Ojai Trip

 What we did in Ojai 1/26-1/28/25

History

Ojai, California, has a rich history shaped by its Indigenous heritage, Spanish influence, and transformation into a modern-day retreat known for its arts, spirituality, and natural beauty.

Early History: The Chumash People

The Ojai Valley was originally inhabited by the Chumash people, who lived in the region for thousands of years. They thrived off the land, using the Ventura River and surrounding oak trees for food and resources. The name "Ojai" is believed to come from the Chumash word Awha'y, meaning "moon."

Spanish & Mexican Era (1700s–1800s)

During the Spanish colonization of California, the Chumash were forced into missions and their population declined due to disease and displacement. In the early 19th century, under Mexican rule, the land was granted to settlers as ranchos.

American Settlement & Development (1800s–1900s)

In 1837, the land was part of Rancho Ojai, granted to Fernando Tico. After California became part of the U.S. in 1848, settlers arrived, including R.G. Surdam, who purchased the land in 1864 and attempted to establish a town.

By the late 1800s, Edward Drummond Libbey, a glass tycoon from Ohio, fell in love with the valley and played a key role in its redevelopment. In 1917, he transformed Ojai’s downtown with a Spanish Revival architectural style, including the iconic Ojai Arcade, Post Office Tower, and Libbey Park.

A Cultural & Spiritual Retreat (1900s–Present)

Ojai became a hub for artists, spiritual seekers, and wellness enthusiasts. Indian philosopher Jiddu Krishnamurti made Ojai his home in the 1920s, attracting global intellectuals. The city also gained a reputation for its hot springs, organic farming, and boutique resorts.

Today, Ojai remains a small, picturesque town known for its arts scene, wineries, hiking trails, and wellness retreats, drawing visitors looking for relaxation and inspiration.

The name "Ojai" originates from the Chumash word 'awha'y (A-HA-EE), which translates to "moon." It refers to a Chumash village named 'Awha'y that once thrived ...

1880’s dig oil Stanford brothers… oranges… 

Railroads Ventura to Ojai… 

Libby love the area. 

1916- he brought the properties and change to Spanish style town center 

Sunday (1/26/25)

Farmers Market (Mandarins)

Bart’s Books store (hide from the rain)

Magic Hour (hot tea)

Check into Capri Hotel

Libby Park (fountain)

The Arcade (1917) 

Ojai Pub (meet up with Mike and Jenny, watch football)

Pinyon (farm to table dinner)

Monday (1/27/25)

Snow in the mountains!!!

The duchess (best breakfast!)

Fig curated living (window shopping)

Ojai olive oil and vinegar tasting (Don’t miss this!) beautiful setting

Drive to Ventura

Sumo Japanese restaurant (lunch)

Walk to Ventura Pier (kinda run down pier, meet a cute boy)

Saw sunset along the water front

Ran into San Buena Ventura Mission

Agave Maria (Mexican) dinner

Tuesday (1/28/25)

Ojai coffee roasters for breakfast

Meet owner and the baby

Check out Capri Hotel

Drive up to Ojai Valley Sign for the view of Ojai Valley!!!

Stop by Libby Park to checkout the tennis court and Libby bowl (concerts)

Ojai Valley Inn

Bye Ojai!!!