Ventura Harbor is a well-known spot for surfers, attracting both locals and visitors looking for waves. The access is easy, with parking available at the South Jetty. While it can get a little crowded at times, you’ll find a mix of abilities in the water, making it a good place for intermediate and expert surfers alike. It’s pretty much surfable all year round, but like many spots, it often performs best during fall and winter with solid swells.

The surf at Ventura Harbor can handle a mix of swell sizes, ranging from around 4 feet (1.2 meters) up to 10 feet (3 meters). You’ll see waves breaking over sand, mostly in both right and left directions, so there’s some variety to keep things interesting. The best conditions generally come with east or northeast winds and low to mid tide. When it’s firing, it can challenge even the skilled surfers, so be prepared for some punchy waves. If you time your session right, you can catch that overhead wedge action that this spot is known for.

One thing to keep in mind is the local vibe. While most surfers are friendly, be sure to respect the unwritten rules of etiquette to fit in smoothly. After heavy rains, the conditions can get a bit rough, so check the local reports if that’s a concern. Overall, Ventura Harbor can be a fun spot with its shifting sandbars and various swell directions coming from south, south-southeast, west, and west-northwest—there’s something for everyone trying to snag a ride.