2024's 6 Most Beautiful Small Towns In Northern California
Beauty is more than just a feast for the eyes. It’s the sensations, experiences, passion, and memories we make with those we love. In this spirit, everything has an intrinsic beauty, just waiting to be captured by the mind, the heart, and, of course, in pictures that will last a lifetime.
We share it, love it, protect it, and hold it sacred. In Northern California, which many would consider the most beautiful part of the state, many small towns have adopted the beauty of their environments and added their own flair to create something breathtaking. From unique color schemes to carefully sculpted foliage to mountain vistas and beach areas, if you are seeking some beauty in your life, maybe a trip to one of these towns is just what you need.
Sausalito
With many of the homes poised on the rising mountainside and miles of shoreline, Sausalito looks like it was copied from photographs of the Italian Amalfi Coast. Business boardwalks face the ocean, giving locals and visitors the opportunity to enjoy the warmth of the California sun, gaze upon the gorgeous buildings, and peer into the distance at the Golden Gate Bridge.
Bohemian influences can be seen in every corner of this quaint coastal town, but none more than in the unique and eclectic shops and the houseboats many residents call home. Walk the beaches, tour the maritime museums, and learn about the area. You might forget you’re in the States and feel transported to a fishing village on the Mediterranean. Until you see San Fransisco across the bay, of course.
Murphys
Anyone who finds the most beauty in nature will love visiting Murphys. Set in the Sierra Nevada foothills, mountain vistas and endless forest surround this adorable small town and are the frame in which its timeless beauty can be viewed best. Nestled between Yosemite and Lake Tahoe, the stunning views are all around and will soothe even the most savage spirit.
Begin downtown, taking a stroll on tree-lined sidewalks with locals all around, happy and more than willing to greet all who choose to visit. Then, learn about Gold Rush history and why Murphys is the “Queen of the Sierras.” Finally, delve into the stores and dining options that pleasing to the eyes, the tummy, and the wallet. If you’re worried about visiting in winter, don’t be. Murphys is just below the snowline.
Monterey
Rocky shorelines, gorgeous beaches, and numerous manicured parks are only the start of why the glory of nature's wonder and loveliness can be absorbed in this incredible coastal town. Looking out to the ocean, there is a good chance you will witness whales splashing, seals playing, and sea otters living their best life.
Look to the bay of Monterey from the shore or from one of the peaks along many of the hiking trails. For those who prefer trees to seas, the woods beacon and are not too far away. A few of the hiking and biking trails wind through Pinnacle National Park and even end up at a Butterfly Sanctuary. Then, heading into town, the museum and cultural scene enchants and electrifies everyone lucky enough to experience it.
Sonoma
A perfectly plated meal, a lovely view from the terrace of a winery, and a divine vintage with a bouquet of scents and notes that rival a dozen roses; that is what most people think of when they hear the word “Sonoma.” That is only part of why this time-honored town is a must-see when venturing in search of gorgeous California settings.
Endless vineyards, a proud and meticulously maintained downtown area, and the rolling hills that protect Sonoma from the sounds of the sea, these are the real backdrop that sets the town apart. The wine is just a bonus. Sonoma State Historic Park and Mission San Francisco Solano are the icing on the cake, two places every visitor must explore.
Nevada City
This town was not named to be ironic. The town is named after the indigenous Nisenan who named it Nevada, but because of the proximity of the town to the state of Nevada, the word “city” was added to stem confusion. That type of unique small-town charm is in every corner of this former Gold Rush hotbed. Ridgetops and promontories surround it on all sides and the smells of pines can be enjoyed year-round.
The attraction to truly stunning nature is uncontrollable with Tahoe National Forest, Yuba River, and historic preservation the delight of locals and tourists, even during the winter. For those colder months, get your beauty at the Nevada Theater, a playhouse where well-known figures such as Mark Twain and Motley Crue have performed. Nevada City is on the Registry of Historic Places.
Dunsmuir
This charming town near Mt. Shasta is steeped in history, culture, and most of all, breathtaking natural wonder. For instance, two incredible waterfalls, Hedge Creek Falls and Sweetbriar Falls, attract photographers and tourists for a chance to get that once-in-a-lifetime shot. Its town motto is “Home to the Best Water on Earth”, the product of snowmelt and filtered through volcanic rocks. It’s truly delicious.
Granite spires thrust to the heavens in Castle Craigs State Park are over 170 million years old, and span 4000 acres. See what you can as you traverse more than 30 miles of trails, but don’t forget your water, a snack, and your fishing pole. Many of these hiking paths lead to the Sacramento River, as well as lush campgrounds.
California is known for its big cities, movie stars, beaches, and amusement parks. Those are all fine, but they are such a small part of what makes California a thing of beauty. Volcanic mountains, massive lakes with turquoise waters, endless forests, and people who prefer the village atmosphere give California its true lovely qualities. Community, family, love of nature, and the desire to protect it. That’s real beauty. Small-town residents always understand that best.
