Hollywood-Ventura - Oxnard, CA Area Guide

Hollywood-Ventura lies in Oxnard, a city which owes much of its existence to sugar beets. Oxnard provided an ideal location for harvesting these crops, leading to the creation of a factory. Towns and businesses followed the factory, and Oxnard incorporated as a city in 1903. A population boom occurred during World War II, with multiple military bases set up near the city. While agriculture remains part of Oxnard's economy, the city now houses a variety of industries.

The Channel Island Maritime Museum showcases nautical art and ships from several time periods. Rotating exhibits keep the experience fresh each time you go. If you want to learn more, the museum holds a speaker series every third Thursday.

Every year in December, the Channel Islands Annual Parade of Lights takes place. Check it out for a festive atmosphere featuring lights on the ships and people driving around in golf carts decorated with holiday lights.

The area's dining scene blends cuisines from several different cultures with waterfront views at prices ranging from affordable to upscale.

For meals made from local foods and an extensive wine list, check out The Waterside Restaurant & Wine Bar. Views of the harbor and live music on certain nights bolster the romantic ambiance of this restaurant, making it an ideal choice for dates. Make sure to stop by for the Sunday farmers brunch, when the ingredients come from the Channel Islands Farmers Market.

Those looking for sophisticated Brazilian food should try Moqueca Brazilian Cuisine, located in the upstairs area of the Oxnard Harbor. Samba music plays in the background, preparing you for a meal that comes straight from Espirito Santo, a small state in Brazil. Seafood lovers should try the moqueca de lagosta, or lobster tail served in a traditional clay bowl. Pair it with a caipirinha, the traditional drink of Brazil, to complete the experience.

Sakura Cha Ya serves authentic Japanese food at a low price. The spicy ramen noodles are a highlight of the menu, and fans of spicy food may also enjoy the curry katsu. Relax in this restaurant's casual environment while being served by the friendly staff.

The area doesn't have a club scene, with the nightlife consisting of local bars and restaurants. When you feel like sitting on the sand while drinking a beer, head over to Rudder Room. The bar sits right next to the beach, and the jukebox lets you take charge of the music.

Its scenic location makes this area perfect for walking, biking or cruising down the street.

Drivers can make local trips easily, but commuting to other neighborhoods takes longer due to the lack of freeways. Pacific Coast Highway lies east of Hollywood-Ventura, taking motorists north to the U.S. 101 or south down the coast. Motorists can take the U.S. 101, which runs north-west and south-east, up to Ventura or down to Los Angeles. You can park your car on the street for free, just check the signs for any restrictions.

Buses don't service the area, so getting to the nearest bus stop requires another form of transportation. Located about 5 miles away, the Oxnard Transportation Center provides several methods of public transportation. Take either Amtrak, the Metrolink or Greyhound for longer trips. VISTA buses can be taken for intercity trips, while Gold Coast Transit buses run locally. Taxis service the area, but ride-share companies such as Uber do not.

Only about a mile long, this beach neighborhood provides a beautiful backdrop for calm walks and bike rides. Bike lanes run on Mandalay Beach Road and West Channel Islands Boulevard, giving bikers a safe travel option.

While the beach is the main attraction of the neighborhood, a couple of parks next to the beach are also popular.

Oxnard Beach Park has the best of both worlds, with the white sands of the beach right next to the green lawns of the park. Jogging paths and volleyball courts give you a place to work out, while the kids play or skate. Designed with the whole family in mind, this free park provides a barbecue area for cookouts and allows dogs, as long as you keep them on leashes.

For scenic views and a calming environment, check out Port Hueneme Beach Park. At over 50 acres, this park provides plenty of room for adults and kids to explore or just get away from it all. Dogs can come too, but they have to stay in the park area and off the beach. You can get food at the snack bar or catch your own by fishing off the pier.

The neighborhood doesn't have any parks that focus on exercise, but those looking to get in shape should visit the Oxnard Police Activities League a short drive away. It provides several sports leagues and activities at no charge and also hosts special events, such as youth conferences and toy drives.

The area carries a high cost of living compared to the city average, particularly in regards to housing costs. The average rental cost for a one-bedroom apartment in this area is $1,514.34, although you may find cheaper arrangements.

A ride on Gold Coast Transit to the city center costs $1.50, and gas prices come in about 13 percent higher than the national average. A pint at the local pub costs about $6.

The area doesn't have a shopping center, but you can find smaller shops along West Channel Islands Boulevard and Harbor Boulevard.

For all the latest styles at low prices, check out Sixteen Buy J-ma. In a unique twist, the store prices every item at $16 or less. J-ma focuses on sophisticated clothing, so you can find pieces that look good without paying an arm and a leg.

For grocery shopping, locals go to Ralphs on West Channel Islands Boulevard or drive up to the Vons on Victoria Avenue. The Channel Islands Harbor Farmers Market takes place Sunday during the morning and early afternoon. Stop by for high-quality fresh foods at reasonable prices. More than just a market, it also includes live music, arts and crafts, and even a face painter.