Exploring the Sacred and Spiritual Gems of Sunny San Buenaventura (Ventura), CA

San Buenaventura, commonly known as Ventura, is a coastal city in California that is home to a variety of sacred and spiritual places. Whether youre seeking inner peace, religious enlightenment or just curious about the vibrant spirituality of this laidback community, there are several mustvisit destinations that reveal the true nature of its people.

Start your journey at Mission San Buenaventura (211 E Main St, Ventura, CA 93001) an iconic historic site founded by Father Junipero Serra in 1782. This Spanish mission features beautiful architecture and stunning gardens and is one of nine missions established across California by Franciscan friars during their quest to convert Native Americans to Christianity. Masses are still held regularly here.

For something more offbeat yet holy nonetheless check out The Lake Shrine Temple (17190 Sunset Blvd Pacific Palisades CA 90272). Yes its not strictly around the corner but it shouldnt be missed; after all it was built by Paramahansa Yogananda himself on former property once owned Mary Pickford! He sought to immerse visitors into peaceful meditation with playful landscaping courtesy team Disney Imagineers in honor his teacher Sri Yukteswar Giri. In one area sits Gandhis ashes sealed within a hillside sarcophagus surrounded by welltended foliage fit for any self respecting wandering mystic.

Yet another sacred place worth visiting near Ventura isnt quite official you may need some Google skills if interested The Chumash Painted Cave State Historic Park outside Santa Barbara where cave paintings feature intricate designs made from natural pigments depicting both realistic animals and surreal monsters. Their meaning remains shrouded in mystery even today but they offer ample opportunity for introspection & reverence.

If youre open minded about mediums such as psychics, tarot cards & Reiki healing and dont mind walking down a funky side street alley lined with community murals and graffiti thats seeped into the crevices of two story buildings then head over to Bell Arts Factory (432 N Ventura Ave, Ventura, CA 93001) It offers an array of such services. The eclectic atmosphere here reflects the city itself creative freethinking artistry meets old world spiritualism.

There are countless other places to explore in San Buenaventura that capture its essence of serenity and spirituality you just have to be openminded and willing to step outside your comfort zone. From historic landmarks to newage retreats, this vibrant community has something for everyone who seeks deeper meaning in their lives.

Websites:

https://www.missionsanbuenaventura.org/

http://lakeshrine.org/

Tripadvisor: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Reviewg60769d116764ReviewsMission_San_BuenaventuraVentura_California.html

Yelp reviews : https://www.yelp.com/biz/lakeshrinetemplepacificpalisades

Twitter handles:

@CityofVentura

@LakeShrineCA