Discover the Charm of Ojai, California: A Guide to Exploring This Serene Oasis
Curated By
Gillian Spatz
Curator’s statement
Nestled in the picturesque Ojai Valley, Ojai, California, beckons travelers seeking a tranquil retreat amid stunning natural beauty. Known for its bohemian atmosphere, artistic community and spiritual energy, Ojai offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures, wellness experiences and cultural attractions. From exploring the lush landscapes of Los Padres National Forest to indulging in farm-to-table dining and browsing the eclectic shops and galleries downtown, there's something for everyone to enjoy on this idyllic Southern California getaway. Join us as we uncover the hidden gems and local treasures awaiting you in Ojai.
The Fora Difference
Book with Gillian to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Ojai, California
Unlock perks by contacting Gillian to book your trip.
Things to do in Ojai, California
Explore Ojai Valley: Take a scenic drive or bike ride through the picturesque Ojai Valley, surrounded by rolling hills, orchards and vineyards. Stop at overlooks like Meditation Mount for panoramic views of the valley below.
Hike in Los Padres National Forest: Discover the natural beauty of Los Padres National Forest with a hike on one of its many trails. Favorites include the Shelf Road Trail for stunning views of Ojai and the Rose Valley Falls Trail for a picturesque waterfall hike.
Visit Meditation Mount: Find peace and tranquility at Meditation Mount, a serene sanctuary offering meditation gardens, walking paths and breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and valley.
Shop and Dine in Downtown Ojai: Explore the charming shops, art galleries and eateries in downtown Ojai. Don't miss the Ojai Certified Farmers' Market on Sundays for locally grown produce, artisanal goods and live music.
Experience the Ojai Music Festival: Attend the renowned Ojai Music Festival, held annually in June, featuring innovative and eclectic performances by world-class musicians in unique outdoor venues.
Visit Ojai Olive Oil Company: Take a tour of the Ojai Olive Oil Company to learn about olive oil production and taste their award-winning organic olive oils and gourmet products.
Attend a Workshop or Retreat: Participate in a wellness workshop or retreat at one of Ojai's renowned wellness centers, offering yoga, meditation, massage and holistic healing therapies.
Explore Art Galleries: Discover local art and creativity at Ojai's art galleries, showcasing works by talented artists in various mediums, from paintings and sculptures to ceramics and photography.
Go Wine Tasting: Visit Ojai's boutique wineries and tasting rooms to sample locally produced wines, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Rhône varietals, against the backdrop of scenic vineyards and orchards.
Take a Cooking Class: Learn the art of farm-to-table cuisine with a cooking class at one of Ojai's culinary schools or restaurants, featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms and markets.
Attend Ojai's Annual Events: Experience the vibrant culture of Ojai by attending annual events like the Ojai Film Festival, Ojai Playwrights Conference and Ojai Valley Tennis Tournament, showcasing the best of film, theater and sports in the region.
Day Trips
Santa Barbara: Just a scenic drive down the coast from Ojai, Santa Barbara offers a wealth of attractions to explore. Spend a day wandering through the charming streets of downtown, visiting the iconic Santa Barbara Mission and relaxing on the beautiful beaches. Don't miss the opportunity to tour the famous Santa Barbara wine country and indulge in wine tasting at local vineyards.
Channel Islands National Park: Embark on an adventure to Channel Islands National Park, a stunning archipelago located off the coast of Ventura. Take a ferry or boat tour to one of the islands, such as Santa Cruz Island or Anacapa Island, and explore pristine beaches, rugged coastline and diverse wildlife. Enjoy hiking, kayaking, snorkeling and wildlife watching in this remote and beautiful national park.
Places to eat & drink in Ojai, California
Nocciola: Offering Italian-inspired cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients, Nocciola delights diners with its seasonal menus, handmade pasta and wood-fired pizzas in a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Ojai Deer Lodge: A local favorite for hearty comfort food and craft cocktails, Ojai Deer Lodge serves up dishes like burgers, ribs and fried chicken, along with live music and a laid-back vibe in a historic building dating back to 1932.
The Ranch House: Nestled in a charming adobe building surrounded by gardens, The Ranch House offers an elegant dining experience with a menu featuring California cuisine with a French twist, including fresh seafood, steak and vegetarian options.
The Dutchess: The Dutchess in Ojai is a dual concept located in a charming 1920s building, serving as a bakery and cafe by day and a trendy Burmese restaurant by night
Osteria Monte Grappa: Specializing in Northern Italian cuisine, Osteria Monte Grappa offers handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas and classic Italian dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, all served in a charming and intimate setting.
Ojai Pizza Company: A family-friendly pizzeria known for its New York-style pizza, Ojai Pizza Company offers a variety of specialty pizzas, calzones and salads, along with beer and wine, in a casual and relaxed atmosphere.
Bonnie Lu's Country Café: A beloved breakfast spot in Ojai, Bonnie Lu's Country Café serves up hearty, homestyle meals like biscuits and gravy, pancakes and omelets, along with lunch options like sandwiches, burgers and salads.
The Farmer and the Cook: A vegetarian café and market, The Farmer and the Cook offers organic, plant-based meals made with ingredients sourced from its own farm and other local growers, including salads, sandwiches and Mexican-inspired dishes.
Ojai Beverage Company: Featuring a gastropub menu and an extensive selection of craft beers, wines and spirits, Ojai Beverage Company offers elevated pub fare like burgers, sandwiches and shared plates, all served in a lively and convivial atmosphere.
Travel Advisor
Gillian Spatz
Get in touch with Gillian
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can normally expect a response from Gillian within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Boston's Culinary Delights and Vibrant Activities: Your Ultimate Travel Guide.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Ojai.