California isn’t just about the big cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco. Conejo Valley is a beautiful region with hidden gems tucked away from the busy urban life. Surrounded by the rolling green hills of the Santa Monica Mountains, it offers picturesque views and the perfect escape from the chaos. Located in the northwestern part of Greater Los Angeles County, it’s just 20 minutes from Malibu and 40 minutes from Los Angeles, making it an ideal spot for a quick getaway.
My fiancé and I recently spent 2 nights in Thousand Oaks and Agoura Hills, the main cities of this charming valley. We drove down from San Francisco for about 6 hours and were captivated by the warm, sunny weather and peaceful vibe. Whether hiking, horseback riding, or dining at good restaurants, Conejo Valley has something for everyone. It’s the perfect place for a weekend getaway, especially if you want to escape the busy city life. I’ve compiled this Ultimate Travel Guide for anyone planning to visit, sharing my experiences and tips. From where to stay to what to eat and what to see, this blog post will help you craft the ideal weekend itinerary. Whether you’re visiting for adventure, relaxation, or fun, Conejo Valley is a destination worth exploring.
*This blog post was created in partnership with Conejo Valley @visitconejovalley.*
Where to stay in Conejo Valley?
When visiting Conejo Valley, you’ll find plenty of hotel options in Agoura Hills and Thousand Oaks. We stayed at the Sheraton Agoura Hills, conveniently located just 5 minutes from a shopping mall and great restaurants. Our room had a great balcony overlooking the beautiful hills, making our stay memorable. One of our favorite dining spots was Sunrose California Eatery, where we enjoyed delicious breakfast and lunch. If you’re planning a trip, I highly recommend exploring other hotel options like Courtyard by Marriott Thousand Oaks Agoura Hills and Hampton Inn & Suites Agoura Hills. These places are perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. Don’t forget to check out the dining options in this post to make your stay even more enjoyable.
What to do in Conejo Valley? The best places to explore
Conejo Valley offers visitors exciting attractions and activities. For a fun-filled trip, explore wineries, breweries, unique gardens, parks, and scenic hiking trails.
Experience Horseback Riding at Paramount Ranch with Malibu Riders
Conejo Valley is a gem in Greater Los Angeles County, offering various activities and attractions for all ages. This area is perfect for a weekend getaway, from the rolling hills of the Santa Monica Mountains to family-friendly gardens and parks. Whether you’re into hiking, horseback riding, or exploring wineries and breweries, the valley has something for everyone. It’s a convenient escape with beautiful landscapes and scenic views near Malibu and Los Angeles. During your visit to Thousand Oaks or Agoura Hills, indulge in shopping, savor sumptuous food at local restaurants, and enjoy unique experiences that offer adventure and relaxation. Conejo Valley provides the perfect balance of fun and tranquility, making it a must-visit destination.
Explore the Gardens of the World in the heart of Thousand Oaks.
The Gardens of the World, located in the center of Thousand Oaks, is a botanical garden like no other. It’s a unique spot in Conejo Valley, perfect for a morning or afternoon walk. Sit on the benches, listen to the flowing water, and enjoy the stunning views. Even in December, the roses bloomed, and the lemon trees were filled with fresh fruit, making it a beautiful experience. This garden, established in 2001 by the owners of a local travel agency, features smaller gardens such as the Japanese Garden, French Garden, Italian Garden, Rose Garden, and Mission Courtyard. My favorite was the Mission Courtyard, with colorful murals, hand-painted designs, and lovely olive and citrus trees. Entry is free and open Tuesday through Saturday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Wine tasting at Cornell Wine Co.
If you love wineries and breweries, Conejo Valley offers some of the best experiences for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers. Nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains, Cornell Wine Co. is a great place to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery surrounded by the local mountains. Their tasting room features an incredible selection of wines, allowing visitors to enjoy a wine flight of four wines, where you can even pick your own from their curated list. It’s not just about the wine—this spot is also filled with art by top artists and unique treasures like hats, pottery, and jewelry, offering a creative touch to your visit. The outside patio is perfect for soaking up the area’s charm while admiring the views. The relaxed vibe and the opportunity to discover crafty treasures make it an unforgettable experience for anyone visiting the area. Whether you’re enjoying the wine or browsing the artistic pieces, this spot is a must-see in Conejo Valley for anyone who loves to explore and enjoy a little indulgence.
Hike to Sunset Hills for sunset.
Conejo Valley is known for its picturesque hiking trails that wind through beautiful rolling hills. One of the best spots is Sunset Hills in Thousand Oaks, which offers an easy, short hike perfect for everyone. The top view is magical, especially during sunset, making it a must-visit for nature lovers. The trail starts at a free, small parking area at the initial part of the hike. It’s suitable for families, kids, and even people with dogs, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed outing. The combination of stunning scenery and accessibility ensures this hike is enjoyable for everyone.
Where to eat in Conejo Valley?
If you’re in Conejo Valley, exploring the fantastic restaurants and cafes is a must. I found many tasty places in Thousand Oaks and Agoura Hills, but my favorite was Historia Bakery. This cute cafe with lovely decorations and a charming feel is a hidden gem. Their coffee and pastries are a delight, and I highly recommend it, especially if you’re a coffee lover! Sunrose California Eatery, a beautifully decorated, recently opened restaurant in Agoura Hills, is perfect for breakfast or lunch. This relaxing place offers a great atmosphere, fresh, delicious food, and incredibly friendly and accommodating service. It quickly became my favorite spot for its avocado toast with smoked salmon and fluffy pancakes, making it an ideal place to hang out and enjoy a meal.
Tifa Chocolate & Gelato, a popular gelato shop and cafe in Thousand Oaks and Agoura Hills, is a must-visit for dessert lovers. Their products are incredibly yummy, and the espresso pairs perfectly with their delicious, creamy gelato. They offer the best ice cream with a wide variety of traditional and unique flavors, making it hard to choose just one. My favorite was the rich and nutty Pistachio flavor, a true delight for the taste buds. Fogo do Chao Brazilian Steakhouse in Thousand Oaks quickly became our favorite spot for dinner in Conejo Valley. The meats and food were excellent; we especially loved “the Market” salad bar. The ambiance was terrific, with a small lake nearby beautifully decorated with lights that created a unique atmosphere. The service was excellent, and we can’t wait to return to this incredible restaurant!
The Cliffdiver, a Mexican restaurant in Thousand Oaks, is the perfect laid-back spot with a tropical vibe. The interesting decor, great energy, and fun vibe make it a must-visit for anyone in the area. Their delicious and good-looking food is as impressive as the atmosphere. My favorite dish was the tuna tostadas, a must-try for seafood lovers!
If you enjoyed this blog post, don’t forget to pin it on Pinterest for later. You can also follow my adventures on Instagram at @travelbydignity to stay updated with more exciting travel stories and tips!
Final Thoughts
Conejo Valley is the perfect escape from the busy life of Los Angeles and San Francisco. Surrounded by rolling green hills and the Santa Monica Mountains, it offers picturesque views and hidden gems. Whether you’re into hiking, horseback riding, or simply enjoying delicious food at local spots like Fogo do Chao or Sunrose California Eatery, there’s something for everyone. The valley is just 20 minutes from Malibu and 40 minutes from Los Angeles, making it an ideal weekend getaway. From exploring the Gardens of the World to tasting wine at Cornell Wine Co., Conejo Valley is a destination full of adventure, relaxation, and fun, perfect for creating unforgettable memories.
FAQs
1. What is considered the Conejo Valley?
The Conejo Valley is a region in Southern California, primarily located in Ventura County. It encompasses cities like Thousand Oaks, Agoura Hills, and Westlake Village. The region is known for its scenic beauty and suburban lifestyle.
2. Are Thousand Oaks in the Conejo Valley?
Yes, Thousand Oaks is located in the Conejo Valley. It is one of the main cities in the region.
3. What is the population of the Conejo Valley?
The population of the Conejo Valley is approximately 150,000 to 200,000, including the cities of Thousand Oaks, Agoura Hills, and Westlake Village.
4. Is Agoura Hills in the Conejo Valley?
Yes, Agoura Hills is located in the Conejo Valley. It is one of the key cities in the region.