Walking through Ojai, a mission-style town 90 miles northwest of Los Angeles, you quickly understand why “the Village,” as locals call it, has long been a magnet for those seeking escape, restoration and natural beauty. You’re snuggled by magic and surrounded by mountains, hills and protected forests. “There’s something about Ojai that makes me feel centered and restored,” says yoga teacher and new resident Andrea Brook.
Famously a Mecca for new-agers, these days hippy life has given way to craft cocktails and DJs spinning tunes on gallery night. The vibe is still laid-back and peaceful, but tinged with a hipster sensibility. Most you meet here—you will make friends just by walking down the street—are artists, yoga instructors, film executives or chefs. And everyone shares their talents in the array of well-curated boutiques, galleries and organic restaurants clustered around the tiny downtown.
During a two-day stint in Ojai, which has a population of less than 8,000, you can fill your cup with outdoor pursuits, creative exploration and peaceful reflection. This combination embodies the spirit of the valley.
Friday
Afternoon
To set the tone for the weekend, stroll down East Ojai Avenue past boutiques and galleries and make your way to Libbey Park. As you begin to breathe the valley air, you’ll realize things here move at a slower pace. The small green space in the town center serves as a community gathering spot with seating areas surrounded by native plantings leading to the newly restored Libbey Bowl. If you’re lucky, you may catch a free performance in the historic amphitheater or one of the park’s many free art festivals.
For more traditional happy-hour happenings, make a beeline for Ojai Vineyard Tasting Room. It’s tempting to sit in the tree-covered courtyard, but to dig deeper and learn about the wines, pick a spot inside the sleek tasting room. A flight of five wines is about $15 and the fee is waived when you purchase multiple bottles. Careful though, after a few drinks and much conversation with the vino-obsessed staff, many have walked away with dreams of buying a Central Coast vineyard.
Night
To truly feel the pulse of Ojai, have at least one meal at Farmer & The Cook. It’s the most aptly named business in Ojai. Olivia is the farmer and her partner, Steve, is the cook. Together they have created a rustic yet charming market, bakery and vegetarian restaurant. Find a seat on the patio near the pizza oven, order a pitcher of the house-made sangria and settle in. All of the pizzas are tempting, but you can’t go wrong with Kenny’s Special, a wafer-thin crust topped with roasted garlic, shiitakes, kalamatas, spinach, grilled onion, mozzarella and parmesan.
Saturday
Morning
Head to Bohemia Coffee for morning fuel and order one of their famous jalapeno bagels. A foray into Rainbow Bridge Natural Food Store is also a good move. Make your way to the back counter for delicious breakfast sandwiches, coffee and snacks for the day.
A great way to see more of the valley is to hit the town’s bike path. Stretching 15 miles from Ojai to Ventura, the mostly paved path follows an old railroad bed, with sections bordering a bridal path. It’s a cyclist’s dream.
If tasting Ojai’s natural delights better fits your Saturday mood, take a tour of the Ojai Olive Oil Ranch. A no-reservation policy on Saturdays makes it easy to pop in anytime for a behind-the-scenes glimpse of how this golden elixir is produced. Don’t leave before trying the rosemary infused samples.
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