Shangri-La in Ojai: Part 2

Day two of our getaway found us venturing off a grand 6 miles away, to the Casitas Water Adventure Park.  It was a fantastic activity for us to do as a family, with something for all of us to enjoy.  The water park is actually located on the premises of a campground, which is located on Lake Casita.  The water park mainly consists of a multi-level jungle gym with waterfalls, bridges and slides in a lagoon with water up to 18" deep.  The slides were only allowed for children, to give perspective: this was not an enormous, typical "water park," which is what made it even better for our young family.  Additionally, they have a Lazy River, which all 4 of us were able to enjoy floating on together. It was a wonderful day, spent out in the warm sunshine, splashing and playing together.

The main water play area.

I look goofy, but Geoffrey was enjoying the water on his little toes, which makes it a cute picture.

We put life jackets on the kids, to see if they might enjoy the floating sensation a bit more...

...it didn't take much convincing that they were not enjoying themselves.

It took a lot longer than we would have expected for Maddie to venture into the play area, but once Geoffrey joined her with Daddy, she was much more courageous!

Geoffrey did not hesitate to take on the water sprayers.

In fact, he loved them!

All that water play will make a girl tired.  (And, no, we did not ask her to pose.)

Daddy and Geoffrey going around on the Lazy River once again.  It was a lot of fun!

Geoffrey has no clue what is even happening. :)

Taking a little respite from the sun and the hot helmet, makes for one very happy Geoffrey!

That evening, after we had returned from the water park and cleaned up a bit, we ventured out in search of dinner in Ojai.  We came upon a wonderful little Italian restaurant, called Il Giardino.  We even scored a table out on the patio, where a live jazz quartet performed throughout our entire meal.  The company, mixed with the delicious food, spectacular mountain views and tasteful music, made for an enjoyable dining experience.

That is a relaxed and happy man.

Can't see the mountains, but they are up behind the jazz quartet. 

More Eskimo dinner kisses!

This is the beginning of the main strip of downtown Ojai, as seen from the direction of our hotel.  Perfect walking distance!

"Pink hue" on the Topa Topa Mountains.

One more shot of our private patio, with the beautiful mountain range peeking out in the distance.

Our hotel, and lush vegetation. Makes you want to book a visit here, doesn't it?

Ta-da!  Our hotel!  This was the morning we left Ojai.  We browsed some of the shops and took in the Farmer's Market that takes place every weekend.  It was hovering in the low 90s by mid-morning, making for a bit of a quick walk, as it was just too hot to be outside for too long.

My love and me, as we left Shangri-La.

Beautiful Ojai!  We can't wait to come and escape here again!

Until next time...