swimming pools?

Question

Are there any public swimming pools or hotels that allow non-guests to swim? My husband and I would prefer to rent an airbnb but love to swim. We will be there the last week in March. Thank you!

Answer

Good question. Short answer: there really aren’t many public swimming pools in Ojai, and most of the hotel pools are reserved for guests — so if you’re staying in an Airbnb, your options are quite limited. Below is what I found, plus some possible workarounds.

What Public / Community Pools (or Similar) Are Available in Ojai

Ojai Valley Athletic Club (OVAC): This is a private gym / club with two heated pools (a lap pool and a recreational pool), plus a wading pool for children. According to their website, this is strictly for members.
Matilija Pool: Historically, there has been a “Matilija Pool” in canyon areas around Ojai. However, this is part of a canyon recreation area, and it’s unclear whether it’s reliably open or maintained for public day use as a public swimming facility.
Nordhoff Aquatics Center: A bigger, more standard public pool is under construction. As of November 2024, Ojai Unified School District has broken ground on a new $15.2 million aquatics center at Nordhoff Junior High / High School. Estimated completion is in 2025, so it would *not* be available on your trip (if you're going this March).

Hotel Pools in Ojai

There are some luxurious hotel pools — but access for non-guests is quite limited or expensive.

Ojai Valley Inn & Spa has *four* pools: “Indigo Pool” (adult-only), “Pixie Pool” (family-friendly), plus Spa-only “Tranquility” and “Energy” pools. The Indigo Pool is quite large and scenic. Cabana rentals are available for day use, but these are pricey.
According to the Ventura County Recreational-Health Facility list, Ojai Valley Inn & Spa is a permitted swimming facility. However, these permits don’t necessarily mean “public drop-ins” — many hotel pools with permits are for hotel guests or special arrangements.
Rancho Inn Ojai also appears on the county’s facility list as having a pool. But again, day-pass or non-guest access is not guaranteed — you would need to call and check directly with the hotel.

Workarounds / Alternative Ideas

Contact Hotels Directly: If you’re really hoping to swim, you might call Ojai Valley Inn and ask whether they offer day-passes or pool access to non-guests. Sometimes smaller inns or hotels have more flexible rules (or “resort access” options) that are not clearly advertised.
Use a Gym or Athletic Club: While OVAC is a members-only gym, you could ask whether they offer a *trial membership* or a short-term pass. Some clubs have “guest passes” or limited visitor access — though that’s not guaranteed.
Consider Nearby Towns / Pools: If a public pool is very important to you, you might check public pools in Ventura (about 30 minutes away) or other nearby communities for day-use pools or recreation centers.
Natural Swimming Spots (with Caution): There are creek / river swimming holes in the Ojai / canyon areas (e.g., parts of Matilija Canyon), but:
- These are *not controlled or lifeguarded* pools. > “Good hikes with active swimming holes” in the Rose Valley / Sespe River area have been mentioned by hikers.
- Water levels, safety, and access vary by season. In March, depending on rainfall, some “pools” might have lower water, or could be more hazardous.
- You should check local forums, trail-reports, or ask locals / ranger stations before planning a swim in a canyon creek.

Bottom Line

If you’re staying in an Airbnb in Ojai and *really want to swim*, your most reliable bet is to call the Ojai Valley Inn & Spa and ask about whether they allow non-guest day-use of their pools (especially the Pixie Pool for families). Otherwise, public swim options are very limited, and many “public pools” are either private clubs or under construction. Natural creeks are a possible but risky alternative — plan carefully, bring safety gear, and check conditions in advance.