Need a laid-back getaway with coastal breezes, outlet shopping, and farm-fresh flavors? Head to Camarillo! Tucked between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, Camarillo offers sunny weather, rich agricultural heritage, and easy access to beaches and wine country. Whether you’re bargain hunting, strawberry picking, or savoring ocean air, Camarillo is the perfect Southern California escape.
Camarillo, CA Highlights:
- Camarillo Premium Outlets: Shop major designer brands at one of California’s largest and most popular outlet centers.
- Old Town Camarillo: Stroll charming streets filled with boutiques, cafés, murals, and historic architecture.
- Camarillo Ranch: Tour a beautifully restored 1892 Victorian mansion and explore lush gardens and grounds.
- McGrath Family Farm: Pick your own strawberries, pumpkins, and organic produce at this beloved farmstand.
- Western Foundation of Vertebrate Zoology: Explore an extraordinary museum focused on bird research and conservation.
Best Time to Visit Camarillo, CA
The best time to visit Camarillo is during the spring and fall (March–May and September–November). You'll find pleasant temperatures, sunny skies, and peak agricultural seasons. Summer is also beautiful, thanks to the coastal breezes keeping it cooler than inland cities.
How to Get to Camarillo, CA
- If you are traveling by car: Camarillo is located along U.S. Highway 101, about 50 miles northwest of Los Angeles and 25 miles southeast of Santa Barbara.
- By Train: The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner and Metrolink Ventura County Line serve the Camarillo Station.
- By Air: Fly into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) or Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), then drive or take a train to Camarillo.
Where to Stay in Camarillo, CA
- Residence Inn by Marriott Camarillo – Modern, extended-stay hotel with full kitchens and complimentary breakfast near major attractions.
- Hampton Inn & Suites Camarillo – Comfortable hotel featuring an outdoor pool and easy access to the outlets and downtown.
- Good Nite Inn Camarillo – Budget-friendly option close to shopping, dining, and freeway access.
Best Things to Do in Camarillo, CA
⮕ Step Into Aviation History at the Commemorative Air Force Southern California Wing Museum
© Commemorative Air Force Southern California Wing Museum
Aviation enthusiasts should not miss the opportunity to visit the fascinating Commemorative Air Force Southern California Wing Museum (CAF SoCal) where you can get up close and personal with some of the most amazing original Air Force combat aircraft. In addition you can admire their collection of artifacts and displays from World War II and their aviation library. The museum is entirely operated by volunteer enthusiasts who keep the collection of planes in perfect working order – for the thrill of a lifetime you can book a ride on their War Bird Ride Program – choose from the P-51, the PJB bomber, the open-top PT19 or the historic SNJ.
CAF SoCal, World War II Aviation Museum, 455 Aviation Dr, Camarillo, CA 93010, Phone: 805-482-0064
⮕ Sip and Savor Local Vintages with Explore Wines Tour
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Camarillo lies at the gateway to the Central Coast Wine Country, and there are several vineyards and wineries that welcome visitors to come and see their vineyards and cellars and enjoy an informative wine tasting. The folks at Explore Wines Tour know all the best vineyards, all the best varietals and, best of all, they do all the driving so that you can do all the tasting. When you join one of their private wine tours you can discuss your wine preferences with your knowledgeable guide who will customize your tour to your particular tastes. Your tour will include pick-up in Camarillo, all-day guided wine tour including exclusive cellar access, tastings and lunch.
Explore Wine Tours, Camarillo, CA 93010, Phone: 805-364-2397
⮕ If You Love Wildlife and Conservation, Visit the Western Foundation of Vertebrate Zoology
© The Western Foundation of Vertebrate Zoology
The Western Foundation of Vertebrate Zoology (WFVZ) is basically a non-profit organization which specializes in birds. The foundation strives to educate the public about bird conservation and showcases their amazing collections of eggs, nests and other birding specimens. You can join a public tour of the museum every second Wednesday and every last Friday of each month (phone at least one day ahead to book) or you can phone them to arrange a walk-through tour (without a guide). Avid bird watchers can attend bird-identification courses in spring (April, May and June) which include both evening lectures at the museum and afternoon field trips.
WFVZ, 439 Calle San Pablo, Camarillo, CA 93012, Phone: 805-388-9944
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
⮕ Pick Fresh Produce at McGrath Family Farm
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The McGrath family has taken full advantage of the mild Camarillo weather and the excellent soil conditions to produce an enviable abundance of delicious organic fruit and vegetables for the community. The McGrath Family Farm are owned and operated by fourth-generation Irish American farmers who welcome you to come and find out all about organic farming on one of their farm tours. Children will have great fun on the October pumpkin tours while aspirant organic farmers can book a one-on-one tour with Farmer Phil to learn the ropes. Pick your own produce is seasonally available or you can stop by their Camarillo Farmer’s Market.
McGrath Family Farms, 1012 West Ventura Blvd, Camarillo, CA 93010, Phone: 805-983-0333
⮕ Shop Local Goods and Flavors at the Camarillo Farmer’s Market
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If you find yourself in Camarillo on a Saturday morning you can join the locals at the popular Camarillo Farmer’s Market. The market is a local tradition and everyone comes to meet, eat, mingle and celebrate the region’s wonderful fresh produce. The regular market vendors bring their choicest fresh produce including vegetables, fruit, citrus, berries, farm-fresh eggs and grass-fed beef. In addition you will find many allied market products like jams and preserves, honey and much more. You can also buy flowers and plants at the market and when you need a break you can grab a bite to eat or drink from one of several food vendors who sell everything from breads and pastries to seafood and sausages.
Camarillo Farmer’s Market, 2220 Ventura Blvd, Old Town Camarillo, CA 93010, Phone: 805-987-3347
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
⮕ Hike and Picnic Among Oaks at Camarillo Grove Park
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When you need to escape the city and spend a bit of time enjoying the remarkable Camarillo weather you can make your way to Camarillo Grove Park . The park occupies what was once a stage-coach stop in a rustic spot near the end of Camarillo Springs Rd. The park boasts a new Outdoor Nature Center where visitors can learn about local eco-systems and endemic flora and fauna along an interpretive trail. If you enjoy hiking you can explore the two hiking trails, one of which takes you up to a lovely panoramic view point. You can do some bird-watching along the way and you may be lucky enough to come across some small animals. The park offers picnic sites, BBQ grills, restrooms, play equipment and a dog park.
Camarillo Grove Park, 1605 Burnley Street, Camarillo, CA 93010, Phone: 805-482-1996
⮕ If You Crave Creative Inspiration, Explore Studio Channel Islands
© Studio Channel Islands
Studio Channel Islands is a Camarillo organization dedicated to advancing the cultural and artistic side of Old Town Camarillo. The organization operates several programs for artists and art lovers including Artist’s Open Studios, the Blackboard Gallery, art education classes and several other cultural events. Art lovers can spend some happy time admiring the ever-changing art exhibitions (12 per year) at the Blackboard Gallery, which also hosts regular exhibitions by their member artists. If you want to try your hand at painting you are welcome to attend one of their Adult Art Classes on Tuesday nights in Studio R1. Before you leave the gallery you can buy some unique art pieces (jewelry, ceramics and arty accessories) at the gift shop.
Studio Channel Islands, 2222 E. Ventura Blvd, Camarillo, CA 93010, Phone: 805-383-1368
⮕ Taste Bold Wines at Cantara Cellars
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Wine lovers have much to look forward to during their visit to Camarillo, starting with Cantara Winery which is located just a few blocks west of the city. The winery offers cellar tours and wine tastings from Thursday to Sunday each week – perfect for weekend visitors to the city. The winery harvests ten varietals each year and brings in much of their other grapes from Lodi, where wine-maker Mike’s parents have vineyards. Some of the wines you can look forward to tasting include Syrah, Zinfandels, Tempranillos and some delicious blends like the Mischievous Lodi. There is also a Chardonnay from grapes brought in from Lodi.
Cantara Cellars , 126 Wood Rd, Suite 104, Camarillo, CA 93010, Phone: 805-484-9600
⮕ Relax with Small-Batch Wines at Back Patio Cellars
© Back Patio Cellars
Back Patio Cellars owners Frank and Jen started off by lovingly making a small batch of red wine, by hand, on their back patio. Today their hobby has turned into an award-winning commercial winery where you can come and taste a selection of quality wines right in the heart of Camarillo. The winery is open to the public for tastings from Friday to Sunday (other days are possible by arrangement). The winery currently produces as least eight wines each year including red and white blends and single varietals like Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. All the wines are produced in small batches and often sell out quickly – you can join their wine club to ensure you don’t miss out on new releases.
Back Patio Cellars, 930 Flynn Rd, Unit F, Camarillo, CA 93012, Phone: 805-388-3457
Where to Eat in Camarillo, CA
- Twisted Oak Tavern – Modern brewpub with craft beers and a menu featuring burgers, flatbreads, and more.
- Adolfo Grill and Daily Bar – Upscale casual spot offering steak, seafood, and California-inspired dishes.
- Bandits’ Grill & Bar – Family-friendly barbecue restaurant known for tri-tip, ribs, and hearty comfort food.
If you are interested in local events:
- Camarillo Fiesta & Street Fair (July) – Three days of live music, parades, carnival rides, and vendors in Old Town.
- Camarillo Farmers Market (Saturdays) – Browse fresh produce, handmade crafts, and artisanal foods weekly downtown.
- Wings Over Camarillo Airshow (August) – Thrilling aerial performances, classic cars, and aviation history at the local airport.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Camarillo, California:
- Ventura (20–25 min) – Relax on sandy beaches, stroll the pier, or explore the lively downtown shops and breweries.
- Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center (25–30 min) – Learn about the “Galapagos of North America” and plan an island adventure.
- Ojai (30 min) – Browse art galleries, hike serene trails, and soak in the spiritual vibe of this charming town.
- Port Hueneme (15–20 min) – Enjoy a quiet, uncrowded beach, fishing pier, and local eateries along the coast.
- Santa Paula (25–30 min) – Visit the California Oil Museum, explore agriculture history, and take a hot air balloon ride.
- Point Mugu State Park (20–25 min) – Hike dramatic coastal cliffs, picnic by the ocean, or stroll along scenic beaches.
- Somis (15 min) – Pick blueberries or stroll small farms for a charming country escape just minutes away.
- Lake Casitas Recreation Area (30 min) – Go boating, fishing, or picnicking at this peaceful lake surrounded by rolling hills.
- Santa Rosa Valley Park (15–20 min) – Explore oak woodlands and hiking trails in a beautiful, tucked-away preserve.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Why should travelers stop in Camarillo?
- If you are driving between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, you should consider spending a day or two exploring Camarillo, which lies approximately halfway between these two Californian cities.
- What shopping opportunities are available in Camarillo?
- Camarillo is home to Camarillo Premium Outlets, where shopaholics can spend hours browsing for bargain designer labels.
- What unique experiences does Camarillo offer?
- You can go for a joy ride in a vintage military aircraft at the World War II Aviation Museum.
- What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy in Camarillo?
- Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking and picnicking at Camarillo Grove Park.
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