Looking for budget-friendly activities in Camarillo? Well, search no further! Whether you are planning your group-getaway to Camarillo around a free community event or special celebration like the Wings Over Camarillo Air Show, or just setting off on a solo-weekend retreat, you’ll find a neverending list of ways to immerse yourself in this city’s high energy and good vibes. Plan strategically to get the most out of your vacation by mixing and matching activities, events, and local destinations to create the best possible vacation experience for you. Here is your go-to guide for planning the perfect, affordable getaway to Camarillo.
Day 1: Soak Up the Sun ☀️
Kick off your first day in Camarillo with all the outdoor activities in Camarillo and a whole lot of sunshine. Fuel up for the long day ahead at Make It Healthy with a pre-workout protein shake, power tea, or energy drink. Then lace up your walking shoes and set out for a hike or bike along one of the Camarillo hiking trails, such as Camarillo Grove Park, an easy 1 mile loop that is ideal for all skill levels. If you are looking for something a little more hands-on, stop by Underwood Family Farms in nearby Somis to pick your own seasonal crops for just $5 per person. After working up an appetite, put together the ultimate picnic with your freshly picked produce and something delicious from local favorites such as Valentino’s Take-n-Bake Pizza, or Burger Barn. Whether you decide to pick up a slice of pizza or a burger, your lunch will undoubtedly taste even better set against the lush backdrop of one of the 28 Pleasant Valley Recreation & Park District parks in town.
Pro tip: Check out FREE Summer Events
Camarillo is packed with free and low-cost summer fun, perfect for budget-conscious visitors! Don’t miss the Summer Concert Series at Constitution Park, TBT Food Truck Festival at Camarillo Ranch, Friday Night Car Cruises, and the lively Camarillo Old Town Heritage Days Fiesta. These events offer great music, food, and local flavor, without the big price tag.
Day 2: Enjoy Small Town Charm 🛍️
Ease into your second day in town with a nice stroll around the Camarillo Farmers Market to stock up on goodies from local vendors and farms, open every Saturday from 8 AM to noon in Camarillo’s Old Town. While in the area, stop at the Old Town Cafe or Kraft Vermicelli for classic-comforts and unparalleled flavors. After a hearty meal, take a step back in time with a guided tour of Camarillo Ranch for only $5 per person (cash only). The last tour begins at 1:30 PM, so you have plenty of time to fully appreciate the beauty of the grounds and still make time for checking out more of the city. Wrap up your afternoon with a little treasure hunt at Camarillo’s very best antique and thrift shops like Marcy’s Attic, Goodwill Retail Store & Donation Center, Save-A-Life Thrift Stores, and Window Box Antiques. Keep an eye out for a fun or quirky find, you never know what hidden gem you might uncover amidst this small town’s charm!
Pro tip: Hop on the Camarillo Trolley
Save on transportation and see more of Camarillo with the city’s budget-friendly trolley bus service! Operating Sunday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Fridays and Saturdays until 9 p.m., the trolley loops through key destinations like Old Town, Camarillo Premium Outlets, and local eateries. Rides cost just $1.00 for adults and students, and only $0.50 for seniors and ADA riders—with full accommodations for persons with disabilities. Check out the route map and track the trolley live here.
Day 3: Embark On A Quest For Knowledge 💡
Spend your third day in town diving head first into Camarillo’s rich history, art, and culture scene. With a handful of Camarillo museums to explore, there is no shortage of ways to get to know this beautiful community for yourself. Check out the community’s artwork at the free gallery at Studio Channel Islands, examine rare bird eggs and nests at the Western Foundation of Vertebrate Zoology (adults $10), or learn about local aviation history at The Commemorative Air Force (CAFSoCal) (adults $15). For a truly unforgettable exhibit, check out the Dead Sea Scrolls Exhibit at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum, running through early September and featuring 8 authentic Dead Sea Scrolls and over 200 artifacts from the Second Temple period. After a full day spent museum-hopping and soaking up all the fascinating knowledge you can, replenish your brain with a well-earned meal from Bobbi’s Mexican Grill and BBQ. Don’t miss the homemade chips for just $2—especially when paired with a side of freshly made salsa.
With so many options to explore, your Camarillo vacation can truly be anything you want it to be. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventure, learning about local history, or basking in the small-town charm, this vibrant city delivers big experiences for every kind of budget. Come for a vacation, stay for the unlimited opportunity for adventure and welcoming community–no matter your budget, you won’t be disappointed.
Book and plan where to stay on your budget-friendly Camarillo getaway today.