Living Here 2014

2014 EDITION

LIVING HERE
VENTURA COUNTY

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Living Here 2014 — Inside
The reasons
we live here
8

City information
VENTURA COUNTY CITIES
Camarillo

10

Fillmore

12

Moorpark

18

Ojai

20

Oxnard

28

Port Hueneme

32

Santa Paula

38

Simi Valley

44

Thousand Oaks

52

Ventura

54

LOS ANGELES COUNTY CITIES
Agoura Hills

60

Westlake Village

62

City maps
VENTURA COUNTY CITIES
Camarillo

11

Fillmore

13

Moorpark

19

Ojai

21

Oxnard

29

Port Hueneme

33

Santa Paula

39

Simi Valley

45

Thousand Oaks

53

Ventura

55

100 things
we love
about living here
14
Adventure
14 Educational
Children &
Entertainment
Families
27 Food
Driving &
Historical
Transportation 40 One of a Kind
Shopping

41
46
49
56
65
67

Calendar of
Events
34

What it takes
to live here

LOS ANGELES COUNTY CITIES
Agoura Hills

63

Westlake Village

63

Ventura County map

76

Worship Directory

77

Business Directory

79

Index of advertisers

82

50

Dining Guide
69




2014 EDITION

LIVING HERE
VENTURA COUNTY

Lead Editor / Designer
John T. Garcia

Cover photo
Joe Powers

Editing
Joann Groff
Jeremy Zeller

Photographs
Dana Rene Bowler
Carlos Chavez
Michael Downey
Joseph A. Garcia
John T. Garcia
Joann Groff
Stephen Osman
Joe Powers
Kelsey Stuart
Rob Varela
Tina Vervoorn
Natasha Wheatley

Writing
Margaret Aldrich
Wendy Dager
Joann Groff
Kristi Kellogg
Maria Saint
Mark Storer
Kelsey Stuart
Doug Thompson
Tina Vervoorn
Jeremy Zeller
City information courtesy of the
individual cities, DataQuest and
the U.S. Census Bureau.

Special thanks to
Diane Bennett
Betty Jacobson
David Justesen
Steve Ordóñez
Monica White

Ventura County Star
550 Camarillo Center Drive
Camarillo, CA 93010
805-437-0000 | www.VCStar.com

Shanna Cannon
Publisher

 

6 2013 Living Here




The reasons we live here
As varied as the people who do

V

entura
County’s
boast
to great
weather
is a cliché,
but clichés often become
so because they’re true. Yes,
the drought has taken its toll
on this little slice of paradise
along the gold coast, but
still Ventura County remains
tethered to its residents as
a place of natural beauty,
tremendous resources, a
diverse population and a great
place to work and live.
The explosion of wineries
dotting the county and a
thriving local food scene
have added to the allure here
in recent years and as Chris
Brown of winery Cantara
Cellars, “It’s something I use to
take for granted until I started
to travel. We are truly blessed
to be able to live in Ventura
County. Just imagine fresh
strawberries from February to
November. Friends from out
of state can’t imagine such a
luxury.”
Tim Flynn, mayor of
Oxnard, agreed with Brown.
Sunset at Emma Wood State Beach
“Ventura County is, simply put,
God’s country. Pristine beaches
surrounded by strawberry fields
Alan Toll is an architect who lives and
and a range of mountains all
works in Simi Valley. He’s also a board
combined with the best climate in the
member for the Kingsmen Shakespeare
world. Why would anyone want to leave?”
Company, a professional theater company
based at California Lutheran University in
It’s not just food and the sunshine, of
Thousand Oaks. “I love the wilderness in
course. The constant thriving heartbeat
our backyard. We have some wonderful
of Ventura County, fed by the sheer
golf courses that are tremendous fun to
natural beauty from the coastline to the
play and I’ve always appreciated how
rugged backcountry, is the people who
easy it is to get anywhere, whether it’s the
live and work here. “Our economy is very
beaches, Santa Barbara, the mountains
broad, including agriculture, biotech,
and even downtown L.A.”
manufacturing, aerospace and the Navy,”
said Jeff Gorell, assemblyman for the 26th
Ventura County is also a place of
district. “The economy in Ventura County
innovation where President Reagan saw fit
has allowed a broad diversity of people to
to house his library in the hills overlooking
come and make a living here.”
the Conejo and Simi valleys and where
Gene Haas built a thriving high-tech
Athol Wong, who recently retired as
principal of Newbury Park High School,
manufacturing company.
said that she came here 37 years ago for
a teaching job in Oxnard and never left.
Entrepreneurs like Ryan Morgan and
“I have loved living in Ventura County for
Rob Powells of Camarillo started a little
all the same cliché reasons one might
soda shop and candy store that is now a
think,” she said. “I enjoy living in a town
nationwide franchise boasting more than
that’s small enough that I see people
100 locations. Rocket Fizz is now not only
I know when out and about, yet large
in Camarillo, Ventura, Simi Valley and the
enough that I don’t feel like everyone is
Conejo Valley, it’s also in Florida, Nebraska,
in my business.” Wong said the quality of
Colorado and many other states. CLU is
education throughout the county is one of
opening a business incubator in Westlake
the reasons raising a family here is so ideal.
Village to encourage entrepreneurs to try

 2014 Living Here

out their new ideas. Jeff Green started
The Trade Desk, a company that provides
state-of-the-art technology services to
companies looking to do social media
advertising in Ventura. There are, of course,
hundreds of more stories like these.
From clam chowder at Neptune’s Net
across the street from the Pacific Ocean to
riding a sled down the hills near Mt. Pinos,
Ventura County’s diversity is not only in its
natural surroundings, it is in its people as
well.
“We have a similar diversity in our
geography, people and economy,” said
Gorell. “We have robust cities and small
towns, open spaces and farmlands, and
some of the nicest beaches on the West
Coast. I love Ventura County because I
don’t have to choose, we have it all.”
Chuck Sandlin, who along with his
family owns and operates Roadrunner
Shuttle based in Camarillo, put it more
succinctly: “Ventura County is the best
place on Earth to live, work and raise a
family.”
— Mark Storer

  
 
  
 


 

 


 




 


 

 
 






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CAMARILLO
Settled by Adolfo Camarillo
in the late 1870s, the quaint
city of Camarillo celebrates
its rich Spanish heritage and
continues to honor agriculture
and farming at its outlying
borders. The Camarillo
Premium Outlets is a major
destination for shoppers and is
the largest source of revenue
for the city. In the heart of
Ventura County, Camarillo
is consistently ranked as one
of Ventura County’s safest
communities and offers an
appealing mixture of rural and
suburban lifestyles where the
sun shines more than 300 days
annually and temperatures
average in the low 70s.

# Schools
Pleasant Valley
School District/
Oxnard Union
High School
District

• Annual
enrollment:
7,348/16,790
• 2013 Academic
Performance
Index:
866/748
• Elementary
schools: 10/0
• Middle
schools: 3/0
• High schools:
0/9

+ Hospital
St. John’s Pleasant
Valley Hospital

) Top

Employers
1. Pleasant Valley
School District
2. Hi-Temp
Insulation
3. St. John’s
Pleasant Valley
Hospital
4. Ventura County
Star
5. Technicolor Video
Services
6. Teledyne
Scientific & Imaging
(formerly Rockwell
Scientific)
7. Data Exchange
Corp.
8. Semtech
9. Harbor Freight
Tools
10. Vitesse
Semiconductor Corp.

A little
bit of

Paradise

CityFacts
Population: 66,086
Location: 11.7 miles east of Ventura;
46.4 miles west of Los Angeles
Incorporated: Oct. 22, 1964
Median age: 40.4
Per capita income: $37,926
Median home price: $455,000
Origin of name: Named for the
Camarillo family; Juan Camarillo came
to San Buenaventura in 1857 and
purchased Rancho Calleguas in 1875.

28
4 1
31
?
, Arts &

Leisure

Parks

Golf courses

Performing
Arts Center

Movie theaters
(26 screens)

Library

(270,000+ volumes)

5 Weather
seasons

high/low
S

S

F

W

H

69˚F

74˚F

70˚F

66˚F

L

53˚F

59˚F

50˚F

47˚F

Did
you know

The Camarillo White Horse is a breed
created by Adolfo Camarillo. Adolfo bred
the horses at the Camarillo Ranch and
they have become famous for their parade
performances. They have been featured in
several Tournament of Roses parades.

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Crestview

Temple

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34

Ponderosa

101
101
Ven
tu

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Lewis

CAMARILLO
Freedom Park

Pleasant Valley

34

Camarillo Springs
Golf Course

1/4 mile


 
 


 
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2014 Living Here 11

FILLMORE
Fillmore calls itself “the last,
best small town in Southern
California.” This little town in
the Heritage Valley has clung
to its picturesque, turn-of-the20th-century character, which
accounts for why so many
movies and TV shows are
filmed here. Fillmore retains a
largely agricultural character
and also is a hotspot for
outdoor recreation; Lake Piru,
located just outside the town,
is one of Southern California’s
most popular freshwater
getaways.

The last, best

Small
town
CityFacts

# Schools
Fillmore Unified School District

• Annual enrollment: 3,846
• 2013 Academic Performance
Index: 724
• Elementary schools: 4
• Middle schools: 1
• High schools: 2

?

Did
you know

Fillmore is one of the most
photographed areas in the county,
with numerous film and television
productions using the city as a
backdrop. The Fillmore and Western
railway has lent its trains and
locations to numerous Hollywood
blockbusters and commercials.

Population: 15,255
Location: 19.8 miles northeast of
Ventura; 45.3 miles northwest of Los
Angeles
Incorporated: July 10, 1914
Median age: 32.7
Per capita income: $20,703
Median home price:$288,000
Origin of name: Named after city
founder Jerome A. Fillmore, an official
with the Southern Pacific Railroad.

4
1 1
1
, Arts &

Leisure

Golf course

Library

(28,000 volumes)

5 Weather
seasons

high/low
S

S

F

W

H

75˚F

82˚F

74˚F

70˚F

L

50˚F

56˚F

45˚F

43˚F

Parks

Public
Swimming
Pool

3rd

Shiell
Park

Old

FILLMORE

Tel
e

gra

ph

in View
Mounta

Central

4th

Ro

ad

Main Street
Park
C St.

D St.

126
Ventura

la St.
Santa Pau

burg

Chambers

1/4 mile


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2014 Living Here 13

100 things

we love about living here
ADVENTURE

b
b

Beachside camping along Rincon

With 127 paved RV sites to choose from, camping
on the Pacific Coast along the original Pacific Coast
Highway between Faria Beach and the Seacliff
off-ramp northwest of Ventura, this popular seaside
stop affords million-dollar views, surf-fishing and
beach activities. County of Ventura Parks Department www.ventura.
org/beach-front-parks/rincon-parkway

1

BMX Racetracks

Those seeking an adrenaline rush while pedaling
and flying through a dirt course rollercoaster can
look no further than our own backyard, home to two
premier BMX tracks. Although an individual sport,
BMX riders will compete against seven fellow racers.
In Ventura at Community Park, the track is meticulously designed
and built according to official U.S. BMX standards. A summer
camp program is offered for kids ages 6 to 13 to develop skills,
create friendships and gain confidence. Simi Valley’s Sycamore
BMX track hosts practices, racing, tournaments, clinics and more
to keep kids safe and informed. Safety equipment and accessories
are mandatory to ride and membership in USABMX is required
at either track. 901 S. Kimball Road, Ventura, 805-229-1269, www.
venturabmx.org; 692 Sycamore Drive, Simi Valley, 805-583-BMX7,
www.sycamorebmx.org

2

b

Channel Islands Boating Center

b

Helicopter Tours

Want to get out on the water? Head down to
the Channel Islands Boating Center where you’ll
3
find dinghies, kayaks and windsurfing equipment
with which to explore the open sea. Channel Islands
Boating Center is run by CSU Channel Islands, but
it’s available to the public as well as students. The Channel Islands
Boating Center offers classes, excursions and youth camps. It also
boasts exhibits that educate visitors on the Santa Barbara Channel,
the Channel Islands and the surrounding water. Discover how the
area was used by Native Americans and learn about the local
wildlife, marine life, climate and more. 3880 Bluefin Circle, Oxnard,
805-985-6100, www.csuci.edu/recreation/wf-main-page.htm

Get a bird’s-eye view of California’s glorious
coastline, from stunning beaches to offshore island
nature preserves. Channel Islands Helicopters offers
the perfect opportunity to make any occasion a
once-in-a-lifetime experience. Based out of the
Oxnard Airport, Channel Islands Helicopters offers a variety of tours
including those focused on the surf in Malibu, the Channel Islands
and the marine wildlife. Channel Islands Helicopters is the only
tour operator authorized to fly around Channel Islands National

4

14 2014 Living Here

Beachside camping along Rincon
Park, giving an enthralling glimpse of Santa Barbara, Anacapa,
Santa Rosa, Santa Cruz and San Miguel islands from the inside of
a luxurious — and fast — helicopter. 170l W. 5th St., Oxnard, 805-5121371, www.ciheli.com

b

Hike the Hummingbird Trail

Huge rock features, unusual caves and giant
boulders make up the topography of the 2.4 mile
Hummingbird Trail near Simi Valley. Deemed a
“gnarly” hike by VCS Outdoors editor Donna Meese,
it offers hikers views including wildlife, a variety
of flowers and vistas including
For trail
those all the way to the ocean on
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roughly three-hour hike, especially
outdoors
after a rain, when it can be quite
breathtaking with small waterfalls. Be sure to bring plenty of water
and to dress in layers. The trailhead is adjacent to Highway 118, at
the Kuehner Drive exit and 0.3 miles north to the sign on the right.
Ranco Simi Recreation and Park District, 805-581-3823

5

b

Ice Skating

For the sunny Southern California residents, iceskating might be the last thing on their minds, but
6
for a great atmosphere and good company, Ventura
County offers quite the selection alongside its sandy
beachfronts. Simi Valley boasts the well-known
Iceoplex and Oxnard the Channel Islands Ice Center. Both offer
dual purposes for lessons in figure skating, hockey and public skate
times. As longtime members of the community, the rinks guarantee
friendly service and a frosted experience year-round. The Lakes in
Thousand Oaks offers a holiday must-have with its outdoor skate
rink November through January. Enclosed conveniently among the
shops and restaurants, the rink fits easily into anyone’s holiday
schedule. Channel Islands Ice Center, 830 Wagon Wheel Road,
Oxnard, 805-988-4440, www.channelislandsice.com; Iceoplex 131
W. Easy St., Simi Valley 805-520-7465, www.iceoplexsimivalley.com;
Holiday Ice Rink at The Lakes, 2200 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand
Oaks 818-637-8923, www.shoplakes.com

b
7

Kayak through sea caves
on Santa Cruz Island

Santa Cruz Island’s shoreline is riddled with
sea caves, nearly all of which are accessible to
adventurous kayakers. You can hire an experienced
guide from a local kayak rental company and,
after some lessons in the art of ocean kayaking, head out to the
island. The caves are natural wonders, waiting to be explored and
appreciated. A trip to the sea caves is not dangerous and it may
just be the day-trip experience of your life. Island Packers, Ventura
Harbor: 1691 Spinnaker Drive, Suite 105 B. Channel Islands Harbor:
3600 S. Harbor Drive, Oxnard. 805-642-1393, www.islandpackers.
com; www.islandkayaking.com

b

Lake Casitas

b

Learn to skydive

Located at the juncture of Casitas Pass Road
and Santa Ana Road near Ojai, Lake Casitas is the
Ojai Valley’s center for family fun. Boating, fishing,
kayaking, hiking and camping are among the
activities offered. Coyote Point Disc Golf Course, a
professionally designed course, is the home of the Coyote Classic
Disc Golf Tournament every fall. The Casitas Water Adventure
water park, with its meandering Lazy River, is open from February
through mid-September every year. With more than 400 campsites
to choose from, Lake Casitas is an ideal place for a weekend of
friends and family fun. 11311 Santa Road, Ojai, 805-649-2233, 805649-1122, tinyurl.com/LakeCasitas

8

If you’re in Ventura County and skydiving has long
been on your bucket list, you’re in luck — Ventura
County is home to the Ventura County Skydiving
Center, where those so inclined can experience a 120
mph free fall with professional skydiving instructors.
Skydiving sessions come complete with an instructional lesson,
scenic flight and inflight meal. As divers and instructors jump
together from the plane, they experience a 40-second free fall
before releasing the parachute and enjoy a breathtaking 7-minute
float back down to land. Best of all, the entire experience is caught
on camera so you’ll have evidence of your bravery. 375 Durley Ave.,
Camarillo, 805-494-5252, www.venturaskydivingcenter.com

9

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Quaint

College
town

# Schools
Moorpark Unified
School District

• Annual
enrollment:
7,299
• 2013 Academic
Performance
Index: 841
• Elementary
schools: 6
• Middle
schools: 2
• High schools: 3

) Top

Employers
1. Moorpark
Unified School
District
2. PennyMac
3. Moorpark
College
4. Pentair Pool
Products
5. Kavlico
6. Benchmark
Electronics
7. Target
8. AJ Machining
9. Ensign-Bickford
Aerospace
10. Test Equity

CityFacts
Population: 35,149
Location:20.3 miles east of Ventura;
39.1 miles northwest of Los Angeles
Incorporated: July 1, 1983
Median age: 35.4
Per capita income: $35,612
Median home price: $505,000
Origin of name: Named after the
Moorpark apricot by Robert Poindexter
in 1887.

5 Weather
seasons

high/low
S

S

F

W

H

75˚F

82˚F

74˚F

70˚F

L

50˚F

56˚F

45˚F

43˚F

MOORPARK
Named in honor of the
Moorpark apricot that was
found in abundance during
its early days, Moorpark
has grown to become a
college town, with the
highly acclaimed Moorpark
Community College as
its hub. Lovely suburban
neighborhoods are found
within Moorpark, alongside
a rich landscape of hills,
manicured greenbelts and city
parks. The city boasts many
convenient shopping locales,
a variety of restaurants and
the fabulous High Street
Arts Center, with live
entertainment for the whole
family.

18
3 2
1
?
, Arts &

Leisure

Parks

Golf courses

Performing
Arts Centers

Library

(55,278 volumes)

Did
you know

Moorpark was the first community in
the United States to be powered by
nuclear power. The experiment was
broadcast on Edward R. Murrow’s
“See it Now” television program. On
Nov. 12, 1957, the power in town went
out, and when it came back on, it was
coming from a sodium reactor at the
Santa Susana Field Laboratory in the
hills of Simi Valley.

Ca
ny
on
Gr

im

es

Moorpark
College
Campus Park
Ca
ny
on

M O O R PA R K

Ronald Reagan Fwy

Wa
lnu
t

118

23
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23
ark
orp
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Arroyo Vista
Community Park

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118

Spring

Moorpark

Los Angeles

Tierra Rejada
Golf Course

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2014 Living Here 19

OJAI
California’s

The delightful small town
of Ojai, aptly nicknamed
the Shangri-La of Southern
California, is a haven for
artists, musicians and health
enthusiasts. Ojai is home to
many time-honored traditions,
including the annual Ojai
Tennis Tournament, which
draws top names in tennis
as well as upwards of 30,000
spectators. The Ojai Music
Festival is held each June in
the newly refurbished Libbey
Bowl. Ojai’s Lake Casitas is a
prime destination for fishing,
boating, kayaking, camping
and hiking. Ojai’s small town
atmosphere and serene beauty
make it one of the most loved
towns in Southern California.

ShangriLA
(away from)

CityFacts

# Schools
Ojai Unified School District

• Annual enrollment: 2,935
• 2013 Academic
Performance Index: 800
Elementary schools: 6
• Middle schools: 2
• High schools: 2

?

Population: 7,581
Location: 12.1 miles north of Ventura;
63.3 miles northwest of Los Angeles
Incorporated: Aug. 5, 1921
Median age: 49.3
Per capita income: $38,037
Median home price: $496,500
Origin of name: Chumash word for
Moon

Leisure

Parks

Golf courses

Performing
Arts Centers

Movie theater

Did
you know

The town of Ojai was originally
named Nordhoff in 1874 in honor
of the writer Charles Nordhoff.
The events of WWI changed
American sentiment towards the
Germans, and many names that
were German-sounding were
changed. So, in 1917, the town was
renamed Ojai.

6
2 2
1 1
, Arts &

(1 screen)

Library

(48,278 volumes)

5 Weather
seasons

high/low
S

S

F

W

H

78˚F

89˚F

73˚F

68˚F

L

48˚F

55˚F

41˚F

48˚F

+ Hospital

Ojai Valley Community
Hospital

Los Padres National Forest

33
Fairview

R ic
e

Grand

a
icop

Del Norte

M ar

OJAI

Sarzotti
Park
150

Ojai Ave.

To Santa
Paula

Libbey
Park
Ventura

150

33

Soul Park
Golf Course

Ojai Valley
Country Club
33

ek R

Cre

d.
1/4 mile




To Ventura

150

2014 Living Here 21



 

 


 





 
   





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climbing technique. On any given weekend, there’s a chance of
seeing a daring climber or two scaling the face of the rock.

b

MX-126 motocross track

b

SkateLab

b

Sky High Sports

b

Santa Paula Canyon
Punch Bowl hike

MX-126 is a full-service motocross facility off
Highway 126 in Piru with main and mini tracks for
adults and children. It’s open on Wednesdays,
Saturdays and Sundays, and offers groomed riding
with jumps, turns and straightaways. The mini track is
designed to be safe and forgiving for beginning riders, with the jumps
rounded off and wide, smooth landing areas. On the main track, the
MX-126 staff performs a complete track resurfacing before each
ride day and that helps ensure perfect conditions. The preparation
provides lines for every level of rider and makes passing throughout
the track very easy, even on the most crowded days. 4375 Center St.,
Piru, 805-517-4828, www.mx-126.com

13

Mugu Rock

b

Los Robles Trails

Let the fresh air revive your spirit as you experience
the beauty of the Santa Monica Mountains with an
10
exciting bike ride, invigorating hike or relaxing stroll
through the Los
For trail
Robles Trails. Dogs
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Park and Westlake Village.
outdoors
Elevation varies throughout the
trail, with the highest point at 1,540 feet and the lowest point at 808
feet. Ample signs are posted along the way, as well as the occasional
bench and water fountain, making for a safe journey. Pack a picnic
and enjoy a sandwich alongside the scenery. Trailhead begins on
Potrero Road just west of Wendy Drive. www.cosf.org/los-robles/

b

Mount Pinos

At 8,831 feet above sea level, the summit of Mount
Pinos is the highest point in Ventura County. It was
once the home of the California condor. Captive
breeding programs have reintroduced this majestic
bird back to its native territory. Mount Pinos is ideal for
hiking as well as a winter snow area. Cross country ski trails start at
the 8,300-foot parking area. This area also is very popular with star
gazers, with a walk-in campsite at this level. Mount Pinos is accessed
via Interstate 5 from either Los Angeles or Bakersfield. Take the
Frazier Park/Mount Pinos exit. Mt. Pinos Ranger District, 661-245-3731

11

b

Mugu Rock

Located on Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) just
a few miles south of Naval Base Ventura County and
six miles north of the Ventura/Los Angeles county line,
12
Mugu Rock is a local landmark easily recognizable by
any who have traveled Highway 1 from Point Mugu to
Malibu. Perched on the Pacific Coast, Mugu Rock is a
favorite photo opportunity for tourists and locals alike, with beautiful
sunsets over the ocean providing a dramatic backdrop. The rock
also is a popular spot for area climbers to learn and practice basic

SkateLab has been a go-to skate park for Ventura
County skaters since 1997. SkateLab boasts a gigantic
indoor course and a fully-stocked skate shop.
SkateLab offers a summer camp, as well as skating
lessons year round. Safety gear (helmets and elbow,
knee and wrist guards) is required and available for rental for those
who do not have it. Skateboards are also available for rental. New to
skating? Check out the free, one-hour clinic on the first and fourth
Saturday of each month. There’s also a skate team for those who
are interested. 4226 Valley Fair St., Simi Valley, 805-578-0040, www.
skatelab.com

14

This trampoline fun house is suitable for all ages
and is a great place for birthday parties, corporate
events and those looking for a sweat-filled workout.
Located off Highway 101 in Camarillo, Sky High Sports
has many other attractive features including its own
Sky High Cafe, private party rooms, organized activities such as
“airobics,” an arcade and section for young children. 166 Aviador St.,
Camarillo, 805-484-6300, www.jumpskyhigh.com

15

16

When there’s plenty of water, the hike along Santa
Paula creek through Santa Paula Canyon is a natural
fun zone that leads to the Punch Bowl, an area that’s
popular with swimmers. The trailhead is located
across from the entrance to Thomas Aquinas College on Highway
150. Spring-fed water still flows down the creek despite the long
drought. After about 3.5 miles of hiking, there is a 25-foot waterfall
past Big Cone Camp in the Los Padres National Forest. While the
Punch Bowl and rock cliffs have been defaced in some areas by
graffiti, the area is still highly used and a favorite among the hiking
community, although not for the beginner. Near 10000 Ojai Road,
Santa Paula

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24 2014 Living Here

b

Surf at Mondos

b

Sycamore Canyon Trail

b

The Grotto Hike

Known in the surf community as one of the best
places to learn to surf, Mondos is a “secret” spot
located along the gorgeous Pacific Coast Highway.
It’s an ideal place to learn because the waves are
consistent, plentiful and comparatively easy to ride,
providing surfers many opportunities to hang ten. Moreover, the
surfers at Mondos tend to be laid back and welcoming. If you’re
trying to find Mondos, it is directly south of Faria Beach. If you’re
packing up for a beach day at Mondos, however, be warned: there
are no lifeguards or bathrooms. art.csuci.edu/zensurfing/maps.html

17

Bicyclists and hikers have made Sycamore
Canyon Trail a favorite, with varying degrees of
challenges. Located
For trail
in Point Mugu
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guides, stories
State Park, there
BOE
NPSF

WJTJU

and
more, visit
are two trailheads with free
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vcstar.com/
parking, and either a short hike
outdoors
for the novice, or longer, steeper
and more difficult trails for the more experienced hiker. Make
sure to check maps prior to making a trip as some routes are
closed to bicyclists. Point Mugu State Park, 9000 W. Pacific Coast
Highway, Malibu, www.venturacountytrails.org/TrailMaps/Sycamore/
AreaTrails.htm

18

Offered through the Outdoor Adventures
program at CSU Channel Islands, the Sycamore
Canyon Day Hike is just one of the excursions
available for students, faculty, staff and alumni
of CSUCI. The 6-mile round trip hike starts at
Yerba Buena Road off the Pacific Coast Highway and ends
at Sandstone Peak — the highest point in the Santa Monica
Mountains. The stunning views to be enjoyed include Echo Cliffs
— a ravine with bold sandstone formations and sheer walls. This
excursion promises some of the best rock climbing in the area,

19

Santa Paula Canyon Punch Bowl hike
as well as some of the most awe-inspiring views. 805-437-8902,
[email protected], www.csuci.edu/recreation/oa-mainpage-outdoor.htm

 
   






   
  


  
 
  
    

 
   

  
  
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2014 Living Here 25

b

Ventura Beach Bike Trail

Every biker from the spandex-wearing, speed biker
to the cutest princess on a pink bike with tassels and
training wheels can enjoy the Ventura Beach Bike
Trail. The easy path starts at the free, public parking
lot at Main Street and Highway 33. From there you
head south towards the coast on the five-mile loop. The trail takes
riders past the fairgrounds, Surfers Point, the C Street promenade,
the pier and San Buenaventura State Beach. At the park, take the
loop and head back to finish up a nice afternoon ride by the beach.

20

Whether you are a dedicated long-distance rider
or more of an afternoon cruiser, there’s a bike trail
in Ventura County that will challenge you as much
21
(or as little) as you like. The Ojai Bike trail is a paved
bike path that starts a couple of blocks north of
Ventura’s Main Street and ends at Bryant Street
in Ojai. Running parallel to Highway 33, this trail winds its way
through Foster Park, Casitas Springs and past Oak View, ending in
downtown Ojai. For trail warriors, the many mountain bike trails
include Sulphur Mountain Road, Gridley Trail, or for an easier trail
ride, Shelf Road in Ojai. www.venturacountytrails.org/TrailMaps

b

Wildwood Regional Park

Tucked into the Santa Monica Mountains,
Wildwood Regional Park is an oasis in the heart of
the Conejo Valley.
22
For trail
Fourteen trails
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guides, stories
cover about 25
BOE
NPSF

WJTJU

and
more, visit
miles inside the
WDTUBSDPNPVUEPPST
vcstar.com/
park’s 1,754 acres. Enjoy lunch
outdoors
at one of five picnic areas with
10 barbecues. Whether you’re hiking, biking or just kicking back in
the greenery, you’ll appreciate the park’s balance of wildness and
civilized amenities. Wildwood is home to more than 70 species
of birds and more than 30 species of mammals, including mule
deer, coyotes and cottontail rabbits. There also are many rare and

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)

*!"*

San Antonio Creek Bridge on the Ojai Bike Trail
native flowers, including the Conejo buckwheat. 928 W. Avenue de
los Arboles, Thousand Oaks, 805-495-2163, www.crpd.org/parkfac/
parks/wildwood.asp

b

Zip line at Ventura Ranch KOA

Stretching more than 750 feet, the zip line at the
Ventura Ranch KOA offers a thrilling ride for both
children and adults. The zip line and departure/
landing platforms offer excellent views of the
campground. Two zip lines are available, and riders
must be a minimum of 70 pounds and a maximum of 250 pounds.
Children can team up or ride in tandem with an adult to meet the
weight requirement. Helmets are provided and zip lining is offered
on Saturdays and by reservation on other days, with costs ranging
from $15 to $25. 7400 Pine Grove Road, Santa Paula, 805-933-3200,
koa.com/campgrounds/ventura-ranch

23


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26 2014 Living Here

$ 


 

b

Ventura to Ojai Bike Trail

CHILDREN & FAMILIES

b

Alpacas at Windy Hill

Although native to South America, alpacas can
be seen grazing on 25 acres of rolling hills of Somis,
24
where nearly 75 reside at Alpacas at Windy Hill.
Currently the largest alpaca ranch in California,
owners Cindy Harris and Doug Fieg breed and raise
championship stock at the full-service breeding and boarding
facility. They also provide daily care and maintenance, health
management, breeding, birthing and selling of alpacas. In addition,
the farm presents fun events, educational workshops and alpaca
fleece and fiber sales. The public is invited to share in the wonder
of these gentle creatures at Open Ranch Days from 10 a.m. to 3
p.m. the second Saturday of every month. Admittance is free. 7660
Bradley Road, Somis, 805-386-2394, www.alpacalink.com

b

Dallas Cowboys Training Camp

The Dallas Cowboys have a long history in Ventura
County, holding their training camps at California
Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks from 19631989, and in Oxnard for the last nine of ten years.
The team has talked about its return to Oxnard in
the summer of 2015, offering residents and visitors an opportunity
to watch practices and get autographs from some of the NFL’s
top players at the River Ridge Playing Fields, next to the Marriott
Residence Inn. During the month-long visit, the Cowboys host
appreciation days for the military and first responders, and put on
a Fan Fest event at neighboring Marine Emporium Landing. 2101 W.
Vineyard Ave., Oxnard, www.dallascowboys.com/team/training-camp.
html

b

Christmas Tree Lane

b

Freedom Park

Many Ventura County residents plan to take a
stroll down a historic section of Oxnard for a one-of25
a-kind holiday residential light display. After having
the torch passed down from Ventura’s Candy Cane
Lane in 1992, Christmas Tree Lane is known as one
of the biggest residential light displays in the county. Located on
F and G streets between 5th and Palm, it is a must-see during
holiday festivities. Visitors are welcome to walk or drive the full
10-block loop. Christmas Tree Lane opens on the second Sunday
of December and runs through Dec. 26, lit up from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
nightly. www.oxnardhistoricdistrict.com

26

Boasting nearly 34 acres, Freedom Park in
Camarillo offers fun for everyone, featuring five
new baseball fields, a BMX raceway for racing and
practice and paved and dirt remote control fun at the
Roadrunner R/C Club & Track. An in-line hockey rink
offers fans a chance to watch teams of seven from the Camarillo
Roller Hockey League and Ventura County Derby Darlins speed to
victory. Operated under the Pleasant Valley Recreation and Park
District, residents and visitors can relax in the open grassy spaces
for family gatherings, picnics and get-togethers using provided
picnic tables, barbecue grills, horseshoe pits, a playground and
restrooms. 528 Freedom Park Drive, Camarillo, 805-384-9994, www.
pvrpd.org, www.camarillohockey.com

27

More on 30


 
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2014 Living Here 27

OXNARD

Such a

Oxnard is the largest city in
Ventura County and offers its
guests beautiful and spacious
beaches with a small-town
atmosphere. Recreational
activities include surfing,
boating, sport fishing, whale
watching or visiting the
Channel Islands National
Park. The city’s name comes
from the Oxnard family
which developed a sugar beet
industry — one of the city’s
first industries. Restored
homes from the era of the
city’s founding can be found
in Heritage Square. Oxnard
is surrounded by some of the
richest farmland in the world
and is home to the annual
California Strawberry Festival.

# Schools
Oxnard School
District/Oxnard
Union High School
District/Rio
School District

• Annual
enrollment:
16,118/16,790/
4,608
• 2013 Academic
Performance
Index:
727/748/727
• Elementary
schools: 17/0/6
• Middle schools:
3/0/2
• High schools:
0/9/0

+ Hospital
St. John’s Regional
Medical Center

) Top

Employers
1. Oxnard
Elementary School
District
2. City of Oxnard
3. St. John’s
Regional Medical
Center
4. Haas Automation
5. Waterway
Plastics
6. California
Amplifier
7. Raypak
8. Procter & Gamble
Paper Products
9. PTI Technologies
10. Dole Berry
Company

CityFacts
Population: 203,007
Location: 6.3 miles southeast of
Ventura; 54.4 miles west of Los
Angeles
Incorporated: June 30, 1903
Median age: 30.3
Per capita income: $20,579
Median home price: $339,000
Origin of name: Named after the
Oxnard brothers who operated a
sugar beet factory in the town.

5 Weather
seasons

high/low
S

S

F

W

H

69˚F

74˚F

70˚F

66˚F

L

53˚F

59˚F

50˚F

47˚F

Sweet
place

59
1 2
2 3
?
, Arts &

Leisure

Parks

Golf course

Performing
Arts Centers

Movie theaters
(30 screens)

Libraries

424,000 volumes)

Did
you know

Cesar Chavez, the farm worker
turned union leader grew up in the
Oxnard area. Chavez lived in the
Colonia neighborhood during part
of his childhood.

Olivas Links
Golf Course

Buenaventura
Golf Course
Buenaventura
Golf Course

Vineyard

101

Ventura Freew
ay

101

Gonzales
Oxnard

Sturgis

3rd

Wooley
s

Rice

el

Rose

t
as
Co
ic
cif
Pa Saviers

nn

Ventura

Patterson

Victoria

bor
Har
Hemlock

5th

nd

Oxnard
Shores Park

Camino Del Sol

Isl
a

bor

Colonia

Ch
a

Har

OXNARD

1

Channel Islands
Channel
Islands
Harbor

PORT
HUENEME
1

9
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1/2 mile

2014 Living Here 29

Ventura Harbor Village

b

Gull Wings Children’s Museum

b

Rancho Tapo Community Park

Gull Wings Children’s Museum in Oxnard has the
distinction of being the only children’s museum in the
28
entire county, and has held this title since its founding
in 1986. Its exhibits include a creature feature, as well
as “touch-tanks” which allow children to see and
touch various marine animals. There are regular story times, arts
and crafts projects and music events. Off-site trips are arranged
periodically, such as to the Ormond Beach wetlands. Both these
events and the museum itself are known for the captivating, handson activities that delight and engage children. 418 W. 4th St., Oxnard,
805-483-3005, www.gullwings.org

Rancho Tapo Community Park is one of the most
beautiful parks in the entire county. The half-mile
walking path loops around verdant trees, expansive
lawns and a sparkling pond, where ducks are always
out and about. Rancho Tapo Community Park also
has courts of all kinds, including: bocce ball, tennis, basketball, pickle
ball and shuffleboard. There’s also an amphitheater, picnic pavilion
and a “splash pad” where youngsters can play in sprinkling fountains
and shoot water at one another. Other amenities include a baseball
diamond, bathrooms and barbecue areas. The Rancho Tapo
Community Park is the site of many birthday parties, play dates,
idyllic lunches, peaceful walks and festive gatherings. 3700 Avenida
Simi, Simi Valley, 805-584-4400, www.rsrpd.org/park/rtcp/rtcp.html

29

b

Pick it yourself
at Underwood Family Farms

b

Ventura Aquatic Center

30

Underwood Family Farms in Moorpark and Somis
is a fabulous and fun place to get farm fresh fruits
and vegetables, whether you want to pick your own or
get them from the well-stocked farmstand market. A
fun and educational way to spend the day as a family, Underwood
Family Farms is a fully operational farm. Bring the kids and enjoy
the Farm Animal Center with educational exhibits, farm animals,
pony rides, play areas, wagon rides and more. Locals love the Fall
Harvest Festival held on weekends in the fall months. Call ahead to
see which fields are open if you are planning to pick your own. 5696
Los Angeles Ave., Somis, 805-386-4660; 3370 Sunset Valley Road,
Moorpark, 805-529-3690, www.underwoodfamilyfarms.com

Whether you want to perfect your breaststroke
or spend the day splashing, the Ventura Aquatic
Center is your go-to spot. With a competition
pool, recreation pool, two water slides and a water
playground, the Ventura Aquatic Center is fun for the
whole family. The center offers swim lessons, lifeguard training,
water polo classes, water aerobics and open swim times. During
the summer months, the center hosts “Dive In” movie nights and
“family float nights.” The facility is also available for parties. Ventura
Aquatic Center has been serving Ventura County since 2005. 901 S.
Kimball Road, Ventura, 805-654-7511, www.cityofventura.net/aquatics

31

More on 35

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PORT
HUENEME
Located on the southwestern
tip of Ventura County and
bordered to the south by the
Pacific Ocean, Port Hueneme
(pronounced Wy-nee-me)
is a quaint and peaceful
seaside community known
for tourism, historic buildings
and Hueneme Beach Park.
The city is home to the Port of
Hueneme, the only deep-water
port between Los Angeles
and San Francisco, and Naval
Base Ventura County is its
largest employer and home
base to the United States Navy
Seabees.

# Schools
Hueneme School
District/Oxnard
Union High
School District

• Annual
enrollment:
8,250/16,790
• 2013 Academic
Performance
Index: 734/748
• Elementary
schools: 9/0
• Middle
schools: 2/0
• High schools:
0/9

) Top

Employers
1. Naval Base
Ventura County
2. Hueneme
School District
3. PAC Foundries
4. International
Longshoremen’s
Association
5. Pride Industries

Home for our

Heroes
CityFacts
Population: 22,138
Location: 8.1 miles south of Ventura;
54.7 west of Los Angeles
Incorporated: March 24, 1948
Median age: 32.3
Per capita income: $23,267
Median home price: $270,000
Origin of name: From a Chumash
word, Wene’mu, that means “resting
place.”

5
1
1
?

, Arts &

Leisure

Parks

Golf course

Library

(65,000 volumes)

Did
you know

5 Weather
seasons

high/low
S

S

F

W

H

69˚F

74˚F

70˚F

66˚F

L

53˚F

59˚F

50˚F

47˚F

When the Port of Hueneme
opened in 1940, it was closed
almost immediately because of
a labor dispute. In 1942 it was
taken over as a Navy base and
after World War II, a portion
of the port was leased back to
the farmers that had helped
construct it.

OXNARD
Colonia
Oxnard
Shores
Park

Camino Del Sol
Sturgis

3rd
5th
Patterson

Victoria
Wooley

bor

ic
cif
Pa

Har

Rice

t
as
Co

Hemlock
1

Channel Islands

Channel
Islands
Harbor

PORT
HUENEME

lley
Va
nt
a
s
ea

Pl
Rose

Naval Base
Ventura County

Bard
1
Saviers

J St.

Ventura

d

ran

rst

ve
Sil

Pleasant Valley

Hueneme Rd.
Port Hueneme
Beach Park

9
0¾ñŒ~÷¾~

1/2 mile

Port of
Hueneme

2014 Living Here 33

Calendar of Events
SEPTEMBER

Ventura Marathon and Beach
Party (Sept. 6-7)
Conejo Valley Home
Remodeling Show,
Thousand Oaks
(Sept. 13-14)
Harbor Run car show,
Channel Islands Harbor
(Sept. 14)
Simi Valley Days (Sept. 18-21)
Fall Home and Garden Show,
Ventura (Sept. 19-21)
Ventura County Coastal
Clean-up Day (Sept. 20)
California Beer Festival,
Ventura (Sept. 20-21)
Thousand Oaks Arts Festival
(Sept. 20-21)
Ventura Comedy Festival
(Sept. 22-28)
Moorpark Country Days
(Sept. 27)
Banana Festival, Port
Hueneme (Sept. 27)

OCTOBER

Harvest Festival, Ventura
(Oct. 3-5)
Reyes Adobe Days, Agoura
Hills (Oct. 9-12)
Kinetic Sculpture Race,
Ventura (Oct. 18)

DECEMBER

Ventura Harbor Parade of
Lights, Ventura (Dec. 12-13)
Parade of Lights, Channel
Islands Harbor, Oxnard
(Dec. 13)
Santa to the Sea races,
Oxnard (Dec. 14)

MARCH

Spring Home and Garden
Show, Ventura (March
19-21, 2015)
Ventura County Star Spelling
Bee, CSU Channel Islands,
Camarillo, (March 7, 2015)
Celebration of the Whales
Festival, Channel Islands
Harbor, Oxnard
St. Patrick’s Day Parade,
Ventura

APRIL

Scandinavian Festival,
Thousand Oaks (April
18-19, 2015)
The Ojai Tennis Tournament,
Ojai (April 22-28, 2015)

34 2014 Living Here

California Strawberry Festival, Oxnard

JULY

Conejo Valley Chili Cookoff
and Classic Car Show,
Thousand Oaks
(April 26, 2015)
Ventura County Corporate
Games
Conejo Valley Home
Remodeling Show,
Thousand Oaks

Kingsmen Shakespeare
Festival, Thousand Oaks
Fourth of July Street Fair,
Ventura
Oxnard Salsa Festival,
Oxnard
Santa Paula Citrus Festival
Fiesta and Street Fair,
Camarillo
Citrus Classic Balloon
Festival, Santa Paula
ArtWalk, Ventura

MAY

California Strawberry
Festival, Oxnard
(May 16-17, 2015)
Cajun & Blues Festival, Simi
Valley (May 23-24, 2015)
Ojai Storytelling Festival
Rebozo Festival, Camarillo
Conejo Valley Days,
Thousand Oaks
Ventura Music Festival
Ventura Beach Festival
California Jazz & Wine
Festival, Thousand Oaks

JUNE

Casa Pacifica Angels Wine
& Food Festival,
Camarillo (June 7, 2015)
Ojai Music Festival
(June 11-14, 2015)
Ojai Wine Festival
(June 14, 2015)

AUGUST
Conejo Valley Chili
Cookoff and Classic Car
Show, Thousand Oaks
Ventura County Greek
Festival, Camarillo
Camarillo Ranch Car Show &
Brewfest

Ventura County Fair, Ventura
Wings over Camarillo Air
Show, Camarillo
Hueneme Beach Festival,
Port Hueneme
Camarillo Chili Cook-off &
Music Festival, Camarillo
Gourmet Food Truck & Bocce
Ball Festival, Santa Paula

b

Ventura Harbor

b

Ventura Pier

Whether you’re a visitor or county resident,
there’s nothing quite as enjoyable as spending a day
at the Ventura Harbor and Ventura Harbor Village.
Regarded as the gateway to the Channel Islands
and points beyond, commercial fishing vessels and
private pleasure craft are homeported here, as is part of the Island
Packers fleet. Visitors can enjoy a day at Ventura Harbor Village
and its collection of retail shops and local favorite restaurants like
The Greek at The Harbor, Andria’s Seafood Restaurant and Brophy
Bros. Restaurant and Clam Bar. It features the only carousel in
the county and an arcade for the young and young at heart. There
also are kayaks and paddle boats available for rent. The harbor
also is home to the Channel Islands Visitors Center, which features
a small museum of Channel Islands wildlife, complete with an
artificial tide pool. 1603 Anchors Away Drive, Ventura, 805-642-8538,
venturaharbor.com

32

The Ventura Pier was built in 1872, making it one
of the oldest wooden piers on the California coast.
Besides the cool ocean breezes, great views of the
coast and calm atmosphere, the Ventura Pier boasts
a historical tour through various signs and posts.
The placards on the pier show the history of fishing in Ventura,
history of the coast and how the area has changed up to today.
Storms battered it in 1993 and 1995 and a major renovation was
completed in 2000 with the pier extended to 1,620 feet, making
it one of the top 10 longest piers in California. 750 Harbor Blvd.,
Ventura, www.cityofventura.net/venturapier

33

b

Whale Watching

Ventura County residents are lucky to be
located near the migration routes of some of the
world’s most magnificent and beloved beasts: gray,
humpback and blue whales. Gray whales migrate
through the Channel Islands between December and
March, and blue and humpback whales make their way through

34

Ventura Pier
from July to September. An adventure awaits for a few hours or
a day on one of Island Packers’ whale watching tours. Take the
opportunity to see these amazing animals and other aquatic
wildlife, including bottlenose dolphins, minke whales and some
occasional orcas. Gray whale expeditions typically last three to
five hours, while blue whale trips last all day. Sighting a whale is
an experience not soon forgotten. Island Packers, 1691 Spinnaker
Drive, Ventura, and 3600 Harbor Blvd., Oxnard, 805-642-1393, www.
islandpackers.com

More on 40

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SANTA PAULA
Perched in the Sespe foothills
between Ventura and Ojai,
Santa Paula offers access to
the coast and the valleys, the
freeways and the outdoors.
Santa Paula is home to such
historic sites and unique
attractions as the Glen Tavern
Inn, the Santa Paula Airport
(which houses a museum of
antique aircraft) and the Oil
Museum.

A town
full of

History
CityFacts

# Schools
Briggs School District/Mupu
School District/Santa Paula
Elementary School District/Santa
Paula Union High School District

• Annual enrollment:
576/137/3,694/1,596
• 2013 Academic Performance
Index: 763/834/790/726
• Elementary schools: 2/1/6/0
• Middle schools: 1/0/1/0
• High schools: 0/0/0/2

?

Population: 30,091
Location: 10.7 miles northeast of
Ventura; 51.4 miles northwest of Los
Angeles
Incorporated: April 22, 1902
Median age: 30.6
Per capita income: $20,029
Median home price: $331,500
Origin of name: Named after the
Catholic Saint Paula

Leisure

Performing
Arts Center

Movie theater

Library

5 Weather
seasons

high/low
S

S

F

W

H

75˚F

82˚F

74˚F

70˚F

L

50˚F

56˚F

45˚F

43˚F

+ Hospital
Santa Paula
Hospital

Parks

Golf courses

(7 screens)

Did
you know

Actor Steve McQueen spent the
final years of his life in Santa Paula.
He was known to fly his biplane
out of the Santa Paula Airport.
McQueen also lived at the airport
in a hangar until he and his wife
moved into town.

6
2
1
1 1
, Arts &

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Mountain View
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1/4 mile





 



 











 

 
 
 
 
 












2014 Living Here 39

Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner to Santa Barbara

DRIVING & TRANSPORTATION

b

Santa Paula Cruise Night
and other car gatherings

35

All aboard Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner, grab a seat
and enjoy one of the most scenic rides of your life
along the coast right above the cliffs of the Pacific
Ocean to spend the day in Santa Barbara or a visit
the lovely college town of San Luis Obispo. The Pacific Surfliner is
equipped with modern bi-level cars with large panoramic windows,
custom-designed interiors and a spacious cafe car serving a variety
of foods and beverages. There are more than 10 service routes and
daily trips with train depots throughout Ventura County for travel to
Santa Barbara. 1-800-USA-RAIL, www.amtrak.com

36

Said to be one of the best cruise nights north of
Los Angeles, Santa Paula Cruise Night takes off on
Main Street between 7th and Mill streets in historic
downtown Santa Paula. Along with many classic
cars and enthusiasts, live music usually fills the air. It is held the first
Friday of the month from 6 to 9 p.m. April through October. Santa
Paula Cruise Night is sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce, the
Police Officers Association and the City of Santa Paula. The event
is free and open to pre-1975 motor vehicles. It is just one of the
many car shows and club meetings that can be found each week
in VCSCars. Main Street between 7th and Mill streets, 805-525-4474,
805-933-4226 (Cruise Night); www.VCStar.com/cars (Car Club News)

b

The Ventura Trolley

b

Visit an automobile museum

The coolest way to get between the beach and
downtown Ventura might also be the friendliest.
The Downtown-Harbor Trolley, operated by the
Downtown Ventura Partners, runs in a 45-minute
loop with friendly drivers taking people to and from
downtown and the beach. Stops include the Amtrak platform at the
Ventura County Fairgrounds, the Ventura Visitors and Convention
Bureau on the corner of California and Santa Clara Streets, Pierpont
Boulevard at South Seaward Avenue, The Rhumb Line Restaurant,
1510 Anchors Way and the Ventura Harbor Village. The trolley will
also pick up from local beach hotels including the Crowne Plaza
Ventura Beach, Ventura Beach Marriott and the Four Points by
Sheraton/Holiday Inn. 805-827-4444, www.downtownventura.org

37

Oxnard is home to two prestigious automobile
museums: The Murphy Auto Museum and the
Mullin Automotive Museum. Just a 10-minute walk
separates the two, but their collections couldn’t be
further apart. The Murphy Auto Museum features
vintage cars including classics of the ‘30s, street cars and muscle
cars, plus a rotating array of special exhibits. The Mullin Automotive
Museum showcases the world’s largest collections of Bugattis
and other cars coveted by collectors from all over the planet. The
museums are only open select days, so check their websites for
time and days of operation. The Murphy Auto Museum, 2230 Statham
Blvd., Oxnard, 805-487-4333, www.murphyautomuseum.org; The
Mullin Automotive Museum, 1421 Emerson Ave., Oxnard, 805-3855400, www.mullinautomotivemuseum.com

38


 


 




 

 



 

  
 


 

 

 






   

  
  
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b

Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner
to Santa Barbara

EDUCATIONAL

b
39

America’s Teaching Zoo
at Moorpark College

One of the best-kept secrets for avid animal
lovers is Moorpark College’s own teaching zoo.
Opened at the college under the Exotic Animal
Training and Management program in 1974 by
Moorpark professor Bill Brisby, the program began with one animal,
Kiska the wolf, and continued to grow. Today the animal collection
boasts 200 animals accommodated on a 5-acre site overlooking
Moorpark College. The students in the EATM program are required
to oversee the care, feeding and well-being of animals, under close
faculty and staff supervision. The zoo is open to the public on
weekends from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 7075 Campus Road, Moorpark, 805378-1441, zoo.moorparkcollege.edu

b

Carnegie Art Museum

Since 1987, the Carnegie Art Museum has been a
creative hub. The museum, run by the City of Oxnard
as non-profit, seeks to enhance culture and artistic
awareness throughout Oxnard and Ventura County.
The museum rotates exhibits throughout the year
and offers tours and art classes. The museum also hosts a book
club and even has “Date to Create Workshops” where locals can
enjoy drinks and food while making mixed media masterpieces
with their friends. The museum is open Thursday through Sunday,
and visitors pay a fee of up to $4 depending on age. 424 S. C St.,
Oxnard, 805-385-8158, www.carnegieam.org

40

America’s Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College

b
41

Channel Islands
Maritime Museum

Located in Oxnard’s Channel Islands Harbor, the
Maritime Museum presents wonderful opportunities
to explore Maritime history while enjoying stunning
harbor views and refreshing ocean breezes. Among
the treasures found at the museum are five centuries of exquisite
seascape paintings and the largest West Coast collection of rare
historic ship models. A great destination for the whole family, the
museum offers interactive maritime exhibits as well as fun and
educational children’s programs. The museum store offers a great
variety of maritime collectibles and books. An exceptional cultural
experience, the Maritime Museum is located conveniently adjacent
to the restaurants and shops of the Channel Islands Harbor.
3900 Blue Fin Circle, Channel Islands Harbor, 805-984-6260, www.
channelislandsmaritimemuseum.org

More on 46


 


 



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SIMI VALLEY

One of America’s

Safest
Cities

Noted for consistently making
the FBI’s list of safest cities
in America, Simi Valley is
located at the extreme eastern
portion of Ventura County.
A suburban community with
excellent schools, familyfriendly neighborhoods and its
own regional shopping mall —
the Simi Valley Town Center
— Simi Valley has become
known as a medium-sized
city that continues to retain
its small-town feel. Among
its attributes and amenities
are the Ronald Reagan
Presidential Library, numerous
parks, hiking and biking trails,
and an abundance of filming
locales for television and
movie production companies.

# Schools
Simi Valley
Unified School
District

• Annual
enrollment:
19,432
• 2013 Academic
Performance
Index: 830
• Elementary
schools: 20
• Middle
schools: 3
• High schools: 4

+

Hospital

Simi Valley
Hospital

) Top

Employers
1. Simi Valley Unified
School District
2. Simi Valley
Hospital & Health
Care
3. City of Simi Valley
4. Aerovironment Inc.
5. Rancho Simi Parks
and Recreation
District
6. Vons
7. Meggitt Safety
Systems Inc.
8. Milgard
Manufacturing Inc.
9. Albertson’s
10. Polytainer Inc.

CityFacts
Population: 126,181
Location: 27.9 miles east of Ventura;
31.9 miles northwest of Los Angeles
Incorporated: Oct. 10, 1969
Median age: 37.6
Per capita income: $35,769
Median home price: $415,000
Origin of name: Some believe the
name originated with the Chumash
Indian word “shimiji,” meaning little
white clouds.

5 Weather
seasons

high/low
S

S

F

W

H

83˚F

95˚F

76˚F

71˚F

L

49˚F

56˚F

43˚F

41˚F

46
4 2
2 1
?
, Arts &

Leisure

Parks

Golf courses

Performing
Arts Centers

Movie theaters
(26 screens)

Library

Did
you know

The television show “Little House on the
Prairie” filmed in and around Simi Valley.
The producers used the Big Sky Ranch in the
Tapo Canyon Hills. Some of the sets included
the house itself, which remained intact until
it burned down in a 2004 wildfire.

Los Canyons
1/2 mile

Rocky Peak
Park

Alamo
Ronald Reagan Fey

Tapo Canyon

Township

Simi Hills
Golf Course

118

Cochran

Yosemite

Stearns

Tapo

Sequoia

Sycamore

Erringer

First

Los Angeles

Sinaloa

Madera

yal
Ro

Reagan Library
& Museum

Fitzgerald

S I M I VA L L E Y
d
Woo

Sage
Ranch
Park

kwy

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2014 Living Here 45

b

Channel Islands
National Park

b

Studio Channel Islands
Art Center

42

Accessible only by boat or airplane
from the mainland, Channel Islands
National Park is truly a world apart.
Encompassing five of the eight
Channel Islands – Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa,
San Miguel and Santa Barbara – and their ocean
environments, the national park was established
by Congress in 1980 to preserve and protect its
precious and fragile resources. The Channel Islands
are home to more than 2,000 plant and animal
species, with 145 of those found nowhere else on
Earth. The splendid isolation of this park provides a
welcome step back in time where coastal Southern
California can be experienced as it once was. www.
nps.gov/chis

43

Old Town Camarillo offers a
modern twist on artistic appreciation
Studio Channel Islands Art Center
at Studio Channel Islands Art Center.
The studio, a non-profit organization,
was created by a visionary group of local artists
in Ventura County who united their passion for creativity and the
The Ojai Art Center
means to share it with their own community. The studio offers a
In 1939, the Ojai Center for the Arts was conceived
variety of art classes along with a Meet-The-Artist program, tours
to bring various Ojai artists together under one roof.
44
and workshops for all ages. With 15 studios for 40 artists, the
With its 120-seat theatre, art gallery, dance studio,
Studio Channel Islands Art Center is a great place to see unique
meeting rooms and open spaces, the Art Center
and beautiful art. Drawing the community in one paint stroke at a
now encompasses eight branches: Art, Dance,
time, the studio is a must-see place for any art enthusiast or even
Film, Literary, Music, Photography, Theatre and Youth. Its creative
casual novice. 2222 Ventura Blvd., Camarillo, 805-383-1368, www.
offerings include six major dramatic productions each year,
studiochannelislands.org
monthly art exhibits and staged reading by local writers and actors,

b

as well as folk dance, chamber music and an annual photography
exhibit. A diverse variety of classes are also available. 113 S.
Montgomery St., Ojai, 805-646-0117, www.ojaiartcenter.org

ENTERTAINMENT

 
 


  




! !! !(%(!! !
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b

4D Theater at
Plaza Stadium Cinemas

b

Comedy clubs

45

The Plaza Stadium Cinemas 14 is a one-of-a-kind
experience for Oxnard. Opened in June 2014 smack
in the middle of downtown Oxnard, the theater
welcomes crowds to a new type of cinema. With
most of its business in amusement parks, MediaMation decided
it’s time to rev up local cinemas with 4D Motion EFX Theatres.
Oxnard’s own Plaza Stadium Cinemas has redecorated to welcome
its fans to a cinematic experience with a system that creates the
feeling that the theatergoers are within the actual scene; from
being shot at, bumped or jostled, the experience of going to the
movies just got redefined. 255 W. 5th St., Oxnard, 805-487-8380,
sregmovies.com/loc_plaza14

When it’s time to bust a gut from laughter,
Ventura offers prime comedy acts performed by
top stand-ups. At the Ventura Harbor Comedy Club
guests can enjoy popular headliners from Comedy
Central and fresh from the Las Vegas strip each
Wednesday through Sunday. If you like the hit show “Whose Line
Is It, Anyway?” you’ll love the Ventura Improv Company in historic
downtown Ventura, where comedy shows are presented every
Friday and Saturday evening. Featuring side-splitting montages
of comedic improv, games and music performed by artists of all
levels, nothing is scripted and anything can happen on stage. The
Ventura Harbor Comedy Club is at 1559 Spinnaker Drive, Suite 205,
Ventura, 805-644-1500, www.venturaharborcomedyclub.com; The
Ventura Improv Company is at 34 N. Palm St., Ventura, 805-643-5701,
www.venturaimprov.com

46




  
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b

Discovery Ventura

Seven days a week, Discovery Ventura is open for
bowling, billiards, shuffleboard and delicious cuisine
47
— the caliber of which you don’t normally find in a
bowling alley. Discovery Ventura is housed in a unique
and beautifully renovated historic Ventura building
constructed in 1942. While competing for bowling bragging rights,
visitors can chow down on anything from bruschetta to mesquite
grilled street tacos, seared ahi salad and crab enchiladas. Discovery
Ventura also offers a full menu of beer, wine and cocktails, and
boasts a plentiful brunch every Sunday. 1888 E. Thompson Blvd.,
Ventura, 805-856-2695, www.discoveryventura.com

b

Paint and wine

Longing to uncork your inner artist? Here’s your
chance. Offered at several venues in the county
— Four Brix Winery and Red Brick Gallery among them
— the wine tasting/painting party is a lighthearted and
fun opportunity to get together with friends or meet
new ones. Under the guidance of a visiting artist, you can spend the
evening creating your own masterpiece while sipping delicious wine.
Paint, canvas, aprons, brushes and, of course, wine, are provided.
Red Brick Gallery: 315 E. Main St., Ventura, 805-643-6400, www.
RedBrickArt.com; Four Brix Winery: 2290 Eastman Ave., Suite 109,
Ventura, 805-256-6006, www.fourbrixwine.com

b

Golf N’ Stuff

b

Players Casino

b

Scarlett Belle Cruises

50

Looking for some outdoor fun for the family? Look
no further than Ventura’s famous Golf N’ Stuff. It’s
48
a unique landmark visible from the freeway, and it’s
also where Ventura County families have been going
for more than 40 years to bond and have some fun in
the sun. The putt-putt golf facility features two 18-hole courses with
such favorite holes as the Mystic Castle and the Gold Mine. There are
also bumper cars, bumper boats, an arcade, an inflatable laser tag
arena and a miniature raceway. Spend some time with the kids and
get a little exercise. A trip to Golf N’ Stuff is a perfect family outing.
5555 Walker Road, Ventura, 805-644-7131, www.golfnstuff.com

If you’re feeling lucky, there’s one place to go if
cards are your game. Players Casino is in the Ventura
Auto Mall and it has had more than a few winners. It
offers regular tournaments and events and the Patio
Restaurant offers players a tasty reprieve from the
tables. Players Casino offers Limit Texas hold ‘em poker, No Limit
hold ‘em, Omaha, Big O/Hi Lo split, three-card poker, easy baccarat
and blackjack. 6580 Auto Center Drive, Ventura, 805-643-1392, www.
pcventura.com

b

Looking for a one-of-kind escape close to home?
A cruise through the beautiful Channel Islands Harbor
and surrounding coast might be the perfect escape.
Step back in time aboard the grand Scarlett Belle,
a luxurious paddlewheeler riverboat docked in the
scenic Channel islands Harbor. This lovely lady is ready to take
you and your group out for an unforgettable cruise. The Scarlett
Belle features a state-of-the-art sound and lighting system and
dance floor for those special events. She also has a ballroom with
crystal chandeliers and coffered tin ceilings. Throughout the year,
all kinds of specialty cruises are offered, such as wine tasting and
dinner cruises. Channel Islands Harbor, Ventura, 805-204-0977, www.
scarlettbelle.com

Hit the links

Ventura County is very golfer-friendly. There are
at least 19 greens in the county, from Simi Valley to
Ventura. Golfers can play near the beach in Oxnard, or
well inland in Santa Paula, Fillmore, Ojai or Moorpark.
Some links are connected to hotels or country clubs,
others are independent. There’s something for every golfer, and
duffers come from all over the state and across the country to
partake of their favorite sport in the county’s mild climate. Tee off in
Ventura County, where scenic surroundings and perfect weather are
par for the course. www.venturatoday.net/golfcourses.html

49

Ventura County Fair

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48 2014 Living Here

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51

52

b

See a community theater
production

b

Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza

53

There is nothing like live theater, and the acting
community in Ventura County is alive and well. Almost
any weekend, volunteer actors, musicians, directors
and techies are working on and off stage to put on
a show. Catch a play or musical at the High Street Arts Center in
Moorpark, The Actor’s Repertory Theater of Simi Valley, Conejo
Players in Thousand Oaks, Cabrillo Music Theatre in Thousand
Oaks, the Camarillo Skyway Playhouse, the Elite Theatre Company
in Oxnard, the Rubicon Theatre Company in Ventura, the Ojai Art
Center Theater or the Santa Paula Theater Center.

Sitting right next to Highway 101, the Thousand
Oaks Civic Arts Plaza and its telltale hanging sculpture
are well-known to commuters. The Plaza is equally
well-known by local theater and music buffs as
a great place to go for quality entertainment. The
complex is one of the largest performing arts centers between
San Francisco and Los Angeles. More than 300,000 adults and
50,000 children attend performances annually. The two theaters
at the Plaza feature everything from famous speakers to Broadway
musicals to children’s puppet theater. There’s something for
everyone, and it’s all within reach for residents and visitors. 2100 E.
Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks, Box office: 805-449-2787, www.
toaks.org/cap

54

b

Ventura County Fair

One of the central coast’s favorite events is the
Ventura County Fair. Each year in August, throngs of
people from all over the county and beyond flock
to the fairgrounds by car, bus and Metrolink train.
Tummies fill with funnel cake and roasted corn, and
hearts fill with memories. The gathering features exhibits of farm
animals, arts and crafts, a rodeo, concerts by nationally known
artists, contests, traditional midway rides and games, and a lot of
food items. The fair started in 1874 and still is going strong, drawing
more than 300,000 people every year to scenic Seaside Park, right
next to the beach. 10 W. Harbor Blvd., Ventura, 805-648-3376, www.
venturacountyfair.org

55

b

Boccali’s Pizza & Pasta in Ojai

b

Ventura Raceway

If you have a need for speed, check out the races
at the Ventura Raceway, located at the Ventura
Fairgrounds. On weekends, fans, drivers and riders
congregate at “the best little dirt track in America”
for a variety of dwarf car, midget car, sprint car or
motorcycle races. The 1/5-mile banked clay raceway attracts
fans and competitors from all over the county. It’s an unusual and
entertaining way to spend a Saturday night with the family. The
track is home to the Ventura Racing Association and hosts events
throughout the year. See the website for a full schedule. 10 W. Harbor
Blvd., Ventura, 805-648-7223, www.venturaraceway.com

57

FOOD

Ventura County Fusion

Are you ready for some fútbol? If so, check out a
Ventura County Fusion game. The Fusion is part of
the Premier Development League, which is designed
to train young players, ages 17 to 23, for careers in
professional soccer. Last season, the Ventura County
Fusion made it to the playoffs and went 9-4-3 overall. They have
also taken part in the Open Cup and exhibition games with MLS and
other professional teams. In addition to being a winning and exciting
team, the Fusion hosts a youth academy and soccer camps and
clinics for players of all ages and skill levels. Fusion regular-season
home games are held at the Ventura College Sportsplex. 4667
Telegraph Road, Ventura, www.vcfusion.com

56

b

Andria’s Seafood

Visitors to Ventura Harbor can’t leave without
stopping off for a delicious bowl of homemade
clam chowder or an order of fish and chips at
Andria’s Seafood Restaurant. Guests like it for its
casual atmosphere, adjacent to the water along
with a variety of seafood provided by local fisherman. Voted a top
seafood restaurant year after year, Andria’s Seafood Restaurant
and Fish Market’s fresh selections include salmon, halibut, scallops
and fresh lobster, among others. Filets and shellfish also can be
purchased in its Fish Market and prepared at home, just the way
you like it. 1449 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, 805-654-8228, www.
andriasseafood.com

58

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2014 Living Here 49

What it takes to live here
Rental housing demand is at an all-time high
If you are looking to rent in Ventura
County, Bill Watkins, executive director
at California Lutheran University’s Center
for Economic Research and Forecasting
in Thousand Oaks, said rental markets
remain strong in the sense that rents are
firm or increasing in just about all markets.
“Apartments have been strong
throughout the recession and that strength
continues,” he said.
Demand for rental housing is at an
all-time high, according to Dawn Dyer,
president of the Ventura real estate
consulting firm Dyer Sheehan Group, which
produces a rent survey of apartment units
in the county every six months. According
to the survey that came out in early 2014,
the Ventura County overall average rent in
January was $1,536 for all unit types and
cities combined.
“We anticipate that rents will continue
to rise during the foreseeable future, due to
a variety of factors,” Dyer said.

its course. Future demand will need to
come from traditional sources: increase
in home ownership, household formation
or births,” he said. “We don’t see the
traditional sources of demand providing
the conditions for sustained post-investor
demand. We’ve seen the damage done by
excessive home ownership, and we hope
we don’t repeat that mistake. We think the
home-ownership rate is about right.”
As for the luxury market, Watkins said
that is another story completely.
“Most of the people who buy luxury
homes were not badly hurt in the
recession, and they have prospered in
the recovery. One consequence of their
good fortune is strong demand in luxury
markets throughout California. Absent a
new recession, which is possible, we don’t
see any reason for demand to soften,” he
explained.

As for purchasing a home, Watkins said
that there are two distinct home markets in
Ventura County: luxury and non-luxury.

Dennis Goldstein, president of the
Ventura County Coastal Association of
Realtors, said when it comes to buying a
house, if interest rates remain stable, the
market will be more stable than it has
been.

“The non-luxury markets have seen
a run up in prices. This is mostly a result
of investor demand. We believe that the
investor-driven market has mostly run

“There’s better equilibrium now then
there has been in a long time. It was a
sellers’ market and then it rolled back
into a buyers’ market and now it’s gone

50 2014 Living Here

over to a sellers’ market, but the extremes
are difficult on people. … We have better
equilibrium right now and some good
predictability for being able to accomplish
transactions and make them actually
come into fruition,” Goldstein said, adding
that owning a house is important for
people. “It’s incredibly constructive for
families. It really supports neighborhoods,
and home ownership is such a vitally
important thing. I think we should
encourage it whenever we can. It’s more
than just an economic reason to do it.”
Why live in Ventura County? For Chuck
Lech, Conejo Simi Moorpark Association of
Realtors president, it’s the beauty.
“We are near the ocean, our climate is
wonderful,” he said, adding that the area is
surrounded by mountains and open space,
with an expansive park system.
Lech also pointed out there are great
schools, both public and private. There are
also a full range of recreational activities.
“The nearby cities are all very safe,
high up on the FBI list of safest cities in
the entire country,” Lech said. “We are not
overly crowded and densely developed, as
some of the larger nearby city areas. Close
to the big city, but not part of the big city.”
— Maria Saint

b

Boccali’s Pizza and Pasta

Owners DeWayne and Marilyn Boccali call their
food “original Ojai Italian.” Everyone else just calls
59
it delicious. Made with the freshest herbs and
seasonings available, its selections of pizza, pasta
and sandwiches have made Boccali’s an Ojai Valley
tradition. Dine indoors or outside under the oaks. Enjoy a glass
or bottle of Ojai Valley (bottled at Boccali Vineyards) or Santa
Barbara County wine. Its famous, fresh, in-season homestyle
strawberry shortcake alone is worth the trip to Ojai or Oak View.
The Ojai location holds an annual Tomato Festival and Wine
Tasting every September and a Pumpkin Patch and Haunted Hay
Rides in October. 3277 Ojai-Santa Paula Road, Ojai, 805-646-6116;
840 Ventura Ave., Oak View, 805-649-1057, www.Boccalis.com

b

The Deer Lodge

By day the throaty roar of motorcycle engines
echo outside The Deer Lodge in Ojai, while at night
live music from talented local artists entertains
patrons. Known as a warm, welcoming refuge, the
iconic bar and restaurant opened as a gas station
and grocery store in 1932. Over the years it has transformed into
a popular watering hole, and now offers good food, fine wines
and spirits, and craft beers. A biker favorite, at times more than
500 polished Harley-Davidsons and other bikes have been
parked outside, their riders enjoying the best of what The Deer
Lodge offers. 2261 Maricopa Highway, Ojai, 805-646-4256, www.
deerlodgeojai.com

60

b

Gourmet Food Trucks

b

Herzog Wine Cellars

b

Jolly Oyster

For more than 100 years, the Herzog family has
been making wine. Their long history of winemaking
has led to rich, full-bodied wines that Ventura County
locals can’t get enough of. Stop by Herzog Wine
Cellars for a tasting and stay for a delicious kosher
meal at Tierra Sur, the winery’s onsite restaurant. Pair an amazing
glass of wine with Tierra Sur’s gourmet fare and let your taste buds
rejoice. Herzog Wine Cellars is open Sunday through Friday and
sells a variety of top-tier rosé, red and white wines that will leave
you wanting more. 3201 Camino Del Sol, Oxnard, 805-983-1560,
www.herzogwinecellars.com

62

You’ll have a jolly good time at The Jolly Oyster.
Sidle up to Ventura’s one and only fresh clam food
truck. Since 2011, The Jolly Oyster has called the
Ventura seaside home, serving up oysters and clams
by the pound. Take your fare to go or dine al fresco
on the picnic tables surrounding The Jolly Oyster. Don’t worry if you
don’t like your clams raw — there are also barbecues on hand for
those that want to grill their meal. And for those of you who need it,
the Jolly Oyster will even give you a clam shucking lesson — on the
house. 911 San Pedro St., Ventura, 805-798-4944, www.thejollyoyster.
com

63

Calling all foodies! Providing cuisine on the go,
food trucks are all the rage. Be sure to hitch a ride to
Downtown Oxnard’s First Thursday Gourmet Food
Truck events at Plaza Park, or Wet Wednesdays at
the water’s edge at the Channel Islands Harbor.
Food lovers can eat to their heart’s content by sampling some of
the best mobile food in the West. Circling the wagons, featured
food is offered for sale by a variety of vendors, including Belly

61

Bombs wings and sliders, Confusion Catering, Palazzolo’s Gelato
Truck, Gen’s Baked Goods, Grilled Cheese Truck, It’s in the Sauce
BBQ, Rice Balls, Slammin’ Sliders, Steamy Bun Asian-style cuisine,
Sweet Arleen’s desserts, Tornado Potato, The Underground
Gourmet burgers and more. The evening also features live
entertainment, fun for the entire family and free parking. Plaza
Park, 500 S. C St., Oxnard, 805-385-2705, www.downtownoxnard.
org/index.php/activities/food_trucks; Channel Islands Harbor, 3600 S.
Harbor Blvd., Oxnard, 805-985-5828, www.wet-wednesdays.com

More on 56

  


 
 


  
   





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2014 Living Here 51

THOUSAND
OAKS

A
Premiere
community
# Schools
Conejo Valley
Unified School
District

• Annual
enrollment:
20,722
• 2013 Academic
Performance
Index: 884
• Elementary
schools: 17
• Middle
schools: 4
• High schools: 4

+

Hospitals

• Los Robles
Hospital
• Thousand
Oaks Surgical
Hospital

CityFacts

) Top

Employers
1. Amgen Inc.
2. The Oaks
3. Conejo Valley
Unified School
District
4. Los Robles
Regional Medical
Center
5. Baxter
Bioscience
6. California
Lutheran
University
7. Anthem Blue
Cross
8. Skyworks
Solutions Inc.
9. City of
Thousand Oaks
10. Sage
Publications

Population: 128,731
Location: 29 miles east of Ventura;
37.1 miles west of Los Angeles
Incorporated: 1964
Median age: 41.3
Per capita income: $46,293
Median home price: $575,000
Origin of name: Named in honor of
the abundant, majestic oak trees in
the area.

The city of Thousand Oaks,
nestled against the Santa Monica
Mountains in northwest Ventura
County, is only 12 miles from the
coast and is surrounded by more
than 14,800 acres of natural
publicly owned open space.
Thousand Oaks is known to be
a great place to raise a family,
enjoys award-winning schools
and is consistently rated among
the safest cities in the country.
Residents love the ideal climate
and scenic beauty of the area. It
is home to the Thousand Oaks
Civic Arts Plaza, The Oaks mall
with major high-end retailers
and more than 125 specialty
shops, and more than 75 miles
of hiking, biking and equestrian
trails.

39
3 1
3 2
?
, Arts &

Leisure

Parks

Golf courses

Performing
Arts Center

Movie theaters
(31 screens)

Libraries
(370,000
volumes)

Did
you know

5 Weather
seasons

high/low
S

S

F

W

H

82˚F

94˚F

75˚F

70˚F

L

49˚F

57˚F

43˚F

40˚F

Thousand Oaks was once home
to Jungleland, which started as a
home for six lions purchased from
Universal Studios by Louis Goebel in
1926. Guests could take safari tours
and see elephants, tigers, hippos,
camels and many other wild animals.
Jungleland closed in 1969. The land
was bought by the city, and became
home to the Civic Arts Plaza.

Wildwood
Regional Park

Pe
d

er

sen

Ol

n

1/2 mile

e Los Arboles

es
Erb

Arroyo Conejo
Open Space

D
Avenida

so

stla
We

Oak Brook
Regional Park

ke

Janss

Ve
ntu
ra
Lynn

Moorpark

101

23

Hi

Tierra Rejada
Golf Course

llc

re
s

t

THOUSAND
OAKS
Potrero

101
Rancho
Sierra Vista
Lake Sherwood

WESTLAKE
VILLAGE




2014 Living Here 53

VENTURA

Good
Fortune
Our

The City of San Buenaventura
is located between Malibu and
Santa Barbara on the coast
of the Pacific Ocean. This
charming seaside town, with
its Mediterranean climate
offers a wonderful quality
of life to its diverse group of
residents. From its rolling
hills to its incredible ocean
views, Ventura has something
to offer for everyone, from
surfing, hiking and bicycling
to museums, fine dining and
world-class local theatre.

# Schools
Ventura Unified
School District

•

•

•
•
•

•

Employers

1. County of
Ventura
Annual
2. Ventura County
enrollment:
Health Care Agency
17,429
2013 Academic 3. Community
Memorial Hospital
Performance
4. Ventura Unified
Index: 811
School District
Elementary
5. Ventura County
schools: 18
Community College
Middle
District
schools: 4
High schools: 5 6. City of San
Buenaventura
7. Patagonia
8. CoorsTek
Hospitals
9. Employers
Depot Inc.
Community
Memorial Health 10. EJ Harrison and
Sons
System
Ventura County
Medical Center

+
•

) Top

CityFacts
Population: 108,817
Location: 58.1 miles west of
Los Angeles
Incorporated: April 1, 1866
Median age: 38.7
Per capita income: $31,910
Median home price: $411,000
Origin of name: Named after
Franciscan St. Bonaventure by Father
Junipero Serra.

31
3 3
2 2
?
, Arts &

Leisure

Parks

Golf courses

Performing
Arts Centers

Movie theaters
(16 screens)

Libraries
(154,121
volumes)

Did
you know

5 Weather
seasons

high/low
S

S

F

W

H

69˚F

74˚F

70˚F

66˚F

L

57˚F

59˚F

50˚F

47˚F

Erle Stanley Gardner, creator of Perry
Mason, had a law practice in
Downtown Ventura where he did
much of his early writing. The
building where his law offices were
housed, at California and Main streets,
was installed with a historical marker
bearing his name.

DOWNTOWN
Poli

Ol

Fir

ive

33

Chestnut

California

Oak

Palm

Santa Clara
Figueroa

Garden

Main

Thompson

1

101

ill

th

o
Fo

Ventura
Pier

h

ap
gr

le
Te

VENTURA

S

Pierpont
Bay

1/4 mile

Emma
Wood
State
Beach

ta

is
Loma V

118

232

Community
Park

Victoria

ain

e

on

ph

le
Te
M

u
Pa

Saticoy
Golf Course

126

Ventura
State Beach

la

ta
an

Vin

se
l

101

Harbo

Olivas Links
Golf Course

r

Ventura
Harbor

Ce
nt
ra

Ro

ey
ard

101
Pierpont
Bay

Olivas

Buenaventura
Golf Course

1/2 mile

OXNARD

 


  

 
   

 
 


 




     

 


 
 



   
  

   
 


 
  


 
 

 
    

 
  




 


 







   









   




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2014 Living Here 55

b

Surf Brewery

Neptune’s Net is the place surfers, bikers,
celebrities and locals head for. In fact it’s a Pacific
64
Coast Highway institution. Established in 1958, it’s
a place to get away from it all and enjoy delicious
seafood like lobster, clams and oysters, as well as
the out-of-this-world clam chowder. Grab a table on the deck
and drink in the view of the beautiful blue Pacific. Watch a group
of dolphins frolic in the waves as you enjoy a cold beer or a glass
of wine. Everybody’s welcome. Definitely don’t miss Neptune’s
Net. 42505 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, 310-457-3095, www.
neptunesnet.com

With beers like County Line Rye Pale Ale, Mondos
Blonde Ale, South Swell Double IPA and Strawberry
Wahine Wheat, Surf Brewery takes pride in creating
delicious, specialty beers that capture the spirit
of Ventura’s beach lifestyle. Surf Brewery not only
sells beer, but offers home brewing supplies and home brewing
classes. The Surf Brewery came onto the Ventura craft beer scene
in 2011, and ever since it has garnered the attention of many beer
connoisseurs in the county and beyond. Surf Brewery donates a
portion of all its sales to the Surfrider Foundation, a nonprofit that
works to protect beaches. 4561 Market St., Ventura, 805-644-2739,
www.surfbrewery.com

65

b

Ventiki Lounge and Lanai

Ventiki Lounge and Lanai brings a taste of tropical
paradise to Ventura. On the Lanai, the tiki waterfall
and blue glass fire pit immediately welcome you.
Inside the Lounge, tunes ranging from music of
the islands to 60s surf jams add to the tropical
ambience. The classic tiki cocktails at Ventiki — Mai Tais, Zombies,
Jet Pilots and many more — are made with fresh fruit and quality
rums. Chef Johnny has created a menu of Polynesian classics with
a contemporary twist, such as Moko Loco, pulled pork sliders and
spare ribs. Come relax under the sun or beneath the stars at Ventiki.
701 E. Main St., Ventura, 805-667-8887, www.ventikilounge.com

66

b

Ventura Winter Wine Walk

The Ventura Winter Wine Walk and Holiday
Street Fair brings around 1,500 people to downtown
Ventura to stroll through restaurants and other
businesses, tasting wine and enjoying music and
other entertainment at a stage built at California
and Main streets. After the sun goes down, wine lovers can wander
through the faux snowfall. In the past, the Wine Walk has lured
more than 50 vendors, mostly offering wine and some local beers.
It serves as a partial fundraiser, with proceeds benefiting the
Downtown Ventura Organization, a group devoted to sustaining
and improving the city center. The 2014 event is set for Dec. 6.
www.venturawinterwinewalk.com

67


 



b

The Waypoint Café

They say one way to determine if a restaurant is
good is to see if the parking lot is full. At the Waypoint
Café, not only is the parking lot full of cars, but just
outside the patio, many diners have parked their
planes on the tarmac of Camarillo Airport. Hailed as
a local secret, the Waypoint Café offers a unique dining experience.
Taking in lunch on the patio may mean taking a break in the
conversation to watch a helicopter take off or a plane taxi by. The
best advice: don’t leave without trying a shake. Recently, a small
park celebrating the airport opened just outside the restaurant.
The Viewport is opened during the business hours of the Café and
features smaller versions of the runway, taxiways and control tower
of Camarillo airport. It’s a great place to wait for a table. 325 Durley
Ave., Camarillo, 805-388-2535, www.thewaypointcafe.com (café),
www.kcmapark.org (Viewport)

68

HISTORICAL

b

Commemorative
Air Force Museum

b

California Oil Museum

69

You’ve seen them in movies — warplanes flying
over Europe, engines roaring, engaged in combat. But
it’s a special thrill to see up close the vintage aircraft
from previous world wars and learn the stories of
their fearless pilots. Dedicated to preserving a collection of combat
aircraft, the Commemorative Air Force has built a unique museum
located at the Camarillo Airport. Knowledgeable volunteers will
show you around the World War II museum and answer questions.
Hangars house vintage aircraft and the when CAF hosts its air
shows, you can see the aircraft in action. 455 Aviation Drive,
Camarillo, 805-482-0064, www.cafsocal.com

The California Oil Museum brings to life an integral
part of Ventura County’s history. On permanent
exhibit at the museum are artifacts, photographs
and memorabilia that explore the world of petroleum
technology and history in California. Video programs,
interactive models and computer displays show the workings and
history of the oil and gas industry, while rotating exhibits feature
local art and technology. The museum’s rig building contains an
authentic 1890s drilling rig restored to working order. A faithful
recreation of Union Oil Company’s 1890 corporate headquarters, as
well as a 1930s-era apartment, provide fascinating glimpses into
a bygone era. 1001 E. Main St., Santa Paula, 805-933-0076, www.
oilmuseum.net

70

   
 









 

  


56 2014 Living Here


  



 
 




b

Neptune’s Net

b

Camarillo Ranch House

Situated on land which was a part of the original
Rancho Calleguas — one of the last Mexican land
71
grants — the Camarillo Ranch House was the home
of Adolfo Camarillo. This three-story, 14-room
Victorian Queen Anne-style home was built in 1892
by Adolfo, who has been called “The Last Spanish Don” and wellknown as the benefactor of land for Adolfo Camarillo High School,
the Conejo Grade and the Southern Pacific Railroad through
Camarillo. Today the 4½-acre ranch is available as an impressive
and beautiful setting for weddings and receptions, with docent
conducted tours offered three days a week. 201 Camarillo Ranch
Road, Camarillo, 805-389-8182, www.camarilloranch.org

b

Cemetery Memorial Park

An active cemetery until 1944, when burials within
city limits were no longer permitted, responsibility
for Cemetery Park was assumed by the City of
Ventura and a lush open green space was created.
Located on a grassy hill between Main and Poli
streets in Ventura, this 7-acre park provides the perfect vantage
point from which to enjoy spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean
and the Channel Islands. Some of the more historic features of the
park have been restored, bringing the past back into focus. www.
cityofventura.net/cmp

72

b

Chumash Indian Museum

The Chumash Indian Museum is dedicated to
providing education about the Chumash people
73
through exhibits and events. Guests of the Chumash
Indian Museum can learn about Chumash history in
a variety of interactive ways, including nature hikes
across the museum’s 432-acre property. Across the property,
visitors will encounter wildlife, rock formations and outdoor
exhibits. There also is a gift shop that sells books about the
Chumash Indians, as well as unique gifts like handcrafted jewelry.
The Chumash Indian Museum also serves as an amazing venue for
weddings and parties and has even been the location for numerous
magazine photo shoots. 3290 Lang Ranch Pkwy., Thousand Oaks,
805-492-8076, www.chumashindianmuseum.com

b

County. If you’ve ever wished you could see Lincoln at Gettysburg
or wondered what an Aztec warrior would have looked like, visit
these remarkable figures. 100 E. Main St., Ventura, 805-653-0323,
venturamuseum.org/george-stuart-historical-figures

b

Little Red Schoolhouse

b

Mission San Buenaventura

The Little Red School House, also known as
Santa Clara Elementary School, was built almost a
century ago, and is situated between Santa Paula
and Fillmore on Highway 126. This school is made
up of kindergartners through sixth-graders, with a
total enrollment of approximately 60 students. Here students are
given the unique opportunity to reinforce what they have already
learned with cross-age tutoring, allowing older students to help
younger ones. Because of the small number of students in the
school, teachers are able to devote much more individual time and
attention to each student. While the structure and atmosphere
is charmingly old-fashioned, the education provided is up to the
minute, with students having access to more than a dozen stateof-the-art computer workstations. 20030 E. Telegraph Road, Santa
Paula, 805-525-4573, www.scesd.k12.ca.us

77

Mission San Buenaventura was the ninth and
last California mission founded by Father Junipero
Serra. Established in 1782, it is still an active Catholic
parish. Located in historic downtown Ventura, the
Mission offers a fascinating glimpse into the past,
with beautiful murals and inviting gardens. The Mission San
Buenaventura welcomes visitors daily from sunrise to sunset.
Anyone with an interest in California history will find a visit to the
Mission to be fascinating and illuminating. 211 E. Main St., Ventura,
805-643-4318, www.sanbuenaventuramission.org

78



    
  

Civil War reenactment

Experience the sights and the sounds of the
Civil War as the Rotary Club of Moorpark presents
The Blue and The Grey, the largest Civil War battle
74
reenactment west of the Mississippi. Not only are
there staged battles, but also glimpses of what
life was like during the 1800s with historic figure
impersonations, medical demonstrations and dance performances.
The two-day event takes place in November in Los Alamos Canyon.
www.civilwaralliance.com/CWA/Moorpark1.html

b
b


 



Corriganville Park

Strolling through Corriganville Park in Simi Valley
you can picture the cowboys on horseback lining
the craggy ridges of rock or hear the Indian war
75
hoops. Cowboy actor Crash Corrigan bought this
movie ranch in Simi Valley in 1937 and turned it into
a western-themed amusement park. It was the
setting for hundreds of film and television shows of the 1940s and
’50s. Now the park is operated by the Rancho Simi Recreation and
Park district, with hiking trails, picnic areas, restrooms and lots of
parking. It is a great way to experience the area’s contribution to
the “wild west.” 7001 Smith Road, Simi Valley, 805-584-4400, tinyurl.
com/y8tunt6

76



 

 




George Stuart Historical Figures
at Museum of Ventura County

You don’t have to be a history buff to appreciate
the skill and dedication behind George Stuart’s
¼-scale figures of history’s movers and shakers.
Stuart makes doll-sized representations of historical
figures that are amazing in their detail, authenticity and realism.
He’s made collections of figures including Russian czars, the
American Founding Fathers, British royalty, Native Americans, great
warriors and one collection he calls “Really Awful People.” The
figures are always on rotating display at the Museum of Ventura






   
  
 




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2014 Living Here 57

b

Mount McCoy cross

b

Museum of Ventura County’s
Agriculture Museum

b

Old Town Camarillo

Located on the western end of Simi Valley, Mount
McCoy is a familiar sight — a 1,325 foot peak topped
79
with a white cross. From the top of this mountain,
magnificent views of Simi Valley, the Ronald Reagan
Presidential Library, the Channel Islands, Wood
Ranch and Old Boney Mountain can be enjoyed. The tradition
of this cross is said to date back some 200 years. The first cross
was erected in the 19th century and has been replaced several
times in the ensuing years, most recently in 1941 when the Simi
Valley/Moorpark Lions Club erected the 12-foot-high concrete
cross that still stands. With the aid of the Rancho Simi Trail Blazers,
the cross and mountaintop on which it stands are accessible by a
well-constructed new foot path. Whether viewed from a distance
or nearby, the Mount McCoy Cross is an impressive sight in Simi
Valley. Trailhead is at Los Amigos Avenue and Washburn Street, www.
rsrpd.org/park/mtmccoytrail/mtmccoytrail.html

80

Now open in Santa Paula is the Museum of
Ventura County’s Agricultural Museum. Permanent
exhibits at the museum tell the story of Ventura
County’s farming and ranching tradition. After more
than 40 years of effort and dedication by museum supporters,
the Agricultural Museum is housed in the landmark Mill Building,
across from the train depot in Santa Paula’s historic downtown.
Eight vintage tractors, as well as a rotating display of the museum’s
collection of farm implements are on display. Bring your kids to see
inside a working beehive, climb on a vintage tractor and learn about
how food is grown. 926 Railroad Ave., Santa Paula, 805-525-3100,
www.venturamuseum.org

81

Ventura Boulevard is the stunning St. Mary Magdalene Catholic
Church (www.smmcam.org). Erected in July 1913, the parish was
built by Juan E. Camarillo and his brother Adolfo in honor of their
parents and sister, Magdalena. Of several commissioned bronze
statues found, most notable is that of Adolfo astride his prized
stallion, Sultan, near Dizdar Park, which hosts a small playground
and several picnic tables. In the center of town, men can enjoy a
straight-edge razor shave by master barber Hank Robles at Hank’s
Barber Shop. Henson’s Music Center (www.hensonsmusic.net) has
been a staple for more than 60 years and offers a wide selection
of songbooks, as well as service and sales of instruments. At the
opposite end, Ottavio’s Italian Restaurant (www.ottavio.com)
opened its doors in 1969 and the Belvedere family has been serving
up its family recipes ever since. Events include Camarillo Cruise
Nights in the heart of Old Town on the fourth Friday of each month
(April through September) and a farmers market on Saturday
mornings. Ventura Boulevard, between Carmen Drive and Lewis Road,
www.ci.camarillo.ca.us

b

Olivas Adobe Historical Park

With its motto of “Bringing the Rancho period of
California history to life,” the historic Olivas Adobe
is a fascinating and enlightening local monument.
Tours of the 160-year-old Monterey-style adobe
home, complete with period furnishings, are led by
costumed docents, whose knowledge will help you discover how
our pioneer forefathers lived in old California. The grounds of the
Olivas Adobe feature beautiful rose gardens, a thriving herb garden
and 110-year-old fuchsias. The summer music series presented
annually at Olivas Adobe, Music Under the Stars, brings delightful
music and dancing at night in the Adobe courtyard. Available for
rental for weddings and other parties, Olivas Adobe is a beautifully
preserved piece of California history brought to life. 4200 Olivas
Park Drive, Ventura, 805-658-4728, olivasadobe.org

82

Dotted with antique and boutique stores as
well as wine bars, restaurants and cafes, Old Town
Camarillo is bustling with activity. At one end of

More on 64

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AGOURA HILLS

Vibrant
history

# Schools
Las Virgenes
Unified School
District

• Annual
enrollment:
11,319
• 2013 Academic
Performance
Index: 897
• Elementary
schools: 10
• Middle
schools: 3
• High schools: 3

) Top

Employers
1. Bank of America
2. Las Virgenes
Unified School
District
3. Teradyne
4. IBM
5. Farmers
Financial Solutions
6.Zebra
Technologies
7. Nationwide
Medical
8. Pacific
Compensation
Insurance
9. Wood Ranch
BBQ & Grill
10. THQ

CityFacts
Population: 20,681
Location: 28 miles east of Ventura;
30.2 miles west of Los Angeles
Incorporated: Dec. 8, 1982
Median age: 44.4
Per capita income: $53,050
Median home price: $655,000
Origin of name: The community’s
name was chosen in 1928 to honor an
early landowner named Pierre Agoure,
however, the Postal Service changed
it to Agoura. The town became known
Agoura Hills in 1982.

5 Weather
seasons

high/low
S

S

F

W

H

83˚F

95˚F

76˚F

71˚F

L

49˚F

56˚F

43˚F

41˚F

Agoura Hills is a unique
suburban community
exemplified by a commitment
to the preservation of its
history, quality of life, vibrant
business community and
environmental sensitivity. One
of the city’s first homes, the
Reyes Adobe, is open to the
public and offers a glimpse of
the area’s history. Adjacent
to Highway 101 and nestled
between the Santa Monica
Mountains and Cheseboro
Canyon it offers the comforts
of a small town with access
to major employers and
recreational activities with
easy access to the Santa
Monica Mountains Recreation
Area, Malibu beaches and
state park land where endless
outdoor activities await.

6
1 2
1 1
?
, Arts &

Leisure

Parks

Golf course

Performing
Arts Centers

Movie theater
(8 screens)

Library

Did
you know

The Chumash Native American tribe first
settled the area around Agoura Hills more
than 10,000 years ago. The first Europeans
were Spanish Franciscan missionaries in
the late 18th century along the El Camino
Real. Today, Highway 101 follows a similar
path as the old El Camino Real.





  
 
  



  
  
 




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WESTLAKE VILLAGE

Country
Living

Strategically located 38 miles
west of downtown Los Angeles
and only nine miles from the
Pacific Ocean, Westlake Village
is often referred to as “the
city in the country.” Westlake
Village is known for its safe,
quiet neighborhoods, wide,
tree-lined streets and excellent
quality of life. Residents here
enjoy top notch schools, great
hiking, biking and equestrian
trails, and two beautiful
man-made lakes, all in a
beautiful setting bordering
the Santa Monica Mountains.
Westlake Village is home to
the sparkling lakes, Westlake
and Lake Sherwood, The Four
Seasons Hotel and Westlake
Village Inn, several golf courses
and country clubs, and many
fine dining establishments and
boutique shops.

# Schools
Las Virgenes
Unified School
District

• Annual
enrollment:
11,319
• 2013 Academic
Performance
Index: 897
• Elementary
schools: 10
• Middle
schools: 3
• High schools: 3

) Top

Employers
1. Bank of America
2. Four Seasons
Hotel
3. K-Swiss Inc.
4. Move Inc.
5. Dole Food
Company
6. Farmers
Insurance
7. Westlake
Village Inn
8. Costco
Wholesale Corp.
9. Digital Insight
10. Securitas
Security Service

in the city

CityFacts
Population: 8,417
Location: 25.1 miles east of Ventura;
33.3 miles northwest of Los Angeles
Incorporated: December 11, 1981
Median age: 46.9
Per capita income: $63,844
Median home price: $800,000
Origin of name: Named Westlake
Village as part of the master plan
process.

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seasons

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, Arts &

Leisure

Parks

Golf course

Movie theater
(2 screens)

Library

Did
you know

Westlake Village has had many
notable residents including comedian
Jamie Foxx, NHL Hall of Famer
Wayne Gretzky, Dodgers broadcaster
Vin Scully, actor Will Smith, Angels
manager Mike Scioscia and NFL Hall
of Fame quarterback Joe Montana,
just to name a few.

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2014 Living Here 63

Serra Cross Park & Grant Park

Looking for a great way to spend the day or
impress guests? Consider visiting the Reagan Library.
It features more than 26,000 square feet of stateof-the-art interactive displays opened to the public.
You can act in a movie with Ronald Reagan using green screen
technology, deliver President Reagan’s inaugural address on the
steps of the U.S. Capitol, set the table for a state dinner, discover
President Reagan’s economic policies while playing six interactive
games, read the president’s handwritten diary, ride a horse
alongside President Reagan, and more. Make sure to walk onboard
Air Force One, which flew President Reagan and six other U.S.
presidents. 40 Presidential Drive, Simi Valley, 805-577-4066, www.
reaganfoundation.org

Whether you are a train lover or just looking for a
great family activity, take a look at the Santa Susana
Depot in Simi Valley. The Depot, built in 1903, served
passengers and farmers in Simi Valley for more than
60 years. Now fully restored, you can see both freight
and passenger trains rushing by day and night. Inside is a museum
filled with hundreds of items having both railroad and local
historical significance. People of all ages will enjoy watching model
trains running through a miniature representation of Simi Valley as
it existed in the 1950s. 6503 Katherine Road, Simi Valley, 805-5813462, www.santasusannadepot.org

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64 2014 Living Here

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b
83

Ronald Reagan Presidential
Library and Museum

b

Serra Cross Park and Grant Park

ONE OF A KIND

Venturans know about the serene surroundings
and gorgeous views at the Father Serra Cross. They
also know that if you jog up from the bottom of the
hill, or from the pier, it’s a great workout. It’s also a
favorite spot for weddings. The Cross is a part of
life in Ventura, a symbol of the town’s history. The original cross
was erected shortly after the founding of the mission. Since then,
it has been replaced several times; this iteration was erected in
1941. The Cross was part of surrounding Grant Park, but has been
purchased by a private organization to protect it from federal
restrictions on religious symbols on public land. Set in the foothills
behind Ventura’s City Hall at Grant Park, the Ventura Botanical
Gardens collection consists of more than 160 species that are
predominantly from the Mediterranean climate regions of the
world, mixed with a few more exotic sub-tropical species. Near
Ferro Drive and Brakey Road, Ventura, 648-3008, serracrosspark.com
(cross), www.venturabotanicalgardens.com (botanical gardens)

b

Bart’s Books

Local book lovers, who are looking for more
than just a good book, flock to Bart’s Books in Ojai.
Bart’s is one of the largest independently owned
and operated outdoor bookstores in the country. If
you are out for a stroll in Ojai, you’ll recognize Bart’s
charming location just bursting with character at Matilija and
Canada streets. Hearkening back to days gone by, many of the
books in the outside area are for sale on the honor system. Bart’s
carries a huge selection of books, from 35-cent specials to rare,
out-of-print and first editions and art books. 302 W. Matilija St., Ojai,
805-646-3755, www.bartsbooksojai.com

b

Stagecoach Inn Museum

b

Bennett’s Honey Farm

b

Strathearn Historical Park
and Museum

b

U.S. Navy Seabee Museum

85

The Stagecoach Inn Museum in Newbury Park
is an interesting museum to visit. Originally built as
86
a “pleasure resort” by Santa Barbara businessman
James Hammell, the former Grand Union Hotel had
two stories, a wraparound porch and a balcony. After
going through several name changes, it became
the Stagecoach Inn, with a glorious past that included stints as
a military school, tearoom, gift shop, restaurant, post office and
1930s film location. After saving the building from demolition in
the 1960s, the Conejo Valley Historical Society had it declared a
California Landmark. It has recently opened a blacksmith shop. The
Stagecoach Inn Museum is open Wednesdays through Sundays,
from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. 51 S. Ventu Park Road, Newbury Park, 805498-9441, www.stagecoachmuseum.org

87

The history of Simi Valley is beautifully
maintained in this collection of buildings from the
city’s early days. Docent-led tours allow visitors to
see the original partial-adobe home of early Simi
resident Robert P. Strathearn and his family, with furniture and
accessories typical of the 1800s. Other original structures have
been moved to the park, including the 1902 St. Rose of Lima
Church, a pitting shed, Colony House, barber shop and more. The
site also is available to the public for weddings and has a photofriendly gazebo on premises. 137 Strathearn Place, Simi Valley, 805526-6453, www.simihistory.com

Representing the second oldest of official Navy
museums, the U.S. Navy Seabee Museum at Naval
88
Base Ventura County works to meticulously preserve
and expand its collections of authentic materials
and media. Proudly honoring the history of the Naval
Construction Force, better known as Seabees, and the U.S. Navy
Civil Engineer Corps, materials on display relate directly to the
history of these military fleets through a comprehensive collection
that includes documents, exhibits and media. Established in 1974,
the museum has been expanded and updated with state-of-theart appointments to ensure the preservation of historical roots
dating to the Civil War. Admission and parking is free. 1001 Addor
St., Port Hueneme, 805-982-5167, www.history.navy.mil/museums/
seabee_museum.htm

89

At Bennett’s Honey Farm in Fillmore, organic and
kosher-certified honey is produced, packaged and
distributed in Ventura County — home of the best
sage and wildflower fields in California. Visit the
on-site honey tasting room to sample the delicious
honey with flavors ranging from sage, avocado and orange to
cactus and eucalyptus. Bennett’s offers a full range of honeyrelated products, including honeycomb, bee pollen, royal jelly and
honey barbecue sauce, as well as beeswax candles in many fun
shapes and sizes. 3176 Honey Lane, Fillmore, 805-521-1375, www.
bennetthoney.com

90

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2014 Living Here 65

Meditation Mount

b
91

Rehab Point Path
at Oxnard State Beach

Rehab Point is a unique, wheelchair-accessible
concrete path that leads to the ocean. In 1992, World
War II veteran Ed Hunt saw a need for wheelchair
users to have up-close, pathway access to one of
the most beautiful sights in nature — the ocean. As a wheelchair
user himself, he realized that such a path didn’t exist. Working with
the City of Oxnard and locals, funds were raised to create the path
that stands today — a looping path in the dunes of Oxnard Beach
Park, spanning four feet in width that allows wheelchair users easy
navigation and the opportunity to see the ocean. 1601 Harbor Blvd.,
Oxnard, 805-385-7995

b

Gardens of the World

Gardens of the World is a cultural landmark that
has themed gardens, including Japanese, French,
English, Mission and Bandstand, an authentic
recreation of an American bandstand. Choose from
a docent-led tour or a self-guided one. Gardens
of the World also hosts special events such as art exhibits and
bonsai demonstrations and free concerts during the summer.
2001 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks, 805-557-1135, www.
gardensoftheworld.info

92

b
93

‘Grandma’ Prisbrey’s
Bottle Village

From 1956 to 1981, Tressa “Grandma” Prisbrey
transformed her rural one-third-acre lot in Simi
Valley into a whimsical wonderland fashioned
from bottles and other found items gleaned in her
regular excursions to the dump. Piece by piece, Grandma Prisbrey
constructed an assemblage of shrines, wishing wells and mosaic
walkways, using discarded bottles, doll heads and car parts,
all arranged in imaginative designs. Sadly, the 1994 Northridge
earthquake caused considerable damage to it. Today, the Preserve
Bottle Village Committee, a nonprofit organization, works to restore
this privately owned historic property. Tours of Bottle Village are
scheduled regularly. 4595 Cochran St., Simi Valley, 805-584-3432,
www.bottlevillage.com

b

La Jenelle: Shipwreck turned pier

In 1970, just off the coast of Port Hueneme, La
Jenelle — a once-proud, luxury ocean liner — crashed
on the shore after being washed from a nearby port
during a storm. The broken and abandoned 467-foot
liner became quite the attraction for beachgoers
and surfers, and still attracts attention to this day, though now

94

66 2014 Living Here

it now has been repurposed and filled in with rocks and sand.
The transformation began in 1972 when Ventura County officials
purchased the wreckage and used it as the foundation for what
is now a pier located at the south end of Silver Strand Beach.
South end of Silver Strand Beach, www.cawreckdivers.org/Wrecks/
La%20Janell.htm

b

Meditation Mount

b

Santa statue off Highway 101

b

The Rudder Room

Meditation Mount is a sacred site on 32 acres at
the east end of the Ojai Valley. A place of incredible
peace and serenity, it offers stunning views of
the Ojai Valley in an atmosphere of near-perfect
tranquility. Comprised of several buildings set
among extensive gardens, Meditation Mount offers
an auditorium for larger gatherings, a meditation room, which
is always open, as well as a reading library and a cozy visitor’s
lounge for relaxing. Meditation Mount offers many educational and
spiritual opportunities, such as classes in yoga, meditation and
other spiritual studies and a monthly full moon meditation. 10340
Reeves Road, Ojai, 805-646-5580, meditationmount.org

95

Drivers headed up Highway 101 may notice a
strange sight while passing by in Oxnard — a 22-foottall Santa Claus stands alongside the road, smiling at
commuters year round. Oxnard resident Mike Barber
saved Santa from a landfill in 2003 when he wore
out his welcome decades after his installation off Highway 101
near Carpinteria. Barber found a home for Santa on land owned by
a small water company he runs. He launched a toy drive for local
schoolchildren and employs Santa as a mascot for a charitable
half-marathon called Santa to the Sea. Santa is joined by two toy
soldiers and a snowman, and Barber constructed a reindeer out of
donated rebar and steel in recent years. Highway 101, just south of
the Rice Avenue offramp, Oxnard

96

Great beach bars are usually one-of-a-kind.
The Rudder Room, located directly on the beach
in Oxnard, is a longtime favorite bar and hangout
of locals and visitors alike. Drop by to enjoy its
competitively priced drinks and fun atmosphere.
Hang out on the beautiful beach outside the bar and join in on a
game of volleyball. Feeling mellow? Relax on the beach, sitting
in an Adirondack chair while sipping a cocktail and enjoying the
amazing sunsets. People are friendly and it’s a great way to spend
a few hours on a hot day. Inside, there are pool tables, darts and
sports on the televisions. 2929 Ocean Drive, Suite A, Oxnard, 805985-6096

97

SHOPPING

b

Camarillo Premium Outlets

Camarillo Premium Outlets is a shopping
experience not to be forgotten. With 160 outlet stores
ranging from “A” (Adidas) to “Z” (Zumiez), Camarillo
Premium Outlets encompasses designer fashions,
shoes, luggage and fine leather goods, accessories,
jewelry, housewares and home furnishings — with Michael Kors,
Nike and Coach as just a sampling of the stores found there. For
kids, Disney Store, Gymboree and Osh Kosh B’Gosh are a few of the
outlets available. When you’ve shopped ’til you dropped, its time
to take a breather, there are 12 restaurants ready for you to rest
and refuel, such as Dairy Queen Grill and Chill, Johnny Rockets and
Los Arroyos Mexican Restaurant. Then it’s back to shopping. 740 E.
Ventura Blvd., Camarillo, 805-445-8520, www.premiumoutlets.com

98

b

Somis Nut House

Being a family-owned and operated business
for more than 50 years, the Somis Nut House is
a one-stop shop for nuts, candies, dried fruit and
much more. Though its exterior may not seem like
much, once inside, visitors find many a nutty good
treasure. The owners tend to keep things a bit more old-fashioned,
occasionally dealing with an online order here and there. When
it comes to dealing with customers and running the business, it’s
good old customer service. If you ever find yourself driving along
Los Angeles Avenue, hungry and looking for a snack, head on down
to the Somis Nut House. You’re sure to find something that will
curb your appetite. 4475 Los Angeles Ave., Somis, 805-386-1211,
800-266-6887, www.somisnuthouse.com

99

Somis Nut House

b

The Collection at RiverPark

It’s one of the newest, outdoor shopping centers
around and The Collection at RiverPark in Oxnard is
a sight to behold. Besides being home to retailers like
REI and Target, The Collection boasts a 16-screen
movie theater showing the latest films in all-stadium
seating. The Collection has more than 35 retailers including White
House/Black Market, Jos A. Bank, Ulta Beauty, Chico’s and Soma
Intimates. The Collection also is a great destination for dining,
with the recent openings of Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill and
the Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar joining Famous Dave’s BBQ, Yard
House and Kabuki Japanese Restaurant, among others. Visitors
should take a break between stores to check out the public art,
commissioned from world-famous artists on display around The
Collection. 2751 Park View Court, Oxnard, 805-278-9500, www.
thecollectionrp.com

100

  
 
 


 


 
 
 
 
 

   

  

     


 




2014 Living Here 67

It’s a
little bit
different

But we all
get along

‘Grandma’ Prisbrey’s Bottle Village in Simi Valley

Ventura County is filled with
historical landmarks as well as
bustling modern amenities, a true
geographical paradox in a state
that is generally known for its
stereotypes.
While this gem of a county in
scenic Southern California indeed
has an abundance of that which
the rest of the country sees as
typical — sunshine, orange trees
and at least a few laid-back
residents — Ventura County is a
study in contrast.
For instance, there’s a vast
difference in aesthetics, features
and architecture from one city
to the next. At the west end
of Ventura County, there are
harbors, beaches and a naval
base, and at the east end,
bordering Los Angeles County,
Simi Valley has its close-knit
suburban neighborhoods and
an abundance of stores and
restaurants. In between, there
are the thriving agricultural fields
of Somis and Saticoy, as well
as horse, citrus and avocado
ranches in Moorpark. The Civic
Arts Plaza rests on the former site
Mission San Buenaventura in Ventura
of Jungleland in Thousand Oaks.
There is an airport and aviation
museum in Camarillo, and oil,
art and agriculture museums in
of unique and interesting residents that
Santa Paula. Newbury Park’s Stagecoach
make up Ventura County’s contrasting
Inn offers a glimpse into the county’s
demographics.
history, and the eclectic galleries and
boutiques in artist-friendly Ojai are perfect
Driving down Highways 118, 23, 33 and
for perusing.
101, there are a mix of pickup trucks, SUVs,
compact cars and luxury vehicles. The
These many fine examples of Ventura
same assortment of automobiles will be
County’s attractions are enhanced by the
parked adjacent to one another at the many
diversity of the people who live and work in
restaurants — from dives to family-style
the community. Republicans, Democrats,
dining to fine cuisine — throughout Ventura
independents, hippies, yuppies, surfers,
County.
small business-owners, blue collar and
white collar workers, students, senior
What is it that makes Ventura County,
citizens, transplants from the East Coast
an area of just 1,845 square miles — not
and descendants of pioneer families — each
including the water — so enticing to such a
individual is a part of the colorful patchwork
divergent population?

68 2014 Living Here

Part of the answer could be
its temperate weather. While it
can be very hot during summer
months in Ventura County cities
that aren’t in close proximity to
the ocean, the county’s average
temperature is approximately 74
degrees, with about 273 sunny
days per year. When much of the
rest of the country is suffering
through winter and early spring
snowstorms, that fabulous
Ventura County weather is a
welcome respite for visitors and a
never-ending asset for those who
live here.
The climate also makes
it conducive to participate in
numerous year-round outdoor
activities. With camping areas
such as Lake Casitas, Lake Piru,
McGrath State Beach, Emma
Wood State Beach and Point
Mugu State Park and beaches,
outdoor enthusiasts can play hard
or take it easy with family and
friends.
Neighborhood parks abound
as well, along with hiking and
biking trails, greenbelts and public
pools in a wide assortment of
Ventura County’s communities.
The attractiveness of Ventura
County also is found in its many
types of homes, which include rambling
1960s ranches, classic Craftsmen, beach
houses, Mediterranean-style estates,
colonials, cliff-side and mountain-top
dwellings, and even a neighborhood
of mid-century modern Eichlers.
But what brings all these incredible
elements of Ventura County together is
that residents from all walks of life can say
that living here offers an incomparable,
unparalleled and uniquely California
experience.
— Wendy Dager

Dining Guide

Among the local
restaurants listed here are
many that were voted a
winner or favorite in the
2014 Ventura County Star’s
annual Readers’ Choice.

Agoura Hills
Bakery
Carrara Pastries, 28914 Roadside Drive, Suite 107, 818-661-9006,
www.carrarapastries.us

Barbecue
Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill, 5050 Cornell Road, 818-597-8900,
www.woodranch.com

Deli
Italia Deli & Bakery, 5657 Kanan Road, 818-991-4838, Italiadeli.
com

Hamburger
The Habit Burger Grill, 29145 Canwood St., Suite A-1, 818-7077300, Habitburger.com

Health Food
Hugo’s, 5046 Cornell Road, 818-707-0300, hugosrestaurant.com
Urbane Café, 29145 Canwood St., Unit A-2, 818-597-9000,
urbanecafe.com

Pizza
Ameci Pizza & Pasta, 30651 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Suite E, 818889-7722, www.amecipizzaandpasta.com

Steak House
Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, 29020 Agoura Road, 818-292-5111,
primesteakvc.com

Thai Food
Exotic Thai Cafe, 29045 Agoura Road, Suite B, 818-991-8147,
Exoticthairestaurant.com

C amarillo
Bakery
Bread Basket Cake Company, 83 E. Daily Drive, 805-482-1337,
Breadbasketcake.com

Barbecue
Bandits Grill & Bar, 1980 Ventura Blvd., 805-445-4742, www.
banditsBBQ.com
Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill, 1101 E. Daily Drive, 805-482-1202, www.
woodranch.com

Breakfast
Eggs ‘N’ Things, 92 E. Daily Drive, 805-987-4497, www.
eggsnthings.net

Eggs ‘N’ Things
Deli
Lombardo’s Gourmet Deli, 695 Mobil Ave., 805-482-7318
Old New York Bagel & Deli Company, 4972 Verdugo Way, 805383-0772, Oldnewyork.com

Hamburger

Business Lunch

Burger Barn, 5000 Santa Rosa Road, 805-482-5536
The Habit Burger Grill, 1855 E. Daily Drive, Suite A, 805-484-2950,
Habitburger.com

Safire American Bistro, 4850 Santa Rosa Road, 805-389-1227,
www.safirebistro.com

Health Food
Urbane Café, 1855 E. Daily Drive, 805-482-5747, urbanecafe.com

Chinese Food

Ice Cream/Yogurt Shop

Chester’s Asia Restaurant, 2216 Pickwick Drive, 805-482-6564,
Chestersasia.com
Peking Inn Restaurant, 330 N. Lantana St., Suite 31, 805-9878188

Surf ’N Yogurt, 5233 Mission Oaks Blvd., 805-419-4960,
surfnyogurt.com
Wild Cherry, 2112 E. Ponderosa Drive, 805-987-4200

Coffee House
Element Coffee, 2364 Ventura Blvd., 805-482-0036, www.
elementcoffeelounge.com

Indian Food
Cafe India, 1775 E. Daily Drive, Suite A, 805-987-8537,
Thecafeindia.com
Curry Leaf, 5253 Mission Oaks Blvd., 805-482-8880

2014 Living Here 69

Italian Food

Take Out

Verona Trattoria, 2485 Ventura Blvd., 805-383-7576, www.
veronatrattoria95.com
Ottavio’s Italian Restaurant, 1620 Ventura Blvd., 805-4823810, Ottavio.com

Mexican Food
Money Pancho Mexican Restaurant, 3661 Las Posas Road, Suite
165, 805-484-0591
Olas Mex Grill, 1860 Ventura Blvd., 805-484-5566, Olasmexgrill.
com
Yolanda’s Mexican Café, 86 E. Daily Drive, 805-389-9922,
Yolandasmexicancafe.com

Pizza
Ameci Pizza & Pasta, 2390 Las Posas Road, Suite E, 805-4823031, www.amecipizzaandpasta.com
D’amore’s Pizza, 300 N. Lantana St., 805-445-6534,
Damoresfamouspizza.com
Tony’s New York Pizzeria, 31 Lewis Road, 805-445-4400,
Tonysnypizzeria.com
Topper’s Pizza Place, 520 Arneill Road, 805-385-4444,
Topperspizzaplace.com
Valentino’s Take-N-Bake Pizza & Deli, 562 Las Posas Road, 805482-7777, valentinosgourmet.com

Seafood
Lure Fish House, 259 W. Ventura Blvd., 805-388-5556,
Lurefishhouse.com

Steak House
Aloha Steakhouse, 5800 Santa Rosa Road, 805-652-1799, www.
alohasteakhouse.com

Presto Pasta, 1701 E. Daily Drive, 805-445-7737, Prestopasta.com

Thai Food
A Good Thai & Peruvian Restaurant, 5021 Verdugo Way, 805384-0965
Charn Thai Restaurant, 65 E. Daily Drive, 805-388-1138, Charnthai.com
Little Thai Restaurant, 2500 Las Posas Road, 805-445-1365,
Littlethaifinedining.com

Fillmore
Greek Food
Yanni’s Best, 736 W. Ventura St., 805-524-1501

Pizza
Ameci Pizza & Pasta, 151 Ventura St., 805-524-3500, www.
amecipizzaandpasta.com

Seafood
El Pescador, 1305 W. Ventura St., 805-524-9999, www.
elpescadorinfillmore.com

Malibu
Pizza
D’amore’s Pizza, 29169 Heathercliff Road, 310-457-2838,
Damoresfamouspizza.com
D’amore’s Pizza, 22601 Pacific Coast Hwy, 310-317-4500,
Damoresfamouspizza.com

M o o r pa r k

Sushi
Masa Sushi, 63 E. Daily Drive, 805-987-1065
Sushi Planet, 2001 Ventura Blvd., 805-383-7666, sushiplanetusa.
com

Bakery
Carrara Pastries, 476 W. Los Angeles Ave., Suite A-13, 805-5524250, www.carrarapastries.us

Barbecue
Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill, 540 New Los Angeles Ave., 805-5237253, www.woodranch.com

Breakfast
Michael’s D’s Cafe and Catering, 540 New Los Angeles Ave.,
805-523-7253, www.woodranch.com

 




 






 


 
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Happy Hour
Corrigan’s Irish Pub, 75 E. High St., 805-532-1500

Health Food
Natural Cafe, 840 New Los Angeles Ave., Suite A-2, 805-5232016, thenaturalcafe.com

Italian Food
Viva La Pasta, 252 W. Los Angeles Ave., 805-529-1100,
Vivalapastamoorpark.com

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Romantic Dining

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Cafe Firenze, 563 W. Los Angeles Ave., 805-532-0048,
Cafefirenze.net

Sushi

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Sushi Planet, 537 New Los Angeles Ave., 805-523-2954,
sushiplanetusa.com

N e w b u ry Pa r k
Bakery
Great Harvest Bread, 2092 Newbury Road, Suite H, 805-376-0111,
Realgoodbread.com

Barbecue
Billy D’z Backyard BBQ, 765 N. Wendy Drive, 805-498-7772,
BillydzBBQ.com

Breakfast

Barbecue

Side Street Cafe, 996 Lawrence Drive, Suite 103, 805-499-9323,
Sidestreetcafenp.com

CJ’s BBQ, 480 S. Victoria Ave., 805-815-3024, CjsBBQ.com
Famous Dave’s, 2770 Seaglass Way, 805-485-4227, www.
famousdaves.com

Chinese Food
Sesame Inn, 3327 Kimber Drive, Suite E, 805-499-2800,
sesameinn.wix.com/np

Breakfast
Mrs. Olson’s Coffee Hut, 117 Los Altos St., 805-985-9151

Deli

Deli

Old New York Bagel & Deli Company, 2700 Teller Road, Suite A,
805-375-3354, Oldnewyork.com
Pickles Deli & Restaurant, 1940 Newbury Road, 805-480-4800

Gandolfo’s New York Deli, 2729 Seaglass Way, 805-485-6969,
www.gandolfosdeli.com

Greek Food

Greek Food

Ali Baba’s Café, 2110 Newbury Road, 805-480-0324, www.
alibabarestaurant.com

Fresco II, 1651 S. Victoria Ave., 805-985-4700, www.
fresco2restaurant.com
It’s Greek To Me, 2661 Saviers Road, 805-487-4242

Hamburger

Hamburger

The Habit Burger Grill, 1025 Broadbeck Drive, 805-375-9227,
Habitburger.com

Hook Burger Bistro, 1811 N. Rose Ave., 805-981-8636, Hookburger.
com
The Habit Burger Grill, 2350 Vineyard Drive, 805-981-9919,
Habitburger.com

Health Food
Natural Cafe, 1714 Newbury Road, 805-498-0493, thenaturalcafe.
com

Indian Food
Saffron Indian Cuisine, 579 N. Ventu Park Road, 805-499-7115,
Saffronnp.com

Italian Food
Gino’s Bistro, 1620 Newbury Road, 805-498-3188, ginosbistro.
com

Mexican Food
Alamo Bar & Grill, 2311 Borchard Road, 805-498-3115, www.
thealamogrill.com

Pizza
Ameci Pizza & Pasta, 1560 Newbury Road, Suite 3, 805-4998300, www.amecipizzaandpasta.com
Tony’s New York Pizza, 3333 Kimber Drive, Suite A, 805-4990365

Health Food
Urbane Café, 1750 E. Gonzales Road, 805-485-4200, urbanecafe.
com

Hot Dog
Oh My Gosh Hot Dogs (mobile), 805-443-0602, www.
ohmygoshhotdogs.com

Italian Food
Dominick’s Italian Restaurant, 477 N. Oxnard Blvd., 805-4837933, Dominicksoxnard.com

Mexican Food
Yolanda’s Mexican Café, 1601 Victoria Ave., Suite 190, 805985-1340, Yolandasmexicancafe.com

Steak House


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Holdren’s Steaks & Seafood, 1714 Newbury Road, 805-498-1314,
Holdrens.com

Sushi
Sumo Newbury Park, 1714 Newbury Road, Suite C, 805-499-9977,
www.octopusrestaurant.com/newbury
Tomodachi Restaurant, 771 N. Wendy Drive, 805-499-8889

Take Out
Presto Pasta, 1025 Broadbeck Drive, 805-498-7737, Prestopasta.
com

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Greek Food
Nico’s Cafe, 706 Lindero Canyon Road, 818-889-2068, www.
nicoscafe.com

Ojai

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Thai Food

American Food
Lazy Dog Cafe, 598 Town Center Drive, 805-351-4888, www.
lazydogrestaurants.com

Bakery
Panaderia Lupita, 2631 E. Vineyard Ave., 805-988-9212
Yankee Doodle Bakery, 2035 N. Oxnard Blvd., 805-485-7179

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Exotic Thai Cafe, 849 E. Ojai Ave., 805-646-6618,
Exoticthairestaurant.com

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2014 Living Here 71

Yolanda’s Mexican Café in Oxnard’s Seabridge Marketplace
Pizza
Ameci Pizza & Pasta, 1941 N. Rose Ave., 805-981-1400, www.
amecipizzaandpasta.com
Ameci Pizza & Pasta, 1929 Patterson Road, 805-382-8888, www.
amecipizzaandpasta.com
Topper’s Pizza Place, 111 E. Gonzales Road, 805-385-4444,
Topperspizzaplace.com
Topper’s Pizza Place, 2100 S. Saviers Road, 805-385-4444,
Topperspizzaplace.com
Topper’s Pizza Place, 2701 Peninsula Road, 805-385-4444,
Topperspizzaplace.com

S a n ta Pa u l a
Barbecue
Laird’s Butcher Shop & BBQ, 574 W. Main St., 805-525-3517,
www.lairdsbutchershop.com

Ice Cream/Yogurt Shop
Surf ’N Yogurt, 550 A W. Main St., 805-933-5092, surfnyogurt.
com

Sushi

Pizza

Anaba, 1171 S. Victoria Ave., 805-382-1230

Ameci Pizza & Pasta, 125 E. Harvard Blvd., Suite D, 805-933-5544,
www.amecipizzaandpasta.com

Port Hueneme
Chinese Food
Chinese Dumpling House, 575 W. Channel Islands Blvd., 805985-4849, www.chinesedumplinghouse.com

Italian Food
Rico’s Italian Villa, 233 E. Channel Islands Blvd., 805-9843962, www.ricositalianvilla.com

Pizza
Valentino’s Take-n-Bake Pizza & Deli, 707 W. Channel Islands
Blvd., 805-985-2333, valentinosgourmet.com

Thai Food
Blue Elephant Thai Cuisine, 718 W. Channel Islands Blvd., 805382-9717

72 2014 Living Here

S i m i Va l l e y
Bakery
Skiff’s Cakes, 4332 Cochran St., 805-582-4882, Skiffscakes.com

Barbecue
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, 2902 Tapo Canyon Road, 805-577-7675,
www.dickeys.com
Famous Dave’s, 1229 Simi Town Center Way, 805-522-7227, www.
famousdaves.com
Red’s BBQ & Grillery, 3090 Cochran St., 805-581-9076,
RedsBBQsimi.com

Breakfast

Romantic Dining
Barton’s Steak & Seafood, 1627 E. Los Angeles Ave., 805-9559997, Bartonssteakandseafood.com

Eggs ‘N’ Things, 2955 Cochran St., 805-527-0055, www.
eggsnthings.net

Seafood

Harold’s Restaurant, 2521 Sycamore Drive, 805-526-5016,
Eatatharolds.com
The Egg House, 1470 E. Los Angeles Ave., 805-526-3305,
Theegghouse.net

Market Broiler, 1161 Simi Town Center Way, 805-210-7640,
Marketbroiler.com

Steak House

Chinese Food
Szechuwan Garden Restaurant, 1407 E. Los Angeles Ave., Suite E,
805-577-1009

Coffee House

Larsen’s Steakhouse, 1555 Simi Town Center Drive, 805-5224800, Larsenssteakhouse.com

Take Out
Green Acres Farm Market and Catering, 2918 E. Los Angeles Ave.,
805-526-1312, Simigreenacres.com

Dr. Conkey’s Candy & Coffee Company, 2804 Cochran St., 805522-4525, www.facebook.com/drconkeys

Thai Food

Greek Food
Greek House Cafe, 2375 Sycamore Drive, Suite 5, 805-955-9899,
Greekhousecafe.com

Hamburger

Exotic Thai Bistro, 1555 Simi Town Center Way, Suite 770, 805306-1255, ethaibistro.com
Sawasdee Thai Food, 1960 Sequoia Ave., Suite 7, 805-581-5526,
Sawasdeethaifood.com

T h o u s a n d Oa k s

The Habit Burger Grill, 2091 Madera Road, 805-584-9007,
Habitburger.com
The Habit Burger Grill, 2906 Tapo Canyon Road, 805-527-4500,
Habitburger.com

American Food

Health Food
Urbane Café, 2091 Madera Road, 805-577-1000, urbanecafe.com

Hot Dog

Lazy Dog Cafe, 172 W. Hillcrest Drive, 805-449-5206, www.
lazydogrestaurants.com

Bakery
Nothing Bundt Cakes, 1610 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Suite D, 805446-3082, www.nothingbundtcakes.com

Cupid’s Hot Dogs, 2585 Cochran St., Suite G, 805-581-0902,
www.cupidshotdogs.net

Barbecue

Indian Food
Ali Baba Café, 1464 Madera Road, 805-526-8400, babacafe.com
Indian Haweli, 1750 E. Los Angeles Ave., Suite G, 805-520-1236,
Indianhaweli.net

Italian Food

Bandits Grill & Bar, 589 N. Moorpark Road, 805-497-7427, www.
banditsBBQ.com
Famous Dave’s, 3980 Thousand Oaks Blvd., 805-497-0227, www.
famousdaves.com

Breakfast

Viva La Pasta, 525 Country Club Drive, Suite A, 805-522-4249,
Vivalapastasimivalley.com

Eggs ‘N’ Things, 1542 Moorpark Road, 805-497-1711, www.
eggsnthings.net

Mexican Food
Don Cuco Mexican Restaurant, 3991 Cochran St., 805-523-2261,
www.doncucorestaurants.com
Yolanda’s Mexican Café, 590 E. Los Angeles Ave., 805-3069933, Yolandasmexicancafe.com

Harold’s Restaurant, 2440 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., 805-2303147, eatatharolds.com

Business Lunch
The Grill On The Alley, 120 E. Promenade Way, 805-418-1760,
thegrill.com

Pizza

Chinese Food

Ameci Pizza & Pasta, 2780 Tapo Canyon Road, Suite B3, 805581-9770 www.amecipizzaandpasta.com
Chi Chi’s Pizza, 5145 E. Los Angeles Ave., Suite 3, 805-526-3393,
www.chichispizza.com
The East Coast Pizza Company, 2667 Tapo Canyon Road, Unit F,
805-520-3500, Theeastcoastpizzacompany.com
Topper’s Pizza Place, 2408 Erringer Road, 805-495-4444,
Topperspizzaplace.com

Imperial Garden, 355 W. Avenida De Los Arboles, Suite C, 805493-2020, www.imperialgardenthousandoaks.com

Coffee House
Just Coffee, 3297 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., 805-777-7422

Deli
Rhineland Deli, 2346 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., 805-496-2045

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2014 Living Here 73

Chicken piccata at Ottavio’s Italian Restaurant in Camarillo
Hamburger
Smashburger, 650 N. Moorpark Road, 805-409-3792,
Smashburger.com
The Habit Burger Grill, 11 E. Hillcrest Drive, 805-494-1124,
Habitburger.com

Health Food
Natural Cafe, 968 Westlake Blvd., Unit 12, 805-449-0099,
thenaturalcafe.com

Hot Dog
Dayne’s Chicago Beef and Dawgs, 2951 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd.,
805-371-8889, www.dayneschicagobeef.com
Lucky’s Dog House, 215 N. Moorpark Road, 805-449-1745

Indian Food
Karma Indian Cuisine, 173 N. Moorpark Road, Suite E, 805-2302255, Karmathousandoaks.com

Mexican Food
Cisco’s Mexican Restaurant, 1712 E. Avenida De Los Arboles, 805493-0533, Ciscos.biz
Cisco’s Mexican Restaurant, 925 S. Westlake Blvd., 805-778-1191,
Ciscos.biz
Lupe’s Mexican Restaurant, 1710 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., 805495-3573, Lupesmexicanrestaurantmenu.info

Pizza
Ameci Pizza & Pasta, 1724 E. Avenida De Los Arboles, 805-4932914, www.amecipizzaandpasta.com
D’amore’s Pizza, 2869 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., 805-496-0030,
Damoresfamouspizza.com
Topper’s Pizza Place, 1416 N. Moorpark Road, 805-495-4444,
Topperspizzaplace.com

Romantic Dining
Mastro’s Steak House, 2087 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., 805-4181811, www.mastrosrestaurants.com

Seafood
Pacific Fresh Seafood Grill, 2060 E. Avenida De Los Arboles,
Suite E, 805-493-0104, Pacific-fresh-seafood.50webs.com

Sushi
Bada Sushi, 105 Brazil St., 805-557-0527
Cho Cho San Restaurant, 400 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., 805-3799300, Chochosan.com
Kanda Sushi, 3637 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., 805-230-0101, www.
kandasushito.com
Sushi Planet, 951 S. Westlake Blvd., Suite 114, 805-379-9844,
sushiplanetusa.com

Thai Food
Exotic Thai Cafe, 2705 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., 805 373 9231,
Exoticthairestaurant.com
White Elephant Thai Cuisine, 668 N. Moorpark Road, 805-4968999, Whiteelephantthaicuisine-com1.webs.com

74 2014 Living Here

Ventura
Bakery
Royal Bakery, 4726 Telephone Road, 805-658-6030
The Sugar Lab, 2745 Sherwin Ave., Suite 2, 805-765-4292, www.
thesugarlab.net

Barbecue
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, 6100 Telegraph Road, 805-212-4240,
www.dickeys.com
Just BBQ, 2950 Johnson Drive, Suite 133, 805-654-1221
Marshall’s Bodacious BBQ, 6353 Ventura Blvd., Suite 18, 805650-0650, MarshallsbodaciousBBQ.com
Santa Barbara Chicken Ranch, 4020 E. Main St., Suite E10,
805-658-8582, sbchickenranch.com
Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill, 3449 E. Main St., 805-620-4500, www.
woodranch.com

Breakfast
Allison’s Country Cafe, 3429 Telegraph Road, 805-650-1766,
www.allisonscountrycafe.com
Cafe Nouveau, 1497 E. Thompson Blvd., 805-648-1422,
Cafenouveau.net
Eggs ‘N’ Things, 4020 E. Main St., 805-642-3190, www.
eggsnthings.net
Pete’s Breakfast House, 2055 E. Main St., 805-648-1130,
Petesbreakfasthouse.com

Brewery
Poseidon Brewing Company, 5777 Olivas Park Dr., Unit Q, 805477-0239, www.poseidonbrewingco.com

Chinese Food
Golden China Restaurant, 760 S. Seaward Ave., 805-652-0688,
goldenchinaventura.com
Hong Kong Inn, 435 E. Thompson Blvd., 805-648-3161, www.
hongkonginnchinese.com
Peking Chinese Restaurant, 5960 Telegraph Road, 805-6447777, pekingventura.com

Coffee House
Palermo, 321 E. Main St., 805-643-3070, www.palermoventura.
com
Simone’s Coffee & Tea, 7818 Telegraph Road, 805-659-0860,
www.simonescoffee.com

Deli
Danny’s Deli & Grill, 3263 Telegraph Road, 805-289-9200,
Dannysdeli.com
Gandolfo’s New York Deli, 1708 S. Victoria Ave., Suite D, 805650-6969, www.gandolfosdeli.com

Greek Food

Steak House

Stephen’s Market & Grill, 2632 E. Main St., 805-648-4200
The Greek At The Harbor, 1583 Spinnaker Drive, Suite 101, 805650-5350, greekattheharbor.com

Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, 2009 E. Thompson Blvd., 805652-1055, primesteakvc.com
Winchesters Grill & Saloon, 632 E. Main St., 805-653-7446,
winchestersgrill.com

Hamburger
The Habit Burger Grill, 487 E. Thompson Blvd., 805-667-2065,
Habitburger.com
The Habit Burger Grill, 4732 Telephone Road, 805-676-1717,
Habitburger.com

Health Food
Mary’s Secret Garden, 100 S. Fir St., 805-641-3663,
Maryssecretgarden.com
Nature’s Grill & Juice Bar, 566 E. Main St., 805-643-7855,
Naturesgrillventura.com
Urbane Café, 4960 Telephone Road, Suite 105, 805-654-1619,
urbanecafe.com

Hot Dog
Top Hat Burger Palace, 2050 E. Main St., 805-643-9696,
tophatburgerpalace.com

Ice Cream/Yogurt Shop
McConnell’s Fine Ice Cream, 3241 E. Main St., 805-650-6410,
www.mcconnells.com
Surf ’N Yogurt, 7770 Telephone Road, 805-647-9909, surfnyogurt.
com
Surf ’N Yogurt, 1038 S. Seaward Ave., 805-643-8808, surfnyogurt.
com

Indian Food
Bollywood Indian Restaurant, 500 E. Main St., 805-648-2533,
Bollywood4.net
Himalaya, 35 W. Main St., Suite A, 805-643-0795,
Himalayacuisine.com
Maharaja Cuisine of India, 2437 E. Main St., 805-641-3644,
Maharajacuisineofindiaventura.com
The Taj Cafe, 574 E. Main St., 805-652-1521, Thetajcafeventura.
com

Italian Food
Ferraro’s Italian Restaurant, 2788 E. Main St., 805-648-7270
Ventura Spaghetti Company, 2686 Loma Vista Road, 805-6437444, www.spagco.com

Mexican Food
Casa De Soria, 1961 E. Thompson Blvd., 805-648-2083
Corrales Mexican Food, 1951 E. Thompson Blvd., 805-643-6138
La Parrilla Yucatan Mexican Restaurant, 110 N. Ashwood Ave.,
805-650-1736, laparrillvta.com
Santa Barbara Chicken Ranch, 4020 E. Main St., Suite E10,
805-658-8582, sbchickenranch.com
Yolanda’s Mexican Café, 2753 E. Main St., 805-643-2700,
Yolandasmexicancafe.com

Pizza
Ameci Pizza & Pasta, 10225 Telephone Road, 805-659-4483,
www.amecipizzaandpasta.com
Santino’s Pizza Parlor, 4231 Telegraph Road, 805-644-0166,
Santinospizzaparlor.com
Topper’s Pizza Place, 3940 E. Main St., 805-385-4444,
Topperspizzaplace.com
Valentino’s Take-N-Bake Pizza & Deli, 2850 Johnson Drive, Suite
E, 805-643-8802, valentinosgourmet.com

Romantic Dining
Cafe Fiore, 66 S. California St., 805-653-1266, Fiorerestaurant.net
Cafe Zack, 1095 E. Thompson Blvd., 805-643-9445, Cafezack.
com
Watermark Restaurant, 598 E. Main St., 805-643-6800,
Watermarkonmain.com

Seafood
Andria’s Seafood Restaurant, 1449 Spinnaker Drive, Suite A, 805654-0546, andriasseafood.com
Brophy Bros. Restaurant, 1559 Spinnaker Drive, 805-639-0865,
Brophybros.com
Lure Fish House, 60 S. California St., 805-567-4400,
Lurefishhouse.com

Sushi
Fuji-Sushi, 573 E. Main St., 805-643-7277
I Love Sushi, 5722 Telephone Road, 805-639-4009,
ilovesushiventura.com
Sumo Ventura, 1730 S. Victoria Ave., 805-650-1122, www.
octopusrestaurant.com/ventura
Sushi Fresh Ventura, 5920 Telegraph Road, 805-650-6068,
sushifreshventura.com

Take Out
Presto Pasta, 5722 Telephone Road, 805-658-2898, Prestopasta.
com

Thai Food
A Good Thai & Peruvian Restaurant, 583 E. Main St., 805643-0583
Jasmine Thai Restaurant, 1145 S. Victoria Ave., 805-658-4861,
Jasminethaifusion.com
Rice Thai Cuisine, 387 E. Main St., 805-641-3573, Riceonmain.com
Tipps Thai Cuisine, 512 E. Main St., 805-643-3040, Tippsthai.com

W e s t l a k e V i l l ag e
Business Lunch
Paul Martin’s American Grill, 100 S. Westlake Blvd., 805-3739300, paulmartinsamericangrill.com

Chinese Food
Lakeview Garden Restaurant, 4697 Lakeview Canyon Road, 805557-0198, lvgcr.com

Coffee House
The Stonehaus, 31943 Agoura Road, 818-483-1152, www.thestonehaus.com

Deli
Brent’s Delicatessen & Restaurant, 2799 Townsgate Road, 805557-1882, Brentsdeli.com

Hamburger
The Counter, 30990 Russell Ranch Road, 818-889-0080, www.
thecounterburger.com

Ice Cream/Yogurt Shop
Yozen Frogurt, 2900 Townsgate Road, 805-230-3800, www.
yozenfrogurt.com

Indian Food
Bollywood Indian Restaurant, 860 Hampshire Road, Suite Z,
805-777-7100, bollywood3.net

Romantic Dining
Boccaccio’s Restaurant, 32123 Lindero Canyon Road, Suite 104,
818-889-8300, www.boccacciosonthelake.com
Melting Pot Restaurant, 3685 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., 805-3708802, www.meltingpot.com
Tuscany il Ristorante, 968 S. Westlake Blvd., Suite 4, 805-4952768, tuscany-restaurant.com

Seafood
Fins Seafood Grill, 982 S. Westlake Blvd., Suite 8, 805-494-6494,
finsinc.com
Lure Fish House, 30970 Russell Ranch Road, 818-651-6611,
lurefishhouse.com

Thai Food
Pookie’s Thai Westlake Cuisine, 900 Hampshire Road, 805-3810094, pookiethai.com

2014 Living Here 75

DETAIL

KERN
CO U N T Y

5

SANTA
BARBAR A
COUNT Y

S A NTA BARBAR A COUNT Y

101

KERN
COUNT Y

VENTUR A
COUNT Y

LOS
ANGELES
COUNT Y

Ventura
Los
Angeles

Pacific Ocean

33

V E N T U R A CO U N T Y
5

Los Padres
National Forest

Lake
Piru

Ojai
126
Fillmore

La Conchita

Lake
Casitas

Casitas Springs
Santa Paula
33

101

Saticoy

Moorpark

Montalvo

Ventura

118
Simi Valley

118

101

Camarillo

23

Oxnard

Oak Park

101
Port
Hueneme

Newbury Park

Point Mugu
State Park

Pacific Ocean

2 miles

1

Thousand Oaks

Agoura Hills
Westlake
Village

LOS
ANGELES
COUNT Y

LIVING
HERE

WORSHIP DIRECTORY

All Saints Episcopal
Church/Iglesia Episcopal
de Todos los Santos

VENTURA
COUNTY

Catholic Church of
the Beatitudes Sister
Community

Faith of Christ
Church

Assembly of God—
Bethany Chapel of
Oxnard

Center for Spiritual
Living

First Church of
Christ Scientist
Camarillo

Beit Ha Tikva Messianic

Congregation
AM HAYAM

First United
Methodist Church

Rabbi JB Sacks
Welcomes all to our services.
Come home to conservative Judaism.
4839 Market St., Ventura
805-644-2899
www.amhayam.com

The Open Door Fellowship
Sunday worship at 9 a.m.
and 11 a.m.
1338 E. Santa Clara St., Ventura
805-643-8621
www.fumcventura.org

Calvary Chapel of
Oxnard

College United
Methodist Church

Grace Lutheran
Church

Calvary Nexus
Camarillo

Emmanuel
Presbyterian Church

Mary Star of the Sea
Catholic Church

We are a welcoming, multi-cultural, openminded community. Todos son bienvenidos!
144 S. C St., Oxnard
805-483-2347
www.allsantos.org

Evangelism, worship, discipleship and compassion.
1076 E. Stroube St., Oxnard
805-485-3167

%(,7 +$ 7,.9$ Congregation

Worship as did the Jewish
Jesus, celebrate the feast
days with us.
1492 Sinaloa Road, Simi Valley
805-587-3556
[email protected]

“Learning and Living
God’s Word”
1925 Eastman Ave., Oxnard
805-485-0111
www.calvaryoxnard.org

Join us as we study God’s Word
and worship Jesus.
380 Mobil Ave.: 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.
300 S. Lewis Road: 9 a.m., 11 a.m.
and 6:30 p.m.
805-233-1725 calvarynexus.org

A Christ-centered,
multi-cultural Christian church.
4200 Township Ave., Simi Valley
805-624-2319
www.faithofchristchurch.com

An Intentional Inclusive Community actively creating a new way to be Catholic.
2101 State St., Santa Barbara
805-366-0363
www.beatitudes-sb.org

A spiritual community
creating a world that
works for everyone.
340 Mobil Ave., Camarillo
805-484-1137
www.cslcamarillo.org

Sunday worship at 10 a.m.
4300 Telegraph Road, Ventura
805-642-3282
[email protected]

10 a.m. traditional and
celebrate services.
588 Camino Manzanas,
Thousand Oaks
805-498-4502
www.epconline.org

To include your business here, please call 805-437-0332.

God is Love

Sunday services and Sunday School at 10 a.m.
Testimony meeting Wednesday at 7:30 p.m.
380 Mission Drive, Camarillo
805-482-4502
www.prayerthatheals.org

Sharing God’s GRACE with
families in Ventura from
generation to generation.
6190 Telephone Road, Ventura
805-642-2267
www.gracelutheranventura.com

A Parish of the Roman Catholic
Archdiocese of Los Angeles
463 W. Pleasant Valley Road,
Oxnard
805-486-6133

LIVING
HERE

WORSHIP DIRECTORY

VENTURA
COUNTY

Our Redeemer
Lutheran Church
& Preschool

St. Francis of Assisi
Episcopal Church

Join us each Sunday at 10:30
a.m. for English worship and at
12:30 p.m. for Spanish workship.
721 Doris Ave., Oxnard
805-983-0612 www.lcoor.org

Jesus said, “Feed the poor,
welcome the stranger.”
Call for worship services.
280 Royal Ave, Simi Valley
805-526-5141
stfrancischurchofsimi.org

The River
Community Church

Overcomers Community
Outreach Ministries

St. George’s
Anglican Church

United Methodist
Church of
Thousand Oaks

Heritage Square Chapel
Sunday School 8:15 a.m.,
Worship Services 9:30 a.m.
731 S. A St., Oxnard
805-302-7986

Common 1928 Book of Prayer
6300 Telephone Road, Ventura
805-642-9697
[email protected]

Padre Serra
Catholic Church

Temple Adat Elohim

All are welcome!
Sunday masses: 7:30, 9, 11 a.m.
5205 Upland Road, Camarillo
805-482-6417
www.padreserra.org

Religious schools, preschool, senior
and youth groups. Over 600 families
consider TAE their spiritual home.
2420 E. Hillcrest Drive,
Thousand Oaks
805-497-7101
www.adatelohim.org

Sojourn

Temple Beth Torah

Passionate about Jesus,
a bit “unchurchy” in style,
come check us out.
805-253-2552
[email protected]
www.sojourn.org

St. Columba’s
Episcopal Church

Wherever you are in your
journey with God, you are
welcome here.
1251 Las Posas Road, Camarillo
805-482-8831
www.stcolumbaca.com

Inspiring people to lead
meaningful Jewish lives.
7620 Foothill Road, Ventura
805-647-4181
www.TempleBethTorah.com

The Bridge Church
Connecting People to God.
2 locations: Moorpark and
Newbury Park
805-262-5000
www.bridgechurch.us

To include your business here, please call 805-437-0332.

Your partners in life!
Lead Pastor Jim Duran
889 E. Santa Clara St., Ventura
805-648-7955
www.TheRiverCommunity.org

Making Faith Real.
1000 E. Janss Road,
Thousand Oaks
805-495-7215
www.umcto.org

Unitarian Universalist
Church of Ventura
A religion beyond beliefs
nurtures your spirit.
Help heal our world.
5654 Ralston St., Ventura
805-644-3898
www.uuventura.org

Ventura Baptist
Church

Helping people navigate their
lives for the glory of God.
Call for services.
5415 Ralston St., Ventura
805-644-7191
www.venturabaptist.org

Wayfarer’s Chapel
Lutheran Church

Dedicated to proclaiming the truth
of God’s word and sharing the lifetransforming gospel of God’s love.
461 3rd St., Fillmore
805-524-2818
www.wayfarerslutheran.com

LIVING
HERE

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

VENTURA
COUNTY

AUTOMOTIVE
1st Honda

Crown Dodge

2283 First St., Simi Valley
805-584-6632
www.1stHonda.com
RAM

1st Kia

Merecedes-Benz
of Oxnard
and Smart Center

Crown is the largest Dodge,
Chrysler, Jeep, Ram dealership
in the tri-counties!
6300 King Drive, Ventura
805-656-6669
www.CrownDodgeChryslerJeep.com

1511 Auto Center Drive, Oxnard
805-604-6500
www.MBofOxnard.com
www.smartcenter-Oxnard.com

DCH Honda
of Oxnard

Oxnard Hyundai

DCH Lexus
of Oxnard

Simi Valley Buick
GMC

Alexander Buick
and GMC

DCH Toyota
of Oxnard

Simi Valley
Chevrolet

Alexander Cadillac

DCH Toyota
of Simi Valley

Simi Valley Chrysler
Dodge Jeep Ram

2081 First St., Simi Valley
805-526-9776
www.1stKia.com

1st Nissan

2325 First St., Simi Valley
805-526-9700
www.1stNissan.com

1501 E. Ventura Blvd., Oxnard
805-988-2200
www.alexanderbgc.com

1600 Auto Center Drive, Oxnard
805-988-2200
www.alexanderbgc.com

1601 E. Ventura Blvd., Oxnard
805-751-4680
www.OxnardHyundai.com

1500 E. Ventura Blvd., Oxnard
805-973-1000
www.hondaofoxnard.com

1640 Auto Center Drive, Oxnard
805-988-8500
www.lexusofoxnard.com

2100 First St., Simi Valley
805-582-6100
www.simibuickgmc.com

1001 Cochran St., Simi Valley
805-527-2372
www.simivalleychevrolet.com

1631 Auto Center Drive, Oxnard
805-988-2300
www.toyotaofoxnard.com

2380 First St., Simi Valley
805-526-7500
www.simivalleyford.com
RAM

To include your business here, please call 805-437-0332.

2350 1st St., Simi Valley
805-581-9090
www.simivalleyCDJR.com

LIVING
HERE

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Simi Valley Ford

2440 First St., Simi Valley
805-583-0333
www.simivalleyford.com

Team Infiniti
of Oxnard

1701 Auto Center Drive, Oxnard
805-485-9998
www.TeamInfiniti.com

Team Nissan

1801 Auto Center Drive, Oxnard
805-485-8787
www.TEAMNISSANDIRECT.com

VENTURA
COUNTY

Laird’s Butcher Shop
& BBQ
Hometown butcher shop proudly
serving loyal customers in
Ventura County for over 30 years!
574 W. Main St., Santa Paula
805-525-3517
www.lairdsbutchershop.com

Libbey Bowl

210 S. Signal St., Ojai
805-646-3117
libbeybowl.org

Santa Barbara
Chicken Ranch

Serving up the best Mesquite
Bar-B-Q’d chicken and tri-tip
for over 20 years!
4020 E. Main St., Suite E10, Ventura
805-658-8582
sbchickenranch.com

Vista Ford Lincoln

1501 Auto Center Drive, Oxnard
805-983-6511
www.vistaoxnard.com

3176 Honey Lane, Fillmore
805-521-1375
Bennetthoney.com

Serving award-winning
Mexican food and
margaritas since 1982.
805-643-2700
www.yolandasmexicancafe.com

EDUCATION/HEALTH
Clinicas

Your path to good health.
One stop care for everyone.
805-659-1740
www.clincas.org

Commmunity
Memorial Health
System

CMHS provides a wide range of
highly regarded services providing
patients the best in specialized care.
147 N. Brent St., Ventura
805-652-5011 www.cmhshealth.org

Sunland Vintage
Winery

CSU Channel Islands

The Collection at
Riverpark

Kevala Chiropractic

1321 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd,
Suite 108, Thousand Oaks
805-379-2250
sunlandvintagewinery.com

DINING/ENTERTAINMENT
Bennett’s Honey
Farm

Yolanda’s
Mexican Café

West Ventura County’s premier
shopping, dining and
entertainment destination.
2751 Park View Court, Oxnard
805-278-9500
www.thecollectionrp.com

To include your business here, please call 805-437-0332.

Student-centered, four-year,
public university teaching
interdisciplinary, multicultural,
international perspectives
emphasizing experiential &
service learning!
805-437-8400 www.csuci.edu

4125 Market St., Suite 6,
Ventura
805-650-0495
RubyKevala.com

LIVING
HERE

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Radiation Oncology
Centers of Ventura County

Radiation Oncology Centers is your
source for cancer treatment options
in Ventura County. Locations in
Camarillo and Oxnard.
5301 Mission Oaks Blvd., Camarillo
805-484-1919 rocvc.com

HOME SERVICES
Coastal Softub
and MAAX Spas

Fourteen years serving
Ventura County.
805-654-9000
www.coastalsoftub.com

Ojai Alarm

408 Bryant Circle, Ojai
805-646-2900
www.ojaialarm.com

Thousand Oaks
Fireside and Design

Your #1 source for fireplaces,
barbecues and mailboxes!
104 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd.,
Thousand Oaks
805-496-6660
thousandoaksfiresideanddesign.com

VENTURA
COUNTY
Village CommonsCamarillo
City Ventures

Solar-powered townhomes
in Village at the Park. Up to
4 bedrooms in unique area.
www.NewHomesCamarillo.com

PERSONAL SERVICES
Felipe Rivera Robles
OneClick Cleaners
Professional Dry Cleaners
Military Discounts, certain
restrictions apply, call for details.
805-402-9388
[email protected]

NEW HOMES
Elva Correa
Molly Maid

Make life a little easier with
a maid service you can trust.
805-684-7328
www.mollymaid.com

Flooring 101

It’s All About You.
Ask about shop at home.
805-624-3860
Flooring101.com

Edgewood-Fillmore
Williams Homes

Visit our website for more on
communities in Ventura, Simi
Valley, Agoura Hills and Fillmore.
805-524-3837
www.WilliamsHomes.com

Moorpark HighlandsMoorpark
Pardee Homes
2,311-2,402 sq. ft., 3 floorplans,
4-5 bedrooms, 2.5-3 baths.
661-731-3423
www.PardeeHomes.com

Roberto Guerrero
Guerrero Insurance
Services, Inc.

Auto-Home-Life-Health
Serving the community since 1983.
805-525-7533
www.guerreroinsuranceservices.com

The Fare Lady
Taxi Service

LAX and Burbank airports,
winery and coastal drives,
medical appointments and
more. Premium discounts.
805-870-5791
[email protected]

REAL ESTATE
Green Thumb

45 years serving
Ventura County.
Voted #1 nursery for 19 years.
1899 Victoria Ave., Ventura
805-642-8517
www.supergarden.com

Orchard CollectionVentura
City Ventures

Wonderful neighborhood with
many floorplans and models to
choose from!
www.CityVentures.com

To include your business here, please call 805-437-0332.

Alex Gandel
Troop Real Estate

Serving Simi Valley residents
in all price ranges since 1980.
805-522-6788
www.alexgandel.com

for all your real estate needs.
805-402-6135
SherriSweeney.com

LIVING
HERE

805-988-0717
visitoxnard.com

800-438-1112
goventura.org

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

VENTURA
COUNTY

TOURISM
Kelly McKinney
Cal Premiere Lending
Team at Capstone Direct
Lending Manager—
Conventional, Jumbo, VA FHA
and Reverse Mortgages
805-750-3718
www.kellymckinney.com

Sherri Sweeney,
Realtor
Berkshire Hathaway
HomeServices
From the Oaks to the Coast,
for all your real estate needs.
805-402-6135
SherriSweeney.com

Channel Islands
Harbor
channel

islands
harbor

Dining, boating, fishing, whale
watching, concerts, farmers
market, tall ships and more.
805-382-3001
www.channelislandsharbor.org

Oxnard Convention
and Visitors Bureau
Visitor info about Oxnard,
including hotels, restaurants,
events, beaches and things to do.
2786 Seaglass Way, Oxnard
805-988-0717
visitoxnard.com

Port of Hueneme/
Oxnard Harbor
District

Vital to the region’s global
trade, critical to the County’s
economic health.
805-488-3677
www.portofhueneme.org

Ventura County
Transportation
Commission

Committed to keeping Ventura
County moving and keeping
our region beautiful.
800-438-1112
goventura.org

To include your business here, please call 805-437-0332.

Index of advertisers
Island Packers, 30
A Good Thai & Peruvian Restaurant,
Keller Williams Realty West Ventura
70
County, 26
Alex Gandel, Troop Real Estate, 45
Kelly McKinney, Capstone Direct, 63
Allison’s Country Cafe, 49
Kevala Chiropractic, Inside back cover
Banana Festival, 33
La Parrilla Yucatan Mexican
Bennett’s Honey Farm, 13
Restaurant, 64
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices,
Laird’s Butcher Shop & BBQ, 39
36, 37
Libbey Bowl, 21
California State University, Channel
Michael D’s Cafe and Catering, 40
Islands, 15
Molly Maid, 30
Channel Islands Harbor, Back cover
Ojai Alarm & Patrol, 24
Clinicas Del Camino Real, 42, 43
Ottavio’s Italian Restaurant, 71
Coastal Softub & Maax Spas, 49
Oxnard Auto Center, 31
Coldwell Banker Residential
Oxnard Convention
Brokerage, 58, 59
& Visitors Bureau, 7
Community Memorial
Oxnard Hyundai, 5
Health System, 9
Pardee Homes, 19
Corrigan’s Irish Pub & Restaurant, 71
Peking Chinese Restaurant, 73
Crown Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram, 3
Poseidon Brewing Company, 73
Eggs ‘n’ Things, 25
Radiation Oncology Centers of
Flooring 101, 29
Ventura County, 11
Fuji-Sushi, 70
RE/MAX Gold Coast, 16, 17
Golf N’ Stuff, 57
Rico’s Italian Villa, 65
Green Thumb International, 55
Hong
Kong Inn,
40 business here, please call 805-437-0332.
To include
your

82 2014 Living Here

Ronald Reagan Presidential Library &
Museum, 46.
Santa Barbara Chicken Ranch, 51
Sherri Sweeney, Berkshire Hathaway
HomeServices, 63
Simi Valley Adult School & Career
Institute, 27
Simi Valley auto dealers, 47
Somis Nut House, 27
St. George’s Anglican Church, 64
Sunland Vintage Winery Tasting
Room, 48
The Collection at RiverPark, 67
The Murphy Auto Museum, 27
The Port of Hueneme, 33
Thousand Oaks Fireside and Design,
53
Toll Brothers, 61
Troop Real Estate, 22, 23
Ventura County Fairgrounds, 25
Ventura Harbor, 56
Verona Trattoria, 70
Williams Homes, Inside front cover
Yolanda’s Mexican Café, 35

 
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