Things To Do
Ojai is a creative and spiritual town. Its inhabitants care for it deeply and it’s ability to have stayed almost the same throughout history shows how committed its people are to keeping things the Ojai way.
Even though Ojai is a short drive up from Southern California or Medium drive down from Northern California, visitors should come here with a certain mindset. Ojai will give to you something that you can not really buy, it is not a theme park or other type of tourist attraction.
Once you start driving up highway 33, you almost feel your shoulders drop a little and feel relaxed. The air has a certain quality to it, not too humid or dry. I would just describe it as sweet and welcoming. I remember a long time ago before I became a resident of Ojai, the first night I stayed there I had experienced the best night’s sleep of my life. Truly, I was just in awe that such a place existed and I did not know about it. Oh, and the pink moment? Don’t get me started about that, that will need its own article. Seriously though, it’s a little slice of shangri-la in our busy California. Now because of the internet thousands of people know about this town and many have walked away changed by the experience they have had here.
So are we saying Ojai is just a place for relaxation? No, not quite. But what we are saying is to have a conscious intention before you decide to embark on a trip here and be open to how this lovely town will embrace you. Intend to be gracious here as you walk amongst nature. There is not a word for what you get, but your soul will feel it. Many just say they feel renewed.
With that, we will aim to list some places you may feel inclined to explore.
1. The Gentle Hike of the Rose Valley Falls
The hike of Rose Valley Falls is considered an easy hike for most people. The hike is just over 1 mile long, out and back. You can even bring children as long as a stroller is not needed, since it is not stroller or wheelchair accessible. Leashed dogs will also enjoy this one!
Your eyes, ears and nose will have quite the experience. The hike is picturesque, the flowers are fragrant and the sounds of birds chirping will delight the senses. It is such an enjoyable place, that many decide to camp in these Los Padres Mountains overnight.
The drive there from Ojai is longer than the hike itself. It is a little under 45 minutes from downtown Ojai to the trailhead. The Rose Valley Campground does have a fee, if you wish to avoid that fee you can just park outside the gates. Please bring a little bag or something with you for trash so we keep our beautiful nature places litter free.
What is wonderful about the trail is the beautiful oaks that provide you shade along the way. It is fun to just let go and hop over logs, touch the small streams until you reach the beautiful thin waterfall veil that cascades between the rocks and glorious green moss. Some have been quite adventurous here, and climbed inside the waterfall through a cave, or even taken a dip in the pools. The amount of water you will see varies on the season, obviously spring is when you should see the most activity, but still just beautiful all year round.
Many just make a whole vacation out of hiking Ojai. Ojai does not turn up short when it comes to hiking destinations. Some other hikes around Ojai include the Ventura River Preserve, North Fork Matilija Creek, Ojai Meadows Preserve, Valley View Preserve, Gridley Trailhead, Cozy Dell Trailhead, Howard Creek Trailhead, Fox Canyon Trails Loop, Sespe River Trail, Horn Canyon Trailhead, and the Piedra Blanca Formations Trail. Many of these trails differ in difficulty and shade, so please research the place of interest before going to ensure you are prepared for the conditions.
Phone: (805) 448-6487
Directions / Look up : Chief Peak Rd Los Padres National Forest Ojai, CA 93023
Official Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/lpnf/recarea/?recid=11047
2. The Open Air Bookstore, Barts Books
Walkable in downtown Ojai, this gem sits behind the main drag. You could probably spend half a day here if you love books. What makes Bart’s Books so unique is that it is an outdoor book store. You can sit in their courtyard and read a novel under the sun. We believe this is one of the most unique experiences that Ojai has to offer.
Browse and browse through the labyrinthine shelves. You will almost surely find the book you are looking for. They carry over 125,000+ new and used books, covering all sorts of genres from comics, kids books, health, travel, cooking, self help and more.
Address: 302 W Matilija Street, Ojai, California. Phone: (805) 646-3755
Official website: https://bartsbooksojai.com/
3. Get Shanti at Meditation Mount
Looking to acquire presence and tranquility? Say hi to Meditation Mount. The center is non-denominational, so it is welcoming to anyone. You really feel peaceful as soon as you enter its grounds.
Of course you can Meditate here, at their International Garden of Peace. You may also stroll through their gardens and listen to their fountains. The view is stunning and it is a great spot to watch the Pink Moment that happens over the Topa Topa Mountains.
Please note they may not always be open. It may be a good idea to book an appointment for your visit, just in case there is a workshop or something going on.
Address: 10340 Reeves Road, Ojai, California. Phone: (805) 646-5508
Official website: https://meditationmount.org/
4. Melt Away at Ecotopia Hot Springs
Sulfur hot spring pools provide an experience like no other. These 100 degree pools may just melt all your problems away or at least that is what they say. Hot Springs have been said to have healing properties. Back in the day these hidden hot springs were enjoyed only by locals that knew about them. Then with news wire write ups, and social media. The public became more aware of these treasured spots. Unfortunately not all these visitors treated the place with respect and it got trashed, forcing the owners to privatize the spot.
Sometimes privatizing can be a good thing though. They now require you to make reservations in advance and make a purchase from their CSA (community supported agriculture). Essentially, you pay 20 bucks, receive something from the farm, plus get to explore the farm and the hot springs for two hours. It is best to book well in advance if your plan to visit during peak periods.
Here’s a secret, they even offer nighttime visits and the stars that shine there are just fabulous, you can just see them so well due less artificial light being around. Can you think of anything more magical? Soaking in hot springs under the stars?
Once you are done, take an outdoor shower using the hot spring water! Don’t forget to bring towels, flip flops and stay hydrated. Please note clothing is optional here so it might not be suitable for all ages.
Address: 2566 Matilija Canyon Road, Ojai, California
Official website: https://www.ojaiecotopia.com/
5. Gallop the Countryside
Is there any other terrain more suitable for horseback riding? Whether you’re an experienced rider or a beginner, horseback riding in Ojai is something you will want to check off. There are many places that offer horseback riding in town and for the sake of simplicity we will just list the one that is most well known in our opinion. The Ojai Valley Trail Riding Company at Oso Ranch has trail rides that are customized to your ability. This ranch has one of the best locations, right next to the Ojai Land Conservancy. So you know the ride is going to be just beautiful. They also have special scenic tours of the Topa Topa Mountains.
Before or after your ride you can tour the Oso Ranch and meet the farm animals including peacocks, chickens, cows, pigs, and rabbits. Approximately 3.5 miles away from downtown Ojai, this can be an easy stop.
Address: 1290 Meyer Road, Ojai, California Phone: (805) 890-9340
Official website: http://www.ojaivalleytrailridingcompany.com/
6. Check out an Olive Oil Farm
Visiting Ojai Olive Oil Company’s family farm and tasting its delightful liquid gold is a must-do for all food aficionados! Just four miles away from Ojai, you can bask in the dreamlike atmosphere of 150 year old olive trees. Even better? You get to enjoy a free tour and tasting any day you like – thanks to three generations of Asquith family taking care of this one-of-a kind Southern California permaculture farm.
Aspiring chefs, take note! This is your opportunity to learn all the secrets of selecting and working with extra virgin olive oil. It doesn’t matter if you are big or small. There’s something here for everyone, including kids and family pets. There’s an enclosure specifically designed for furry friends to play in while their owners taste and explore. Not only can you pick up some scrumptious olive oils and balsamic vinegars to share with the ones closest to you, but also luxurious face creams, moisturizing lip balms, and luxuriously scented soaps infused with the rich taste of olives.
Come to the tasting room and try an array of olive oils from diverse varieties, as well as balsamic vinegars. Their knowledgeable staff would be pleased to inform you on how olives are cultivated, the process of extracting oil, plus blending and bottling methods.
Address: 1811 Ladera Rd., Ojai California Phone : (805) 646-5964
Official website: https://ojaioliveoil.com/
If you’re looking for the freshest locally-sourced organic vegetables, fruits, as well as homemade and handmade items. Then you absolutely must visit Ojai Certified Farmers’ Market! Held every Sunday from 9am to 1pm in rain or shine downtown on Matilija Street, it is a perfect reflection of the vibrant eco-consciousness that makes up this wonderful community.
7. The world famous Ojai Farmers Market
For those looking for a pleasant small-town vibe, this is the perfect place to visit with its abundance of locally produced goodies like honey, ice cream, fruit leathers, jewelry, beeswax candles and herbal bouquets. Don’t forget to grab some fresh breads, artisan desserts, and nuts if you’re feeling hungry! Sometimes you may be surprised with live music to enjoy as you wander around.
Address: 300 East Matilija St., Ojai California Phone: (805) 698-5555
Official website: http://www.ojaicertifiedfarmersmarket.com/
8. Nerd out about Ojai at it’s own museum
Ojai has lots of museums / galleries, many are art museums. Did you know that Ojai has a museum about well… what else? Ojai! That’s right The Ojai Valley Museum of History and Art is an unforgettable tourist sight, housed in a National Historic Register building which was once an old church.
Inside you can uncover two rooms full of interesting exhibits that detail the history of this beautiful valley from its origins with the Chumash Indians to present-day tales told by descendants of Ojai’s early inhabitants. Standout features include the captivating Chumash Interpretive Garden and impressive Sespe Wilderness diorama – worth visiting just for these alone!
Uncover the hidden gems of Ojai by visiting the tourist information office tucked away in a corner of the building. There, you can sign up for an intriguing 10:30am Saturday historic walking tour that will guide your exploration around town and include entry to the museum!
Address: 130 West Ave. Ojai California Phone: (805) 640-1390
Official website: https://www.ojaivalleymuseum.org/
9. Check out a Concert or Festival in a Park
With its renowned 973-seat Libby Bowl and spectacular art and music festivals, such as the Ojai Music Festival to name one, Libby Park is surely an entertainment haven for those in Ojai. Experience unprecedented levels of joy with your family or friends at this unique venue!
In addition to that some weekday afternoons they have concerts in the park, where local artists just show up and put on a show, people bring picnic baskets and enjoy for a little while. This park is a hit for kids and very chill for parents. Most people take the kids across the street for ice cream for a treat after a fun afternoon of play. This park is definitely one of my top 5 favorite parks in all of California.
We hope that you have enjoyed this list of things to do in Ojai and that it has brought some benefit to you. Please be mindful when you visit this precious place.
This post is just our opinions and should not be considered as advice, it is for entertainment and educational purposes. Hours and availabitly of the places listed may change. We were not paid to mention any of these places and have done so just a service.