Ojai is a magical place that makes a perfect weekend getaway from LA. We’ve explored the town’s grounding farms (check out this one) and luxe resorts over many long weekends and are getting a fresh report on what’s new in the high-vibe neighborhood from holistic nutritionist and founder of Women’s Wellness Collective, Kristin Dahl…
As summer begins to fade, consider carving out some time to escape the city to a beautiful natural setting. Ojai, also known as the “Valley of the Moon,” is the perfect place to reconnect with nature and take a moment to unwind. Offering epic hiking trails, swimming holes and one of the best farmers markets around, Ojai’s majestic setting will bring you back to your roots and make space for you to fully let go.
Where To Play, Eat, Shop + Stay While In Ojai, CA
Where to PLAY
After a hike, dip in the river or a stroll through the Sunday farmer’s market, experience the best Ojai has to offer at a few of these local gems:
Earth Tonics Spa: “The works” facial will take you to another dimension—it’s a combination of energy work, microcurrent, color therapy and a customized herbal treatment and mask that will leave you looking and feeling your most radiant. So be prepared for complete relaxation! While in town, be sure to pick up a few Earthtonics products. Favorites include the cardamom cleanser, botanical mist, immortelle mushroom mylk and the matcha eye serum.
Light + Space: A beautiful light-filled space with daily yoga classes, meditation and movement. There’s also a treatment room for sessions with some of Ojai’s best healers—keep an eye out for Bryan Kest’s regular classes here.
Ecotopia Natural Hot Springs: Soak in the healing powers of the land at this magical spot, and be sure to stock up on some fresh produce and spring water while there.
Casa Barranca Organic Winery + Tasting Room: Enjoy a selection of organic wines in this intimate setting. Try a red from the extensive list, taste an impeccable rosé or a beautiful crisp white wine. The estate is a historic landmark that can be rented for overnight stays of small groups and gatherings.
Where to EAT
Check out the Rancho bar for local organic wines, craft brews and, of course, the famed Farmer + The Cook for a fresh juice, pizza nights with live music and locally-made bread.
Beacon Coffee: This beautiful space is the perfect place to meet a friend, do some work or enjoy fresh pastries (many gluten-free) while sipping some of the best coffee around. The owners have a strong dedication to responsible sourcing and maintaining a relationship with the land, and you can taste their commitment to quality with every sip. They also serve kombucha on tap and house-made nut milks from one of my favorites, Good Mylk.
Hip Vegan: This popular café recently re-opened in a gorgeous new space downtown. The menu is filled with delicious vegan options such as wraps and bowls, topped with incredible sauces and spreads. Try the Echo Beach Bowl, falafel, spring rolls or collard green wraps—you won’t be disappointed!
Ojai Rotie: This farm-to-fork restaurant serves pasture-raised rotisserie chicken with such a flavorful seasoning you know it was created by a culinary genius. The sourdough bread is made in-house daily, and the wine list is absolutely outstanding. Go for it and order a chicken, cheese plate, bread and some delicious side spreads. Pair your feast with a wine suggested by the in-house sommelier. The family-style outdoor picnic setting is the coolest in town.
Food Harmonics: Offering healthy, fresh, organic food with a holistic approach, this café is right on the main strip and the perfect place for lunch. They have vegan, vegetarian and paleo options and an assortment of house-made tonics and elixirs. Try the in-house gluten-free bread, the women’s complete tonic and one of their delicious dosas.
Where to SHOP
Catty Wampus Crafts: A gorgeous craft store filled with a variety of textiles and knitting supplies adjacent to Beacon Coffee Company. It’s filled with hand-made goods and ceramics from local artisans, plus a variety of fine-art books, journals and unique gifts. The ideal stop after enjoying a coffee or matcha next door. Keep an eye out for their creative workshops!
Canyon Supply: It’s a bohemian boutique with mindfully selected clothing and gifts. Keep an eye out for A Beauty Collected, the botanical santalum candle and the in-house labels Banner Day & Laveer.
Bungalow by Fig: The original shop, FIG, opened a sister store with curated goods for home and family. They carry lovely gifts, children’s clothes and toys, plus a variety of beautiful ceramics and locally-made home goods.
Shop Summer Camp: A vintage-inspired lifestyle store with carefully selected crafts and goods from local makers—it’s a campsite-vibe with a modern feel. They offer museum quality framing with a variety of frames to choose from along with custom-made mirrors. Pick up a candle, vintage home decor, a unique mug or wall hanging.
Where To Stay
Beyond the picturesque nature, there are spectacular places to stay and play. Check into the world-renowned Ojai Valley Inn, the Ojai Rancho Inn or the Capri Hotel then check out these new and noteworthy places to play, eat and shop for a wonderful weekend away!
