A Fabulous Parents-Only Ojai Weekend Getaway

Tucked within the Topa Topa Mountains just 90 miles north of Los Angeles, sleepy Ojai has long been a favorite city break, thanks to its bucolic setting and charming downtown lined with art galleries and cafes. Parents especially will appreciate the laidback vibe that allows them to recharge and reconnect away from the daily duties of work and family.

While much of Ojai’s appeal is its slow pace (cue shoulder drops and deep breaths), there’s still enough activity for those keen to be out and about.

What to Do On an Ojai Weekend Getaway

Downtown Stroll

Ojai’s quaint main drag features a historic post office tower (modeled after a cathedral in Havana, Cuba), antiques shops, restaurants, wine bars and boutiques. Get your caffeine dose and grab a pastry at Ojai Coffee Roasters. At Bungalow by FIG, browse handmade soaps, home goods and gifts, and at well-curated Ali Golden, shop for sustainable women’s wear. In the heart of town is Libbey Park, a shady, oak-studded green space complete with an amphitheater where live concerts and festivals regularly take place. Also nearby is Bart’s Books, billed as the world’s largest outdoor bookstore, with shelves facing the street.

Arts Scene

In its early days, Ojai was very much an artist colony and hippie town. It became home to Beatrice Wood, a celebrated potter who would come to be associated with the Dada movement, for some 50 years. A permanent collection of her work, including vases and bowls, is exhibited at the Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts. Afterward, pop into OVA Arts, a collective of local painters, sculptors and jewelry makers, or Canvas + Paper, focusing on 20th-century modernism. Visitors can also create their own pieces at Firestick Pottery, which offers two-hour workshops that include tools and materials.

Ojai Certified Farmers’ Market

To say this weekly Sunday morning market is a star attraction is no exaggeration. With more than 40 vendors selling everything from sweet Gaviota strawberries and Medjool dates to unfiltered honey and pistachios, it is where the Ojai community gathers rain or shine. During the spring months, look for Ojai pixie tangerines, a beloved local citrus variety, at the Friend’s Ranch stall. (The market runs from 9 am to 1 pm at 300 Matilija Ave. downtown.)

Outdoor Pursuits

Crisscrossing canyons and rivers, the Ojai Valley boasts numerous hiking trails. The Ventura River Preserve, with sections of grassland and wildflower-filled meadows, features some less strenuous walks where animals such as mule deer, bobcats and hawks are frequently spotted. Steeper climbs like the John’s Fox Canyon and Luci’s Trail gain quickly in elevation but reward you with sweeping valley views. Shelf Road, a 3.5-mile out-and-back trail, hugs the hillside and overlooks the valley.

Alternatively, take in the landscape on horseback. The female-owned and operated Ojai Valley Trail Riding Company offers guided experiences for all ages, though couples might particularly enjoy a romantic sunset ride followed by a prearranged picnic.

Top Spots to Eat and Drink

For a town of 8,000, Ojai has an impressive number of eateries and bars. Enjoy a casual bite at Pinyon, serving Hoagie-style sandwiches and salads by day and broccolini and pine nut-topped pizzas by night. Plant-based diners will love Hip Vegan, where the banh mi, made with grilled tofu, pickled veggies and fried shallots, is a standout. At The Nest, dig into butternut squash toast and salmon tacos. Come dinner, snag a table at The Dutchess, which offers a diverse menu with Burmese and Indian flavors included for good measure. Wash it all down at the Topa Topa Brewery or Tipple & Ramble.

The Pink Moment

Come evening, the sun’s rays cast a glow over the Topa Topa Mountains, bathing them in sherbet-colored hues. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, this Pink Moment sunset only adds to the magic of the town. Catch the moment from the scenic overlook or Meditation Mount, a hilltop oasis that’s part wellness space and part botanical garden.

Where to Stay

While only minutes from downtown, the 305-room Ojai Valley Inn & Spa feels like a private oasis with pristinely manicured grounds. Its 220 acres include an 18-hole golf course, pools, restaurants and spa. (Understandably, many guests barely step off property during their stay.)

The story of the hotel runs parallel to the founding of Ojai itself; it was Ohio glass magnate Edward Libbey who in 1923 commissioned California architect Wallace Neff to build a Spanish Colonial Revival-style clubhouse for his golf course, which would go onto to become the Ojai Valley Inn. Today, the property’s ambitious programming includes everything from aerial yoga to cooking classes to candle making at the Artist Cottage. Even if you don’t stay, visit for dinner at Olivella or a Pixie Margarita overlooking the stunning grounds.

TIP: Ciao Bambino’s Travel Advisors can book Ojai Valley Inn & Spa for you with access to exclusive amenities and perks, like complimentary upgrades, daily breakfast, resort credits, early check-in/late check-out, and more. Get in touch for details.

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Editor’s note: This post was accurate when published. We advise checking independently for the latest information and updates. Ciao Bambino does not accept responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in, or for any actions taken based on, the information presented.