The Iguana Inns of Ojai

Are Ojai’s most iconic inns, they have welcomed travelers for more than 20 years. Together owners Julia Whitman and husband, award-wining architect and artist, Marc Whitman, designed and built the distinct Blue and Emerald Iguana Inns. Enjoyed throughout both properties are locally curated paintings, sculptures and metal works. Adding to its rich esthetic, many of the original art pieces were painted by Marc Whitman and other renown local Ojai artists. Both Inns are prized for their unique accommodations, from guest rooms and suites to private cottages with balconies, fireplaces, soaking tubs, and full kitchens. Julia Whitman personally traveled to Europe, Mexico and Asia collecting one-of-a-kind furniture, rugs and accents. The Blue Iguana Inn opened in 1997, then in 2000 the Emerald Iguana Inn opened as an adult only, and those over 14 years of age, retreat. From one generation to the next, the Whitman Family embrace Ojai’s rich creative tradition.  

The Blue Iguana Inn

As a gateway to Ojai’s wineries, restaurants, shops, and galleries, the Blue Iguana Inn welcomes couples, families, corporate travel, and extended stays, and is located two miles from downtown Ojai, and 15 minutes from the Pacific Ocean. Reminiscent of early California and the southwest, architectural details include tin and Spanish-tile roofs, rustic Mexican furniture, and vibrant textiles. Welcoming guests is the Inn’s namesake, a whimsical tile-mosaic iguana fountain, nicknamed Izzy. Enjoy a leisure picnic with friends, or some family time with complimentary garden games, including bocce ball and croquet, or explore Ojai with onsite bike rental. Conveniently located directly across from the Blue Iguana Inn, is the famed Ojai Valley Trail, connecting downtown Ojai with downtown Ventura. Whether it is a day spent lounging poolside, or retreating from the everyday, the Blue Iguana Inn’s courtyards, gardens, and private patios are a traveler’s oasis. Guests can request to purchase a Good Morning Continental Breakfast Basket or Welcome Wine Package.  In room-massage therapy is available all year around

The Emerald Iguana Inn

Located in downtown Ojai, and a five-minute drive from the Blue Iguana Inn, the Emerald Iguana Inn is Ojai’s most hidden gem. Canopied by majestic oak, sycamore and pepper trees, the Emerald Iguana Inn’s Craftsman Art Nouveau allure is responsible in part to Marc Whitman’s Spanish inspiration, specifically surrealist architect Gaudí. Barcelona influences are reflected in the expressive stone and tile work, accented by dramatic archways and organic lines thus inviting tranquility and an overwhelming sense of peace. Calming water features can be found throughout the property, including an even more dramatic tile-mosaic iguana fountain. The Inn’s serene courtyard pool and spa is surrounded by its cottages and original architectural elements, some dating to 1906, including exposed river rock and stone walls.  The Inn's serene courtyard pool and spa is surrounded by its' rooms and cottages and original architectural elements, some dating back to 1906, including stone river rock walls. And as with the Blue Iguana, guests can request a Good Morning Continental Breakfast Basket or Welcome Wine Package.  In-room massage therapy is available all year around.

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