If you’re looking for a getaway where you can unwind, laugh, and explore at your own pace, Ojai should be on your list. For us, this girls’ getaway was all about the moments shared — exploring hidden gems in town, laughing over glasses of wine, or hiking along the trail.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through our favorite spots and activities, offering tips and insights to help make your own adventure unforgettable. Whether you’re into hiking, shopping, or simply soaking up the scenery, Ojai’s laid-back, boho vibe offers the perfect backdrop for your next weekend getaway.
Destination Insights
Ojai, California, is a peaceful town nestled in the Ventura River Valley, surrounded by the Topa Topa Mountains. Known for its natural beauty, arts scene, and relaxed vibe, Ojai is a great spot for a mix of outdoor activities and downtime.
History
The Chumash lived in the area for thousands of years. In the late 1800s, settlers arrived, and the region began to develop an agricultural identity, with crops like citrus, olives, and grapes becoming central to the area. The name “Ojai” is derived from the Chumash word ‘awha’y, meaning “moon,” referencing the stunning sunsets and the valley’s tranquil evenings. Over time, Ojai attracted artists and writers, which still shapes the town’s creative energy.
Weather
Ojai has a mild Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and mild winters. Temperatures typically range from the mid-60s to low 80s°F (18-28°C). We visited in early February and it was a perfect time to walk the town’s restaurants during the day then relax in the jacuzzi during the evening.
Small Town Charm
Ojai’s small-town charm comes through in its locally owned shops, wine-tasting rooms, and relaxed atmosphere. Strolling through town, you’ll find a mix of artisan goods, cafés, and inviting spots to explore. Be sure to check out Bart’s Books, an outdoor bookstore, where you can spend hours browsing or finding something new to read.
Travel Guide
Day 1
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| Morning | • Road trip from LA to Ojai, CA (2 hours) • Olive oil tasting at Ojai Olive Oil: A $15 tasting flight with fresh bread under the Olive Trees was a fun time! • Strolled by Firestick Pottery to check out unique handcrafted pieces |
| Afternoon | • Lunch at Hip Vegan: A casual spot for a delicious meal like the Bánh mì and Warung Burger. Insider Tip: Free parking across the street in front of the school. • Shopping in town at Fig Curated Living, Ojai Roots, Sunday’s, Treasures of Ojai, and Rains. • Wine Tasting at The Naturalist: Enjoyed wines with a side of native plant knowledge! • Wandered around Bart’s Books: An outdoor bookstore with over 100,000 books! • Dessert at Ojai Ice Cream: Try a savory flavor like focaccia bread or indulge in a sweet flavor like caramelized banana chocolate chunk. |
| Evening | • Dinner at Ojai Pizza: Tasty Margherita pizza with a side of salad and red wine. • Night at VRBO: Enjoyed unwinding in the jacuzzi and feeding the mini donkeys. Insider Tip: If you’re looking for a local, rustic experience then book a home rental too. Otherwise, book an inn or hotel in town to enjoy an elevated Ojai experience. |
Day 2
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| Morning | • Breakfast at Farmer and the Cook: Smoothies and pumpkin chocolate chip muffins were scrumptious! • Hike Fox Canyon, Foothill, and Luci’s Trails Loop (3 miles): Scenic views of the valley and mountains. Insider Tip: This trail may be a trek for beginners. It’s always important to listen to your body and support each other for a safe and enjoyable adventure. |
| Afternoon | • Road Trip from Ojai, CA to LA (2 hours) |
Next Time Must Do’s
Would love to go wine tasting at Ojai Vineyard! A honey tasting at Heavenly Honey is also on the list, along with horseback riding—because, after all, Ojai is horse country. We’re also eyeing the Ojai Studio Artists or Ojai Film Festival in October to dive deeper into the local creative scene.
Wilderness Wisdom
Native plants were a theme of this trip, from the trails to the shops. White and black sage, chamise, California buckwheat, and toyon, known as “California holly,” lined the trails alongside manzanita shrubs and coastal oaks. In town, white sage was bundled in handmade incense, toyon and manzanita appeared in local art, and books on California wildflowers filled the shelves at Bart’s Books. At The Naturalist, our wine tasting came with a side of plant knowledge, highlighting native yeast and the region’s unique growing conditions. Whether we were walking, shopping, or sipping, native plants wove their way through every part of the weekend.
Trailside Ties
During our road trip, we listened to the Ologies podcast by Alie Ward. The episode on Funology explored how fun is a mix of a shared connection, playful attitude, and flow. Everyone has their own formula for fun, shaped by different elements that bring them into that effortless state. For us, fun popped up all over this trip—in water, community, movement, and even goofy animals. That’s the beauty of a girls’ weekend: everything just feels a little more fun.
Photo Journal
* Some of the incredible photos featured in this photo journal were taken by our amazing sisters (Brenna and Julia thank you for capturing the adventure from your unique perspectives!).
Summary
Ojai gave us everything we were looking for—scenic trails, fresh flavors, creative spaces, and plenty of opportunities to slow down and really take it all in. Themes of nature, movement, community, and letting the weekend unfold with plenty of lighthearted moments. Whether it was the flow of a morning hike, connecting over delicious food and new book finds, the playful energy of donkeys, or stumbling upon hidden gems around town, every experience felt like an adventure.
What made our girls’ weekend so fun wasn’t just the places we explored but who we shared it with—our sisters. We’ll carry with us the laughter, the meaningful conversations, and the reminder that the best trips aren’t just about where you go, but also about family and friends who make the journey unforgettable.
