About the Town of Ojai

Ojai, chose by Frank Capra for the location of his film "Lost Horizon," is truly a Shangri-La. The valley is set against the dramatic background of the Topa Topa mountains, surrounded by the Los Padres National Forest. Some have called this area the last intact Mediterranean ecosystem in Southern California and compare it often to Tuscany. The hills above our town are covered with sage, chaparral, oaks and eucalyptus.

Ojai's identity has always been grounded in the arts and in nature. Over the years, many writers, poets, sculptors, ceramic artists, painters, photographers and filmmakers have made Ojai their home. Their talent and commitment have resulted in many fine arts programs, including an impressive range of festivals.