🌵 Ojai, California
OH HI, Ojai:
I think one of the best things about California is the access it has to so many beautiful places, not far from the main cities. I had always wanted to check out Ojai, so Cris and I went for a road trip during thanksgiving and made a 48 hour pit-stop in this sleepy desert town.
Ojai is only 25 minutes inland, so you have the best of both worlds, desert and water. I would highly recommend our hotel, Ojai Rancho Inn, for it had large rooms, a pool, sauna, and an adorable little wine bar.
Time to go:
Like many places in California, you can really visit anytime, as the weather is always very nice. It does get hot in the summers though!
Transportation:
The best way to get there is by driving, but once you are there, you could pretty much walk or bike everywhere.
eat —
The Nest:
American cuisine with a Mexican flair. Creative cocktails too.
Beacon Coffee:
For your caffeine fix.
Food Harmonics:
Healthy spot for lunch or dinner. Really good dosas, bison burgers, and dandelion lattes! They also have a great little back garden.
Hip Vegan:
Title says it all, hip & vegan.
Topa Topa:
Brewery with outdoor seating. Depending when you are there, the food options can vary.
Ojai Harvest:
Although I didn’t make it here, this farm-to-table restaurant looked delicious. I heard their fries are not to be missed.
Tipple & Ramble:
Wine and cheese with a side of home goods and other knick knacks.
stay —
Caravan Outpost: $$
This outdoor hotel comprised of 12 airstreams that you can book and stay in. Very cool general store on the property as well.
Ojai Rancho Inn: $
Nothing fancy, but well designed. They have a pool, chic bar, and bikes you can borrow to bike around town.
Ojai Valley Inn & Spa: $$$
If your in the mood to splurge, this hotel looked amazing. They have everything from cooking & cocktail classes to a Himalayan salt massage.
shop —
DeKor & Co:
A Swedish interior design firm and shop. Although not cheap, they carry some really beautiful decor.
Barts Books:
“World’s greatest outdoor bookstore”
Summer Camp:
Lifestyle shop that embodies the Ojai vibe.
Fig Curated Living:
An enchanted store with greenery, gorgeous home goods and great gifts.
Treasures of Ojai:
This was one of the biggest antique stores I have been to in a while. They have tons of affordable little treasures to take home with you.
do —
Rent Bikes:
There is a great bike path all throughout Ojai that makes for a great afternoon activity.
Meditation Mount:
If you feel like a moment of peace and quiet.
Ojai Olive Oil Co:
Book an olive oil tour & tasting!
Shelf Road Trailhead:
Ojai has lots of great hiking trails. We stopped here at sunset and did a short little hike.