Ventura - Premier Visitors Guide 2007-2008 - (Page 26) around town HARBOR Gateway to the Channel Islands W 26 hen Venturans and visitors hanker for salty ocean breezes and deep-sea adventure, they head for Ventura Harbor, the bustling heart of coastal Ventura County. Much of harbor life centers around charming Ventura Harbor Village along Spinnaker Drive (642-8538, 877-89-HARBOR, www.venturaharborvillage.com). Here you can board a ship for a half- or full-day fishing trip to the Channel Islands, take sailing lessons or a narrated harbor cruise, rent a pedal boat or kayak, go whale watching or take a boat out to the Channel Islands. The 36-animal carousel and arcade games delight the kids and people of all ages enjoy the art galleries, specialty shops, café bakery, ice cream parlor and restaurants serving fresh, locally caught seafood. On weekends, the Village hosts outdoor concerts and other special events. When you stroll through the Village shopping area, watch for the vibrant colors and intricate details of the Ventura Harbor Tile Murals. Local artist Michel Petersen created 29 separate murals, which depict local history and the marine environment. They were created by hand using more than 50,000 VENTURA VISITORS GUIDE Ventura Harbor Village has something for everyone: water sports, excursions, shopping and world-class cuisine. pounds of raw stoneware clay. Also check out the Harbor Village Gallery, (644-2750, www.harborvillagegallery.com) with art exhibits and shows featuring Ventura County artists. Boat Rentals/Charters/Harbor Cruises Ventura Boat Rentals (642-7753, www.venturaboatrentals.com) operates narrated harbor cruises and rents kayaks, pedal and electric boats, sailboats and powerboats. In addition to the spectacular shoreline, you’ll see abundant wildlife: seals, sea lions, dolphins and pelicans. Schooner Morning Star (6446338) provides trips to the Channel Islands on a luxury 72' yacht. Pacific Sailing (658-6508, www.pacsail.com) offers sailing lessons and skippered charters. Channel Islands Kayak Center (644-9699, www.cikayak.com) provides kayak rentals, outings at the Channel Islands and local surf and kayak instruction. STEPHEN SCHAFER http://www.harborvillagegallery.com http://www.venturaharborvillage.com http://www.venturaboatrentals.com http://www.pacsail.com http://www.cikayak.com
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