Ojai is one of my favorite weekend getaways! It’s a hop, skip and a jump from LA and you’re instantly transported into a little magical town tucked into the mountains with major vibe-y vibes!!
I’ve spent a handful of weekends in Ojai the past few years. It’s been a stop on numerous road trips, our destination of choice for a few weekend getaways, and my dad has the occasional business meeting there so naturally I always invite myself. I’m a great daughter like that 🙂
If you don’t live in the area, you could fly into LAX or Santa Barbara, snag a rental car and be on your way. The drive is easy and gorgeous as you wind your way up a mountain before getting to Ojai which is tucked into the cutest valley that literally has pink and purple sunsets on a daily basis.
So next time you’re looking for a weekend getaway - do it Ojai style!! Gaby’s Guide to Ojai coming at ya in 3, 2, 1….
COFFEE + BREAKFAST + BRUNCH:
Beacon Coffee - Perks of being married to a complete coffee snob, he'll find you the best coffee in any town!
Farmer and the Cook - While not on the main drag of Ojai, Farmer and the Cook is churning out some of the best food in the town. We go for breakfast/brunch every single time we visit and the breakfast tacos are not to be missed. Chips and Guacamole too - because that’s an acceptable thing to eat no matter what time of day!
LUNCH:
Topa Topa / Sama Sama - The best brewery / asian fusion restaurant I've ever seen! The food was epic - do not skip the wings.
Ojai Tortilla House - Some of the very best tacos around the area!! Go snag a sampler and find a seat somewhere nearby!
Ojai Rotie - An entire restaurant dedicated to rotisserie chicken - I THINK SO!
DINNER:
Ojai Pizza Co - BEST PIZZA IN THE AREA!
La Fuente - Mexican food! Always and forever!
Nocciola - Great Italian food with incredible dessert too.
DRINKS + DESSERT:
Tipple and Ramble - The cutest wine bar in all the land, complete with mezze, cheese and charcuterie boards. Easily one of my favorite spots to visit from this guide to Ojai.
The Nest - Really great social inspired food and even better cocktails!
Ojai Vineyard Tasting Room - It's a wine tasting room! What more do you need to know!
THINGS TO DO:
Ojai Certified Farmers Market - You know I’m a sucker for any farmers market and the Ojai market does not disappoint! It’s a mixture of farmers, florists and some pre-made food and it happens every single Sunday! (Rain or shine!)
Ojai Olive Oil - I’m all about an olive oil tasting and Ojai Olive Oil is the place to do it! Sample everything they make, starting with olive oil and then move on over to their infused vinegars. Grab a few bottles before you head home because you’ll be sorry if you leave empty handed!
deKor & Co - Home decor shopping with some incredible scented candles!
Fig Curated Living - More shopping - tons of cute kitchen things!
The Spa at Ojai Valley Inn - Ojai Valley Inn is one of my favorite places to stay in Ojai! The hotel is incredible and the spa is even better! They're the ones that first introduced me to Osea products. Couldn't be more obsessed.
WHERE TO STAY:
Ojai Valley Inn - My favorite hotel in Ojai, hands down, is the Ojai Valley Inn! The rooms are bright and gorgeous, their cheese plates are top notch and you’ll probably never want to leave the property. Between the pools, the gardens and the golf course, it’s basically everything you could ever ask for in a resort.
Thacher House - Thacher House is well off the beaten path but that's what makes it incredibly special! It's not inexpensive by any means, but it's a magical property with fruit trees all around, and incredible food and wine program and the loveliest host!
And that’s a wrap on my guide to Ojai! If you’re looking for more city guides check these out:
- Gaby’s Guide to Los Angeles, CA
- Gaby’s Guide to Santa Ynez (and surrounding areas)
- Gaby’s Guide to Santa Barbara
- Gaby’s Guide to San Francisco, CA
- Gaby’s Guide to NYC
Did I miss anything? Shout it out in the comments below so I can go give it a try!!
Favorite vineyards near Ojai?
Thanks!
Ojai wine bar Chiefs Peak. Small, plays vinyl super interesting selections and staff. Always see an undercover Hollywood celebrity enjoying a low key drink.
Don't forget OVA (Ojai Valley Arts)! 40+ local artists for some of the most interesting art of all types. Wide range of prices where there's something for everyone!
Try Kate's Bread on Sundays. You'll love Kate, she's great, little microbakery knocks it out of the park. Pre-order something first though so you don't wait in line. I grew up in Carpinteria.
https://www.katesbread.com/
You’re so cute Gaby!!!! Ojai is my favorite. I always hit up Farmer and the Cook and Bart’s Books.
I have to agree about Boccali’s!! You must go there next for their lasagna and most importantly, their strawberry shortcake! A true Ojai gem.
You have completely missed the ultimate Ojai experience if you haven't eaten at Boccali's in the east end of the valley. A long time family owned Italian place with the best pizza and pasta hands down. Dine inside or outside, Can even serve larger groups outside under huge oak trees. Love, love, love this place, and save room for fresh strawberry shortcake in season.