What it is

On 220 forested acres, with a 31,000-square-foot spa, 7 restaurants and 1923 golf course where everyone from Will Smith to Bing Crosby have played.

What it isn't

Boring. Experts at Ojai Valley Inn have planned all manner of exploits, whether you want to learn beekeeping or search for orcas in Channel Islands National Park.

What we think

Mediterranean-inspired living is somewhat of a tradition in Southern California, land of red tile roofed mansions and gurgling courtyard fountains. So it’s no surprise that Ojai Valley Inn, established in 1934, has perfected the art. Guest rooms have a muse in Spanish haciendas, but here each comes with luxe amenities that SoCal’s glitterati require, including Frette linens, illy Espresso machines, and toiletries custom-blended by an Ojai apothecary. Book the 550-square-foot Fireplace Shangri-La Room, named for an Ojai-based film by director Frank Capra, for a flickering gas fireplace and outsized soaking tub; the Paseo suite is even larger, with its own patio and fire pit ideal for cocktail hours after dusk.

You're here because

The inn has its own artists cottage where you can tap into your right brain’s brilliance with help from the pros. Classes include candle making, paper marbling and—this being California—creating your own mini terrarium for succulents.

The Moment

Lounging in your daybed by the Pixie Pool overlooking Los Padres National Forest, you could swear you see longtime Ojai resident Reese Witherspoon by the fireplace—but it might just be your blackberry mojito talking.

Restaurants & Bars

Maravilla - Meat, Seafood

Oak Grill - New American

Jimmy's Pub - Pub food, Casual

Cafe Verde - Salads, Pasta, Sandwiches, Asian fare

Herb Garden Bistro - Tapas, Sandwiches, Burgers

Joe 'n Go - Grab 'n go

Swim Club Cafe - Poolside, Casual fare

Swim Club

Jimmy's Pub

Location

Edging downtown Ojai, just up the road from the Topa Mountain Winery, famous for its cabernet sauvignon and postcard-ready mountain views.