Local Family Travel Treasures

Super Escapes Less Than 2 Hours From L.A.

by Rubin Carson and Marilynn Record

Mention Ventura to most Angelenos and you're greeted with a blank stare. Reason? To most, it's just a sign on the freeway en route to somewhere else. No longer. I've just returned from scouting this seaside Xanadu and our family had a ball. Here's how you and yours (including Fido) can do the same:

YOUR HEADQUARTERS:

Marriott Ventura Beach - (800) 228-9290.

Easy to find and perfect location with spacious rooms, comfy beds, speedy room service, friendly staff, and Cafe Pacifico has a great bar and delicious coastal cuisine. Banish guilt and take Fido along. Marriott's "Lucky Dog Package" provides every canine treat imaginable. Once you're settled in, include Fido as you explore nature sites, rent bikes, play fetch right next door at San Buenaventua State Beach Park, or stroll along the beach during sunsets. Doggie do-not-disturb sign "LET SLEEPING DOGS LIE" ensures ZZZZ's for everybody. (No charge for kids under 18 sharing same room).

ESSENTIAL DINING:

Tutti's Off Main, 34 N. Palm St. - (805) 643-0880. Not only pooch-friendly on romantic patio, but cuisine more imaginative than anything in Italy. Fried polenta with maple syrup simple but unforgettable.

Top Hat Burger Palace, 299 E. Main St. (805) 643-9696. Unique hamburgers and hot dogs in nostalgic downtown setting that remind you of small-town California before you were born. Pooches welcome on patio if leashed.

Eric Ericsson's On The Pier, 668 Harbor Blvd. - (805) 643-4783. Located on dog-friendly Ventura Pier (longest in California). Try the crab-stuffed poblano peppers. Motto in entry says, "Seafood prepared at its best". It is.

TOP THINGS TO DO:

1. Hop aboard island packers boat [(805) 642-1393] to watch giant blue and humpback whales feed in channel between Santa Cruz and Santa Rosa Island. Half-day jaunt will thrill whole family. You will enjoy even if the whales forget to show up.

2. Phone Discover Ventura Tours [(805) 658-4726] and take Battle of San Buenaventura walking tour. Many other choices on city-sponsored program will convince you why Ventura is at least as special as Northern California favorites like Santa Cruz or Monterey.

3. Spend time at the beach! Walk, boogie board, surf, suntan, and let your pooch discover treasures in the sand. (Don't forget poop bag!) Grab lunch at cozy Seaward Avenue. Beach District cafes and open-air seafood stands.

FAMILY GETAWAY RATING

Ventura: 5 Stars out of 5.

Looking for the best local travel treasures? Email Rubin at rubin@familymagazinegroup.com.