12 Most Quaint Small Towns in California
The California cities that get all the attention are San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego. Those are the big tourist draws. Nevertheless, there are more than a few quaint small towns worth considering for your next-day trip or weekend escape. Flee the crowds, stucco houses, and planned neighbors and discover the character and charm of 1800s Western architecture, sleepy seaside villages, and refreshing mountain retreats.
There’s so much to discover in a place as diverse as the Golden State. So, pour yourself a hot cup-o-joe or a cocktail (it’s gotta be 5 o’clock somewhere), get cozy, and come with us on a tour of the most quaint towns in Cali!
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Located roughly 60 miles from Salinas is the small beach city of Carmel. Over the years, this city has been home to the likes of authors Jack London and John Steinbeck, actor and singers Doris Day and Bing Crosby, and former NFL Head Coach and TV commentator John Madden, among others. Not to forget one of the city’s most famous residents and former mayor, Hollywood icon Clint Eastwood.
The rugged beauty of the rocky coastline and cliffs make it easy to see why this city has beckoned wealthy and famous artists to call Carmel home. In addition to numerous scenic exercise trails, the city has various walking tours to suit one's interests, including walks celebrating and exploring art, wine tasting, and a historical tour.
One of the must-see historical sites is Mission San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo, or as the locals simply call it, “the Carmel Mission”, which was originally built in 1770. Guided group tours of 15 or more are available or self-guided tours for singles and smaller groups will take you back to a time when this was the only building of significance to be seen in the area.
Today, in addition to the charm of its cobblestone streets and English Tutor homes, there’s a world class theater, boutique shopping, fine dining, and stylish accommodations like the four and half star L’Auberge Carmel, Relais, and Chateaux. Be sure to book a round of golf at the world-famous Pebble Beach golf course, located just north of Carmel.
Avalon
Catalina Island was developed by the late William Wrigley, Jr., famous for Wrigley chewing gum, Wrigley Field, and his ownership of the Chicago Cubs. One of two towns on Catalina Island, Avalon is located on the east end of the Island. Only an hour from Los Angeles, accessible by ferry or private boat, the coastal architecture will make one think they’ve been transported to Europe. Arguably the most recognizable landmark is the Catalina Island Casino, an Art Deco building whose white facade shines in the sun. Despite its laidback reputation, there’s a lot to do on this island. Outdoor activities include scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming, fishing, hiking, and biking. There’s even a 45-minute submarine experience. For those looking to relax, there are plenty of places to eat, drink, and shop. There are often music concerts and sporting events to take in.
If one wants to avoid the crowds, the best time to visit the island is in the spring and fall seasons. The Mt. Ada B&B (the former Wrigley mansion) is arguably one of the nicest places to stay in Avalon. The Courtyard Garden Suites is one of the best for families and Aurora Hotel is a solid budget option. For seafood lovers, The Lobster Trap is a must, and Catalina Coffee and Cookie Co. is worth a visit.
Nevada City
Located 60 miles northeast of Sacramento, the gold-rush-era town of Nevada City has well-preserved buildings dating back to the middle 1800s, when European settlers built the foundation of much of what is seen today.
Tourism is a big part of the town’s economy. There’s outdoor beauty to take in, through all the seasons, which can be experienced on a nature hike or when panning for gold. South Yuba River State Park is a great place to explore. The spring offers the best whitewater rafting and when things warm up in the summer, consider a swim. The historic downtown also boasts walking tours, beautiful period architecture, museums, a theater, shopping, and restaurants.
Solvang
The origins of the town stretch back to 1804 when Mission Santa Inés was established by the Spanish, but the town we see today was a 1911 settlement by Danish Americans. Solvang in Danish means “sunny field” and that it is an accurate description of the gorgeous town.
Solvang is a short 45-minute car ride from Santa Barbara, but the unique Danish architecture and windmills will have you feeling like you stepped into a European village. People say the town “Looks and smells like Christmas, year-round!” There are cute little shops to find authentic cuckoo clocks, wooden shoes and of course, Danish bakeries with delightful little donut holes.
Ojai
Ojai is a quaint little town just east of Santa Barbara. The name has its roots in the Ventureño Chumash word ‘Awha’y, meaning “Moon.” The city has become known as a “Shangri-La” of nature, health, and spirituality. There are bookstores, coffee shops, restaurants, and museums to investigate, but Ojai is really a place to take in nature. From horseback riding to Meditation Mount to the lavender fields and pink sunsets, this town presents an opportunity to get back in touch with the environment.
Ojai Valley Land Conservancy is another place to discover spectacular views and wildlife. The 2,300 acres preserve has an abundance of trails, trees, and flowers to entice all the senses.
After all full day of outdoor exploration, be sure to hit Ojai Deer Lodge for a rustic bar experience with firepits, game rooms and a great patio to have a cool one and enjoy some live music and BBQ.
Pismo Beach
Halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco is the little beach town of Pismo. If you’re looking for a train ride up the coast, it’s accessible by Amtrak. In fact, you can travel from San Diego up to Pismo for just a pinch over $50. It doesn’t sound like much of a bargain until you see the California gas prices. If you fancy a drive, take the 1 freeway, which hugs the coast.
Of course, there’s the beach and related activities, which are best enjoyed in the warmer summer months. Regardless of the season, you’ll want to grab a selfie in front of the new Pismo Beach sign and enjoy the fully renovated pier (as of 2020). The beach isn’t the only thing to do in Pismo; there are some superb wineries and restaurants. There’s also the Chapman Estate, which is worth a tour.
Pismo is a good spot for bird watching and seafood. If you’re a clam lover, this is your town!
Idyllwild
Located a couple of hours drive from Los Angeles in Riverside County and nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains is the small town of Idyllwild. The town is nearly a mile high and while there are no ski resorts, the area is known for hiking and rock climbing. There's Mount San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness, the Idyllwild Nature Center and Lake Fulmor to explore.
Each season in Idyllwild has something to offer. The snowy winters against craggy rocks and tall pines will put one in a Christmas mood, the scent of lilac lets one know spring has arrived, the warm summers are the perfect time to hike, climb and see wildlife and the colors of fall let one know the cycle has begun again.
The downtown has remained small and not as touristy as some mountain towns in the area, with lots of local shops and mom-and-pop restaurants. Remember to take it slow, as even the altitude can get to the locals... they elected a golden retriever mayor, after all!
Healdsburg
The name Healdsburg doesn’t roll off the tongue quite as well as Napa, but many consider it to be a superior experience. Healdsburg rests at the intersection of three top winegrowing regions: Russian River Valley, Dry Creek Valley, and Alexander Valley. In contrast to the flashy, overdone Napa, Healdsburg is more down-to-earth and relaxed. Though it’s much more than the sleepy little village it was once known as.
The town is roughly 65 miles north of San Francisco, just up the 101 Freeway. Known as a wine and culinary mecca with Michelin-star restaurants and 5-star accommodations. However, one doesn’t need to be fancy to enjoy this community. The romantic downtown offers 19th century architecture, tall redwoods, a central fountain, and quaint coffee shops, bookstores, and art galleries to capture one’s heart.
Sutter Creek
Sutter Creek, another gold-rush-town from 1854, is located about 45 miles from Sacramento. The town is probably known best for its deep rock mines, which attract visitors. Main Street, with its 19th century building, is one of the prettiest little towns you’ll see in the area. The whole settlement is maybe 2.5 miles and is quite walkable.
Fall is an excellent time to visit, to experience the foliage and fall festivals, but the wine country brings visitors year-round. There’s a local theater and charming B&Bs that make this an excellent weekend getaway spot that’s not overcrowded.
Cambria
If you’re in the mood for dramatic coastal views with rocky cliffs, grassy and sandy beaches, consider Cambria. Located halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco off Pacific Coast Highway, Cambria’s Moonstone Beach is a must. You’ll see some stunning water vistas and breathtaking sunsets. Then there’s the “Poor-man’s Hearst Castle”, aka Nitt Witt Ridge, which is a unique hodgepodge structure that was started in the ’20s and was completed over the next fifty years. However, if you want to see the real thing, Heart Castle is only a short drive away. You can easily spend half a day taking it all in. Piedras Blancas Light Station is another landmark that should be on your list.
Downtown Cambria has some fine wine-tasting rooms, but there’s also Stepladder Ranch and Creamery, where one can see a working goat cheese farm and sample the product. For a small town, there are some good foodie options, including Linn’s Restaurant known for their country comfort foods and Madeline’s Restaurant and Wine Cellar with French-inspired dishes.
Murphys
Located in the Sierra Nevada foothills, this town is the perfect midpoint between Lake Tahoe and Yosemite National Park. Besides being a great jumping-off point to nearby popular tourist destinations, Murphys is a cool former boom town. Today its known more for their fine dining, wine selections and relaxing B&Bs. There’s nature to discover, but for those who like things on the dark and damp side, nearby Mercer Caverns provides the opportunity for some spelunking.
Be sure to visit in the fall for their grape stomping and Gold Rush Street Faire or participate in one of their silent auctions. Since Murphys is only 2,000 feet up, it’s below the snowline and the climate is rather comfortable year-round.
Sausalito
Escape the hustle and bustle of San Fran and take the Golden Gate Bridge to this seaside community and experience the gentle Mediterranean atmosphere. Consider renting some bicycles and venturing out to see what Sausalito has to offer. There’s also kayaking and boat tours, but one thing not to miss is the over 500 floating houseboats. Some of these homes date back to the Second World War and will have you dreaming of life on the water. It’s like Seattle, with less rain.
There are shipyards to visit, museums and marine life to study. Nearby Muir Woods National Monument gives one easy access to giant redwoods. The restaurants and shopping downtown won’t disappoint either.
Tour the Most Quaint Towns
We hope you enjoyed our tour of some of the prettiest, charming little towns this state has to offer. Whether you’re looking to unwind with a glass of wine, climb the tallest peaks, hit the links, satisfy your refined palate or you’re shopping for something special, these quaint small California towns have it all. Why are you still on the sofa? Get out there and travel!
