America’s hit song, Ventura Highway, paints the picture of an idyllic stop along a greater journey. You can almost feel the free wind blowing through your hair.
But is this an actual location or a creative fabrication?
Today, we’re uncovering the facts about this destination that’s captivated fans for decades.
Let’s hit it!
About the Song, Ventura Highway
Most of us know the band America for its upbeat, folksy riffs and sentimental imagery. And their song, Ventura Highway, is no exception.
Dewey Bunnell wrote the lyrics based on an experience he had as a child. He was on a road trip with his family when they got a flat tire. Stranded near the Air Force base where his father was stationed, they had views of bluebird skies and the vast Pacific Ocean.
He noticed a sign that pointed towards Ventura, and the picture stuck with him.
The tune includes hopeful, lighthearted lines like “Ventura Highway in the sunshine. Where the days are longer, the nights are stronger than moonshine.” Meanwhile, the next verse suggests a sense of sadness when he sings, “Wishing on a falling star, waiting for the early train. Sorry boy, but I’ve been hit by purple rain.”
While there’s no proof that Ventura Highway inspired Prince’s Purple Rain, many believe there’s a connection.
Where Is the Ventura Highway?
Despite the song’s title, you won’t be able to snap a picture of the Ventura Highway sign because it doesn’t exist. However, Bunnell’s family breakdown happened along the Pacific Coast Highway, a very real road in California.
This iconic roadway is part of a route that stretches from San Francisco to San Diego. But since the artist’s family was around Santa Barbara when their tire blew, we’ll focus on that region.
Starting on the Graviota Coast, you’ll find long stretches of rugged, undeveloped beaches, something nearly unheard of in Southern California. It’s not uncommon to see hilly agricultural land dotted with alpacas. This area is where northern and southern ecological communities merge. It’s home to many unique habitats that house rare and endangered species.
Goleta is further south. It’s a laid-back small town known for citrus, avocados, and craft beer. And while farms are prevalent, it’s also becoming a hub for tech companies.
As you continue toward the border, you’ll hit Santa Barbara. Spanish architecture, a Mediterranean climate, and a heavy dose of SoCal culture symbolize this beloved city. It’s an idyllic destination you won’t want to rush past.
Downtown features world-class restaurants with freshly caught seafood, quaint shops, and bike paths along the beach. Neighborhoods like Presidio and the Funk Zone have their own distinct vibe. Outside the city center, rows of sprawling grapevines line the hillside and hint at the local Urban Wine Trail.
What Are the Prettiest Beaches Along the Ventura Highway?
The Santa Barbara area is famous for its coastline. Longboarders, paddleboarders, and folks looking for a relaxing dip can enjoy mild waves at Leadbetter Beach. It’s right outside downtown, so you won’t be far from shops and restaurants.
Haskell’s Beach features lots of tidepools when the water’s out. You might see starfish, octopus, or anemones during low tide.
Another popular spot is East Beach. Folks often visit for volleyball tournaments and watersports. You can even rent a paddleboard on-site. Be sure to stroll down Stearn’s Wharf while you’re here.
If you’re traveling with your dog, make a pit stop by Arroyo Burro Beach. Your four-legged friend can frolic in the surf, and you can clean them off at the self-serve dog wash before you leave.
One thing is certain. You won’t have any shortage of activity options in the area.
Is the Ventura Freeway the Same as Highway 101?
Although the Ventura Highway is a fictional moniker, the similarly named Ventura Freeway is a real stretch of asphalt. It’s part of US Highway 101, the longest in California.
The Ventura Freeway starts at the county line between Ventura and Santa Barbara. From there, it meanders easterly through orchards and agricultural land. After passing through the Santa Monica Mountains, it then passes into LA County and the San Fernando Valley. Finally, at the infamous Hollywood Split, the Ventura Freeway becomes SR 134.
This portion of Hwy 101 is one of the few places where it shares ground with Hwy 1. California’s highway system can be a bit confusing, so it’s important to distinguish between these two, especially if you’re road-tripping through the area.
Learn more: What’s The Difference Between a Highway and Freeway?
Fun Things To Do on the Ventura Freeway
You’ll want to plan some pit stops along your tour of the Ventura Freeway. Fortunately, there are plenty of places to stretch your legs along the route. Here are a few spots to choose from.
Santa Barbara Red Tile Walking Tour
Spanish-style architecture is one of the first things you’ll notice in Santa Barbara. White stucco facades topped with red tile roofs give the skyline its signature aesthetic.
On the self-guided walking tour, you can scout out 22 historic buildings dating back to the 1700s. It includes government buildings, museums, and theaters within about 12 city blocks.
Pro Tip: Visit Santa Barbara Car Free’s website to download the official map.
Stearns Wharf
Stearns Wharf is one of Santa Barbara’s most notable landmarks. Completed in 1872, it’s California’s oldest functioning pier. While it once served as a hub for passengers and freight, today, it’s the top tourist attraction in town.
Grab a meal at one of the restaurants or peruse the many specialty shops for shells, wine, and handmade candy. Learn about ocean life at the Sea Center or take a ride on the Water Taxi.
Even if you just stroll the dock, it’ll be a nice break from the car on your road trip.
Old Mission Santa Barbara
Established in 1786, Old Mission Santa Barbara has a rich history. Spanish Franciscans founded the site, and then Mexico occupied it before it became part of the US.
But this isn’t your average church. It has gardens, a museum, and even grounds where novice Friars live and undergo training. According to their website, they practice “radical hospitality,” inviting everyone to learn about their community at the source.
Explore more with the Santa Barbara Travel Guide 2024.
Best Places to Stay on the Ventura Freeway
The Santa Barbara area deserves more than one day of your time. Make the most of your journey on the Ventura Highway by sticking around for a while. Here are three great places to stay along the way.
Faria Beach Park Campground
You’ll enjoy oceanside accommodations at the Faria Beach Park Campground. In fact, we hear some folks even get a bit of sea spray while they’re parked here. It’s that close!
RV sites have full hookups with 20-, 30-, and 50-Amp electrical service and cable TV. You’ll have access to a dump station and full restrooms. There’s also an on-site restaurant where you can grab a bite to eat.
Nestled between the surf and the Santa Ynez Mountains, this spot has all the ingredients for an epic stay right off the Ventura Freeway.
Here’s another excellent option: Lake Piru is an Affordable Hidden Gem in California
The Eagle Inn Bed and Breakfast
If you’re looking for a little more privacy, check out the Eagle Inn. It’s located in Santa Barbara’s West Beach neighborhood, only blocks from East Beach and Stearns Wharf.
They offer standard rooms as well as casitas with fireplaces and whirlpool tubs. Whatever option you choose will come with a free breakfast each morning and freshly baked cookies in the afternoon.
Harbor House Inn
The boutique Harbor House Inn offers luxury accommodations with a laid-back feel. Smart TVs and ultrafast Wi-Fi mean you won’t have to sacrifice creature comforts.
And with its prime location near East Beach, you’ll be steps away from world-renowned recreation. They also offer free beach chairs, umbrellas, and towels.
Many rooms feature fully equipped kitchens, so you can make yourself at home for as long as you’re there.
Is a Ventura Highway Road Trip Worth It?
Dewey Bunnell may have made up the Ventura Highway name for America’s hit song, but this authentic destination is brimming with possibilities. You’ll find all the charm of the California Coast with attractions that’ll keep you coming back for more.
When you make the trip, we suggest giving yourself plenty of time to explore. It’ll take a long time to run out of things to do here!
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