Spring and early summer in Ventura County offer beautiful weather and plenty of family-friendly events and activities. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, seasonal festivals, or the perfect backdrop for a family photography session, this list has something for everyone. As a family photographer in Ventura County, I often recommend these activities and locations for both fun and memorable photo opportunities.
1. Spring Wildflower Hikes
Where: Wildwood Regional Park, Conejo Valley Botanic Garden, Point Mugu State Park
Spring in Ventura County brings blooming wildflowers and lush green hills, making it the perfect time for family hikes. Popular trails like Paradise Falls at Wildwood Park or the Scenic Loop at Conejo Valley Botanic Garden offer breathtaking views and manageable hikes for all ages.
Photography Tip
Schedule a morning or golden-hour hike for the best lighting and vibrant flower colors.
2. Ventura County Fairgrounds Spring Carnival
Where: Ventura County Fairgrounds
When: Early April
Kick off the season with carnival rides, games, and delicious fair food at the Ventura County Fairgrounds Spring Carnival. This event is a local favorite for families, with kid-friendly attractions and live entertainment.
Photography Tip
Capture candid shots of kids enjoying the rides, colorful fair lights, and oversized cotton candy smiles.
3. Underwood Family Farms Springtime on the Farm
Where: Underwood Family Farms, Moorpark
When: April – May
Underwood Family Farms hosts Springtime on the Farm, featuring baby animals, tractor rides, pick-your-own produce, and live entertainment. Families can enjoy interactive farm experiences, making it a great outing for young children.
Photography Tip
The rustic farm setting, fresh produce fields, and adorable farm animals make for the perfect spring-themed family photos.
4. Whale Watching Tours
Where: Ventura Harbor Village | Island Packers Cruises
When: Through April
Spring is the final stretch of whale migration season, offering families the chance to see gray whales and even humpbacks as they pass through the waters off Ventura County. Several tour companies operate from Ventura Harbor Village, providing unforgettable wildlife experiences.
Photography Tip
Use a fast shutter speed to capture action shots of whales breaching or dolphins playing alongside the boat.
5. California Strawberry Festival
Where: Ventura County Fairgrounds
When: Mid-May
A must-visit for families, the California Strawberry Festival celebrates Ventura County’s famous strawberries with strawberry-themed foods, live music, and family-friendly activities. Kids can enjoy crafts, rides, and contests, while parents can indulge in strawberry shortcake, chocolate-dipped strawberries, and more.
Photography Tip
The bright reds of fresh strawberries and the lively festival atmosphere create fun, vibrant backdrops for family photos.
6. Summer Beach Days at Ventura & Oxnard Beaches
Where: Ventura State Beach, Oxnard Beach Park, Silver Strand Beach
When: May – June
As the weather warms up, Ventura County’s beaches are perfect for family outings. Whether it’s building sandcastles, flying kites, or simply enjoying a sunset picnic, the coastal scenery provides plenty of opportunities for fun.
Photography Tip
Sunset sessions at the beach create stunning, golden-lit family portraits, especially with waves and cliffs in the background.
7. Conejo Valley Days Festival
Where: Conejo Valley Days, Thousand Oaks
When: Late May – Early June
This multi-day festival features carnival rides, live music, food vendors, and a rodeo, making it one of Ventura County’s most anticipated events of the season. It’s a great way for families to enjoy a mix of classic fair fun and local traditions.
Photography Tip
The colorful lights from the Ferris wheel and fairground rides make for eye-catching evening photography.
8. Ojai Music Festival
Where: Ojai Music Festival
When: Early June
For families who love music and culture, the Ojai Music Festival is a fantastic event with live performances, interactive music workshops, and a relaxed outdoor setting. The charming small-town vibe of Ojai adds to the experience.
Photography Tip
Capture family moments enjoying live music in the scenic surroundings of Ojai’s downtown parks.
9. Local Farmers’ Markets
Where: Ventura Farmers’ Market, Camarillo Farmers’ Market, Ojai Farmers’ Market
When: Year-Round, but best from April to June
Spring and early summer are peak seasons for fresh local produce in Ventura County. Visiting farmers’ markets is a great way to support local farmers while enjoying delicious organic fruits, baked goods, and artisan products.
Photography Tip
Use colorful produce and bustling market scenes as fun, vibrant photography backdrops.
10. Book a Session with a Family Photographer in Ventura County
With so many beautiful locations and fun events happening in Ventura County, spring and early summer are perfect for capturing memorable family moments. If you’re looking for a family photographer in Ventura County, I’d love to help you plan a session that reflects your family’s personality and favorite activities.
Book your session today to capture the magic of the season.
Contact Melody in Bloom Photography for availability.
Serving Ventura, Camarillo, Thousand Oaks, Ojai, and surrounding areas.