SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Where to stay and eat when visiting Channel Islands National Park
Camping reservations are necessary to stay at Channel Islands National Park; they're available at www.recreation.gov. Day-trippers may wish to stay on the mainland, in the Ventura/Oxnard area.
Best Western Oxnard Inn, 1156 S. Oxnard Blvd., Oxnard; (800) 469-6273, www.bestwestern.com. Modest two-story motel has a pool, spa and complimentary continental breakfast. Convenient for trips leaving from Oxnard Harbor. Rates start at $80.
Four Points Sheraton Ventura Harbor, 1050 Schooner Drive, Ventura; (805) 658-1212 or (888) 627-8081, www.starwoodhotels.com/ fourpoints/index.html. This marina hotel is in the middle of getting some much-needed remodeling; the rooms have been completed, but work is continuing in the public areas. Convenient for trips leaving from Ventura Harbor. Rates start at $135 a night.
Hampton Inn Channel Islands Harbor, 3231 Peninsula Road, Oxnard; (805) 985-1100 or (800) 426-7866. Attractive rooms, with many facing the marina. Pool. Convenient for trips leaving from Oxnard Harbor. Rates start at $159.
WHERE TO EAT
The Sidecar Restaurant, 3029 E. Main St., Ventura; (805) 653-7433, www.thesidecarrestaurant.com. Eat gourmet fare in a 1910 Pullman car. Open Wednesdays through Sundays for dinner. Interesting menu with entrees starting at $12.
Andria's Seafood Restaurant & Market, 1449 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura; (805) 654-0546, www.andriasseafood.com. Get it cooked fresh at Andria's, at Ventura Harbor Village. Known for deep-fried, stir-fried or charbroiled seafood or chicken. Casual. Entrees from $9.69.
Brophy Bros. Restaurant & Clam Bar, 1559 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura; (805) 639-0865, www.brophybros.com. A new offshoot of the well-known Santa Barbara eatery. Fun atmosphere; bar and restaurant overlook Ventura Marina. Entrees from $8.
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