5 Awe-Inspiring Things to See & Do in Ojai
Los Angeles has so much to offer, that’s for sure. Still, sometimes it’s nice to get away from the hustle and busyness of the city and go somewhere more tranquil where you can slow down a bit. Located just a short 90-minute drive from LA, Ojai, which is gorgeous year-round, is the perfect place to escape for some much-needed rest.
Ojai is known for its small-town charm, scenic views, natural setting, and local shops and restaurants. The best part? There is something so magical and truly unique about this town. It’s unlike anything else you can experience in Southern California.
Below, we outlined some of the top things to see and do in Ojai, and if you’re charmed by the town and wish to make it your primary (or vacation) home, check out this newly listed property sitting on 40 acres, complete with orchards and vineyards.
Bart’s Books
You can’t visit Ojai without making a stop at Bart’s Books, which is every book lover’s dream. Open since 1964, it’s known as the world’s largest outdoor bookstore. You can spend hours there perusing the maze-like shelves filled with more than 130,000 new and used books, including ones that are hard to find or out of print.
Casa Barranca Tasting Room
Nestled in the heart of Ojai, the Casa Barranca Tasting Room is another must-do activity when you’re in town. Here, the wines are USDA-certified organic, natural, pure, and made using sustainable farming practices without additives or pesticides. If you’re interested in becoming a regular, consider signing up for the Casa Barranca wine club to score some VIP perks.
Ojai Valley Inn
The luxurious Ojai Valley Inn is one of the best places to visit, whether you’re booking a room and staying awhile or dropping by to spend the day. There’s so much to do and experience on the property, including a championship golf course, a luxury spa, family-friendly activities, chefs’ dinners, culinary classes, wine tastings, and spiritual wellness offerings such as crystal and reiki energy healing.
The Pink Moment
Ojai’s famous “pink moment” is not a place. It’s an experience. The Ojai Valley is one of the few east-west valleys in the world. So, during sunset, the sun bathes the Topatopa Mountains in beautiful rosy, peachy, and lavender hues. It can only be described with one word: breathtaking. Whenever you are at sunset, be sure to step outside and take in the pink moment in all its glory, and have your camera ready too.
Meditation Mount
The focus on mindfulness and spirituality is strongly felt throughout Ojai, but if you really want to experience the magic, is the place to go. Meditation Mount, described as a sanctuary for the soul, is a non-denominational spiritual and religious center. Here, you can immerse yourself in nature, spend time meditating, or participate in workshops and discussion groups.
Considering calling Ojai home? Check out the dream property at 2661 Ladera Road. This Tuscany-inspired villa is truly a sanctuary within the sanctuary that is Ojai. Set on 40 acres overlooking the valley, this beautiful property boasts an infinity pool, a vineyard, citrus and fruit orchards, a dry cactus garden, a mandala lavender farm, and more.
