A day trip idea: Ventura beaches and coast

Getting there from Ojai Valley Inn

Ventura’s beaches are about a 20–25 minute drive from Ojai Valley Inn by car. The route runs down from the valley toward the coast; guests commonly use Highway 33 and local roads.

If you prefer active travel, the Ojai Valley Bike Trail links Ojai and Ventura by a paved path that many cyclists use to reach the coast. The resort also offers concierge help arranging car service, and rental cars or rideshares are practical options when bringing beach gear.

Plan for parking at Ventura-area beaches; check local signage for rules and fees on arrival.

• Car: ~20–25 minutes (common option for families and those carrying beach gear)
• Bike: follow the Ojai Valley Bike Trail for a paved route to Ventura
• Rideshare/taxi: available but confirm pickup/drop-off locations in Ventura

Which Ventura beach to choose

Ventura offers several beach stretches and the Ventura Pier area with nearby shops and restaurants. Emma Wood State Beach sits at the Ventura River mouth and is a common choice for families and beach walkers.

Pick a beach based on your priorities: a long sandy walk, easy parking, or proximity to the pier and town dining. The pier area places you within walking distance of downtown Ventura.

• Emma Wood State Beach – wide sand, river mouth, good for walks
• Ventura Pier – classic pier, nearby downtown amenities
• Other Ventura beaches – mix of local access points and neighborhood beaches

Suggested morning — leave from the resort

Start early at Ojai Valley Inn to pack towels, sunscreen, and any beach equipment. Libbey's Market on property can provide grab-and-go sandwiches, snacks and ice cream before you depart.

If you’d rather bike, borrow one of the resort’s complimentary resort bicycles or ask concierge about guided bike tours into downtown Ojai that connect with the Ojai Valley Trail.

• Grab coffee and snacks at Libbey's Market (open daily 7am–9pm)
• Pack swimsuit, sun protection, water, and a small cooler for drinks
• Borrow a complimentary resort bicycle if cycling to the trail

Midday at the beach — activities and tips

At the coast you can swim, walk the pier, or eat at nearby Ventura cafes. Conditions and amenities vary by beach, so check local signage for swimming safety and parking.

If you plan water activities beyond swimming (kayak, surf lessons, rentals), arrange with local Ventura vendors in advance; the guide here does not list specific vendor names or prices.

• Swim and beach play — follow posted safety signs
• Walk the Ventura Pier and explore nearby shops
• Bring layers — ocean breezes can cool afternoons

Return to Ojai Valley Inn — late afternoon and sunset

Head back to the resort in time to shower and change. Ojai Valley Inn is a place to catch the local 'Pink Moment' sunset across the Topatopa Mountains; many guests watch this from resort terraces and dining areas.

You can choose poolside downtime at Pixie Pool if you want family-friendly pool time, or the adults-only Indigo Pool & Bar for a quieter setting (Indigo is for guests 18 and older). Poolside cabanas are available at both Pixie and Indigo for an additional charge.

• Pixie Pool — family-friendly, poolside food service and activities
• Indigo Pool & Bar — adults-only, cocktails and hot tub (18+)
• Cabanas available at both pools for an extra daily charge

Evening dining options back at the Inn

Dinner options at Ojai Valley Inn include casual and fine-dining choices. The Oak serves breakfast, lunch and dinner with indoor and outdoor seating; Jimmy's Pub is a casual option open daily for relaxed meals.

If you prefer a signature dinner experience, Olivella offers a dinner-only, seasonally driven Italian-California menu (open Wed–Sun evenings) and is intended for guests 10 years and older.

• The Oak — breakfast, lunch and dinner (hours vary by meal)
• Jimmy's Pub — casual gastropub fare, open daily 11am–10pm
• Olivella — dinner only Wed–Sun, intended for guests 10+; reservations advised

Where to stay at the Inn for a comfortable day-trip base

Choose a room that fits your needs for the return from the beach. Rooms with outdoor access and terraces can make post-beach routines easier — examples of room types at Ojai Valley Inn include Fireplace Mini Suite, Vista Luxury Room and Paseo Villa.

If you need space to spread out after a day at the coast, suites such as the Fireplace Suite or Paseo Suite provide separate sitting areas. All guest rooms include complimentary Wi‑Fi and the nightly resort charge covers in-room espresso and tea and resort bicycles.

• Fireplace Mini Suite — compact suite option with seating area
• Vista Luxury Room — option with balcony seating in some configurations
• Paseo Villa — villa-style room with private outdoor space