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Camarillo, The Amazing Garden of Southern California

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By Lotus Zheng

November 12, 2017
4:45 pm
Los Angeles, CA

Nestled between the mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Camarillo is located just an hour northwest of Los Angeles and 55 miles south of Santa Barbara. Camarillo is a charming city that enjoys 52 weeks of great weather mixed with refreshing ocean breezes. Life in Camarillo is lived al fresco–visitors can enjoy outdoor concerts and fine dining or golfing and horseback riding in the mountain air. Boastful warm California climate compliments our picturesque agricultural vistas and set the backdrop for a charming downtown. For the quintessential Southern California experience, visitors can take an evening stroll through Old Town and stop by the bistros, wine cellars and boutiques. All this and more makes Camarillo the perfect destination for a wonderful weekend getaway or a relaxing weeks vacation. Camarillo is fast becoming

Camarillo is fast becoming a traveler’s dream with so much offered within the city and surrounding areas. Begin by taking a short trip over to the Channel Islands National Park–an island chain located off the California Coast referred to as “The Galapagos of North America.” The park is comprised of five remarkable islands that offer hiking, snorkeling, diving and kayaking. Thousands of visitors flock to the islands each year to get a look at the various endemic and terrestrial animals and plants that inhabit the islands. Day trips are also popular as they give visitors a chance to relax in the tranquil environment and avoid the congestion of city life.

In addition to the concessionaire boats, the national park is accessible by plane through Channel Islands Aviation located at the Camarillo Airport. While the park can be accesses year-round, many find a preferred season to visit the islands. During the spring season, the islands are green and wildflowers reach full bloom. The winter offers great whale watching opportunities as migration season begins. The park receives the most visitors during the summer and fall months and many consider these months to be the best times for outdoor recreation. Snorkeling, kayaking and swimming are available as ocean temperatures can reach 70°(F).

The Camarillo Premium Outlets is Ventura County’s world-class outlet mall, attracting international visitors from France, Canada and China. Conveniently located off highway 101, the outdoor mall is comprised of 160 outlet stores like Tory Burch, Kate Spade, Michael Kors, Tommy Hilfiger, Coach, Nike Factory Store and Lululemon Athletica. If you need a break from a full day of shopping, enjoy a movie at IMAX Edwards Camarillo Palace Stadium conveniently located adjacent to the mall. The outlets offer plenty of sit-down dining options to enjoy Camarillo al fresco. The entire family can enjoy the premium outlets as they offer the ultimate Southern California shopping experience that’s also budget-friendly.

Camarillo is full of rich, local history that dates back to early 1800’s. Adolfo Camarillo, the city’s namesake, helped preserve the local heritage after the arrival of settlers. Adolfo built the Camarillo Ranch House, a beautiful Queen Anne Victorian home in 1892, which now serves as a historical museum. The mansion offers grand views of the surrounding property, including a gigantic Morton Bay Fig (the largest fig species in the world). Due to its Queen Anne style architecture, spacious red barn and beautiful gardens the ranch house has become a community hub and is popular for weddings and special events.

With historic buildings, rustic barns and farms, lavish gardens, an intimate private airport, an array of county clubs and beautiful churches, Camarillo’s diverse collection of venues can fit any wedding style. In fact, Camarillo is home to 33 unique venues that host hundreds of special events each year. Residents from all over Southern California have made Camarillo their wedding destination of choice.

If you’re a history buff, Camarillo has plenty to offer. The Commemorative Air Force Museum is unlike any other in the county. The CAF is dedicated to preserving the history of WWII combat aircraft flown by the U.S military. These aircrafts are repaired and rebuilt for the purpose of getting them to fly. Once repaired, the aircraft participate in air shows throughout the Western U.S including Wings Over Camarillo, a popular air show that draws in crowds from afar. Tour the hangar and sit in the cockpit of a bearcat, hellcat or zero and experience the excitement of WWII history. The Western Foundation of Vertebrate Zoology Museum is a research and education institution dedicated to bird conservation. The museum serves as a natural history collection specializing in eggs and nests of birds and has the largest collection of birds’ eggs and nests in the world. The museum hosts multiple open houses each year to invite members of the community learn more about the bird conversation.

Camarillo’s rich soil allows for agricultural farms to flourish and grow local produce in the area. McGrath Family Farms focuses on organic farming and offers seasonal fruits and vegetables all year long. Strawberry picking is very popular in this farm as they allow you to pick your own. If you’re an adrenaline junkie looking for your next adventure, Camarillo will be a pleasant surprise. Imagine jumping out of a plane from up to 13,500 feet high and soaring through the sky for 60 seconds. Skydive Coastal California gives the opportunity to experience breathtaking views of the coast and the verdant green farmlands that surround the area. If your looking for a more relaxing evening, check out the local breweries¬–a perfect way to spend a lazy afternoon or early evening.

Old town Camarillo is full of vibrant city life. Unique shops and boutiques align along Ventura Boulevard to offer visitors everything from a rock shop to day spas. Old Town is also bustling with chic bistros offering delicious local cuisine that can be enjoyed alongside our refreshing ocean breeze. Delight your palette by dining at Twenty 88 Wine Bistro or BLVD BRGR, both unique establishments only found in Camarillo. Weather travelers are looking for family-friendly activities, thrill-seeking experiences or much need rest & relaxation, Camarillo is a budget-friendly way to experience it all.

Editor: Yuyu Chiang