Lifeguards Return to Harbor Cove Beach for Summer
Beautiful views of the Ventura hills, small lapping waves, and windblown sand dunes are just a few things that attract local families to Harbor Cove Beach during hot summer days. Coined as one of the safest beaches in Ventura, locals often refer to this protected shoreline as, “Mother’s Beach.”
The Ventura Port District has funded the lifeguard services for the past 3 years, and will do so again for the summer. The safety of this beach cannot only be attributed to the breakwater that keeps it protected from high tides and large waves, without lifeguards, beachgoers at even the safest of beaches can be at risk. The Ventura Port District realized the importance of these services to the people of Ventura and visitors alike and negotiated a contract with the State of California Department of Parks and Recreation that would allow lifeguard services to remain intact at Harbor Cove Beach.
Oscar Peña, the General Manager of the Port District believes this is an important service for visitors and local residents to feel secure as they enjoy the summer season. Peña said, “The Board of Port Commissioners feels this is money well spent in our community.”
Lifeguard services will be offered now through September 1, Labor Day, 9 AM to 6:00 PM.
Ample showers and free parking are just a few perks of Harbor Cove Beach. Conveniently located within steps to the Ventura Harbor Village, spending the day at Harbor Cove Beach is a great way to relax in the sun and enjoy the laid back lifestyle of the Ventura Harbor. New services for visitors include Ventura Beach and Bike Rentals offering everything from towels to chairs to kayaks, to bikes and sand toys. Ventura County Stand Up Paddle Board School offers lessons and rentals. Surf Makos returns for weekly kid surf camps.
Also located next to the Harbor Cove Beach is the Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center with FREE daily admission from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. With a newly opened tidal pool exhibit located inside the visitor’s center and the recently released Channel Islands movie narrated by Kevin Costner, “A Treasure in the Sea” there is something for everyone.
Across the street is the kid-friendly Harbor Cove Café dining overlooking the boats for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Caution: Nearby Surfer’s Knoll Beach, south of Harbor Cove Beach, has no lifeguards. Swimming, unless expert surfer, is not recommended due to hazardous and deadly rip tides.
For current rip tide information click here
For more information about Harbor Cove Beach lifeguard services please contact Oscar Pena, General Manager or Scott Miller, Harbormaster at 805-642-8538.
