Curator’s statement
Ojai, California, is a majestic little town nestled in the Topatopa Mountains of Ventura County. Just about an hour and a half northwest of Los Angeles by car, Ojai is the perfect weekend getaway if you’re living in LA or a great side trip if you’re visiting Southern California! Get ready to bask in an abundance of natural California beauty, relax in gorgeous accommodations and explore completely local dining and shops (they banned chain businesses!)
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Day 1: Light Shopping to Start
Arrive in the early afternoon and settle in for some casual lunch at Harvest Moon, Ojai Rotie or Pinyon. I highly recommend the Lamb Burger at Harvest Moon. While you’re in the central area, take a stroll on Ojai Avenue and partake in some retail therapy! Shops to definitely check out:
Noted — A stationery lovers dream! Freshly curated greeting cards, journals, art supplies and other cute gift items.
Ali Golden: Contemporary fashion, accessories and objects for the modern woman. Everything in here is perfectly curated and feels so intentional.
Fig: This narrow blue and green hallway leads into a treasure trove of gifts, housewares and locally made goods.
Blue Ojai: An Ojai off-shoot of the clic New York family houses a smattering of women’s clothing, home design, ceramics, books and a kid’s section!
End the day with some dinner in town at Osteria Monte Grappa, Rory’s Place or Nocciola.
Day 2: Hiking & Spa
Nature hike anyone? Ojai has an abundance of trails in all levels. I recommend the Ventura River Preserve Trail!
After your hike, head back down into town to grab some brunch at The Dutchess. What better way to soothe your muscles after your hike than to pamper yourself with a spa treatment? The Ojai Garden Spa at the Lavender Inn and the Spa Ojai at the Ojai Valley are great choices for your relaxation needs.
Round out your day with a luxurious dinner at Olivella (Ojai Valley Inn) or The Ranch House.
Day 3: Olive Oil Tasting
Stop by Beacon for coffee before your last little Ojai adventure and head over to the Ojai Olive Oil Company for a $10 tasting of their local olive oils! You won’t want to leave without one of their Ojai Pixie infused oils to remember your perfect weekend in this magical place.
Travel Advisor
Clara Raposo
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For more travel tips, check out my guide, A Day in Cascais, Portugal.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to California.