What is an hour away from Los Angeles? Has a fabulous beach with free parking? And great food? Farm stands galore? Oxnard is a lovely day trip. Exit the 101 and enjoy beautiful vistas, fresh air, quaint shops, and great restaurants.

Walk along beautiful beaches after parking your car for free – yes really free parking. There are miles of uninterrupted sand and natural beauty.

Whale watching takes place almost year-round in the channel around Oxnard.  From the end of December through mid-April, the coastline is rife with gray whales that are migrating from their breeding grounds in Baja California to the nutrient-rich ocean in Alaska.  There are several boat tours  for prime viewing.

And what is California without a wine tasting. Herzog Winery has several tastings and is known for both their kosher and non kosher labels. Pick up some authentic Mexican bake goods at La Central Bakery. 

The McGrath Family Farm, in operation since 1868, has stands with organic produce, fantastic flowers, and you can take a tour for $7 to learn about sustainable farming.

With 35 miles of bike paths and kayak rentals, there is so much to do here you might want to stay overnight.