a few short miles up Highway 33, Ojai feels worlds away, as it is situated in a secluded valley in the Topa Topa Mountains. About 12 miles inland from Ventura, this village-like city is the smallest in Ventura County, but its charms are many. Nestled in the Ojai Valley, the town is surrounded by natural mountainous peaks that give off a magical glow in the evening light, known to locals as “the pink moment.” This enchanting spectacle was made famous in the 1939 movie, The Lost Horizon, when it was photographed to represent Shangri-La in the film.
“Ojai Valley is a great place to visit, but even a better place to live! Once you visit the Ojai town you’ll see why so many people from all around the world come to visit and eventually stay as it’s a unique place with a chill vibe making it an inviting stop for tourists along their way, as well as families looking to relocate and call Ojai Valley their home.”
—Nate Minkel, Sales Associate
Bordering the north of town sits Los Padres National Forest with meandering trails for hiking. Nearby Lake Casitas is popular for camping, boating, and fishing, as well as the renowned Libbey Park, which is the site of the Ojai Tennis Tournament and number of community events. Ojai is recognized for focusing on small business and serves as a hub for non-profits. A longtime haven for artists, musicians, and health enthusiasts, Ojai entertains residents and visitors with its thriving arts scene, New Age shops, and places to retreat from the faced-paced lifestyle of the city. Every year, the Ojai Music Festival draws a crowd, namely for its reputation as a creative laboratory for artists and audiences alike. As one of the oldest towns in Ventura County, Ojai is a treasure you have to see to believe.
CAMARILLO | A Bedroom Community Where “The People Are the City”
Located just 18 minutes from downtown Ventura, rests the inland bedroom community of Camarillo. The town is nestled in Pleasant Valley at the eastern end of the Oxnard Plain with the Santa Susana Mountains to the north, the Camarillo Hills to the northwest, the Conejo Valley to the east, and the western reaches of the Santa Monica Mountains to the south. Ventura Highway (U.S. Route 101) is the city’s primary thoroughfare and serves as a great access point to the abundant Pleasant Valley parks and recreation. From one-story ranches, to towering estates with ocean views, the city is made up of large housing tracts surrounded by great schools and quaint shopping centers.
Camarillo has its own unique personality bustling with arts, culture, and specialty shops, but at its center is the main attraction — Old Town Camarillo. This thriving business district aims to preserve the heart and soul of Camarillo and gives people a place to gather. Set against a picturesque backdrop of agricultural vistas with cool ocean breezes, the town enjoys a temperate Mediterranean-style climate with over 300 days of sunshine each year, and an occasional morning fog in spring and early summer. From breweries, bistros, and sporting events, to a world-class outlet mall, country clubs, and concerts in the park, Camarillo is a tight-knit community that invites people to come for the sun, and stay for the fun.
“A gateway between the Pacific ocean and the California of yesteryear, Camarillo’s sun-filled landscape proves to be an ideal setting for a variety of Californians, from budding families to retirees. The city is well known for protecting its agriculture.The people in Camarillo are fun, laid-back and gravitate toward the many great restaurants and street fairs held in “Old Town.” When you can nearly always count on a gorgeous 75 degrees, golf courses and tennis clubs are a haven that attract athletes and visitors for miles around.”
—Juliana Lisheski, Sales Associate
OXNARD | Strawberry Fields Forever
Widely known for its annual California Strawberry Festival and over 20 miles of pristine Pacific coastline, Oxnard is for people who thrive in outdoor recreation without all the crowds. From coastal bike rides and leisurely hikes among the wildflowers, to surfing at Silver Strand Beach and whale watching off the Ventura Coast, Oxnard boasts a near perfect year-round climate with incredible outdoor amenities that allow you to refresh and renew. It’s a major destination for sailing, golf, sport fishing, and kayaking, but it’s the town’s fantastic art scene, and number of eclectic festivals that truly set it apart. Whether you’re looking for a romantic stroll down Mandalay Beach, or prefer to experience downtown’s museum tours, gallery events, ethnic markets or historic houses, there is something for everyone in Oxnard.
Originally an agricultural city centered on cattle grazing, crops, and orchards, Oxnard has grown into a culturally diverse and enterprising community that is as business-friendly as it is forward-thinking, and somehow remains true to its roots. Oxnard is noted for its exceptionally fertile soil and plays host to weekly farmer’s markets where residents flock to stock their fridge with fresh produce. On any given day, head to Oxnard’s Heritage Square to enjoy a bite to eat on the courtyard plaza marked by striking fountains, lush gardens, and a collection of restored Victorian and Craftsman houses once owned by the city’s pioneering families.
“Oxnard is a thriving Thermopolis, full of action and a thriving community. From the oceanfront homes to the expanding condo and new home development in the Riverpark Collection area, you’ll find plenty to do. Oxnard may be a beautiful growing city but you can also find the tranquil serenity of flower and fruit farms alongside wineries sprawling throughout. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there is always something to pique your interests. “
—Teri Peña, Sales Associate
Named one of the safest cities in America, Oxnard is very family-friendly, with a state-of-the art high school, revitalized junior high, and several new elementary schools. Rich with history and culture, Oxnard is also where world-famous activist and union pioneer César Chávez spent his childhood. Today, it’s home to some of the best sushi on the West Coast, is a mecca for music and dance, and hosts the wildly popular Oxnard Salsa Festival each year.
MALIBU | Beachfront Town with Star Power
Famous for its warm, sandy beaches, and home to countless movie stars and pro athletes, Malibu is one of Southern California’s hottest beach towns. It’s also considered to have some of the most perfect waves anywhere. The town consists of a 21-mile strip of Pacific coastline, rugged mountains, wooded canyons, and sheltered coves, loved by residents who appreciate the privacy, surf, and unforgettable sunsets.
The town’s famed Surfrider Beach off the Malibu Pier was named the first World Surfing Reserve, long admired for its surfing waves and super long right hand break for riding. Nearby Zuma Beach is a magnet for locals looking to lounge seaside and soak up the sun. In winter, Point Dume is an ideal perch to spot migrating gray whales on Malibu’s north end, and for a memorable afternoon any time of year, try a Malibu Wine Hike. At Saddlerock Ranch Vineyard you’ll be treated to a view of the original Chumash cave drawings.
As for homes, most residents live within a few hundred yards of Pacific Coast Highway (State Route 1), which traverses the city. Others choose to live up to a mile away from the beach in the narrow canyon. Whichever you choose, you will quickly find that Malibu is bounded more or less by Topanga Canyon to the east, Santa Monica Mountains to the north, Pacific Ocean to the south, and Ventura County to the west. You’ll never tire of the views.
From serene beach picnics and hikes through the hills, to savoring the day’s catch at a café on the pier, then perusing Ancient Greek and Roman Art at the Getty Villa, Malibu is riddled with attractions. And it’s highly regarded lifestyle, unmatched surf, sand, and rising home values are what keep attracting buyers from all over the world. Just keep your eyes open, homes in Malibu don’t stay on the market long.
“Malibu is the unique coastal playground for celebrities and the local community who love the beaches, outdoor activities, beautiful weather and overall lifestyle. Malibu offers some of the most luxurious ocean view homes to be found in all the world and attracts visitors from faraway places, too. The Malibu experience is iconic and highly coveted!”
—Gwen Mulligan, Sales Associate
CARPINTERIA | The Best Things Come in Small Packages
The ocean is your backyard in this adorable enclave, prized by visitors and residents for its small town charms, neighborly spirit, and relaxed pace. From pristine beaches to majestic mountain views, Carpinteria certainly has enough to keep a person busy despite its small size. Ideally located between Ventura and Santa Barbara, Carpinteria has historically been isolated from other coastal towns, relying mostly on entertainment and a diverse economy to sustain. Today, it’s where people come to let loose, and partake in the ultimate seaside escape.
Here you can swim, surf, roller blade, skateboard, dance, ride bikes or sweat it out at the gym. Almost any Sunday afternoon you’ll find a game of soccer or a family picnic at one of the many beautiful parks. For the perfect gift or unique addition to your wardrobe, residents head to the shops on Linden Avenue. Savor a gourmet meal at a local café or walk the pathways of the estuary, in Carpinteria you’ll never get bored. In addition, the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club’s facilities are located here, which is great pastime for polo enthusiasts and newcomers to the sport.
“Carpinteria is a little piece of coastal paradise located east of Santa Barbara and northwest of Ventura. With a beautiful natural setting and small town charm, you can enjoy shopping or eating at the cafés all clustered along the main street. You can also camp, explore tide pools, surf swim or watch seals and sea lions at the Carpinteria State Beach or surrounding beaches. With breathtaking mountain and ocean views, Carpinteria is a wonderful places to live, work and play!”
– Lisa Marie Smithson, Sales Associate
As for beaches, the gorgeous long beach that fronts the ocean along the length of the city is actually considered two beaches — one is Carpinteria City, the other Carpinteria State. Rincon Beach, a world-renown surf spot, is just southeast of downtown. To the northwest, residents take advantage of Padaro Beach — an unofficial beach primarily known to the locals. Homes here tend to be quaint beach cottages, stunning ranches, or Spanish style retreats. Known for its safe shores and favorable weather, Carpinteria is a family-friendly town where wealthy retirees and artisans, live amongst avocado farmers, shopkeepers, and young families in harmony.
SANTA BARBARA | The American Riviera
Located about 100 miles west-northwest of Los Angeles along the Pacific coast sits Santa Barbara. This breathtaking stretch along southern Santa Barbara County is often referred to as the “American Riviera” because of its favorable Mediterranean climate and undeniable beauty. The town itself is anchored by the majestic Santa Ynez Mountains, an east-west trending range that rises dramatically behind the city with several peaks exceeding 4,000 feet. Covered with chaparral and sandstone outcrops, they make a famously scenic backdrop to the town.
Just off the Santa Barbara coastline, you’ll find The Channel Islands National Park where protected waters offer some of the best diving in California. Living here also puts you minutes from Santa Barbara wine country with breathtaking vistas and notable attractions like Solvang and the Chumash reservation. Santa Barbara is also home to the world famous Stearns Wharf and nearby zoological gardens, which are great day trips for families. For those who prefer a bit of retail therapy, State Street is a consumer’s paradise and runs straight up to Stearns Wharf as well as the Santa Barbara Harbor. It comes chock full of boutique shops, retailers, and restaurants to keep you entertained.
“Santa Barbara is the quintessential Southern California city, with the big city attitude. There is a big consciousness about community and supporting the residents with culture, art, music, food, sport and parks. Each aspect of Santa Barbara is like being on the French Riviera, with endless views, breathtaking real estate, world-class venues such as the Arlington Theater, Grenada Theater and Santa Barbara Bowl, as well as Cabrillo Boulevard for coastal recreation, to State Street for epic shopping.”
—Karen Davidson, Sales Associate
With over 300 days of sunshine each year, Santa Barbara is a very active, outdoorsy community. People can often be found running, hiking, riding bikes or sunbathing on East Beach. Downtown, you’ll fall in love with the Spanish style architecture, palm tree lined boulevards, and one of the freshest farmers markets around to collect peaches and avocados, and listen to local music. Great schools, a vibrant history, and strong sense of community make Santa Barbara a fabulous place to visit, although you may find it hard to leave.
