The charming Village of downtown Ojai rests in the cradle of the unique east-west valley and is surrounded by the foothills of Los Padres National Forest. It features a variety of galleries, boutiques, wineries, health food stores, and tempting restaurants including those offered at the nearby luxury 5-star Ojai Valley Inn hacienda-style resort. Ojai also proudly offers two weekly Farmers Markets with local organic produce, fresh flowers, and handcrafted goods. Libbey Bowl is an amphitheater in the center of town hosting a variety of festivals and concerts. Travelers from all over visit the valley in April for the Ojai Valley Tennis Tournament; the Renaissance Festival and the Ojai Storytelling Festival in May; the world-renowned Ojai Music Festival as well as the beautiful Lavender Festival in June, the Independence Day parade in July, the Playwrights Conference in August and Ojai Day in October. Keeping with local tradition and discouraging chain stores has allowed the Ojai Valley to maintain its unique character, one that is focused on health, spirituality, and the environment. Homes near the Village include vintage Spanish casitas, cottages, and bungalows all with the benefit of being just minutes to town. Larger mid-century tract developments fringe the foothills just outside of town.
