Ojai Keeps Its Cool … and You Can Help!

Throughout California, even the most glamorous destinations need to take the good with the bad. Although year-round sunshine makes its towns idyllic places to live and visit, paradise is sometimes visited by the realities of natural phenomena and global warming.

Ojai (30 minutes inland from Ventura and Oxnard and 90 minutes from downtown Los Angeles) was one of the affected communities. And although much of Ojai was physically spared, thanks to the quick action of brave firefighters and first responders, the community has come together to roll out Ojai Love, facilitated by the non-profit HELP of Ojai.

The town-wide promotion, through March 31, 2018, encourages regular and first-time visitors to Ojai to help the local people and businesses by purchasing a hotel room package and enjoying the rustic, arty and family-friendly destination. The packages offer 10 percent off the room rate and a $10 donation made in their name, while several restaurants and attractions offer their own additional discounts.

“Visitors provide a boon to our local economy, and shopkeepers and restaurants thoroughly enjoy sharing Ojai’s culture,” said Veronica Cole, spokesperson, Ojai Love Campaign. “While Ojai is known for its upscale and sophisticated mix of spas, wine bars, galleries, and fine dining spots, there are lots of wide open spaces where families can casually reconnect and enjoy the outdoors together. It’s easy to unwind and experience quality time with the family. Spring is the perfect time to visit with mild and welcoming weather.”

Two horses in mustard field, springtime, Ojai. Photo: Americanspirit | Dreamstime.com

Cole adds the Ojai Love program has something for every kind of family, from families with young children to adult children planning a weekend of rest and relaxation with their parents, and at different price points.

• While Ojai Valley Inn & Spa is a locally celebrated luxury property, there are plenty of down-to-earth activities parents, kids and teens will enjoy, from Geocaching Tours and family treasure hunts, to weekend craft classes, to beekeeping and honey tastings. There’s also the Camp Oak program for kids ages (4-12), offering full and half-day activities that will allow them to discover Ojai’s natural treasures while parents can get away for “me-time.” The property will also offer several Easter events on April 1.
• Families with older kids will enjoy the outdoorsy packages offered by Casa Ojai Inn, which include hiking, bike rentals, jeep tour packages and fishing tours.
• Blue Iguana Inn is one of those rare places that perfectly balances grown-up sophistication and family-friendly space and amenities. Lodging options include multi-bedroom suites, bungalows and vacation houses to fit every family size. It’s minutes from the town center, and also located close to a bike path leading to Ventura County and the beach.
• Centrally located Ojai Rancho Inn offers a pool, Jacuzzi and bike rentals, and is an easy walk from tennis courts and Libby Park.

Once the matter of lodging is settled, visitors can get back to nature with an assist from

Mob Shop bike tours and rentals, Ojai Rock Climbing, Soule Park Golf Course and Ojai Land Conservancy’s numerous guided and individual hike suggestions listed on its website.

© Americanspirit | Dreamstime.com