Oil Piers Beach is a long stretch of sand located between the Ventura County communities of Mussel Shoals and Seacliff Beach Colony, right next to Highway 101. The beach is named after a series of oil piers that were removed in 1998, though one oil pier remains, connecting Mussel Shoals to the man-made Rincon Island. On a clear day, visitors can enjoy views of the Channel Islands from the beach, and the area is popular with surfers, especially near the point at Mussel Shoals Beach.

The removal of most of the piers changed the surfing conditions at Oil Piers Beach, but the location remains a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone wanting a quieter coastal walk. The wide expanse of sand means there’s room to spread out, and on less crowded days you’ll have stretches to yourself. If you’re coming from the north, exit 78 off Highway 101 and head south on Highway 1, then turn right at the access road that leads back under the freeway. At the T-intersection at the bottom, turning right takes you to the wider section of the beach with more parking options. The left turn accesses a different area if you want to explore both sides.

Dogs are welcome on leash, which makes this a solid choice if you want your dog to experience the beach without the chaos of some of Ventura’s more crowded spots. The sand is firm enough for comfortable walking, and your dog can paddle in the water as long as they’re under control. Just know that there are no lifeguards or restrooms here—it’s a more rustic beach experience. The trade-off is worth it though if you prefer quiet over convenient facilities. Bring fresh water for your dog since there’s no reliable source nearby, and watch for the occasional rocky areas scattered along the shoreline.