Getaway Guide To Lake Casitas
Lake Casitas offers a world-away vibe only 80 miles from Los Angeles. Cushioned in the Los Padres National Forest of Ventura County, it's a getaway destination the whole family can enjoy. Neighboring the artistic town of Ojai, this destination has brought much-needed respite for Angelenos looking for a quick escape. Whether its taking advantage of the outdoors through camping, fishing or boating, cooling off in a waterpark, or gravitating to the charm of Ojai, the short trek to get here is worthwhile.
Getting There
Roughly an hour and a half from Los Angeles, head north on the US-101 toward Ojai. Merge onto CA-33 north for exits signaling to both Lake Casitas and downtown Ojai.
What To Do
Related: Best Campgrounds In Los Angeles
The Casitas Water Adventure
Lake Casitas Recreation Area
11311 Santa Ana Road
Ventura, CA 93001
(805) 649-1122
www.casitaswater.org/
Click here for prices and reservations.
There's no better way to cool off than an inner tube ride down a lazy river or a waterfall shower inside a lagoon. With two distinct water playgrounds, a multi-level jungle gym and a scenic ride down a waterway, The Casitas Water Adventure offers heat relief to all ages. While there's a concession stand on-site, there's also the option to bring lunch and dine picnic style just outside the park.
City of Ojai
Ojai Visitors Bureau
206 N. Signal St., Suite P
Ojai, California 93023
(888) 652-4669
www.ojaivisitors.com
Just a five-minute drive from Lake Casitas, discover Ojai, a quaint village made up boutiques, galleries, restaurants and a few top-flight inns and resorts. Known as a haven for artists, musicians and health enthusiasts, the spirited village has so much natural beauty that it set the stage to represent Shangri-La in the 1939 movie, "The Lost Horizon." Originally inhabited by the Chumash Indians who revered Ojai as a place of healing; contemporary spiritual seekers draw inspiration from the surrounding natural beauty. Whether you're up for taking a scenic hike, taking in a spa treatment, playing a round of golf or tasting locally produced wines and olive oils, Ojai will not disappoint.
Related: Ojai Farmer's Market
Lodging
Ojai Valley Inn & Spa
905 Country Club Road
Ojai CA 93023
(805) 646-1111
www.ojairesort.com
A landmark of the Central Coast and a favorite escape for Hollywood stars, Ojai Valley Inn & Spa has been voted one of the top 10 hotel spas in the United States by Travel + Leisure Magazine. Whether you're a spa buff or just in need of serious relaxation time, the 31,000 square-foot transcendent spa offers unique, holistic experiences. Check out the Artist's Cottage and Apothecary for a variety of art classes and a chance to blend your own personal lotions, or indulge in the Kuyam chamber with its signature mud treatment. Whether you plan to stay at the resort or not, the spa is available to accommodate both teens, with signature teen treatments, and adults.
Lake Casitas Camping
Lake Casitas Recreation Area
11311 Santa Ana Road
Ventura, CA 93001
(805) 649-1122
www.casitaswater.org/
Click here for pricing and reservations.
With more than 400 campsites, fishing and boating, and biking and hiking variety, the Lake Casitas Campground offers a complete outdoor refuge. With each location designed with picnic tables and fire rings, the stage is set to host the idyllic summer, lake-side barbecue. Beat the heat and head over to the nearby waterpark or journey to the neighboring city of Ojai to revel in the allure found in Ventura's smallest town.
Dining
Agave Maria's Restaurant & Cantina
106 S. Montgomery St.
Ojai, CA 93023
(805) 646-6353
www.agavemarias.com
In the heart of Downtown Ojai, Agave Maria's is the place to be for trademark mojitos, Kentucky sweet tea and specialty margaritas alongside wholesome Mexican food. Bring the dogs along to enjoy the pet-friendly patio while appreciating the history-rich landscape. Listen to live jazz on the patio every Sunday while sampling menu items made with organic beans and rice and homemade salsa. It's within easy walking distance of Libbey Park, the Arcade, the Pergola and Bart's Books.
Jessica Blotter has over 10 years experience in the advertising industry and is Founder of Publicly Loved, a Los Angeles media agency at the heart of brands, causes and events. As a published travel writer, she has written for CBS Local, LA Examiner, 944 Magazine and Fairways and Greens Magazine. Her passion for charitable endeavors has led her to volunteer and fundraise for Habitat for Humanity, Much Love Animal Rescue, and Toys for Tots. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.
