To kick off our new travel section, we wanted to tell you about one of our favorite little weekend spots: just an hour north of LA and an hour south of Santa Barbara, Oxnard sits along Hollywood Beach and Silver Strand, and is home to the Channel Islands Harbor and Port Hueneme. It’s obvious why we love Oxnard: the proximity to the beach and harbor means access to lots of water toys, or lying in the sand and doing absolutely nothing. Day trips to Santa Barbara, Montecito, or the Ventura County Fair are all great options that won’t leave you sitting in traffic, and you can spend the evening in a number of bars, restaurants, or on your rooftop deck watching the sailboats glide by.  The neighborhood boasts tons of local flavor, kitschy architecture and American pride, but you will also see new modern homes and mega yachts (this is Southern California, after all). Click below for our tips for your next visit.

Where to Stay:

Get some friends together and check out house rentals on Silver Strand or Hollywood Beach. We promise that rooftop deck won’t go to waste. Another great option is The Embassy Suites Mandalay Bay; it’s beautiful and spacious. Rent bikes and get some exercise on the coastal paths.

When to Go:

July through mid-October is best; but don’t count out late fall. It won’t be as warm, but the weather is still clear and you’ll catch some spectacular sunsets (and we love any excuse to bundle up in our favorite knits and Uggs for a stroll on the beach in the chilly months).

What to Do:

Set sail on a day trip to Anacapa Island – Marina Sailing has captains who will take you out there and teach you the ropes on the way.

Rent a kayak or paddle board and check out the boat dock homes while getting a workout. Duffy boats are available to rent if a booze cruise is more your style. Jet-skis are also available, but beware, the water is chilly!

Pack a picnic and head down to Hollywood beach – it’s never too crowded - or grab your surfboard and catch some waves at Silver Strand. Both get bonus points for being a dog-friendly!

Check out this site for more ideas, maps, and links, and come back later this week – Dannye will tell you what to eat and where to drink!

By Lesley