Micro City Guide | Ojai

| photography by sepi shokouh |

Ojai feels like California at its most effortless: a small valley town framed by the Topatopa Mountains, where orange groves, art studios, hiking trails, and laid-back cafés coexist beneath famously pink sunsets. Just 90 minutes from Los Angeles, Ojai offers a slower rhythm—one shaped by nature, creativity, and a deep appreciation for good food, local craftsmanship, and wellness. Whether you're visiting for a weekend escape or passing through on a longer California road trip, this guide highlights the places that capture Ojai's distinctive charm.

| photography by sepi shokouh |

For our Ojai Micro City Guide, we turned to our friend Amanda Hesser. You might know her as former New York Times writer, author, co-founder of Food52, or editor of Homeward, an exploration of buying and renovating a home 3,000 miles away. We consider her one of the chicest people we know, so we just had to get her recommendations for her native Ojai.

| image courtesy of James Ransom |

Introducing: The Ojai Micro City Guide.

Our favorite recommendations, distilled down to one standout pick per category.

| photography by sepi shokouh |

Hotel | El Roblar