If you’re just landing here, this is part of our series ROAD TRIP TO JACKALOPE BLOCK PARTY VENTURA, where I’m taking you through the best stops from LAX to Ventura.
We started this trip in Camarillo, and trust me, you don’t want to skip that one. So if you missed it, go back and read Camarillo first. Now, let’s keep going.
After Camarillo, our next stop: Port Hueneme.
We didn’t actually get the chance to stop there during this trip (tight schedule😅), but we had a few locals let us know what we should do when we go back. So here’s exactly what they mentioned.
This would be our first stop, no question. Long stretch of sand, a pier that goes straight into the ocean, and that classic California beach vibe but way more low-key than LA. It feels like the kind of place where you just walk with a coffee and forget about time.
Super iconic. You can’t always go inside, but even just seeing the 1940s Art Deco architecture up close is worth it. It gives that old-school coastal California energy. Perfect quick stop for photos.
If you need a break from the beach, this is a super chill green space. Palm trees, open fields… perfect to just lay down for a bit or reset before getting back on the road.
A bit of a different vibe, but I like that contrast. It’s one of the only deep-water ports in the area. Fun fact: This is basically the "Banana Capital" of the West Coast. Almost every banana you eat comes through here! It’s a cool mix of industrial grit and ocean views.
U.S. Navy Seabee Museum
If you’re cruising through Port Hueneme, the U.S. Navy Seabee Museum is a low key spot to check out. It gives you a quick look at the Navy’s builders behind missions around the world—with some interesting exhibits. It’s free and definitely worth the stop.
A few extra spots they mentioned:
Surfside Drive: A walk or rental bike ride along this road seems like a vibe. Ocean on one side, chill houses on the other. Make sure to stop at the Alaska Air Flight 261 Memorial, it’s a beautiful sundial sculpture right on the dunes.
Port Hueneme Pier at sunset
Cool food stops:
Surfside Seafood: Right on the sand by the pier. This is where you grab the fresh fish tacos and shrimp plates.
Ragin' Pot: A true hidden gem. They offer asian fusion hot pots, which are soupy fondue like dishes with fresh veggies and proteins of your choice. They also serve specialty entrees and banh mi sandwiches. It's all so good.
Anacappuccino: Handcrafted coffee, fresh smoothies, and comfort food located down the street from the beach and pier.
Preview of the vibe for your next stop in Port Hueneme:
Next stop: Oxnard.
And I’m not even kidding… I don’t know if it was just the day we were there, but the waves were HUGE.
