Ojai

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About Ojai

A long-time retreat for artists, musicians and free-spirited folk, Ojai (pronounced ‘oh-hi’ and derived from the Chumash word for 'moon') has a wonderfully laid-back vibe and benefits from year-round sunshine. Nestled in a quiet, mountain-fringed valley, the town is a popular destination for creative, spiritual travellers and lovers of the great outdoors. Accommodation options are wide-ranging, including characterful inns and luxurious resorts. The best places to stay in Ojai offer a brilliant immersion into the town's tranquil, quirky way of life -- ideal for an unforgettable trip.

Whether you're an active family, couples or group of friends, Ojai brims with opportunities to soak up California's natural wonders. Keen adventurers will adore the abundance of beautiful hiking, cycling and horse-riding trails, some of which meander through the impressive Los Padros National Forest. For fishing, boating and kayaking, head three miles from the town centre to picturesque Lake Casitas. There's rock climbing, golf and tennis in the area too.

Within the town itself, pop into distinctive galleries, second-hand bookshops or independent craft boutiques, before savouring still-warm treats at artisan delis and bakeries. Ojai's ethos is all about supporting small, independent businesses, so chain stores have been banned and the innovative local community is thriving. Expand your creativity through an art class, join a yoga session, unwind with rejuvenating treatments at a soothing spa, or nuture your soul at a spiritual retreat. Annual festivals include 'Art in the Park' each May, as well as the Ojai Music and Wine Festivals in June. Stock up on fresh, organic produce at the weekend farmers' market before cooking up a storm, or perch atop Meditation Mount to watch the sunset over the mountains after a big day of discovery.

Just 1.5 hours from Los Angeles, Ojai is a popular weekend escape from the city. Many of the best places to stay in Ojai are charming inns, but one of our favourite spots is a sumptuous, family-friendly resort spread across 200 acres. Gorgeous!

The Best Places to Stay in Ojai

For a characterful inn

  • Blue Iguana Inn is a lovely, laid-back Ojai institution. Expect 19 rooms, suites and a cottage with rustic, ranch-style interiors. Book the cottage or 2-bedroom suite if travelling as a family, chill out by the pool and unwind with a massage before hitting the town's shops and eateries or heading out for a day's cycling, hiking or fishing. A quirky, owner-run B&B, perfect for families or relaxed couples.
  • Emerald Iguana Inn, the Blue Iguana's sister hotel, accepts guests over the age of 14. Inspired by Gaudi and Art Nouveau, this is a characterful choice, with 12 individually-designed suites and cottages (some of which have two bedrooms) showcasing works by local artist and architect Mark Whitman. A tranquil, blissful spot, this is a brilliant base for romantic couples.
  • Su Nido Inn is an appealing Mission Revial B&B in downtown Ojai. The property includes 12 generously-proportioned suites set around a pretty courtyard, most of which feature their own sitting rooms, kitchens and patios. Pick this place for plenty of privacy and a sense of independence - as well as a chance to use the fresh farmers' market produce! Indulgent and intimate.

For a luxury resort

  • Ojai Valley Inn boasts 200 acres of extensive grounds, as well as sweeping mountain views. With golf, tennis, swimming, art classes, a superb spa and a lively programme of kids' activities, this is a dream family or couples' escape. Spacious rooms are sleek and stylish, many with private gardens or patios. Absolute luxury.

For an apartment or holiday cottage

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to Santa Barbara Airport, and hop into a 45-minute taxi or a bus via Ventura. Alternatively, travel to Los Angeles International Airport and take bus or taxi to Ojai. Again, the road will take you via Ventura.
  • California is brilliant for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Ojai benefits from a hot and dry climate. Time your trip for May or June if you're in town for a festival, or travel between June and September the warmest weather!

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Best Hotels in Ojai

  • Ojai Rancho Inn Ojai (California) 18 rooms from £117

    Ojai Rancho Inn
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    Groups  -  A laid back bar, BBQ grills, and a fire pit encourage communal hangs - ideal for groups of friends
    Short break  -  Just an hour and a half drive outside of LA - this makes a great destination for a weekend break
    Whirlpool Bathtub  -  Some of the King Rooms offer in room whirlpool tubs for two
    Great walks  -  Take the Shelf Road hike, best timed with sunset
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyParking

    A converted 1950s motel offering rustic-chic accommodation on the outskirts of the small town of Ojai. Rooms have a cabin feel with plenty of wood, front porches and works by local artists. A laid back bar has a casual communal feel while the swimming pool and free bikes are a real plus. See More

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  • Blue Iguana Inn Ojai (California) 19 rooms from £137

    Blue Iguana Inn
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    Local exploring  -  This is a great base from which to explore Ojai's laid-back charm before spending afternoons relaxing by the inviting pool
    Families  -  The two bedroom suites and balconies with plenty of outdoor space will suit families or groups travelling together
    Great walks  -  Take a guided herb walk to learn about the region's many medicinal plants
    Kayaking  -  Go kayaking on Lake Casitas, a local resevoir which also offers boating
    Air conditioningTennisSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessParking

    Family-friendly owner-run inn located in the heart of Ojai. Decor is rustic ranch country-chic with vaulted ceilings, tile roofs and outdoor firepits. A wide range of room options spread over gardens will suit all guests. Breakfast is included and there are fantastic restaurants and markets nearby. See More

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  • Emerald Iguana Inn Ojai (California) 12 rooms from £146

    Emerald Iguana Inn
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    Active Holiday  -  The vast Sespe Wilderness area offers some of the country's best hiking, kayaking, biking and riding
    Local exploring  -  Ojai Valley is a real outdoor lover's paradise but with great wine-tasting and dining as a bonus
    Local markets  -  Ojai's Farmer's Market, with its organic food and locally roasted coffee, is an ideal place to stroll on a sunday
    Cooking classes  -  As well as cooking classes try a Kombucha, olive-oil or honey tasting
    Air conditioningTennisSwimming PoolGardenParkingNo pets

    Iconic inn located in downtown Ojai. Inspired by Gaudi and Art Nouveau craftsmanship, owner and artist Marc Whitman is responsible for unique interiors set over 19 rooms, studios, cottages and treehouses. Enjoy in-room massages, outdoor pool and jacuzzi and gardens canopied by large sycamore trees. See More

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  • Su Nido Inn Ojai (California) 12 rooms from £237

    Su Nido Inn
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    Local exploring  -  Return to a spacious and well-equipped base after a day of outdoor pursuits, browsing galleries, hiking or playing golf
    Local markets  -  Ojai's famous farmer's market runs every Sunday and sells excellent locally-sourced produce
    Cooking classes  -  Check for timings.
    Sailing  -  Can be booked nearby.
    Air conditioningTennisGardenDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    Mission-revival style inn located in central Ojai. Meaning 'nest' in Spanish, the owners have created a homely and comfortable home-away-from-home. All of the 12 guest units have a TV, private sit-out, bathtub, hospitality corner and treat hamper (suites have kitchens) as there is no restaurant. See More

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  • Ojai Valley Inn Ojai 238 rooms from £241

    Ojai Valley Inn
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    Swimming Pool  -  Three enormous outdoor swimming pools
    Secluded setting  -  For escaping.
    Back to Nature
    Private Hot Tub
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking

    A stunning 5* resort. Offers a relaxing retreat overlooking the mountainous surroundings. Beautiful, modern rooms feature a chic and elegant decor, many with private patios. Luxurious pools and gardens. A variety of activities including tennis, hiking, art classes and cocktail making. See More

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  • The Capri Hotel Ojai (California) 27 rooms from £249

    The Capri Hotel
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    Chic  -  A stylish re-imagining of a 1960s motel with beautifully designed rooms and luxury accessories
    Romantic Break  -  Chicly styled rooms, lovely gardens and pool plus the firepit for laid back evenings
    Short break  -  A popular spot for Los Angelinos for a weekend getaway
    Swimming Pool  -  Good sized pool with sunbed areas
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyParking

    Renovated 1960s motel, now a stylish and tranquil West Coast retreat. Rooms are light and airy and designed with local artists and makers. There's a lovely lawned garden bedecked with fairy lights, pool and hot tub, complimentary bikes and fire pit for sociable evenings. A hip choice. See More

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