Ojai Valley Inn & Spa: How the resort rates

Rating: Four stars*

New and noteworthy: A two-year, $90-million renovation added rooms, restaurants, pools, gardens and rehabbed the entire property.

The stay: Spacious rooms at the $400-a-night base rate offer indoor luxury but also noise and abbreviated views. Still, loads of activities keep adults and kids occupied.

The scene: Mellow, worldly guests revel in the myriad pleasures of a classic California resort revived to exceed its legendary glory.

Deal maker: Camp Ojai, where kids play with kids. Staffers are tuned in to children, help plan itineraries and deliver great service.

Deal breaker: Food falls short of expectations set by the high prices. Noise also can be a problem.

Stats: Ojai Valley Inn & Spa, 905 Country Club Road, Ojai; (805) 646-1111, www.ojairesort.com

Rooms: Rates begin at $400.

*Rating is based on the room, service, ambience and overall experience with price taken into account in relation to quality. Five stars: Outstanding on every level. Four stars: Excellent. Three stars: Very good. Two stars: Good. One star: Satisfactory. No star: Poor.