Central Coast
Weekend in Ojai: Hikes, Wine, Spas and the Pink Moment
A slow weekend in Ojai: watching the Pink Moment, easy hikes and bike rides, downtown tasting rooms, spa soaks, the Sunday market and where to stay and eat.
By Alex Khachigian · Updated September 2026 · 3 min read
Ojai is a small valley town below the Topatopa Mountains, 30 minutes inland from Ventura. On clear evenings the bluffs east of town turn pink at sunset, called the Pink Moment.
This Friday to Sunday plan covers sunset, hikes and bike rides, tasting rooms, spas and the Sunday farmers market.
In This Guide
Getting to Ojai and When to Go
Ojai is 1.5 to 2 hours from Los Angeles and about an hour from Santa Barbara on Highway 150.
Spring and fall are best; summer afternoons often top 90 degrees.
Friday Evening: Downtown Ojai and the Pink Moment
Walk Ojai Avenue and the arcade, then watch the Topatopa bluffs from Libbey Park at sunset.
- Dinner: Ojai Rotie (rotisserie chicken, Mediterranean) or Osteria Monte Grappa (Italian)
- Drinks: Topa Topa Brewing taproom
Where to Watch the Pink Moment
Meditation Mount (check hours) and Shelf Road have the best views.
Bart’s Books
Bart’s Books is an open-air bookstore. After hours, pay for sidewalk books on the honor system through the door.
Saturday Morning: Best Easy Hikes and Bike Rides in Ojai
Go early, before the heat. Breakfast at Knead Baking Company or coffee at Ojai Coffee Roasting Co.
Shelf Road and the Pratt Trail
Shelf Road is a flat 3.5 mile round trip above the orange groves. The Pratt Trail nearby climbs steeply into the foothills.
Ojai Valley Trail by Bike
The paved Ojai Valley Trail runs about 9 miles toward Ventura. Rent bikes in town.
Rose Valley Falls
Rose Valley Falls is a short, shady walk from a campground off Highway 33 north of town. It flows best after winter rain.
Saturday Afternoon: Ojai Wine Tasting
The Ojai Vineyard and Casa Barranca (organic) pour near Ojai Avenue.
Old Creek Ranch Winery and Topa Mountain Winery are just outside town.
Spas and Hot Springs Near Ojai
Spa Ojai at the Ojai Valley Inn is the easiest soak. My California wellness resorts guide covers it and others.
Sespe Hot Springs
Sespe Hot Springs is a long, remote backpacking trip, best in cooler months.
My natural hot springs guide lists easier soaks.
A Shorter Option
The Montecito Hot Springs Trail near Santa Barbara is an hour away. My Santa Barbara weekend guide covers the hike.
Sunday: Ojai Farmers Market
The Ojai Certified Farmers Market runs Sunday mornings behind the arcade.
Boats to Channel Islands National Park leave from Ventura Harbor.
Where to Stay in Ojai
The Ojai Valley Inn is the resort, with golf, pools and Spa Ojai.
Caravan Outpost, Ojai Rancho Inn and Su Nido Inn are simpler options.
Where to Eat in Ojai
The Farmer and the Cook is casual and mostly vegetarian, with its own farm. Nocciola serves Italian in a converted house.
Knead Baking Company and Beacon Coffee cover breakfast. Reserve dinner on weekends.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Pink Moment in Ojai?
The few minutes at sunset when the Topatopa bluffs turn pink and orange. Watch from Meditation Mount or Shelf Road on clear evenings.
Are there hot springs in Ojai?
Sespe Hot Springs requires a long backcountry trip. For an easy soak, book Spa Ojai at the Ojai Valley Inn.
Is Ojai worth a weekend trip?
Yes, for easy hikes, food, wine and sunsets. Santa Barbara and Ventura are close for a beach day.
When is the Ojai farmers market?
Sunday mornings downtown behind the arcade. Check its site for hours.
How far is Ojai from Los Angeles?
About 1.5 to 2 hours via US-101 to Ventura and Highway 33.
