Some hotels are places to spend the night. Others feel like destinations in and of themselves. The award-winning Ojai Valley Inn, an expansive 220-acre resort in the small and scenic Southern California town of Ojai, falls into the latter camp.
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It all starts with the drive in past leafy oak trees and putting greens. Pulling into the valet roundabout, the enchanting Spanish hacienda-style architecture really comes into focus. After checking in guests can opt to walk to their rooms or hop in a golf cart. Whichever mode of transport you decide, it’s worth taking the long way to get a lay of the land, where fragrant lavender blooms and citrus trees glisten in the sunlight.
Ojai Valley Inn has a ton of different types of rooms and suites—all swathed in warm hues and appointed with luxurious contemporary comforts. Some have fireplaces and private balconies, while others showcase giant soaking tubs and local art.
Variety remains a consistent theme across the property, which offers an endless array of activities geared towards groups, families with kids, and couples. The interactive beekeeping experience and honey tasting is particularly popular. Recreational facilities include a multi-court tennis center and a championship golf course that’s attracted casual players, pros, and link-loving celebs like Bob Hope and Kevin Costner over the years.
If you’d rather make leisure the primary focus, that’s definitely doable. Make an appointment for a customized massage, brightening botanical facial, or signature orange blossom and honey wrap at Spa Ojai. Wellness programming goes well beyond traditional treatments. Pilates, yoga, meditation, wellness talks, and stretching are some of the holistic offerings. The Artist Cottage puts on creative workshops in mandala stone painting, candle making, and handcrafting aromatherapy blends.
Right in the middle of everything yet somehow secluded, the adults-only Indigo Pool is ideal for ordering a cocktail before diving into a good book. The sounds of children splashing and laughing echo from the family-friendly Pixie Pool, which provides toys, floats, and a poolside cabana service that’s sure to appeal to guests of all ages.
The Ojai Valley Inn boasts an impressive collection of gourmet outlets. The Oak serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in an indoor-outdoor setting facing the golf course and mountains. An atmospheric eatery with a distinctly grown-up vibe, Olivella showcases California cuisine with Italian influences. Jimmy’s Pub has a stellar selection of microbrews on tap as well as salads, burgers, and wood-fired pizzas. You can pick up coffee and pastries at Libbey’s. There’s also a spa cafe with a juice bar and healthy fare. The Farmhouse at Ojai is a unique gourmet venue that hosts seasonal culinary events and world-class chef’s series tasting dinners.
Top Takeaways
Location: Ojai, California
Rating: Five-Star
The Vibe: A citrus-scented, elegantly relaxed Ojai retreat set against a backdrop of rolling mountains.
Food + Drink: With seven culinary options—ranging from grab-and-go breakfast to fine dining—you’ll never go hungry (or thirsty).
Amenities: multiple restaurants; two pools; spa; Artist Cottage and Apothecary; fitness center; golf course; tennis courts; bike rentals; event space
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: The incredible lineup of activities and leisurely pursuits.
5 Nearby Attractions: Los Padres National Forest, Ojai Valley Museum, Valley View Preserve, Ojai Valley Trail
Any Personal Neighborhood Recs? Ojai has a quaint, walkable downtown with many local boutiques and restaurants. Ojai Tortilla House is a no-frills, cash-only joint with great burritos. Share some craveable seasonal plates of eloté fries, crispy Brussels sprouts, and smoked golden beet tostadas at The Nest. Interested in sampling local wine? Stroll over to Casa Barranca Tasting Room.
Rooms: 303 spacious rooms and suites, plus a private villa
Pricing: Rooms start at $679/night
Closest Airport: Santa Barbara Airport
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