If you’re dreaming of citrus groves, classic SoCal charm, and mountain views, I think you’ll love Santa Paula, California. I call it one of those places that still feels like a hidden gem. Known as the “Citrus Capital of the World,” Santa Paula blends small-town warmth with local art, deep farming roots, and a cool aviation history. Set in the beautiful Santa Clara River Valley, it’s just about an hour from LA, but once you’re there, it feels like a totally different world.
Best Time to Visit
If you ask me, the best time to visit Santa Paula is in the spring or fall. That’s when the weather is perfect, the orchards are in bloom, and the town feels extra alive with festivals and local events. Summer’s sunny and dry, great if you’re up for hiking or exploring outdoors. And winter? It’s quieter and cooler, which makes it perfect if you’re after a peaceful escape with fewer crowds.
How to Get There
- By Car: Santa Paula is located along CA-126, about 1 hour northwest of Los Angeles and 30 minutes from Ventura or Ojai.
- By Plane: The nearest major airport is Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), about 50 minutes away. LAX is around 1.5 hours by car.
- By Train: Amtrak and Metrolink stations are available in nearby Ventura and Oxnard (30–40 min drive).
Where to Stay
- Glen Tavern Inn – Historic 1911 hotel with vintage charm, rumored ghost stories, and a central location downtown.
- Santa Paula Inn – Cozy and welcoming boutique inn with a courtyard, just steps from Main Street.
- Nearby Ventura Hotels – Stay in nearby beach towns if you prefer ocean views or extended amenities.
Great Museums
1. Discover the history of oil at the California Oil Museum
If you're curious about California's oil history check out the California Oil Museum. It’s located in the old Santa Paula Hardware Company Building, which also happens to be the birthplace of Union Oil Company back in 1890. The whole place feels like stepping into an important piece of California’s story.
You’ll see everything from vintage gas pumps to working models and interactive displays that explain how oil shaped the state.
1001 E Main St, Santa Paula, CA 93060, Phone: 805-933-0076
2. Admire regional art at the Santa Paula Art Museum
If you’re into art, visit the Santa Paula Art Museum. I really enjoy how it celebrates the area’s artistic roots while also supporting new, creative voices. It’s not just about looking at art, it’s about feeling inspired to make your own too.
The museum holds the well-known Santa Paula Civic Art Collection.
Next door is the Cole Creativity Center. If you’re someone who likes to get hands-on, this place is for you.
117 N 10th St, Santa Paula, CA 93060, Phone: 805-525-5554
3. Learn about farming heritage at the Museum of Ventura County - Agriculture Museum
If you're curious about Ventura County's farming roots, I think you’ll really enjoy the Museum of Ventura County – Agriculture Museum. I love how it gives you a real sense of what life was like when agriculture shaped nearly everything in this region.
You’ll find the museum right next to the Southern Pacific Railroad station in downtown Santa Paula. I was fascinated to learn it’s inside the old Mill building — built back in 1888 as an agricultural warehouse. Just being in that historic space adds so much to the experience.
Once inside, you’ll see over 1,000 unique artifacts — I’m talking vintage farm equipment, blacksmith tools, tractors, plows, and even hand-operated nut hullers.
926 Railroad Ave, Santa Paula, CA 93060, Phone: 805-525-3100
Attractions for Couples
4. Santa Paula Theater Center
If you’re a fan of live theater like I am, I think you’ll be really impressed with the Santa Paula Theater Center. It’s tucked right in downtown Santa Paula, inside the historic Ebell Club, a beautiful mansion built in 1917.
The theater has been putting on high-quality shows since 1985n. They run a Main Stage five-show season along with a more experimental Back Stage at SPTC four-show season, which is great if you’re looking for something a little different.
125 S 7th St, Santa Paula, CA 93060, Phone: 805-525-4645
5. Aviation Museum of Santa Paula
If you’re even a little curious about planes or aviation history, I really think you’ll enjoy the Aviation Museum of Santa Paula. It’s tucked away at the historic Santa Paula Airport, a charming, non-towered field that’s been around since 1930. It totally feels like stepping back into the Golden Age of Aviation.
You get to explore what they call the Chain of Hangars, which are privately owned hangars filled with antique aircraft, vintage vehicles, aviation memorabilia, and personal stories.
The museum is only open to the public on the first Sunday of every month, so I always plan ahead if I want to catch it.
800 E Santa Maria St, Santa Paula, CA 93060, Phone: 805-525-1109
6. Santa Paula Canyon Falls / Punch Bowls
Santa Paula Canyon Falls / Punch Bowls is one of those hikes I always recommend when you want a little adventure and a big reward. It’s a six-mile out-and-back trail in the Los Padres National Forest. If you’re up for a moderately challenging trek, I think you’ll love this one.
The trail starts just behind Thomas Aquinas College and winds through the hills before reaching the famous Punch Bowls. There is a beautiful series of natural pools and a waterfall that are totally worth the effort.
If you are a first time visitor
- Murals of Santa Paula – Take a walking tour of colorful murals throughout downtown that depict the city's heritage.
- Limoneira Ranch – Schedule a tour of this expansive citrus ranch and learn about Santa Paula’s agricultural roots.
Where to Eat
- Rabalais’ Bistro – Cozy café serving Southern-style breakfasts, pastries, and hearty dinners.
- Chapala Mexican Restaurant – Longtime local favorite for enchiladas, fajitas, and margaritas.
- Flight 126 Café – Located at the airport, this hidden gem offers breakfast and lunch with views of the runway.
If you are interested in local events
- Citrus Festival (July) – Celebrate local citrus with live music, food, rides, and citrus-themed fun in the summer sun.
- Ghost Walk (October) – Enjoy historical and spooky storytelling on evening walks through town during Halloween season.
- Cruise Nite (First Fridays, April–October) – Classic car show and music along Main Street on select Friday nights.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Santa Paula, California
- Ojai (30 min) – Artsy mountain town known for spiritual retreats, boutiques, and the famous “pink moment” sunset.
- Ventura (30 min) – Stroll the pier, browse vintage shops, or hit the beach in this laid-back coastal city.
- Fillmore (15–20 min) – Ride the heritage Fillmore & Western Railway or explore antique stores downtown.
- Lake Casitas (30 min) – Go boating, fishing, or enjoy a picnic at this peaceful reservoir park near Ojai.
- Somis (25 min) – Visit Somis Nut House, explore farm stands, and enjoy scenic countryside drives.
Plan Your Trip