About This Beach
Emma Wood State Beach stretches along a narrow strip of coastline between Highway 101 and the Pacific Ocean near Ventura. The beach is known for its excellent surfing conditions and fishing opportunities, attracting outdoor enthusiasts year-round. A unique feature of this beach is its self-contained RV camping area with 90 primitive sites situated directly on the shoreline, though no tent camping is permitted. The beach includes the remnants of a World War II coastal artillery site, with old concrete bunkers visible among the shoreline vegetation. The Omer Rains Coastal Bike Trail runs through the beach, connecting it to Ventura and offering scenic riding opportunities. The nearby Ventura River estuary is an important ecological area that attracts numerous bird species, making Emma Wood popular with birdwatchers.