Ojai: Your Guide to a Perfect Day Trip from Los Angeles
Not every adventure requires a travel companion. Recently, I’ve been enjoying the simple pleasures of solo travel — curating the perfect road trip soundtrack, picking up my favorite gas station snacks, uncovering hidden gems, getting lost and finding my way back, all in the tranquility of solitude. Solo travel truly deserves more appreciation.
So, I decided to take a break from the never-ending buzz of Los Angeles and head out on a day trip to the dreamy town of Ojai. This little gem, just a 90-minute drive from LA, is often called the Shangri-La of California. Think chill vibes, mouthwatering cafes, quirky local shops, and seriously gorgeous scenery. Let me take you through my perfect day in this charming mountain valley town.
Morning: Ojai Olive Oil Company
I kicked off the day at the Ojai Olive Oil Company, a family-run spot that's all about estate-grown olive oils and vinegars. I went for the $10 tasting, which let me try a bit of everything they make. The best part? You get to enjoy these tasty treats on their beautiful property, surrounded by olive groves and rolling hills. Your taste buds are gonna love you for it.
Mid-Morning: Ojai Arcade
Next up, I strolled over to the historic Ojai Arcade, a super cute shopping center with a ton of character. I found three awesome local shops that I absolutely adored: Fig Curated Living, for some seriously cool home goods; Treasures of Ojai, which sells, yup, actual treasures; and Summer Camp, a thoughtfully curated store in an old gas station that had me wanting to live in that vibe forever.
Lunch: Hip Vegan Café
Thank you, internet, for guiding me to the perfect lunch spot. At Hip Vegan Café, I tried the jackfruit torta and gunpowder fries, and let me tell you, they were spicy and amazing. If all vegan food tasted this good, I'd ditch my cheeseburgers in a second!
Afternoon: Bart's Books
Hey, book lovers! Bart's Books is an outdoor independent bookstore you just can't pass up. It's got cozy nooks, fresh mountain air, and a fantastic selection of reads. It's the perfect place to get lost in a good book. Hands down, one of the most beautiful bookstores I've ever visited.
Late Afternoon: Ojai Valley Land Conservancy
I couldn't leave Ojai without a little hike. I had planned to do a more intense trail, but the sun was already getting low, so I chose a nearby path at the Ojai Valley Land Conservancy instead. Totally rejuvenating and a great way to soak in the stunning views.
Sunset: Pink Moment at Topa Topa Mountains
Just as I was driving out of town, I caught the famous Pink Moment, when the Topa Topa Mountains glow pink right after sundown. Absolutely breathtaking and the perfect way to wrap up my day trip to Ojai.
So there you have it – my incredible day trip to Ojai, a serene haven that offers the perfect respite from the bustling pace of Los Angeles. With its inviting blend of chill vibes, tasty eats, one-of-a-kind shops, and enchanting scenery, Ojai is a dream destination for any solo traveler looking to unwind and recharge. Pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to embrace the magic of Ojai!