About Channel Islands BJJ
Welcome to Channel Islands BJJ, where we are dedicated to providing the highest quality Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training in a supportive, family-friendly environment. Our mission is to empower students of all ages and skill levels through the art of BJJ, fostering physical fitness, mental resilience, and personal growth.
Our Philosophy
At Channel Islands BJJ, we believe that Jiu-Jitsu is more than just a martial art—it's a way of life. Our approach combines technical excellence with practical application, ensuring that our students develop skills that work both on and off the mats.
Whether you're looking to compete at the highest levels, learn self-defense, or simply get in the best shape of your life, our expert instructors are here to guide you every step of the way.
Meet Our Instructors

John Smith
Head Coach - Black Belt
15+ years of experience competing at the highest levels.

Maria Rodriguez
Kids Program Director - Brown Belt
Specializes in teaching children of all ages and abilities.

David Chen
Competition Coach - Black Belt
Multiple-time IBJJF champion with a focus on competitive training.
Class Schedule
We offer a variety of classes for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Join us at a time that works for your schedule!
Membership Options
Invest in your health, fitness, and self-defense skills with our flexible membership options. Join our community today and start your Jiu-Jitsu journey!
Basic
Perfect for beginners looking to start their Jiu-Jitsu journey.
- Unlimited Fundamental Classes
- Access to Open Mat Sessions
- Free Uniform (Gi)
- Monthly Progress Assessments
Premium
Our most popular option with full access to all classes and amenities.
- Unlimited Access to All Classes
- Access to Open Mat Sessions
- Free Uniform (Gi) + Rashguard
- Monthly Progress Assessments
- Competition Training
- One Private Lesson Per Month
Family
Train together as a family with our comprehensive package.
- Access for 2 Adults + 2 Children
- Unlimited Access to All Classes
- Free Uniforms (Gi) for All Members
- Monthly Progress Assessments
- Competition Training
- Discounted Private Lessons
Other Options
What Our Students Say
Hear from our community about how training at our academy has impacted their lives.
Torrey Rodriguez
"Channel Islands Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Ventura has been absolutely amazing for our family. Our whole family takes classes with Professor Jonatas and it’s been great exercise and self defense training. Our daughters are more confident and we’ve seen such a transformation since joining the academy. We’ve enjoyed competing in BJJ tournaments and the supportive family environment this academy provides. 10/10 highly recommend!"
Travis Keeling
"Channel Islands BJJ is phenomenal. Jonatas is a master teacher, mentor and leader. He attracts and maintains a wonderful community of people from all ages and backgrounds. It is a welcoming, family-oriented, supportive and positive community. His technical training is outstanding. My son is 14 and has been training at CI BJJ for 3 years. He is developing excellent bjj skills and more importantly is doing so with maturity and confidence. Can’t say enough about Jonatas and Channel Islands BJJ. We are so lucky to have this studio in Ventura!"
justin churchill
"A True Gem in Ventura – Channel Islands BJJ. Channel Islands Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, led by Professor Jonatas Novaes, is nothing short of a treasure for the Ventura community. Professor Jonatas brings world-class experience and elite-level competition pedigree to every class—he’s not only an incredible coach but an active champion who still competes and wins at the highest levels. His passion and dedication are unmatched, and the fact that he personally coaches every student is rare and invaluable, especially in a martial arts world where many gyms become watered down with too many assistants. My son has been training here since the academy opened, and the transformation has been incredible—not just in his jiu-jitsu skills, but in his confidence, discipline, and overall character. The growth I’ve seen in him is directly thanks to the environment Professor Jonatas has created: technical, focused, and full of integrity. The atmosphere at Channel Islands BJJ is truly special. It’s not just a place to train—it’s a family. Everyone supports each other, from white belts to advanced students, and the family-friendly vibe makes it welcoming for kids, adults, and parents alike. It’s a place where people genuinely care about each other and want to see everyone succeed. If you’re looking for real, high-level jiu-jitsu taught by one of the best in the world, but in a setting that still feels personal and supportive, this is the place. We feel lucky every day to be part of the Channel Islands BJJ family ❤️"
garrett graham
"I’m really glad that I signed up to channel islands bjj… Coach Jonatas Is super knowledgeable, makes things easy to understand and is a super Cool guy. If you come into this gym, I guarantee you will feel at ease right away because everyone there is super friendly. They greet you every day with a smile and are there to help you get better. I’ve been to a few BJ schools in my day, but this is the first time I can say I feel like i’m done searching for the right gym because here is where I wanna stay… I could say so much more, but I already feel like it’s way too long of a read. I just wanna leave you with sign up and you won’t regret it…oops one more thing, though I’d like to give a special shout out to Two of his students, Juan and Alex, who hold it down when jonatas Is away at a competition. They Have helped my game improve just in the few classes they’ve run since I’ve been there. It’s good that our coach has these guys that are willing to help out when he has other things going on. anyways, I love you goodbye"
Contact Us
Have questions or ready to start your Jiu-Jitsu journey? Get in touch with us today!
Send Us a Message
Our Location
Address
1572 Goodyear Ave # B, Ventura, CA 93003, USA
Phone
Hours
Mon-Fri: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Sat: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Sun: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM