6 of the Most Charming Small Towns to Visit in Northern California

An area of diverse landscapes that stretches from San Luis Obispo to Oregon, Northern California has much to commend itself to those seeking a memorable getaway or vacation. Boasting spectacular scenery that ranges from dramatic Pacific coastlines to dense redwood forests and lush vineyard-covered valleys, NorCal also has plenty of interesting small towns worth exploring.

While often overlooked in favor of better-known places to visit in California like San Francisco or Napa, these small communities have much to offer visitors in search of an authentic NorCal travel experience. From the quaint seaside cottages and beautiful beaches in Carmel-by-the-Sea to the Gold Rush-era elegance of Nevada City, these six most charming towns to visit in Northern California are simply begging to be explored.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Usually referred to simply as Carmel, Carmel-by-the-Sea is an idyllic small town to visit for those wanting a memorable seaside getaway in California. Located on the state’s scenic Monterey Peninsula overlooking Carmel Bay and the Pacific Ocean, the star of the show here is Carmel Beach with its soft, white sands and crystal-clear waters. Not only is it a great spot for a family picnic or even a little romantic sunset viewing, it’s also a popular spot for surfers looking for the next big wave. The Scenic Bluff Path, a 3.5-mile long pathway, starts here and follows Scenic Drive to Carmel River State Beach.

Exploring Ocean Avenue is another fun thing to do in Carmel. In addition to its art galleries, boutique shops, and gourmet eateries, it’s home to historic Carmel Mission, one of California’s most beautiful old missions. Other highlights include the Forest Theater, an outdoor venue founded in 1910 that still regularly hosts plays and films.

Sausalito

It’s pretty hard to miss Sausalito. Perched at the north end of the Golden Gate Bridge and boasting spectacular views over San Francisco Bay, this immensely charming waterfront town is a great day trip from its larger neighbor for its Mediterranean flair and laid-back ambience. Sausalito waterfront is a must-explore area and is instantly recognizable for its unique houseboat community. Established soon after World War II, these colorful floating homes can be explored through fun guided tours.

The Sausalito waterfront is also fun for leisurely strolls along the boardwalk. Be sure to stop for a drink or some fresh local seafood as a break from shopping at the boutique stores and art galleries. Traveling with kids? The Marine Mammal Center is a must-visit for families and is an educational and rehabilitation facility offering insights into marine life conservation, with tours and exhibits teaching visitors more about the seals and sea lions treated there. For great views of the Pacific Ocean, Golden Gate Bridge, and the San Francisco skyline, head to the hiking trails around nearby Marin Headlands, or visit the Bay Area Discovery Museum.

Mendocino

Mendocino is a scenic two-hour drive north of Santa Rosa and is a great spot for a relaxing - and scenic - NorCal weekend retreat. Top attractions here include Mendocino Headlands State Park, a beautiful coastal area covering 347 acres of undeveloped islets and seaside bluffs which surround the town on three sides. In addition to its panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, the park features miles of trails that wind along the coastline and through wildflower-filled meadows. Bring a camera during migration seasons (southwards between November and February, and northwards from February to June) and you may be lucky enough to get in some whale watching, too.

The Mendocino Art Center is another major attraction and hosts art exhibitions, workshops, and classes in various mediums, while the historic Ford House Visitor Center and Museum offers insights into Mendocino's logging boom of the 19th century and its transition into the tourist and artistic enclave it is today. Nearby Russian Gulch and Point Cabrillo Light Station state parks are also great for hiking and more of those spectacular coastal views.

Ferndale

The small NorCal town of Ferndale has done so good a job of preserving its charming old storefronts and homes that it’s been dubbed the state’s “Victorian Village." Many of the best date from the 1800s and can be seen along Ferndale Main Street Historic District, a State Historic Landmark covering 46 acres and 39 important buildings and landmarks. To learn more about this charming town, pop into the Ferndale Museum with its exhibits on local culture, technology, and farming.

Fern Cottage Historic District, comprising an attractive old farmhouse and gardens, is another spot to learn more about the town and its early settlers. And just a short drive from downtown Ferndale, the Lost Coast beckons adventurers with its rugged coastline and secluded beaches, as well as its hiking trails and abundant wildlife.

Nevada City

Nevada City offers an excellent excuse for travelers to sample a little slice of life in the Sierra Nevada foothills. This charming Gold Rush-era town is home to the Nevada City Historic District, 16 acres of old homes and other important structures with many fine examples of Moderne and Italianate architecture among them. Landmarks include the Nevada Theatre, built in 1865 and the West Coast’s oldest continuously operated theatrical venue; and the ornate Firehouse No. 1 Museum from 1867 with its original features still intact. A visit to the Miners Foundry Cultural Center is also time well spent.

And let’s not forget the many fun things to do in Nevada City for outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to its proximity to the scenic beauty of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, the nearby Yuba River offers stunning scenery plus recreational activities including swimming, hiking, and rock climbing at spots like the South Yuba River State Park. Looking for a memorable selfie spot? The old Bridgeport Covered Bridge is an ideal backdrop for a snap or two.

Murphys

Known as the "Queen of the Sierra" for its attractive setting in the heart of the Sierra Nevada foothills, Murphys never fails to charm visitors. With its roots deeply embedded in Gold Rush times, Murphys has transformed over the decades into a vibrant hub for wine enthusiasts, history buffs, and nature lovers. Its attractive downtown area often tops lists of the prettiest main streets in the USA not just for its lovely 19th-century buildings but also for its wine-tasting rooms, boutique shops, and classy restaurants and cafés. The town is also home to more than two dozen family-owned vintners, including Hatcher, Millaire, and Black Sheep wineries, each offering fun tasting experiences and some even within walking distance of downtown Murphys.

Interested in learning more about local history? Head to the Old Timers Museum on Main Street for a fascinating glimpse into Murphys' past from its Gold Rush days to its present status as a premier wine destination. The nearby Mercer Caverns, one of several natural caves in the area, offers guided tours that take visitors deep underground to explore stunning geological formations. Finally, Calaveras Big Trees State Park is just a short drive away and provides a chance to see some of the state’s largest giant sequoias up close.

The Final Word

In exploring these six charming small towns of Northern California, we've journeyed through the heart of the region's stunning natural landscapes, delved into rich historical narratives, and even experienced vibrant local cultures that all add up to make a NorCal visit a truly unique experience. From the stunning coastal scenery of Mendocino to the Gold Rush era streets of Nevada City, with stops at Ferndale, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Sausalito, and Murphys along the way, each of these six most charming small towns to visit in Northern California are worth exploring.