The best romantic place you've never been before.

Until recently, Ventura's glamorous neighbors, Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, have monopolized much of the media spotlight leaving the legends, haunts, history and color of this seaside town virtually untold and undiscovered.

For many, images of San Buenaventura or "the City of Good Fortune" have been limited to a few highway signs along 101. Just 27 miles south of Santa Barbara and 60 miles north of Los Angeles, Ventura's vast stretches of beautiful beach remained a blur to all but a few discerning travelers speeding their way north or south.

But being "passed over" for so long has proved to be an asset. To step onto Ventura's downtown Main Street is to enter another era. It's a chance to taste of bit of what the classic California beach towns were like before the state's intensifying pace, population and prices pushed so many communities out of shape. And, Ventura is generally more affordable than other Central Coast destinations.

This is one place that didn't tear down all of its beautiful old buildings in the name of "progress." From the elegant Pierpont Inn & Raquet Club built in 1910, to The Livery Theatre, an improvisation and comedy club that inhabits an old stable and stage coach stop, Ventura has been busy revitalizing and polishing up its treasures.

Romantic activities in Ventura are many. Try breakfast at a marina café before taking a peddleboat for two around the scenic Ventura Harbor. Sail out to the Channel Islands, watch the marine life, hike, camp or kayak through sea caves. Or enjoy biking, rollerblading or a sunset stroll on the Ventura Pier or along miles of the coastal promenade path. The quaint downtown with its palm tree lined streets, distinctive shops and charming architecture offers everything from museums and coffee houses to fine dining, grills with gusto and stage theaters known for big talent in intimate settings. And just above the city, Grant Park is a spectacular spot for a picnic and for views of city and sea.

Other highlights of note: Mission San Buenaventura, the city's namesake, was the last of the California missions established by Father Junipero Serra; Ventura is the main gateway through which to access Channel Islands National Park; and downtown Ventura's amazing number of antique shops makes it a mecca for collectors.

In planning your trip, don't forget to contact the Ventura Visitors & Convention Bureau for information, current events and travel tips at 800-333-2989 or www.ventura-usa.com

The City of Good Fortune awaits!

CLIMATE
Annual Days with Precipitation: 35
Annual Days with Sun: 258
Annual Snowfall (inches): 0
Annual Days < 32 degrees: 0
Annual Days > 90 degrees: 5
Average High Temp. in July (F): 75.8
Average Low Temp. in January (F): 45.4

Fun with Kids
If you're looking for a child-friendly, affordable, and stress-free destination for a family holiday, Ventura is an unbeatable choice. The city and surrounding area offer virtually unlimited opportunities for recreation and entertainment that appeal to all ages, from tiny tots to grandparents. Most restaurants are very casual and have kids' menus.

When the weather's warm, just grab a pail and shovel and head for the nearest beach. Kids also love to hang out at the waterfront, where they can fish off the pier, practice boogie boarding and surfing, and bike or roller-blade along the Ventura Promenade or the miles of bike paths (call Cycles-4-Rent, 888-405-BIKE).

At Ventura Harbor, kids can take a spin on the delightful carousel or a cruise around the harbor. Families can also rent kayaks or paddle boats to explore the nooks and crannies of the harbor and shore on their own (call Bay Queen Harbor Cruises, 642-7753, regarding cruises and boat rentals). Mom, dad, grandparents, and kids alike will enjoy the Channel Islands Visitor Center, which presents films and fascinating exhibits. We highly recommend a trip out to the islands to experience dolphins, whales, and all the wonders of these magnificent islands firsthand (call Island Packers, 642-1393, for fares and schedule).

A short drive from Ventura, you can take the kids for a ride on the Fillmore & Western Railway in Fillmore or Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia.

The best things you've yet to experience.

This classic California beach town has something for everyone!

In planning your trip, don't forget to contact the Ventura Visitors & Convention Bureau for information, current events and travel tips at 800-333-2989 or www.ventura-usa.com