McGrath State Beach

Situated between Ventura and Oxnard, McGrath State Beach is well known for its wide, sandy beach, its streamside woodlands, its marsh and coastal dunes, and for the variety of wildlife found in the area. More than 245 species of birds have been sighted around the state beach. McGrath Beach extends for 2½ miles. Dangerous rip currents make it an unsafe location for wading and swimming.

It is wise to check to be sure the campground has reopened before making plans to visit McGrath. McGrath State Beach

The mouth of the Santa Clara River has been designated as the Santa Clara Estuary Natural Preserve, giving it the highest level of protection in the state park system. This degree of protection is good for the wildlife, but it has created problems for the park.

Winter flooding of the campground area is normal, but in 2013 and 2014 the lack of sufficient rain and runoff in the Santa Clara River failed to break through the sand barrier that typically builds up at the mouth of the river over the summer. As a result, river water backed up into the park higher and longer than usual, forcing park officials to close the park. As of May 2018 the campground appears to be open.

McGrath State Beach Neighbors

At the southern end of McGrath State Beach a tall stack marks the location of the Mandalay Generating Station owned by Reliant Energy. Also adjacent to the beach is the West Montalvo Oil Field. Wells next to McGrath Lake were angled to reach out to offshore oil fields.

Beach Supplies

Beach Break Surf Shop is located a relaxing 1½ miles up the coast at Ventura Harbor if you walk along the beach. There you can pick up sun tan lotion, shirts and sweatshirts. Other shops and restaurants are found at the harbor too. For grocery stores, Vons is located straight out Gonzales Road and left on Rose. And then Starbucks is right across Rose Avenue from Vons. Another Starbucks is on Ventura, south of Gonzales. For pizza head to Toppers at 111 E. Gonzales.