We Rank The 7 Best Tours & Things To Do In Ventura

Ventura may not be as famous as nearby Santa Barbara or Los Angeles, but it offers a surprisingly diverse range of tours and activities that highlight its laid-back charm and coastal beauty. Whether you’re eager to catch your first wave, explore charming towns, or solve puzzles along the waterfront, Ventura has something for every kind of traveler.

We particularly like the Ventura Surf Lesson for its friendly, professional instruction or the Solvang Ventura Wine Tour by Car for those who want a taste of local wines combined with a picturesque Danish town experience. Both offer a great way to enjoy the region’s natural and cultural highlights without feeling rushed.

If you’re into more interactive adventures, the Self-Guided Ventura Scavenger Hunt: Ace Ventura offers a fun, low-cost way to discover Ventura’s quirkiest spots. For a slightly different vibe, the Vibin’ in Ventura Scavenger Hunt with its live host adds a social element that’s perfect for groups.

And for something completely different, the zombie-themed Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Ventura turns the city into a battleground for survival. No matter your interests, Ventura’s tour options promise memorable experiences.

Quick Overview of Ventura Tours & Things To Do

Our list includes a variety of engaging experiences like surf lessons (see details), wine tours (learn more), and scavenger hunts (try the Ace Ventura hunt). Whether you want to learn a new skill, explore local history, or just have fun with friends and family, these tours showcase the best of Ventura’s laid-back coastal vibe.

Below, we’ll walk you through what makes each tour special, helping you decide which fits your style and schedule.

1. Ventura Surf Lesson

There’s hardly a better place to learn to surf than Ventura, known for its consistent waves, friendly waters, and near-perfect weather year-round. This private 1.5-hour surf lesson is ideal for beginners and those looking to refine their skills. The lesson includes all necessary equipment—such as a wetsuit and surfboard—and is tailored to your skill level.

The instructor, with years of experience, will teach you how to stand up, balance, and catch that elusive wave while prioritizing your safety.

What we really like about this experience is the personalized attention you get in a private setting. Many reviews praise the instructor’s calm, clear instructions, and the fun, encouraging atmosphere. Families, groups, and solo travelers alike will find this a memorable way to connect with the ocean. Best of all, you can choose a morning or afternoon session to fit your schedule.

Bottom line: This surf lesson offers excellent value for a hands-on, beginner-friendly introduction to surfing. If you’ve ever wanted to stand on a board and ride the waves, this is your chance.

2. Solvang Ventura Wine Tour by Car

For around $425 per person, this 8 to 9-hour luxury wine tour combines wine tasting with exploring one of California’s most charming towns. Starting in Ventura, you’ll visit Deep Sea Tasting Room, where maritime vibes meet local wines. Then, you’ll head to a premier Santa Barbara winery, PENCE, for a VIP experience that includes walking the vineyard grounds and learning about the wine-making process.

The tour concludes with a stroll through Solvang, a town famous for its Danish-style architecture and European atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely lunch or a quick shop.

What sets this tour apart is its combination of wine, scenery, and storytelling, all served with a touch of luxury and convenience. The guide’s insights and the opportunity to walk through vineyards make it more than just a tasting. Many reviews highlight the friendliness of the guides and the quality of the wines, which makes for a memorable, relaxing day.

Value for money is high considering the quality of experiences and the all-inclusive nature. It suits wine lovers, curious explorers, and those wanting a taste of European charm without leaving California.

Bottom line: This luxurious, full-day tour is best for those who enjoy wine, scenic drives, and charming towns, making it a top choice for a leisurely, indulgent day.

3. Self-Guided Ventura Scavenger Hunt: Ace Ventura

This $12.31 self-guided scavenger hunt is perfect for those who prefer exploring at their own pace. Inspired by the classic movie, it invites you to uncover Ventura’s hidden treasures and quirky spots, from Ventura’s oldest resident to the birthplace of Perry Mason. Using your phone, your team will seek out clues, solve puzzles, and discover local lore along the way.

What makes this experience stand out is its affordability and flexibility. You can start when you want, pause, and finish at your leisure. It’s an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups wanting an interactive way to learn about Ventura’s history and culture without a guide. The digital photos of your adventure are included as souvenirs.

While some reviews note navigation can be tricky at the start, most find the scavenger hunt a fun, engaging challenge that adds a twist to your Ventura visit. It’s especially good if you’re looking for a budget-friendly, active way to explore.

Bottom line: For a fun, inexpensive way to discover Ventura’s stories and sights, this self-guided hunt offers good value and lots of laughs.

4. Ventura Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game

This $24.50 interactive game turns Ventura into your personal puzzle playground. Over two hours, your team will work through clues on your smartphone to explore landmarks like Main Street and Mission San Buenaventura. The challenge involves solving puzzles and uncovering local secrets as you go, with the flexibility to do it on your own schedule.

What we appreciate is that this activity suits groups of 2 to 6 people, making it perfect for families, friends, or a small team. It’s a great way to combine sightseeing with a little friendly competition. Participants praise the mix of major landmarks and lesser-known spots, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

No guide is needed, which means you can tailor your pace. The only downside is some participants find the initial instructions a bit confusing, but overall, it’s a dynamic and enjoyable way to learn about Ventura interactively.

Bottom line: If you want a flexible, engaging way to explore Ventura with friends or family, this walking game delivers fun and discovery without breaking the bank.

5. Surf Lesson in Santa Barbara

Just 11 miles down the coast, this 2-hour surf lesson in Carpinteria offers a slightly different experience. Suitable for beginners or those looking to improve, it includes all the necessary equipment in a private group setting. The instructor will guide you through safety, paddling, reading waves, and riding—all in a scenic beach setting.

While the reviews are mixed, many appreciate the scenic location and the chance to get a hands-on introduction to surfing. It’s a good option for families, friends, or colleagues wanting an active outing with a laid-back vibe. The lesson’s all-inclusive nature means you won’t need to bring anything but your enthusiasm.

Compared to Ventura’s beaches, Carpinteria’s beach is renowned for its gentle waves, making it ideal for beginners. The experience is best suited for those with a flexible schedule and an interest in trying something new.

Bottom line: This surf lesson offers a relaxed, scenic intro to surfing in a less crowded beach setting—great for first-timers and small groups.

6. Vibin’ in Ventura Scavenger Hunt

This $21.60 scavenger hunt offers a highly immersive experience, with a remote, live host guiding you via your phone. The adventure combines sightseeing, creative challenges, and social interaction, making it more than just a scavenger hunt. It’s designed as a “social experiment,” encouraging participants to discover Ventura in new and unexpected ways.

What makes this unique is the live host element, adding a personal touch and real-time encouragement. It’s perfect for groups who want a more interactive, customized experience. However, since reviews are unavailable, potential participants should note that this experience is newer and may lack some feedback but promises a fun, guided adventure.

Ideal for travelers who enjoy tech-based activities and group challenges, this hunt will take you through Ventura’s streets with a twist of creativity.

Bottom line: For a new, interactive experience with a personal touch, this remote-guided scavenger hunt offers a different way to connect with Ventura.

7. Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Ventura by Zombie Scavengers

In this $20 group activity, you’ll use an app to survive a zombie apocalypse in Ventura. Search for survival items around the city, complete zombie-themed challenges, and earn points—adding an element of strategic gameplay to your sightseeing. Your remote host is available via chat if you need help, and the entire experience takes about an hour.

This activity is ideal for groups, families, or friends who want a fun, game-based challenge. It’s especially suitable for younger travelers or those looking for a light-hearted, entertaining way to explore Ventura’s streets. With no reviews yet, it’s a new option, but its focus on survival strategy adds a playful, competitive edge.

Bottom line: If you’re looking for a lively, themed challenge that combines sightseeing with game play, this zombie hunt is a playful way to experience Ventura.

How to Choose the Best Tour for Your Ventura Visit

When selecting your preferred activity, consider your budget, interests, and group size. For a hands-on, active experience, the Ventura Surf Lesson (see more) is perfect for aspiring wave riders. If you’re craving a relaxed, leisurely day, the Wine Tour (detailed here) delivers scenic beauty and tastings.

For those who love puzzles and history, the Ace Ventura scavenger hunt (try it here) or the Ventura scavenger hunt (check it out) offer flexible, engaging ways to explore.

Timing also matters. Book popular tours like the wine tour early, especially during peak weekends or holidays. For active pursuits such as surfing, mornings tend to be less crowded and better suited for beginners. And remember, some activities like the zombie scavenger hunt are best suited for groups looking for fun and novelty.

Final Thoughts

Ventura offers a surprisingly diverse selection of tours and activities that appeal to different interests and travel styles. For a classic Southern California experience, the surf lessons give you a chance to ride waves with expert guidance. If you prefer a relaxed day with good food and scenic views, the wine tour is hard to beat.

For a fun, interactive way to explore, the self-guided and hosted scavenger hunts provide memorable, low-pressure adventures.

No matter what you choose, booking early is wise—especially in peak seasons. With such a variety, you’re sure to find something that turns your Ventura trip into a truly enjoyable and memorable experience.