Lavender Inn exterior
Our Story

150 Years of
Warm Welcome

Since 1874, the Lavender Inn has been a place where travelers find rest, beauty, and the particular magic of Ojai.

A Historic Home,
A Living Legacy

The Lavender Inn began its life in 1874 as the private residence of Ojai's first school principal. Built in the Victorian style that was fashionable in California at the time, the home was constructed with the craftsmanship and attention to detail that defined the era — wide porches, high ceilings, intricate woodwork, and a garden designed for both beauty and abundance.

Over the decades, the property passed through several families before being lovingly converted into a bed and breakfast. The English garden — with its roses, lavender, fountain, and gazebo — was expanded and cultivated into the sanctuary it is today.

Today, the Lavender Inn is one of Ojai's most beloved historic properties. We've welcomed guests from around the world, hosted hundreds of weddings and elopements, and earned a reputation for the kind of personal, genuine hospitality that is increasingly rare in the age of chain hotels.

Inn gate
Inn verandaGarden gazebo
150+
Years of History
8
Unique Rooms
500+
Weddings Hosted
5★
Average Rating

What We Believe

These aren't corporate values — they're the principles that guide how we run the inn every single day.

Genuine Hospitality

We treat every guest like a friend visiting our home. No scripts, no corporate policies — just warm, personal care.

Sustainability

We use eco-friendly products, compost our kitchen waste, grow our own herbs, and support local farmers and artisans.

Authentic Character

Every room is unique. We've preserved the inn's Victorian bones while adding modern comfort and individual personality to each space.

Community Roots

We're active members of the Ojai community — supporting local events, recommending local businesses, and celebrating what makes this valley special.

Recognition

We're grateful to our guests for their kind words and recognition over the years.

2024TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Award
2024Best B&B — Ojai 2024 Reader's Choice
2023TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Award
2022TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Award
2021TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Award
2020TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Award
2019TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Award
Ojai
2019
Best B&B
Ojai
2020
Best B&B
Ojai
2021
Best B&B
Ojai
2022
Best B&B
Ojai
2023
Best B&B
Ojai
2024
Best B&B

The English Garden

The garden is the heart of the Lavender Inn. Planted over decades and tended with care, it features climbing roses, fragrant lavender, a bubbling stone fountain, a rose-covered gazebo, and mature trees that provide shade and privacy.

Guests are welcome to enjoy the garden at any time — for morning coffee, afternoon reading, evening stargazing, or simply sitting quietly and listening to the fountain. It's one of the most peaceful spots in all of Ojai.

Browse Our Rooms
Garden fountain