We just got back from a friends weekend in Ojai. It was our first stay at the Emerald Iguana, and we thoroughly enjoyed it. We stayed in the Lily Pad suite, with a full kitchen, living room, two full baths, and two bedrooms (one, a loft). Breakfast was very nice, with orange juice, yogurt, cereal, bagels, hard-boiled eggs and instant oatmeal. We didn't have time for lazing around in the room and happy hour on one of our two patios on this visit (plus it was a tad chilly in the morning and evening), but we want to allow for that on our next!

When I moved to California from Vermont 7 years ago, a friend recommended a visit to Ojai and specifically the Emerald Iguana Inn. I have spent 4 out of 7 birthdays at the Inn and will hopefully have the opportunity to spend many more at this special place. Whenever a friend from Vermont comes to visit, I try to make this a part of the itinerary.

We stayed in the Frog room. Wow what a treat. It's like a home - a kitchen, dining room, a fireplace in the bedroom and a beautiful big front porch. The furniture was absolutely beautiful. The kitchen had real dishes, silverware, appliances, etc. I could move here. It was definitely worth the money. The staff were so warm and friendly. Can't wait to go back!

On visits to the nearby wonderful spa, The Oaks, I have often hiked by this inn hidden on a dead end street in Ojai. It looks like someone airlifted an exotic resort out of Mexico and dropped it in a residential area of this small town! The property consists of a variety of cottages, some with one unit and others with 1-3, all tucked into a jungle atmosphere with huge plants and a small but inviting pool area. We chose a cottage that had two bedrooms and bathrooms, a living room with a fireplace, dining area and small but efficient kitchen. We wanted to move in! It was beautifully decorated and extremely quiet even though there was some small construction being done nearby. The staff was very friendly and the continental breakfast good. It is within walking distance of this fun, one Main Street town that has plenty of interesting stores, restaurants and galleries. It is perfect for a weekend getaway or a stop on your way between Northern and Southern California. It is about a half hour east of Ventura or Santa Barbara. Their website has lovely pictures of the rooms, all very unique. We will definitely return to this special, romantic spot.