Ojai
Over the winter holidays, we ended up back in LA for a few days and while we were there, I decided to surprise G with an overnight trip to Ojai for his birthday. I booked us a room at the Ojai Rancho Inn, which we absolutely loved and could not recommend more. The rooms were very cozy and my favorite part was the bikes they let you borrow to ride around town. There's a great bike trail that follows the main road and you can bike to pretty much everything! I was hoping to see one of Ojai's famous sunsets (where the sky turns incredible shades of pink), but sadly it was too cloudy the night we were there. It's a sleepy little town, but such a relaxing place to visit. It's a short drive from LA but feels so far away. We definitely have plans on going back!
A few recommendations (found via Jessie and Janelle):
STAY
Ojai Rancho Inn - cute boutique motel right on main road
Ojai Valley Inn & Spa - upscale hotel with beautiful grounds & spa
EAT
Knead Baking Co. - amazing bakery with sandwiches, bagels, salads, etc. (we ate here twice!)
Osteria Monte Grappa - delicious Italian food
DO
Bart's Books - a very special & unique bookstore
Modern Folk Living - beautifully curated home decor shop
Shop Summer Camp - a cool shop with vintage camping decor & interesting finds
Meditation Mount - best place in town to watch the famous sunsets