When people imagine moving to Ventura County, they often picture the beach — and for good reason. But what truly sets this region apart isn’t just its coastline; it’s the extraordinary blend of outdoor adventure and quality living that comes with it. From hiking among oak-covered hills to surfing at sunrise, Ventura County offers more outdoor recreation per square mile than nearly any other Southern California community — and the homes that surround these natural gems make everyday life feel like a getaway.
At Realty ONE Group Summit, we don’t just sell homes — we sell the lifestyle that comes with them. Let’s explore Ventura County’s most iconic outdoor adventures and the neighborhoods that put you closest to them.
🌊 1. Surfing and Beach Living in Ventura & Oxnard
The Adventure:
Surfing in Ventura is more than a sport — it’s a culture. Locals catch dawn patrol waves at C Street (Surfer’s Point), one of California’s most consistent breaks, or head to Mondos Beach, a gentle spot perfect for beginners and families. Down the coast, Oxnard’s Silver Strand and Hollywood Beach offer miles of uncrowded surf and sand.
The Lifestyle:
Living near the coast means salt air, walkable neighborhoods, and evenings spent watching the sunset over the Pacific.
Where to Live:
-
Ventura (Pierpont & Midtown): Coastal cottages, remodeled bungalows, and condos just steps from the beach.
-
Channel Islands Harbor (Oxnard): Waterfront homes with private docks — Southern California’s hidden boating haven.
According to Redfin, Ventura’s median home price is about $1.03M, while Oxnard’s median hovers around $785K, making both communities incredibly attractive for coastal living compared to L.A.’s Westside.
👉 Browse Ventura County coastal listings.
🥾 2. Hiking Trails & Hilltop Homes in Thousand Oaks and Ojai
The Adventure:
Ventura County is home to over 100 miles of public hiking trails, offering views that stretch from the Santa Monica Mountains to the Pacific. Local favorites include:
-
Wildwood Park (Thousand Oaks): Waterfalls, canyons, and scenic loops for all levels.
-
Los Padres National Forest (Ojai): A vast wilderness playground for hikers and mountain bikers.
-
Arroyo Verde Park (Ventura): Family-friendly trails with ocean views.
The Lifestyle:
Living near these trails means your “commute” to nature is measured in minutes, not hours. It’s a draw for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and remote workers who crave space and serenity.
Where to Live:
-
Thousand Oaks & Newbury Park: Suburban neighborhoods with mountain views, top-rated schools, and quick trail access.
-
Ojai & Meiners Oaks: Artistic communities surrounded by orange groves and natural beauty.
According to Zillow, Ojai’s median home price is approximately $1.12M, while Thousand Oaks sits around $1.07M — both offering strong value given their proximity to nature and amenities.
👉 Explore homes near hiking trails in Ventura County.
🚲 3. Cycling & Equestrian Lifestyle in Camarillo and Moorpark
The Adventure:
Camarillo’s backroads and Moorpark’s rolling landscapes make them top destinations for cyclists and equestrians alike. With scenic farmland, wide-open trails, and protected open space, these areas combine rural tranquility with suburban convenience.
The Lifestyle:
Here, homeowners can enjoy larger lots — perfect for gardens, horses, or home gyms — and still be 20 minutes from the beach. It’s where Ventura County’s agricultural heritage meets modern living.
Where to Live:
-
Camarillo (Mission Oaks & Las Posas Estates): Spacious properties, some with equestrian zoning.
-
Moorpark (Tierra Rejada Valley): Country charm with easy freeway access.
According to Redfin’s Camarillo Data, the median home price is $906K, with steady appreciation year over year.
👉 Search Camarillo and Moorpark listings.
🌳 4. Family Parks & Coastal Trails in Ventura
The Adventure:
Families love Ventura for its abundance of parks, beaches, and coastal trails. From San Buenaventura State Beach to Marina Park, there’s no shortage of outdoor spaces for biking, picnicking, and weekend recreation.
The Lifestyle:
Ventura blends urban amenities with coastal charm — a community where kids grow up with beach days and park picnics instead of freeways and screen time.
Where to Live:
-
Ventura’s East End: Larger suburban homes with easy beach access.
-
Downtown Ventura: Walkable living near shops, restaurants, and the ocean.
👉 See Ventura homes near parks and beaches.
🍷 5. Outdoor Leisure: Golf, Wine, and Wellness
The Adventure:
For those who prefer leisure to adrenaline, Ventura County delivers just as much outdoor enjoyment at a slower pace.
-
Golf: The region offers some of the most scenic public courses in California, including Olivas Links (Ventura) and Los Robles Greens (Thousand Oaks).
-
Wineries: The Ventura County Wine Trail connects local vineyards from Ojai to Camarillo, combining scenic drives with world-class tasting.
-
Wellness: Ojai’s yoga studios and wellness retreats make it a top destination for health-conscious residents.
Where to Live:
-
Ojai: Rustic charm, spiritual calm, and boutique living.
-
Camarillo: Vineyard-adjacent neighborhoods with easy access to coastal wineries.
👉 Explore Ojai homes for sale.
🌅 Why Outdoor Living Is Driving the Ventura County Market
According to the National Association of Realtors, access to nature and outdoor recreation now ranks among the top three factors influencing homebuying decisions — especially for millennials and remote workers.
Ventura County’s unique combination of coastal proximity, open space, and year-round mild climate makes it a magnet for those seeking both adventure and balance.
Whether it’s catching waves, hiking through wildflowers, or cycling through citrus groves, Ventura residents live where others vacation — and that lifestyle translates directly into lasting real estate value.
🏡 Final Thoughts
Ventura County isn’t just a place to buy a home — it’s a place to live fully. From surf towns to hillside havens, every neighborhood offers its own rhythm, its own access to adventure.
At Realty ONE Group Summit, we believe the best home is one that supports the life you want to live. Whether you dream of a coastal cottage steps from the sand or a hillside retreat overlooking the valley, we’ll help you find it — and make Ventura’s outdoor lifestyle your everyday reality.
