17 Best Things to Do in Ojai, CA (for 2024)

When you find yourself in the beautiful Ventura County, make sure to stop by the charming city of Ojai.

Known for its incredible nature views and local organic produce, Ojai is a far cry from the busy California metropolis like LA and San Diego.

The stuff to do here will be wonderfully slow-paced and not the usual thrilling activities you experience in the big cities.

Let your worries go and feel 100% relaxed when you stay in this valley city.

Ready for a restful vacation?

Here’s a list of the best things to do in Ojai, CA.

1. Ojai Olive Oil Co.

ojai olive oil co.

1811 Ladera Road
Ojai, CA 93023
(805) 646-5964

Ojai Olive Oil Company is a farm located at Asquith Ranch.

It has been around since the 1880s.

Why You Should Go

Discover more about olive oil history, how olives are grown, and how the oil is made when you tour around the farm today.

What To Do

After a bit of tasting, make sure to visit the farm’s shop.

Take home their famous olive oil with you.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Su Nido Inn

2. Ojai Certified Farmers’ Market

ojai certified farmers' market

300 E Matilija Street
Ojai, CA 93023
(805) 698-5555

The Ojai Farmers Market at Matilija Street is open every Sunday morning.

It’s a hit with locals and visitors year-round.

Why You Should Go

Get the freshest fruits and vegetables when you go to the farmers’ market.

Locally made jams, oils, and more are also available.

You can even try out the dishes from the local eateries in the market.

What To Do

Enjoying the relaxed atmosphere and people-watching are among the fun, free things to do in Ojai, especially in the farmers market.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Ojai Valley Inn

3. Ojai Meadows Preserve

ojai meadows preserve

1601 Maricopa Highway
Ojai, CA 93023
(805) 649-6852

Ojai Meadows Preserve is a 58-acre nature preserve that protects wetlands, meadows, and diverse wildlife.

Why You Should Go

If hiking is a favorite pastime for you, make sure to walk the trails in Ojai Meadows.

It’s among the best places to visit in Ojai for hiking activities.

What To Do

While going around the preserve, keep your eyes open for different kinds of birds, rabbits, and even bobcats.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Blue Iguana Inn

Also See:
Marina del Rey Activities
Fun Stuff to Do in Cambria

4. Topa Mountain Winery

topa mountain winery

821 W Ojai Avenue
Ojai, CA 93023
(805)-640-1190

Topa Mountain Winery is a 2-acre winery located just below the Topa Topa mountain range.

It opened its doors to the public in 2016.

Why You Should Go

Unwind with family and friends with a glass of fabulous handcrafted wine when you visit the Topa Mountain Winery.

What To Do

After a beautiful day in the winery, look for a good spot below the Topa Topa Mountains once the night skies are dark enough.

Stargazing is among the top things to do in Ojai tonight.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Capri Hotel

5. Rose Valley Falls Trail

rose valley falls trail

SW of Campground at Rose Valley Lake Road
Ojai, CA 93023
(805) 448-4710

Rose Valley Falls is an 80-feet waterfall and cave located in the Sespe Wilderness.

Why You Should Go

When in the Los Padres National Forest, there are so many beautiful scenes to see.

But one of the most breathtaking is the Rose Valley Falls.

Don’t miss it during your hiking trip.

What To Do

Hike the super short 1.1-mile trail to the tallest waterfall in the range.

Going to the lower portion of the waterfall is super easy.

If you’re feeling up for more adventure, try to reach the upper tier.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Oakridge Inn

Related: Best Things to Do in Santa Barbara

6. Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts

beatrice wood center for the arts

8585 Ojai-Santa Paula Road
Ojai, CA 93023
(805) 646-3381

Beatrice Wood Center for the Arts is a living museum that showcases different artists’ works.

Why You Should Go

Designed to look as if Beatrice Wood is still working in her studio, you’ll really appreciate the relaxing vibes of the museum.

The different exhibitions are also fascinating to check out.

What To Do

Looking for something to do when it’s raining or cold?

Check out what kind of workshops or performances are currently happening in the museum.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Santa Paula Inn

7. Pratt Trail Loop

pratt trail loop

Shelf Road at N Signal Street
Ojai, CA 93023

Pratt Trail is a 9.6-mile out and back trail located near downtown Ojai.

Hiking the track is a cheap yet fulfilling activity you can do this weekend.

Why You Should Go

If you want to be nearer to nature during your trip, make sure to hike the Pratt Trail Loop.

It has lovely views of the surrounding mountain ranges and pretty wildflowers.

What To Do

Besides walking, you can also go running or mountain biking on the Pratt Trail.

You can even bring your furry friends during your trip.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Emerald Iguana Inn

Also See:
Things to Do in Ventura, CA
Things to Do in Solvang

8. Krishnamurti Educational Center

krishnamurti educational center

1070 McAndrew Road
Ojai, CA 93023
(805) 646-2726

Krishnamurti Educational Center is found inside the former home of Krishnamurti, a well-known philosopher.

Why You Should Go

Tour the grounds, look around the library and go through the home of Krishnamurti to experience where the famous philosopher lived.

What To Do

In the library, you’ll be able to browse through a massive collection of Krishnamurti’s teachings which includes books, audio, and video.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Ojai Rancho Inn

9. The Ojai Vineyard

the ojai vineyard

109 S Montgomery Street
Ojai, CA 93023
(805) 649-1674

The Ojai Vineyard is a traditional winery known for its extensive line of wine.

Why You Should Go

Discover fun and fascinating stories about how The Ojai Vineyard created their famous wines when you do a tasting.

The staff is sure to share many fun stories during your visit.

What To Do

If you’re a true wine fan, you’ll enjoy doing a tasting in this winery.

They have over 300 wines for you to choose from.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Casa Ojai Inn

10. Ecotopia

ecotopia

2566 Matilija Canyon Road
Ojai, CA 93023
(805) 272-0011

Ecotopia is also known as the Ojai Hot Springs.

It is located along the Matilija River inside Los Padres National Forest.

Why You Should Go

Nature but with a relaxing twist?

Get ready to soak in the hot spring pools near Matilija River.

It’s among the fun things to do in Ojai, California.

What To Do

Surrounded by boulders and amazing views of the Ojai Valley, there’s nothing left to do but to sit back and enjoy the warm soak.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Carpinteria, an IHG Hotel

Related: Best Restaurants in Ojai

11. Ojai Valley Museum of History and Art

ojai valley museum of history and art

130 W Ojai Avenue
Ojai, CA 93023
(805) 640-1390

The Ojai Valley Museum of History and Art is a small museum located inside a former church.

It features local history and artwork exhibits.

Why You Should Go

From photographs to carvings, there are many fascinating things to see indoors when you visit the museum.

Their gallery rotates regularly, so you’ll always find something new to check out.

What To Do

Besides its exhibits, architecture fans will also enjoy taking photos of the museum’s exterior.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Crowne Plaza Hotel Ventura Beach, an IHG Hotel

Also See:
Things to Do in San Luis Obispo
Things to Do in Fresno

12. Meditation Mount

meditation mount

10340 Reeves Road
Ojai, CA 93023
(805) 646-5508

Meditation Mount is a non-profit meditation center in the middle of a semi-wilderness setup.

Why You Should Go

Among the attractions in Ojai that have beautiful views of the city’s famous ‘pink moment,’ Meditation Mount is a place you shouldn’t miss out on.

What To Do

Try self-guided meditation during your visit.

The fantastic views of the valley and the mountains are sure to help you find a relaxed state.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Glen Tavern Inn

13. Bart’s Books

bart's books

302 W Matilija Street
Ojai, CA 93023
(805) 646-3755

Bart’s Books is the world’s largest outdoor bookstore.

It was founded in 1964 by Richard Bartindale.

Why You Should Go

Bibliophiles will adore the charming outdoor setup of Bart’s Books.

It’s definitely among the things to see in Ojai if you’re a literary lover.

What To Do

Browse through the outdoor shelves, and you might just find your next favorite novel.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Ventura Beach Marriott

14. Libbey Park

libbey park

210 S Signal Street
Ojai, CA 93023
(805) 646-5581

Libbey Park, formerly named Civic Center Park, is a cozy little park located in central Ojai.

Why You Should Go

Energetic children will absolutely enjoy spending the day in Libbey Park.

Playing on its fort-like playground is among the top things to do in Ojai with kids.

It even has a rock wall, slides, and a treehouse.

What To Do

If you ever find yourself in Ojai during June, make sure to stop by Libbey Park to see the Lavender Festival.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hummingbird Inn

15. Ojai Valley Bike Trail

ojai valley bike trail

E of Bryant Street
Ojai, CA 93023
(805) 646-5581

Ojai Valley Bike Trail is a 9-mile rail-trail that starts in Foster Park in Ventura all the way to the heart of Ojai.

A run here is among the best things to do in Ojai, CA.

Why You Should Go

Ride or hike along the river when you use the Ojai Valley Trail.

You can even go running or mountain biking.

What To Do

Have more time?

Start at the Ojai end of the trail and continue on to the Ventura River Trail once you reach Foster Park.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Inn & Suites Ventura Beach

Also See:
Things to Do in Monterey, CA
Things to Do in Big Sur, CA

16. Casa Barranca Tasting Room

casa barranca tasting room

208 E Ojai Avenue
Ojai, CA 93023
(805) 640-1255

Casa Barranca Tasting Room is an organic winery located on the main street of Ojai.

Why You Should Go

Go on for a tasting with your partner and try out the winery’s organic, pure, and natural wine selections.

A date here is among the most romantic things to do in Ojai for couples.

What To Do

Not really going for a date?

Still, come inside and have a chat with the friendly locals while sipping a cool glass of wine.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Su Nido Inn

Related: Best Things to Do in Big Bear

17. Los Padres National Forest

los padres national forest

6750 Navigator Drive
Goleta, CA 93117
(805) 448-4710

The Los Padres National Forest is about 1,950,000 acres and is near many southern and central California cities, including Ojai. It was established in 1936.

Why You Should Go

Some of the most beautiful nature views in Ojai are found inside this forest.

Some of these attractions are the Rose Valley Falls, Willet Hot Springs, and many other Matilija Wilderness and Sespe Wilderness spots.

What To Do

Hike the many trails to reach the different natural attractions, or just to get as much beautiful scenery as you can.

Some trails to do are the Matilija Creek Trail, the Piedra Blanca Formations trail, and the Pratt, Foothill, and Fox Canyon Trail Loop.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Ojai Valley Inn

Related: Best Hotels in Ojai

Map of Things to Do in Ojai, CA

Ojai Things to Do: The 17 Best Activities for 2024

best things to do in ojai
Lyam Lavigne
Lyam Lavigne
From the sunny coast of Los Angeles, California, Lyam Lavigne, a writer for Family Destinations Guide, infuses his local writing with the spirit of his US and Mexico backpacking adventures. When he's not writing about locales in LA, and throughout California, he's crafting memorable weekend escapes for his family - usually to the San Francisco Bay Area, which he considers his second home.