Ventura has the mild Mediterranean climate of the Southern California coast, but with a local nuance: June Gloom. The marine layer that sits over the coast from roughly late May through July brings cool, grey mornings — often not clearing until noon or not at all. Late summer (August–September) and autumn (October–November) are typically the best months: warm, clear, and with the Santa Ana winds occasionally pushing the temperature into the eighties. Spring is pleasant and uncrowded. Winter is mild enough for walking and sightseeing but too cold for most beach activities. The Channel Islands boat trips run year-round, but sea conditions are calmer in summer and autumn.