What to Do in Ojai This Summer

Chase the Light and the Lavender

If you’re visiting Ojai in the summer, you need to respect the sun. The valley gets hot—often well into the 90s—which means the early morning is prime time for exploring. I always tell friends to start their day at Meiners Oaks Nursery on West El Roblar Drive. Even if you don’t have a garden at home, wandering through this local nursery is a sensory delight. They carry an incredible selection of flora suited specifically for the Central Coast climate, and the staff genuinely know their stuff. It’s a peaceful, shaded spot to ease into your morning before the heat sets in.

Meiners Oaks Nursery — Ask about their drought-tolerant natives—they’ll help you pick the perfect Ojai-hardy plant.

Tip: Plan your outdoor activities for before 10 AM or after 5 PM. The midday heat in Ojai Valley is no joke, and most locals retreat to shaded patios or indoor spaces.

Sip Your Way Through the Valley

Ojai may not be as famous as Santa Barbara’s wine country, but the valley has a quietly thriving wine scene that is perfect for summer afternoons. Casa Barranca, located in the heart of the valley, has long been one of my favorite stops. They produce organic and biodynamic wines, and there’s something deeply satisfying about sipping a glass of estate-grown wine knowing it was crafted in harmony with the land. Their tasting room is intimate and unhurried—the kind of place where you can easily lose an hour.

Casa Barranca — Their organic whites are particularly refreshing on a warm afternoon—ask what’s currently being poured.

For a completely different vibe, head to Topa Mountain Winery on West Ojai Avenue. The setting is relaxed and laid-back, with plenty of space to spread out. I love bringing a group of friends here, grabbing a few small-lot Central Coast varietals, and just enjoying the mountain air. If you’re looking for estate-grown wines closer to the east end of town, Majestic Oak Vineyard on East Ojai Avenue offers a wonderful, easygoing tasting room experience surrounded by the natural beauty of the valley.

Topa Mountain Winery — A great spot for groups—the grounds offer plenty of room to relax between tastings.

Majestic Oak Vineyard — Try their estate-grown reds; the valley's warm days and cool nights make for excellent depth of flavor.

Slow Down and Shop Local

When the afternoon heat peaks, duck into Ojai’s downtown arcade and the surrounding streets. One of my absolute favorite stops is Serendipity Toys. It’s the kind of old-fashioned toy shop that feels increasingly rare—filled with high-quality, creative playthings that make you want to be a kid again. I always find something unexpected here, whether it’s a unique gift or just a little wooden puzzle I convince myself I need.

Serendipity Toys — Perfect for finding a unique gift—their selection of classic and educational toys is unmatched in the valley.

Just down the way, you’ll find Human Arts, a gallery that beautifully represents the creative spirit Ojai is known for. The space showcases a thoughtful collection of contemporary fine art and artisan crafts, including paintings and ceramics from both established and emerging local artists. It’s the perfect place to find a piece that truly captures the feeling of your trip. If you love the thrill of the hunt, make sure to also pop into Treasures of Ojai. This antique shop has a wonderfully curated selection of vintage finds and is a joy to browse, especially on a hot afternoon when you want to be indoors.

Human Arts — Take your time—the ceramics here are stunning and make for a meaningful, locally made souvenir.

Treasures of Ojai — You never know what you'll find—give yourself at least 30 minutes to truly dig through the collection.

Evenings Under the Stars

Summer evenings in Ojai are pure magic. The temperature drops, the breeze picks up, and the famous 'pink moment' paints the Topa Topa Bluffs in a surreal, ethereal glow. After watching the sunset, grab everything you need for a twilight picnic at Brookside Market and Deli. This neighborhood market has a fantastic deli and a great selection of local goods. It’s the exact kind of friendly, community-focused spot where you want to load up on provisions before heading to a park or back to your rental for a quiet evening under the stars.

Brookside Market and Deli — Have them build you a sandwich to-go—their deli counter is excellent and perfect for an evening picnic.

Tip: If you're visiting in August, check the calendar at Libbey Bowl. They frequently host incredible outdoor concerts, like the upcoming Ani DiFranco show with Valerie June on August 14, 2026. There's nothing quite like live music on a warm Ojai night.