Many people laugh at Ojai because they think it’s just some whole in the earth with nothing going on! Of course Ojai is not thriving like Los Angeles, but it has its own artistic culture and its slower paced. So, if you need a break from the thriving culture you are used too, then I would suggest a drive to a slower more scenic place called Ojai (pronounced Oh-High). Ojai, from Ventura County take the State route 150 or Stat Route 33 inland. Ojai is an inviting place with inviting weather. The culture is full of artisans and there is a lot of art and craftsmanship to see.
Ojai Valley Museum
The Ojai Valley Museum is located at 130 West Oaji Avenue. The museum is right in the downtown area in the historic chapel. The Ojai Valley Museums phone number is (805) 640-1390 and the website is www.ojaivalleymueum.org. The museum is open Wednesday through Friday from 1:00pm to 4:00pm. Admission is free, but if you feel like giving a donation they will take you donation. No pressure to donate.
The Ojai Valley Museum is great about changing out the art exhibits regularly so there is always something fresh to see. There is plenty of natural history and local lore. If you appreciate nature there is a Chumash Garden and multiple gift shops that carry unique artisan goods.
Lake Casitas Recreation Area
The Lake Casitas Recreation Area is located off State Route 150 which is approximately three miles west of junction if state Route 333. The Recreation area is about fifteen minutes away from Ojai’s downtown area. The phone number is (805) 649-2233 and the website is www.lakecasitas.info. The Recreation area is open to the public year round during the daytime hours. There overnight campsites available through reservations, the fees do vary so call for up to date information.
The Lake Casitas Recreation Area is in a valley of 35 miles. The recreation area is shaped like a human made reservoir and supplies the water for Ventura county. There is absolutely no swimming, but guest are allowed to go fishing. There is a variety of fish to catch, such as bass, trout, crappie and catfish. There is a snack bar, small grocery store, boat rentals and playground on the he premises. In 2006 Lake Casitas Recreation Area added two new water Adventure area and picnic grounds.
The kids will love love love the Casitas Water Adventure that is open all summer long. For the little kids there is a huge multi leveled jungle gym that has a waterfall and slides. These waterfalls and slides run right into the cool lagoon of 18′ feet deep. Parents and guardian can rest nearby in the grassy area and watch their children play.
Now the Lazy River is something that the whole family can enjoy together. The Lazy River is a huge circular lagoon with scenic waterfalls, bridges and gateways. The inner tubes come in different shapes and sizes that you will float around in by yourself or you can double up with one of your kids. While floating around the Lazy River you will get sprayed from random areas of the lagoon! If you get tired of floating around there are shaded areas to kick back and relax. For your convenience there is even a snack bar nearby.
The passes to the park ranges from $12 to $65 so checkout the website to see which pass works the best for you!
Where to Eat
If you prefer not to eat Lake Casitas Recreation area, I recommend Boccali’s which is located at 11675 Santa Paula-Ojai Road on the corner of Reeves Road. The number at Boccali’s is (805) 646-6116. The environment there is very casual and fun. At Boccali’s there is indoor and outdoor dining on the side patio. They are famous for their great pizzas and pastas and they are very family oriented. They serve dinner seven nights a week and lunch Wednesday through Sunday
