After decades of exploring various destinations in California, I finally found the perfect weekend retreat in Ojai. This enchanting city in Southern California has captivated my heart with its unique blend of tranquility, wellness, and local charm.
Growing up in the San Francisco Bay Area, I have had the privilege of visiting many beautiful places across California. From the coastal cities of Santa Cruz and Monterey to the renowned wine regions of Sonoma and Napa, I have always been on the lookout for the ideal weekend getaway. However, it was during a visit to Los Angeles that I decided to explore Ojai, a city I had long heard about but never visited.
The Allure of Ojai
Ojai, pronounced ‘Oh-Hi,’ has long been a favorite destination for creative individuals, attracting writers, artists, and actors for decades. Many Hollywood stars, including Jon Bernthal, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, and John Krasinski, have owned homes in the area. What sets Ojai apart is its authentic atmosphere, a blend of quiet luxury and bohemian eccentricity that draws people in and invites them to stay.
Accessibility and Scenic Beauty
Nestled between the Western Transverse Ranges in Ventura County, Ojai Valley is surrounded by rolling hills and steep mountains. As you descend into the valley, the small city of Ojai, with a population under 8,000, seems to appear out of nowhere. The town center is a delightful mix of restaurants, shops, and spas, perfect for weekend exploration. Despite its remote feel, Ojai is surprisingly easy to access, just an hour-and-a-half drive from Los Angeles and less than 20 miles inland from Ventura.
Accommodations for Relaxation
Ojai offers a variety of accommodations for a relaxing stay. From large resorts like the Ojai Valley Inn, featuring glittering pools and a championship golf course, to smaller options like the Spanish-style Hotel El Roblar, there is something for everyone. We chose to stay at the Hummingbird Inn, a boutique hotel that provided easy access to downtown and amenities such as a pool and complimentary bicycles.
Wellness and Serenity
Ojai is renowned for its focus on wellness. For centuries, people have flocked to the area for its mineral hot springs and crisp air, believed to have healing powers. Today, you can find a variety of wellness experiences, from the Kuyam communal treatment at Spa Ojai to lymphatic drainage treatments at The Spa at the Lavender Inn. During our visit, we opted for traditional massages at Honest Rituals to fully immerse ourselves in the serenity of Ojai.
Local Flavors and Unique Boutiques
Ojai’s commitment to supporting local businesses is evident in its town center. The city has heavily restricted large chain restaurants and retailers, fostering a tight-knit community feel. We enjoyed delicious meals at local favorites like Bonnie Lu’s for breakfast and Ojai Rôtie for dinner, known for its mouth-watering Lebanese dishes and perfect wine pairings.
Shopping in Ojai
One of the highlights of our trip was visiting Bart’s Books, the largest outdoor bookstore in the world. This unassuming brick-and-wood structure is covered in greenery and lined with books on built-in outdoor shelves. Inside, you’ll find over 130,000 books from every genre, along with locally-made souvenirs. Along Ojai Avenue, there are also dozens of boutiques catering to every taste, from thrift shops and home-decor stores to specialty food shops like Ojai Olive Press and Heavenly Honey Company of Ojai.
Ojai is a place unlike any other, and I hope it retains its unique charm. While many towns offer similar experiences, Ojai’s lack of pretense and the genuine friendliness of its residents make it unforgettable. It’s a destination that truly captures the essence of Southern California’s hidden gems.
