Restaurant Rewards Programs and Birthday Freebies Around Ventura County

It's nice finding Kids Eat Free deals around Ventura County but there are also dozens of local rewards programs and birthday clubs that give you something for FREE!!!

This list includes programs where you get something for signing up or for being a repeat customer...a free burger, gift card, dessert, etc. Excluded are programs that do not provide an obvious freebie (i.e. only sends you promotional emails).

These deals often change, so click through to the restaurant website to confirm the deal is still good. Let us know of any changes, broken links or additions!!

Corner Bakery

Corner Bakery Rewards: Sign up and get $5 off your first order, then receive 5 points for every $1 spent, to get various offer. Also, receive a free bakery sweet on your birthday.

Locations: Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley

Cracker Barrel

Cracker Barrel Rewards: Earn “pegs” for each dollar spent and redeem for rewards. Free birthday reward - a dessert.

Location: Camarillo Premium Outlets

Daphne's Greek Cafe

Pita Points Rewards Club: Earn one point for each dollar spent; 100 points = $5 off any purchase. Plus another $5 credit on your birthday.

Locations: Newbury Park, Woodland Hills, Simi Valley

Dave & Buster’s

D&B Rewards: $10 free game play with $20 game play purchase for joining. $10 free game play for every $100 spent.

Location: Thousand Oaks

Del Taco

Dell Yeah! Rewards: Get two free tacos for signing up, get a free birthday reward and free ice or hot coffee before 11am daily with purchase. Accumulate points and exchange for rewards.

Locations: Newbury Park, Camarillo, Moorpark, Simi Valley (3), Oxnard (2), Ventura, Santa Paula

Denny's

Denny's Rewards: Sign up and get 20% off your next visit.  Free Grand Slam on your birthday.

Locations: Newbury Park, Camarillo, Moorpark, Simi Valley, Oxnard, Ventura, Port Hueneme, Santa Paula

Domino’s Pizza

Domino’s Rewards - 1 order of $5 or more = 10 points. 60 points = a free pizza.

Locations: Various

El Pollo Loco

La Familia Rewards: Earn 100 points for each dollar spent. Redeem for rewards.

Locations: Newbury Park, Thousand Oaks, Camarillo, Moorpark, Agoura Hills, Simi Valley (2), Oxnard (3), Santa Paula, Ventura

Farmer Boys

VIF (Very Important Farmer) Loyalty Club: Earn 1 point for each dollar spent. Redeem points for rewards. www.farmerboys.com/vif

Location: Newbury Park

Firehouse Subs

Firehouse Rewards App: Use their app and earn points towards free subs and more. Get free birthday sub too.

Locations: Simi Valley Town Center, Ventura, and Thousand Oaks

Grabbagreen

Grabsomegreen Rewards: Earn 1 point for each full dollar spent and receive $5 reward for every 50 points earned (effectively a 10% discount). Receive $5 reward for your birthday. www.grabbagreen.com/rewards

Location: Thousand Oaks

IHOP

IHOP Bank of Pancakes: Earn one PanCoin for every $5 spent. Trade 3 PanCoin crypto-pancakes for a short stack of 3 pancakes and other items. www.ihop.com/en/rewards

Locations: Agoura Hills, Camarillo, Ventura, Oxnard, Fillmore, Carpinteria

Islands

Islands Locals Program: Earn 1 point per $1 spent. 150 points = $10 reward. Get a free chips, salsa and guacamole upon sign-up. www.islandsrestaurants.com/locals-program

Location: Newbury Park

Jack in the Box

The Jack Pack: Earn points for each dollar spent. Redeem for food. www.jackinthebox.com/account/signup

Locations: Various

Jamba Juice

My Jamba Rewards App: Earn points for each purchase good for discounts on future purchases. Spend $35, get 35 points, which is good for $3 off your next order. Effectively an 8.6% discount. You also get a free birthday smoothie.

Locations: Westlake Village, Thousand Oaks, Camarillo, Newbury Park, Moorpark, Simi Valley, Oxnard, Port Hueneme, Ventura

Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams at The Commons at Calabasas offers a free ice cream on your birthday. Birthday guests can order any single, standard, or trio size ice cream in a cup or cone of their choice, and get their order free of charge.  The birthday special is only applicable on a customer’s day of birth. Adults must show a valid ID, and kids must be accompanied by an adult who can vouch that the day is their real birthday.

Jersey Mike's Subs

myMike’s: Sign up and earn free subs with Shore Points and receive a free sub on your birthday.

Locations: Over a dozen locations...Ventura, Camarillo, Newbury Park, Ojai, Oxnard, Calabasas, Simi Valley, Moorpark, Westlake Village, Thousand Oaks, etc.

Krispy Kreme

Krispy Kreme Rewards App: Register and get a free Original Glazed doughnut. Earn points towards free doughnuts and drinks and get a free gift on your birthday.

Location: 220 Riverpark Road, Oxnard

Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar

Email Club: Sign up and get free birthday and anniversary treats (dessert or appetizer)

Locations: The Oaks Mall in Thousand Oaks and The Collection at Riverpark in Oxnard

Little Calf Creamery & Cafe

Follow Little Calf: Sign up for their email list and get a free scoop of ice cream and updates. Visit website for details.

Locations: Thousand Oaks and Westlake Village.

Maria's Italian Kitchen

Maria's Kitchen Club App: Free birthday dessert. Earn 1 point for every $1 spent. Cash in 200 points for a $10 award (effectively a 5% discount). Free medium cheese pizza at signup. Free birthday month dessert.

Location: Agoura Hills

Menchie's Frozen Yogurt

My Smileage Club: Earn a Smile point for each dollar spent. Cash in 50 smiles for $5 towards a future purchase. That's a 10% rebate in my book!

Locations: The Collection at RiverPark in Oxnard, Port Hueneme and Ventura.

Nick the Greek

Rewards App: Earn points from purchases and redeem for food and drinks.

Locations: Ventura, Westlake Village

Noah’s New York Bagels

Noah’s Rewards: Free bagel and shmear with purchase, free egg sandwich on your birthday and redeem rewards points for items.

Noahs App: Download the app and receive 2 points for every $1 spent to redeem for items. Order on the app and get a free hot or iced coffee reward.

Locations: Thousand Oaks, Camarillo, Ventura

Nothing Bundt Cakes

eClub: Sign up and get a free Bundtlet on your birthday

Locations: Thousand Oaks, Ventura

Old New York Deli

Deli Dough Rewards Program: Earn 1 point for every $1 spent. 100 points  =  $7 in Deli Dough.

Location: Camarillo

Panera Bread

MyPanera: Sign up and receive a free "surprise" like a free pastry or sweet. Then receive other surprises as you accumulate points.

Locations: Camarillo, Oxnard, Ventura, Westlake Village, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley

Papa John's

PapaRewards: Earn 1 point for every $5 you order ONLINE (including tax and delivery). Accumulate points for food items.

Locations: Thousand Oaks, Moorpark, Simi Valley, Oxnard, Ventura and Camarillo

Peet’s Coffee

Peetnik Rewards App: Earn points and exchange them for drinks and food. FREE drink or baked good on your birthday.

Locations: Thousand Oaks, Ventura

Pickles Deli

Pickles Deli Rewards - Fill out a form or download the Royalty Rewards Member App to receive $10 off your next visit for signup, free birthday reward and earn 1 point for each $1 spent. 100 points equals a $5 reward certificate.

Location: Newbury Park

Pizza Hut

Hut Rewards - Earn 2 points for each $1 spent. Use points for free pizza and other items.

Locations: Various

Pizza Man Dan's

Pizza Lover's Email Club: Free pizza on your birthday and much more.

Locations: Ventura (2), Oxnard, Port Hueneme, Moorpark and Camarillo

Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers

Caniac Club: Get a free box combo for signing up.

Location: Oxnard

RedBrick Pizza

RedBrick Rewards: Earn 10 points for every dollar spent. Receive a $10 reward for every 1000 points. Effectively a 10% discount. Receive a small gelato after registering.

Location: 4990 Telephone Road, Ventura

Red Lobster

My Red Lobster Rewards: Earn points for your purchases and redeem for food items. Receive something on your birthday too.

Location: Oxnard

Red Robin

Red Robin Royalty: Free burger on your birthday and every 10th item free.

Locations: Simi Valley, Ventura, Oxnard

Regency Theatres

Regency Rewards: Earn points on purchases. 10 points for each adult ticket...100 points gets you a free companion ticket.

Locations throughout the area.

Rise Southern Biscuits & Righteous Chicken

Rise Rewards: Earn points for each dollar spent. Redeem points for food and beverages.

Location: Thousand Oaks, near Topper’s Pizza.

Rita's Italian Ice of Newbury Park

Rita's Birthday Club: Sign up and receive free birthday treat.

Location: 2290 Borchard Road, Newbury Park

Rori’s Artisanal Creamery

Birthday Club: Sign up for Rori’s email list and get a free birthday scoop

Locations: Camarillo, Ventura

Sbarro

Sbarro Rewards: Earn points for purchases and exchange for free food items.

Locations: Pacific View Mall in Ventura, The Oaks Mall

Subway

Subway MVP Rewards: Earn 4 tokens for every $1 spent on food and drinks. 200 tokens = $2 reward. Free cookie with sub purchase.

Locations: Everywhere

7 Eleven

7Rewards Loyalty Program: Download app on your smartphone, scan when you purchase coffee, Slurpees and other fountain drinks, and get 7th drink free. Not a bad deal!

Sharky's Woodfired Mexican Grill

Sharky's Rewards: Earn 1 point for every $1 spent. 100 points = $7 good toward future purchases. Effectively a 7% discount.

Locations: Calabasas, Camarillo, Newbury Park, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, Ventura, Westlake Village and Woodland Hills.

Sprinkles

Sprinkles Perks: For every $1 spent, get 5 points. 300 points equals a free item (cupcake, cookie or brownie).

Location: The Promenade at Westlake

Starbucks

My Starbucks Rewards: Members receive a free birthday drink or treat. Free refills and other items based on number of Stars collected over designated periods.

Locations: Everywhere

Stonefire Grill

SFG Rewards: Earn 1 point for every $1 spent. Every 125 points equals a $10 reward. Free birthday dessert.

Locations: Thousand Oaks

Taco Bell

Taco Bell Rewards: Sign up and get a free reward, then earn 10 points for each $1 spent. Earn a new reward every 250 points.

Texas de Brazil Churrascaria

eClub: Sign up and get $20 savings on two regular dinners combined and gifts on your birthday and other special occasions.

Location: The Collection at RiverPark in Oxnard

Urbane Cafe

Urbane Cafe App: Download the app, use it to pay for your purchases, and receive $5 credit for every $100 you spend; a 5% discount. I also received a $3 birthday credit.

Locations: Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, Agoura Hills, Camarillo, Oxnard, Ventura

Wienerschnitzel

Wiener Lovers' Club: Get a free chili dog for signing up and other stuff.

Locations: Simi Valley, Oxnard, Ventura

Wingstop

Email Club: Free birthday gift.

Locations: Oxnard, Camarillo, Ventura, Thousand Oaks

Yard House

E-Club: Register and receive a free appetizer

Location: Oxnard

Yogurtland

Real Rewards Program: Earn points for each ounce purchased and exchange points for free yogurt and birthday treats.

Locations: Simi Valley, Westlake Village, Oxnard, Ventura and Camarillo

Arby's

Arby’s Email List: Get free Classic Roast Beef with purchase of full-price menu item after signing up.

Locations: Ventura, Simi Valley

Baja Fresh

Club Baja: Earn 1 point for each dollar spent. Every 100 points gets you a $10 reward. Special offer on your birthday.

Locations: Camarillo (2), Simi Valley (2), Calabasas, Oxnard, Westlake Village

Bandits Grill & Bar

Bandits' Roundup Club: Free birthday gift, specials and more.

Location: Thousand Oaks

Baskins-Robbins

Birthday Club: Free small scoop on your birthday!

Locations: Newbury Park, Camarillo, Moorpark, Agoura, Simi Valley (2), Oxnard (2), Thousand Oaks (2), Santa Paula, Ventura (2)

BJ's Restaurant

BJ's Premier Rewards Plus: Earn 1 point for each $1 spent and redeem for discounts. For example, cash in 350 point for $25 off your meal, effectively about a 7% rebate. Free Pizookie at registration and on birthdays.

Locations: Westlake Village, Oxnard

Black Bear Diner

Bear Lovers E-Club: Sign up and get a free meal now and another on your birthday.

Location: Ventura

Buca di Beppo

Buca E-Club: Join and receive $10 gift.

Location: Janss Marketplace in Thousand Oaks

Buffalo Wild Wings

Blazin' Rewards: Earn points for purchases and exchange for free food. Get 10 free boneless wings for signing up.

Locations: Simi Valley, Oxnard

Cafe Rio

My Rio Rewards: Earn 1 point for every $1 spent. Receive $10 reward for 100 points. Effectively 10% off.

Location: Thousand Oaks

California Pizza Kitchen

CPK Rewards: Free small plate when you register. Earn 1 point for each $1 spent. 75 points equals a $5 reward.

Locations: Thousand Oaks (The Lakes), Simi Valley Town Center, Ventura (Pacific View Mall)

Chick-fil-A

Chick-fil-A One App: Earn points with each purchase and redeem them for free food rewards.

Locations: Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, Oxnard, Simi Valley, Ventura

Chili's Grill & Bar

My Chili's Rewards: Get free chips and salsa or non-alcoholic beverage on every visit. Free dessert on your birthday.

Locations: Newbury Park, Simi Valley, Oxnard

Chipotle

Chipotle Rewards: 10 points for every $1 spent. Redeem points for free menu items, apparel, accessories or charitable donations. Get free guac at signup and on your birthday.

Locations: Newbury Park, Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, Camarillo, Simi Valley, Oxnard

Cold Stone Creamery

My Cold Stone Club® Rewards: Earn 1 point for each dollar spent. 50 points can be used as a $5 reward towards purchases of $5 or more. 25 points earned just for registering.

Locations: Thousand Oaks, Camarillo, Oxnard, Ventura, Simi Valley

Non-Food Rewards

Ulta

Ultamate Rewards: Earn points for purchases and exchange for discounts. Free birthday item.

Locations: Thousand Oaks, Camarillo, Simi Valley, Oxnard, Calabasas

Several Dozen Things to See and Do in the City of Oxnard

The City of Oxnard was incorporated on June 30, 1903. Covering an area of just over 39 miles, of which 70% is land, Oxnard is the most populous city in Ventura County, with nearly 208,000 residents in 2016.

Oxnard's namesake is Harry T. Oxnard, who opened a beet factory in 1899 and taught local farmers the ins and outs of growing sugar beets. The land for the factory was purchased from Thomas S. Rice (of Rice Avenue fame) and the first plant manager was Major J. A. Driffill, who later became mayor.

There's plenty to see and do in Oxnard, and we've summed up some of our favorite activities below.

Great beaches in Oxnard include Mandalay Shores, Hollywood Beach and Silver Strand Beach, which are highlighted at THIS LINK.

Speaking of beaches, Oxnard Beach Park is a nice park with a pirate-themed, accessible playground area, large grassy area, restrooms and quick access to the beach.

The Channel Islands Maritime Museum located at the Channel Islands Harbor is home to world class maritime art, ship models and other maritime items. Open Thursday through Monday from noon to 4pm. Admission is free the 3rd Thursday of the month.

Channel Islands Harbor is a great place to beat the heat with the family, offering a variety of activities, such as fishing trips, boat cruises, eateries, water sports, shopping and special events year-round.

Oxnard Beach Park

There's a nice bike path in Oxnard that takes you from Oxnard Beach Park to Channel Islands Harbor that we enjoy from time to time.

The Henry T. Oxnard Historic District is located on F and G Streets, between Palm and 5th Streets. The area was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1999. Most of the 144 historic homes and buildings in the area were built before 1925 and includes Mission/Spanish revival, bungalow/craftsman and Colonial Revival architecture.

A great time to check out the Historic Oxnard District is during the two weeks preceding Christmas each year, when dozens and dozens of residents decorate their homes in lights and holiday decor for Christmas Tree Lane.

The Oxnard Performing Arts Center hosts concerts, musicals, speakers and other performances year-round. At over 1,600 seats, it is one of the largest venues in Ventura County and is a performance venue for the New West Symphony.

The Collection at RiverPark is an outdoor shopping center located on the northeast side of the 101 between the Oxnard and Vineyard exits. The 650,000 sq ft center includes a combination of entertainment, retail, restaurants, open space with fountains, parks and playgrounds and quality art. Activities at The Collection include The Painted Cabernet, Color Me Mine Ceramics Studio, Century RiverPark Movie Theater and Levity Live Comedy Club, Jump ‘n Jammin Children’s Entertainment Center, Red Door Escape Room and Bowlero.

Swing for the fences at Who's on First Batting Cages in Oxnard. What's on second? I don't know's on third. Who? First base.

Hollywood Beach

River Ridge Golf Course is a public golf course offering two 18-hole courses as well as footgolf!

Skateboarders and in-line skaters are on a roll at the City of Oxnard Bedford Pinkard Skate Park near Channel Islands High School. Pinkard is a former City Council member who was a supporter of many youth and community programs.

First Thursdays Food Trucks at Plaza Park in Oxnard is a popular gastronomic destination.

The Elite Theatre Company, located at Fisherman's Wharf at Channel Islands Harbor, Fisherman's Wharf, is host to musicals, plays, comedies and more.

The Dallas Cowboys have held Summer Training Camp for a number of years at River Ridge Fields at Oxnard's Marriott Residence Inn. Practices and scrimmages taking place in August are open to the public and free of charge. Check for updates at www.dallascowboys.com/trainingcamp.

Compilation of Public Beaches Spanning From Oxnard to Hueneme to Malibu

In a separate post, we highlighted beaches ranging from Carpinteria down south to the beaches at the Ventura Harbor. This is the 2nd installment of local area beaches that stretch from McGrath State Beach on down to the beaches gracing Malibu. We hope these compilations prove useful in guiding you to all the oceanfront fun Ventura County and adjacent areas have to offer!

Additionally, here's a compilation of beaches in the Santa Barbara area (excluding Carpinteria).

McGrath State Beach is currently open for day use and trails, but there are no facilities or parking available. Camping is not open as of June 2021. Visit parks.ca.gov/?page_id=607 or call 805.968.1033 for more information.  McGrath has 2 1/2 miles of beach available. Swimming, surfing, and water sports are discouraged because of rip currents. McGrath is 5 miles south of Ventura off the 101 freeway via Harbor Boulevard.

Mandalay State Beach is 94 acres of undeveloped beachfront land located south of Reliant Energy's Mandalay Generating Station. The natural sand dunes and the wetlands ecosystem are recognized for their important natural value and houses several threatened bird species. This is a passive, natural open space park with no support facilities. The sandy ocean beach and adjacent coastal dunes are available for public day use only. The beach is managed by the County of Ventura on behalf of the California State Parks Department. Located at the corner of Harbor Boulevard and 5th Street in Oxnard. Visit www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=609. No dogs allowed.

‘ololkoy Beach Park (formerly Oxnard Beach Park) has one of the best kids play areas around town, restrooms, lots of grass, and easy access to miles and miles of beach. The park is located at 1601 S. Harbor Boulevard. visitoxnard.com/directory/oxnard-beach-park

Oxnard Beach Park looking towards the beach.

Hollywood Beach is a great spot for swimming, sunning and viewing the Channel Islands. Free public beach volleyball courts, public restrooms on the north end of the beach, on-street parking and lifeguards on duty between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Located right next to Channel Islands Harbor off of Harbor Boulevard. Dogs are allowed at Hollywood Beach on leash before 9am and after 5pm. West-facing beach means it’s great for catching the sunset!

Hollywood Beach

Silver Strand Beach is a 1 mile long beach near Channel Islands Harbor, about 150 yards in width. It is capped by north and south jetties, both of which have small parking lots; one next to San Nicholas Avenue (at Ocean Drive), the other next to Sawtelle Avenue. Free parking from sunrise to sunset with limited restroom facilities. This is a sandy bottom beach break which may have rip tides and an undertow, so be careful. Dogs on leash allowed before 9am and after 5pm. Lifeguards on duty daily during summer months. Accessed via S. Victoria Avenue. Visit visitoxnard.com/things-to-do/beaches/silver-strand-beach for more information.

There's a Kiddie Beach Park off of S. Victoria Avenue at Sunset Drive with available parking, restrooms and benches. It is a small sliver of sand that fronts the south end of Channel Islands Harbor and thus does not face ocean waves.

Hueneme Beach Park is a 50 acre area with picnic tables, barbecue pits, walking paths, a fishing pier, sand volleyball courts, Surfside Seafood snack bar, lifeguards and restrooms. Beach parking lots and Surfside Drive parking available for a fee. No dogs allowed. Visit www.ci.port-hueneme.ca.us/index.aspx?NID=926 for more information. Located at 550 E. Surfside Drive, Port Hueneme. 

Ormond Beach is a 1,500 acre area composed of agriculture, industry and wetlands. A two mile long beach extends from Port Hueneme on the north to Naval Base Ventura County on the south. This is one of the few areas in southern California with an intact dune transition zone marsh system, hosting over 200 migratory bird species. The California Coastal Conservancy is restoring these wetlands. A bit off the beaten path, it is probably more geared towards bird watchers and hikers. Get there via Hueneme Road, going south on either Perkins Road on the north and Arnold Road on the south.

Naval Base Ventura County occupies roughly 6 miles of oceanfront space between Ormond Beach on the north and Point Mugu State Park on the south. This space is not accessible by the general public. However, there are periodic opportunities for civilians to catch a glimpse of the Pacific Ocean from NBVC during organized events open to the public.

Mugu Beach is the first publicly accessible beach area south of Naval Base Ventura County off of PCH, located adjacent to the prominent Mugu Rock. For the most part this is the most quickly accessible beach to Camarillo and Conejo Valley residents. There is paid parking ($12 last time I was there) as well as parking available on PCH. Popular with fisherman. One thing to be aware of here is that there is a significant undertow. If you bring the little ones, best to stay out of the water or just be extra careful.

South of Mugu Rock there is also some beach that is accessible with plenty of parking on PCH. No facilities and not a lot of beach, but beautiful views and a quick place to explore.

Thornhill Broome Campground and Beach is also part of Point Mugu State Park, located a mile or two south of Mugu Beach. This is a campground right on the beach with a capacity for about 60 or so RVs. But of course you can visit for the day for a parking fee. Plenty of parking also available on PCH. Porta-potties available. Dogs are allowed around here as long as they are on a leash (and paleeeze...pick up after them).

Across the street on PCH is a gigantic, steep sand dune that I've always found to be interesting. Learn more about that sand dune here.

Unusually large sand dune on the east side of PCH across from Thornhill Broome Campground

Sycamore Cove is at the southernmost beachfront portion of Point Mugu State Park. Point Mugu State Park features 3.6 miles of ocean shoreline (Sycamore Cove to Mugu Beach), with rocky bluffs, beaches, sand dunes, rugged hills and uplands, two major river canyons and wide grassy valleys dotted native trees.

Sycamore Canyon Campground across PCH from Sycamore Cove has 58 campsites. For a challenge, ride or hike down through Sycamore Canyon from Rancho Sierra Vista/Satwiwa in Newbury Park. You'll most likely have to pay to park here (most recently $12 for day use) as there are not many spots on PCH available on the south side...watch out...there are no parking signs all over the place.

Sycamore Cove Beach has a number of picnic benches shaded by trees and is thus a popular spot on summer weekends for the BBQ crowd as well as with the campers from the campground on the other side of PCH. Located at 9000 Pacific Coast Highway. Visit www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=630.

Trees shade the picnic tables at Sycamore Cove Beach

In the 3.3 mile stretch of PCH between Sycamore Cove Beach and County Line Beach (below) there are three or four places where you can park on PCH and access the beach.

One of these beaches I refer to as Call Box 1-35 Beach, about a mile southeast of Sycamore Cove Beach. This is not the official name of this beach in the unincorporated section of Ventura County northwest of Malibu city limits. But since the dilapidated staircase leading down to the beach is next to this call box, it seems appropriate. The address is approximately 9649 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu (yes, technically not Malibu, yet in Google maps the address says Malibu).

About half a mile southeast of Call Box 1-35 is Call Box 1-27 Beach, which I also refer to as 26 Steps Beach. 26 Steps Beach is approximately 1.9 miles northeast of County Line Beach (see below) and 1.5 miles southwest of Sycamore Cove Beach (see above), at approximately 9999 PCH, just west of Deer Creek Road. I made up the name 26 Steps Beach because there is a well-worn, tagged up staircase that leads you from your parked car on PCH near the 1-27 Call Box sign to the beach. This is not a bad little section of beach that rarely has many people. No restrooms. Parking is free on PCH.

County Line Beach is located across the street from the iconic Neptune's Net, 3 miles south of Sycamore Cove at 42505 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu. Lots of surfers and places to explore. Park on PCH. Watch out for bikers...there can be hundreds of them hanging out here on many a weekend. There are outer reefs for scuba diving that have an abundance of sea life. Activities include diving, surfing, and tide pools. No lifeguards on duty. There are a few porta-johns here. Technically, County Line Beach is located in Solromar, an unincorporated community in Ventura County - but they use the Malibu zip code so hey, it’s ok to say it is in Malibu.

Before the main Leo Carrillo State Beach area while heading south on PCH is the Leo Carrillo State Park Staircase Beach area. There’s a California State Parks parking lot at 40000 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu. Parking is available for approximately 50 cars. There’s a moderately narrow trail that takes you down to the beach, which is also a fairly narrow beach with lots of rocks. You can also walk to this beach from the main Leo Carrillo Beach. Dogs allowed on leash.

Leo Carrillo State Park Staircase Beach parking lot.

Leo Carrillo State Park has 1 1/2 miles of beach for swimming, surfing, windsurfing, surf fishing and beach combing; one of our favorites for exploring sea caves, rocks and tidepools. Located at 35000 West Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, Leo Carrillo is about 1 1/2 miles south of County Line Beach. On the north side of PCH, there are 135 campsites in over 2,500 acres. Visit www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=616 or call 805.488.1827. Dogs on a leash are allowed in day use areas, campground and north beach (north of lifeguard tower 3). Dogs are not allowed on back country trails or south beach (south of lifeguard tower 3). Park on PCH or in the state lot ($12) and take the tunnel under PCH to the beach. More details on how to get to Leo Carrillo from the 101 freeway at this link.

Nicholas Canyon County Beach is one mile east of Leo Carrillo at 33850 Pacific Coast Highway. Great beach where you can hang out, fish, picnic, surf and more. About 150 parking spaces available. Generally $10 to park on summer weekends, or park on PCH. More info at beaches.lacounty.gov/nicholas-canyon-beach. Restrooms available.

A view of Nicholas Canyon County Beach, just a mile east of Leo Carrillo.

Located between Leo Carrillo and Point Dume State Beaches, Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach is made up of a number of cove or cliff-foot strands known as "pocket beaches" along the west end of Malibu, including El Pescador, La Piedra and El Matador. www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=633 Dogs are not allowed on state beaches.

El Pescador State Beach is 1.4 miles east of Nicholas Canyon at 32900 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu. Steep, uneven stairs lead to about 10 acres of narrow, sandy beach. It is just east of Decker Canyon, the curvy, steep road that takes you up to Hidden Valley/Westlake Village. Dogs are not allowed on state beaches. Limited parking is available (fees vary) or park on PCH. Small, secluded beach. When the tide is not too high, you can trek you way east towards La Piedra Beach and back.

Porta-potty available. www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=633.

Sign on PCH east of Decker Canyon Road, prior to El Pescador State Beach to the west of it.

La Piedra State Beach is .3 miles east of El Pescador at 32700 Pacific Coast Highway. A fairly long hiking path (may be a bit challenging for those lugging a lot of stuff) leads to 9 acres of narrow, sandy beach. Dogs are not allowed on state beaches. Limited parking available for a fee (which vary) or park on PCH. Porta potty available. www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=633.

El Matador State Beach is .3 miles east of La Piedra at 32350 Pacific Coast Highway, just east of where Encinal Canyon Road intersects with PCH. A dirt path, then dozens of stairs, leads to 18 acres of narrow, sandy beach with stunning, rock formations and caves.

Dogs are not allowed on state beaches.  There is a parking lot with room for 25 or so cars where you can pay $3/hour or $10 for all day (as of July 2023).  You can also park on PCH, but on the north side...for whatever reason parking is prohibited on the south side of PCH. This means you have to cross PCH, which can be a challenge. There are porta-potties available. www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=633

Stunning rock formations at El Matador State Beach.

Lechuza Beach in Malibu, a mile east of El Matador State Beach, is maintained by the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority. It is a small, sandy beach with beautiful rock formations and views up the coast. Accessible via the northeast end of Broad Beach Road.  More information and specific access points at mrca.ca.gov/parks/park-listing/lechuza-beach. Dogs not allowed on the beach.

Zuma Beach is located at 30000 Pacific Coast Highway about 3.5 miles east of El Matador. With 1.8 miles of beach, Zuma is one of the largest and most popular beaches in Los Angeles County, Zuma is known for its long, wide sands and excellent surf. Plenty of facilities, including several food stands, restrooms, showers, volleyball, etc. Plenty of street parking on PCH and over 2,000 parking spaces (currently $8 weekdays and $15 weekends). Visit beaches.lacounty.gov/zuma-beach for more information. Zuma is known for riptides, so do be careful out there.

NOTE: Fires, including BBQs, are not allowed on any beach in Malibu; the exception is that fires may be allowed in designated spots at some state beaches. Dogs not allowed on the beach also.

Zuma Beach

Point Dume State Beach is a 63 acre promontory that juts out into the Pacific and features headlands, cliffs, rocky coves and vast beach access for swimming, surfing, scuba diving and fishing. Westward Beach borders Zuma Beach at Zuma's south side. There is plenty of parking on Westward Beach Road, which parallels Westward Beach. To the southeast of Westward Beach is a small 300 foot or so beachfront area called Pirate's Cove Beach (which due to its seclusion was once used as a nude beach).

At the end of Westward Beach Road (WBR), access to the protected 34-acre Point Dume Natural Preserve begins from the cul-de-sac. A gradual ascending trail leads to an ancient coastal bluff sand dune with spectacular views...we've seen whales, seals and dolphins over here. A stairway from the east side of the bluff-top preserve allows access to a more isolated beach and tidepools (look but don't touch). Location/Directions: Take Kanan south to PCH and turn right. WBR is over the rise, at the foot of the hill. Park free on WBR or pay a fee at Westward Beach lot. No restrooms at the Preserve but some can be found on WBR. Call 310.457.8143 or visit www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=623 for more information.

NOTE: Dogs are not allowed on trails in the Point Dume Natural Preserve or on the beach.

Looking down on the beach at Point Dume

Paradise Cove Beach is located at 28128 Pacific Coast Highway, accessed via Paradise Cove Road. Parking (as of June 2023) is $10 ($15 weekends/holidays) for if you spend up to 4 hours at the Paradise Cove Beach Cafe (and spend at least $30 there) or $45/$65/day (weekdays/weekends) if you park there just for the beach. Or, you can park on PCH and walk there. There are restrooms, cabanas, lounge chairs and chairs for rent, and a small pier. Visit www.paradisecovemalibu.com.

Escondido Beach is a short, narrow strip of beach accessible just west of Geoffrey's Malibu via a long stairway at 27420 PCH or near the corner of Escondido Beach Road and Malibu Cove Colony Drive. Look for access signs. No dogs allowed. No facilities.

Dan Blocker Beach is located at 26000 Pacific Coast Highway (between Solstice Canyon and Corral Canyon Roads. A sandy, narrow beach that draws surfers and scuba divers. Limited free roadside parking. Restrooms are available. Corral Canyon (trail map HERE) is located across the street at 25623 PCH. The trailhead is on the north side of PCH next to Malibu Seafood restaurant. The beach can be accessed from via a seasonal trail under PCH. 310.305.9546

On June 14, 2016, a new beach stairway access was completed at 24038 Malibu Road. Very little parking available there and no facilities at the beach. Read more at THIS LINK.

Malibu Beach is a 167 acre beach at 23050 and 23200 Pacific Coast Highway that includes Malibu Lagoon, Malibu Lagoon Museum and the Malibu Pier. Malibu Surfrider Beach next to the pier is quite popular with local surfers. Parking available for a fee, or park on streets surrounding Malibu Country Mart and walk across PCH at the signaled crosswalk at Cross Creek Road.

Malibu Surfrider Beach viewed from the Malibu Sportfishing Pier

Perhaps the most expensive strip of beach in the world is Carbon Beach, which stretches about a mile and a half between the Malibu Pier and just east of Carbon Canyon Road. This wide beach is a beautiful strip of sand, but public access points can be challenging to find and parking can be a challenge. Learn specifics at THIS LINK but specifically, the public accessway points are at 22670 PCH, 22466 PCH and 22126 PCH. No restrooms and no dogs allowed at this beach.

Las Tunas Beach is located at 19444 Pacific Coast Highway, about 4 1/2 miles east of the Malibu Pier. It is a narrow beach beneath the bluffs that holds a special attraction to surf casters. Free parking lot. Located between Tuna Canyon and Las Flores Canyon Roads.

And there's more...the California Coastal Commission Shoreline Public Access Program helps maximize public access to the beach along the California coast. When you see one of those "Coastal Access" signs, that means you can get to the beach. More on the program at www.coastal.ca.gov/access/accndx.html. The L.A. County Dept of Beaches and Harbors has published Malibu beach accessways at file.lacounty.gov/dbh/cms1_151453.jpg, including 11 accessways on PCH, Malibu Road and Broad Beach Road. But if you do check them out, be mindful of those who live there!

Free Concerts and Live Music All Summer Long Around Ventura County

Summer 2024 will be here soon and we’ll have another outstanding summer of free live music throughout Ventura County and surrounding areas! Rock, jazz, pops, R&B, reggae, classical, 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, Classic Rock, Latin, tribute bands, etc. The compilation below has links to more detailed information.

Concerts subject to change. List will be updated regularly as new events are added.

Thousand Oaks/Westlake Village/Newbury Park

• Free Concerts in the Park in Thousand Oaks starting at 5pm

  • Mon, May 27: Beatles Tribute

  • Tht, July 4: Neil Diamond Tribute

  • Sun, July 21: Santana Tribute

  • Sun, Aug 11: Taylor Swift Tribute

  • Mon, Sep 2: The Spazmatics

• City of Thousand Oaks Pop-Up Arts & Music Festival every Friday/Saturday from May 31 to June 29 at 7PM. FREE!

• Saturday Night Concerts at Berniece Bennett Park in Westlake Village at 7pm

  • Sat, June 8: Bruno Mars Tribute

  • Sat, July 13: Aerosmith Tribute

  • Sat, Aug 10: K-Tel All Stars (70s)

  • Sat, Aug 24: Video Star (80s)

• City of Westlake Village TGIF Friday night performances at the Westlake Village Civic Center at 7pm

  • Fri, May 31: Jazz Night with Agoura High and Lindero Canyon Middle School Bands

  • Fri, Jun 21: Jumpin Joz (Swing/50s)

  • Fri, Aug 2: 5-Star Theatricals

• Free Summer Concert Series at Janss Marketplace on Wednesday nights is June 19 to July 31 from 6-8PM.

  • June 19: K-Tel All Stars (70s)

  • June 26: Mirage (Fleetwood Mac Tribute)

  • July 10: Live From Earth (Pat Benatar Tribute)

  • July 17: Ticket to Ride (Beatles Tribute)

  • July 24: The Dirty Lowdown (70s/80s hits)

  • July 31: Lose Your Illusion (Guns N’ Roses Tribute)

Agoura/Oak Park/Calabasas/Woodland Hills

• City of Agoura Hills Free Summer Concert in the Park at Chumash Park (except 7/21 concert at the Agoura Hills High PAEC. Concerts start at 6pm.

  • Sun, June 16: Foo Fighters Tribute

  • Sun, July 7: Neil Diamond Tribute

  • Sun, July 21: Conejo Valley Community Concert and Jazz Bands (at AHS PAEC)

  • Sun, Aug 4: Taylor Swift Tribute

  • Sun, Aug 18: The Yacht Groove

• Valley Cultural Foundation’s Free Concerts at Warner Park in Woodland Hills on Sunday nights from June 16 to August 25 at 5:30PM (emerging artist) followed by headline acts.

  • June 16: Linda Ronstadt Tribute

  • June 23: The Soul Juice Band

  • June 30: The Doors Tribute

  • Thursday, July 4: 4th of July Event with Angela O’Neill and Outrageous8

  • July 14: Foreigner Tribute

  • July 21: Fleetwood Mac Tribute

  • July 28: Prince Tribute

  • Aug 4: Bon Jovi Tribute

  • Aug 11: ABBA Tribute

  • Aug 18: Taylor Swift Tribute

  • Aug 25: Aerosmith Tribute

• Sun Sets Summer Concert Series at Calabasas Lake on Sunday nights at 6pm.

  • June 2: Tribute to Grease

  • July 21: On Tap Band (80s/90s)

  • Aug 11: U2 Tribute

  • Aug 25: R&B/Motown

• Music in the Park at Oak Canyon Community Park in Oak Park on Saturday, July 13th (DSB - Journey Tribute)

Moorpark/Simi Valley

• Summer Music in the Park Free Concerts at Rancho Simi Community Park on Saturday nights at 6:30pm.

  • Sat, June 15: Garth Brooks Tribute

  • Sat, July 20: Foo Fighters Tribute

  • Sat, August 17: Queen Nation (Queen Tribute)

• Simi Civic Center Plaza Concerts in the Courtyard on six designated Sat nights from 6-9pm.

  • Saturday, June 29: 805 Social Club (Dance/Pop)

  • Saturday, July 13: Sidetracs (Top 40, R&B, Latin)

  • Saturday, July 27: Little Alice (Top 40)

  • Saturday, August 10: Beatles Tribute

  • Saturday, August 24: Pat Benatar Tribute

  • Saturday, September 7: The Dirty Lowdown (Yacht Rock/80s)

• City of Moorpark Concerts in the Park at Arroyo Vista Park at 6pm

  • June 22: Rockin’ Oldies

  • July 27: Country/Pop/Rock

  • Aug 24: Classic Piano Rock

  • Sept 28: Moorpark Symphony Orchestra

Camarillo/Oxnard/Port Hueneme/Ventura

• Summer Concert Series at Constitution Park at 7pm on designated Saturday nights.

  • Sat, June 29 - Smith (Country/Pop/Rock)

  • Sat, July 13 - Santana Tribute

  • Sat, July 27 - Eagles Tribute

  • Sat, August 10 - 805 Social Club

• Camarillo Community Band Free Concerts in the Park at 7 p.m. on Thursday evenings from July 11 to August 1 at Constitution Park

• Free Concerts by the Sea at Peninsula Park at Channel Islands Harbor is on Saturdays from 4-6PM from July 6th through August 31st, featuring an assortment of local talent and musical genres.

• Heritage Square Summer Concert Series from 6-8pm on Friday nights from June 14 to August 16 - reserved tables and seats available for a free. Free lawn seating available (donations appreciated) for this concert series that offers a wide variety of musical genres.

• Free Seaside Live Music at Ventura Harbor Village includes a variety of performers beginning Memorial Day weekend through June.

• Rock the Collection Free Concert Series at The Collection at RiverPark to take place on four Thursday nights:

  • Aug 15: Bruno and the Hooligans (Bruno Mars tribute)

  • Aug 29: Wanted (Bon Jovi tribute)

  • Sep 12: Twisted Gypsy (Fleetwood Mac tribute)

  • Sep 26: Kings of Queen (Queen tribute)

Santa Barbara

Free Thursday Night Concerts at Chase Palm Park in Santa Barbara on Thursday nights, June 27 and July 11, 18, 25 and August 8 from 6-7:30pm.

Have something to add to this list? CONTACT US!!

Check the Events Calendar for things going on around town as well as the Local Events and Community Messages sections of Conejo Valley Guide.

Things to Do With the Kids in Ventura County When It's Wet Outside

It doesn't rain nearly often enough here in Ventura County, but when it does, that's a great excuse for staying inside. You are in the right place as we have compiled this extensive list of well over 200 indoor activities from Agoura to Simi Valley to Ventura and everywhere in between!

Geared Towards Little Kids

• My Gym Children's Fitness Center in Thousand Oaks and Ventura

• The Oaks Mall Indoor Play Area (up to age 5)

• Build-a-Bear Workshop at The Oaks

• Rockin' Kids Play Center at Simi Valley Town Center

• We Rock the Spectrum Kid's Gym in Agoura Hills

• Jumpify Indoor Playground at The Oaks Mall

• KidzCity Indoor Play in Woodland Hills

• Kids World Indoor Playground in Oak Park

• Jump ‘n Jammin Children’s Entertainment Center in Oxnard (RiverPark)

• Play Out Loud Indoor Playground in Agoura Hills

Gaming and Arcades

• Chuck E. Cheese's in Thousand Oaks and Ventura

• Big Z Family Fun Center in Simi Valley

• The arcade at Golf N' Stuff Ventura

Other Indoor Fun

• Nearly 30 libraries in the Ventura County area

• The Ronald Reagan Library and Museum in Simi Valley

• Over 50 museums in and around Ventura County

• 150+ movie screens around Ventura County

• Escape room places in Ventura County

• MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation in Santa Barbara

Indoor Action and Sports

• Sky Zone Trampoline Park in Ventura

• Sky Zone Thousand Oaks (formerly Defy Extreme Air Sports)

• Boulderdash Indoor Rock Climbing in Thousand Oaks

• Boulderdash Indoor Rock Climbing in Ventura

• Lazertag Axtreme in Simi Valley

• Bowling Alleys in Ventura County

• Open Gym at Conejo Recreation & Park District Facilities

• Imagymnation Gymnastics Center in Simi Valley

• LA Kings Iceoplex Ice Arena in Simi Valley

• Skating Plus Indoor Roller Rink in Ventura

• Monarchs Gym in Newbury Park and Agoura

• Indoor Batting Cages in Camarillo, Oxnard, Westlake Village, Newbury Park, Thousand Oaks

• Skateboarding Hall of Fame and Museum in Simi Valley

• Sky Zone Trampoline Park Thousand Oaks

• K1 Indoor Go Kart Racing and Arcade in Thousand Oaks

Arts and Crafts

• Lakeshore Learning Free Crafts on Saturdays in Ventura

• As You Wish Pottery Painting Place in Simi Valley

• Color Me Mine Ceramics Studio in Calabasas

• The Arterie Art Studio in Thousand Oaks

• Firefly Ceramics in Ventura

• YES FACTORY in Agoura Hills

These are just a sampling of the various activities and events in Conejo Valley Guide, so make sure to explore and find something fun to do!

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Locations in Ventura County

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program recruits volunteer tax preparers to provide free preparation of federal and state income tax returns to taxpayers with incomes less than $64,000 in 2023. VITA benefits these taxpayers by eliminating the cost of commercial tax return preparation and by securing valuable tax credits such as the Child Tax Credit and EITC.

Local VITA location sites are as follows (see this IRS link for details, including dates and times and contact information for making appointments, when required):

• Newbury Park Library, 2331 Borchard Road - Wednesdays 10am to 4pm, 2/7/24 to 4/10/24. Appointments not required.

• Conejo Creek South Park, 1350 E. Janss Road, Thousand Oaks - Mon-Fri 8:30am to 4pm, 2/1/24 to 4/12/24. Appointments not required.

• Many Mansions, 2725 East Hillcrest Drive, Thousand Oaks - 2/6/24 to 4/30/24. Appointments are required.

• Calvary Church, 5495 Via Rocas, Westlake Village - 2/6/24 to 4/9/24. Appointments are required.

• Moorpark College - 2/1/24 to 4/30/24. Appointments are required.

• East County Job and Career Center, 2900 N. Madera Road, Simi Valley - 2/7/24 to 4/30/24. Appointments are required.

• CLU Oxnard Campus: 2201 Outlet Center Drive, Suite 600 - 2/6/24 to 4/30/24 - Appointments are required.

• Oxnard College, 4000 South Rose Avenue - 2/6/24 to 4/30/24. Appointments are required.

• United Way of Ventura County, 702 County Square Drive #100, Ventura. 2/1/24 to 4/30/24. Appointments are required.

• Ventura Community Service Center, 4651 Telephone Road, 2nd Floor. Appointments are required.

What to bring:

• Proof of identification (photo ID)

• Social Security cards for you, your spouse and dependents

• An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) assignment letter may be substituted for you, your spouse and your dependents if you do not have a Social Security number

• Proof of foreign status, if applying for an ITIN

• Birth dates for you, your spouse and dependents on the tax return

• Wage and earning statements (Form W-2, W-2G, 1099-R,1099-Misc) from all employers

• Interest and dividend statements from banks (Forms 1099)

• Health Insurance Exemption Certificate, if received

• A copy of last year’s federal and state returns, if available

• Proof of bank account routing and account numbers for direct deposit such as a blank check

• To file taxes electronically on a married-filing-joint tax return, both spouses must be present to sign the required forms

• Total paid for daycare provider and the daycare provider's tax identifying number such as their Social Security number or business Employer Identification Number

• Forms 1095-A, B and C, Health Coverage Statements

• Copies of income transcripts from IRS and state, if applicable

www.irs.gov/individuals/checklist-for-free-tax-return-preparation

The IRS partners with software companies to provide “IRS Free File” guided tax software for taxpayers with adjusted gross income (AGI) or $79,000 or less for the 2023 tax year. Learn more at apps.irs.gov/app/freeFile. Providers for 2023 filings include FreeTaxUSA, 1040.com, FileYourTaxes.com, 1040NOW, TaxAct, OLT.com, TaxSlayer, and ezTaxReturn.com

Throwback: Grand Opening of the Tournament Bowl in Oxnard on November 8, 1958

The 32 lane Tournament Bowl opened its doors on Saturday, November 8, 1958 at 3443 Saviers Road in Oxnard. The facility featured a cocktail lounge, dining room, coffee shop and children’s playroom. Open 24 hours!

The grand opening featured free door prizes - free souvenirs “for both men and women!” and featured appearances by future United States Bowling Congress Hall of Famers, Steve Nagy and Harry Smith.

While I don’t know the exact date the Tournament Bowl closed its doors (I believe it was the early 1990s), what I do know is that a Ralph’s grocery store is now located there.

The Tournament Bowl hosted the Oxnard PBA Open September 24-27, 1964.

The other Oxnard bowling alley in years past was the Wagon Wheel Bowl, which closed in May 2015.

Finally, a brand new Bowlero opened at The Collection at RiverPark in Oxnard in October 2021, so for now, bowling is still alive in Oxnard!

BOWLING ALLEYS IN AND AROUND VENTURA COUNTY