One of the oldest cities in California, Ventura is fortunate to be influenced by Spanish, Mexican, Chinese, Chumash and American cultures. Built around the Mission, the city then grew large based on the the richness of the land. To say that there are numerous beaches is somewhat confusing. There is really just one long gorgeous stretch of sand that people have subdivided into beaches. But don't make the mistake of thinking Ventura is just another pretty beach town. The arts are alive and well and draw quite a crowd. There are many points of interest, here are just a few the visitor should not miss: A.J. Comstock Museum, set in Mission Park; Albinger Archeological Museum, a fun museum that features the five major cultures found in Ventura - Chumash, Spanish, Chinese, American and Mexican; Mission San Buenaventura, the last mission built by Padre Junipero Serra; Channel Islands Visitor's Center, a wonderful place to experience the natural history and beauty of the Channel Islands; Museum of History and Art, something for everyone; Olivas Adobe, a wonderful example of Spanish architecture; Ortega Adobe, how the common folk lived; Ventura Harbor Village and Marina, a community filled with shops, boats, restaurants and miles of white sand beaches; the Ventura Pier, a focal point for waterfront fun and Ventura City Hall.