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Aug 8, 2023 · Planning a visit to Ojai California? This is the ultimate one day in Ojai itinerary. It covers all the top attractions and best things to and see in Ojai, a gorgeous and relaxed town nestled in the mountains just east of Santa Barbara and north of Los Angeles.
- What to Know Before Visiting Ojai
- The Best Hotels and Resorts in Ojai, California
- Best Restaurants in Ojai, California
- Drinks & Coffee
- On My List But Didn’T Make It
- Things to Do in Ojai, California
- Where to Shop in Ojai, California
Best Time of Year to Visit Ojai
Ojai can truly be a year-round destination given its location and generally sunny weather. If you’re looking to spend time poolside, I would aim for later in spring through late summer to have warmer days.
Amount of Time in Ojai
Two nights is the perfect amount of time to visit Ojai. It will give you a chance to enjoy the restaurants, relax, shop, and do a few activities.
Location of Ojai
Ojai is located in Ventura County in the valley under the Topatopa Mountains. It is 75 miles north of Los Angeles and not far from Santa Barbara. There are a few airports to fly into, LAX would be one good option. I use Skyscannerto find the best flight deals.
During our trip to Ojai, we stayed at the hip Capri Hotel. This renovated hotel has an incredible design and is set up perfectly for those who are coming in for a few nights. It has a pool and hot tub to enjoy during the day as well. What drew me to this hotel, in particular, is that it is boutique and the interiors are stunning. Inside the lobby, don’t miss to shop their favorite finds as well. Complimentary coffee in the morning and WiFi throughout. Book the best rates here.
My husband stayed at the Ojai Rancho Inn last year and loved the setup with the pool. It’s a wonderful choice located just as you get into town. They have their own bar as well so you can sip drinks while you hang out poolside. This is one of those smaller hotels, so you will want to book in advance especially on the weekends. Book the best rates here.
A very popular choice for their unique Airstreams you can book for a stay. Their chic Airstreams are really beautifully done with all of the amenities you need. It’s good to note this property does not have a pool. The lush grounds and communal spaces make for a wonderful backdrop for your stay. Book the best rates here.
Many pop by this market to shop their local produce but did you know it’s also a vegetarian cafe? Mexican-inspired dishes, you can order plates like their delicious Huarache. I adored the food here and they have plenty of outdoor seating. If you’re headed on a hike, you could also stock up on supplies here. Don’t miss their baked goods as well!
One of the most charming spots in Ojai is Tipple and Ramble. They’re open in the late afternoons for charcuterie boards, wine, and drinks. This is a fun spot to come by for a relaxed night out with drinks. Their back patio is perfect as well for the year-round dining.
So much love for Ojai Rôtie and the food they serve. It’s dubbed as Lebanese French picnic food with a focus on the rotisserie and it is so delicious. Try their small plates, order their half chicken, and don’t forget to try their fresh-baked bread. One of our favorite meals in Ojai while we were there!
Local to Ventura, Topa Topa Brewing Company (named after the mountains nearby) has wonderful craft beer on draft. Their patio sits out on the main street of Ojai and you can even see the Topa Topa mountains! If you’re looking for a snack, grab a bite at the in-house Little Sama that serves food.
Our go-to coffee shop while in Ojai
One of the more unique things to do in Ojai is to take a pottery class with Firestick Pottery Studio. We spent a wonderful afternoon learning some of the basics of how to make our own ceramics. The studio is lovely, you can even pop by to shop for work done by local ceramicists. The pottery class is a small group and mostly outdoors, so you can feel very comfortable. After going through the process, you create your pieces which you can leave there. You can then pay to have the pieces fired an...
Chill Poolside
While the weather is amazing most of the year, I would personally take advantage and chill poolside. Bring a few good books, stock up on snacks and a few drinks at the market, and stay by the pool for the afternoon.
Explore Downtown
The main street downtown has a ton of wonderful shops and eateries. If you’re looking to go for a stroll, I’d work your way down Ojai Arcade and Plaza. The section below has all of my favorite local boutiques as well if you’re looking to shop.
One of the best parts of visiting Ojai is getting to shop at the local boutiques. The shops are incredibly well-curated and there are a variety of stores in town.
Apr 2, 2024 · My 27 Favorite Things to Do in Ojai. Jess Levy Updated April 2, 2024 California, USA. As a Southern California native and frequent Ojai-goer, I can’t get enough of the sunsets, agricultural festivals, spirituality, and anti-chain stores that make Ojai one of the best California mountain towns around.
- The Ojai Trolley. Chances are when you’re strolling through town, you’re bound to catch a glimpse of the Ojai Trolley at least once during your trip. The Ojai Trolley is a great way to explore downtown on wheels.
- Explore Downtown Ojai. Downtown Ojai is worth spending an hour or two alone. You’ll know you’re here when you see the Spanish-style bell tower inviting you to the town’s center.
- Browse The Hip Artisan Shops. Whenever I’m in Ojai, I make sure to carve out at least two hours to browse for home goods and artisan gifts. Ojai is jam-packed with cute specialty shops and there is nothing better than browsing them all with an afternoon coffee in hand!
- Ride The Ojai Valley Bike Trail. The Ojai Valley Bike Trail is a 9-mile trail that runs along Highway 33 from the outskirts of West Ventura to Fox Street in Ojai.
- The Naturalist Wines. Things to do. This award-winning certified organic winery (previously Casa Barranca wines, now The Naturalist), was one of the Central Coast's first.
- Bart's Books. Things to do. Literary events. Bart's Books is one of those magical places you'll feel humbled to have stumbled upon. It's a beautiful outdoor bookstore, packed to the gills with an extensive collection of used and new titles from Sci-Fi to Self Help.
- Friend's Ranch. Things to do. If you've been to an LA farmer's market lately (especially those on the Westside), you've probably seen—or if you're lucky, tried—tasty citrus from Friend's Ranch.
- Ojai Certified Farmers Market. Fruit, veggies, bread, jams, seafood, meat, eggs, chocolate and honey – these are just a few of the items sold at the weekly Ojai Certified Farmers Market.
Jun 29, 2022 · - The New York Times. Looking for a Vortex of Good Energy (and Great Times)? Try Ojai. This small, verdant city, nestled in the mountains of California’s Ventura County, has a famous attraction...
Jul 30, 2019 · Ojai is a good place for a relaxing getaway or a romantic interlude, with just enough to do at a leisurely pace. If you're a photographer, the oak trees, mountains, and orange groves provide plenty of things to point your lens at. And the annual "pink moment" could be worth planning a trip around.
