Playing at Marina Park in Ventura: California Vacation Day 6

The Oxnard/Ventura area is often very cool in the summer, with fog banks and an ocean breeze that help keep the temperature down. With temperatures in the triple digits inland, the beaches in Ventura County were fairly crowded the weekend we returned from San Diego.

Dennis dropped us off at the playground by the beach and went in search of parking. The boys were more than happy to play on the zip line over the sand.

Dennis must have found parking somewhere, because he arrived about half an hour later. Thank goodness he's a marathon runner! The kids had taken a turn on the zip line more than a few times, so we took the boogie boards and beach gear down to the water.

Nolan took a turn on the boogie board, but wasn't very happy when a wave overturned him.

He decided to spend most of his time playing in the sand, and was happy as a lark to spend his time on dry land.

Matt is a stronger swimmer than Nolan and absolutely loved the waves. He spent the entire time riding the waves (with Daddy supervising, of course).

Did I mention how cold the water in Ventura County is? It definitely takes a bit of getting-used-to. I was very glad that Dennis went into the water, as my toes were curling at the thought of getting into the water! The boys played on the beach for a while longer, enjoying the sun and sand.

Evening was approaching, so Dennis ran off to retrieve the car. I managed to snap a few cute pictures of the boys, who were playing in the sand by the dunes.

We returned the boogie boards to Dennis's parent's house and gave the boys a quick shower to rinse off the sand. They were thoroughly coated in the gritty stuff - it is amazing how it gets everywhere!

It was so nice to be in California - the place where we grew up and miss a lot (especially in the winter). There is no place better than the beach!