7 Little-Known Towns On The Pacific Coast
The Pacific Coast is famous for its iconic destinations like Big Sur and Cannon Beach, but hidden along this storied shoreline are lesser-known towns waiting to be discovered. These places often fly under the radar, overshadowed by larger tourist hubs like San Francisco and Seattle, yet they hold their own unique histories and one-of-a-kind attractions. From fishing villages with deep maritime roots to quiet artist enclaves, these towns reveal a side of the Pacific Coast you haven’t yet explored. Dive into this list of seven little-known towns where the charm is authentic and the crowds are refreshingly absent.
Cayucos, California
Cayucos is a small coastal town located along Highway 1 in San Luis Obispo County, between Morro Bay and Cambria. With a population of just over 2,500, it offers a glimpse into California’s quieter, more nostalgic past. Known as the “last of the California beach towns,” Cayucos is famous for its historic Cayucos Pier, originally built in 1872 by Captain James Cass to serve as a shipping point for dairy products.
The Cayucos State Beach, located adjacent to the pier, is ideal for surfing, tide pooling, and picnicking. Dining options include the Brown Butter Cookie Company, known for its signature sea salt cookies, and Duckie’s Chowder House, offering casual seafood dishes. For a more upscale experience, try the Old Cayucos Tavern and Cardroom, which combines historic charm with a modern bar menu. Antique enthusiasts will appreciate browsing Remember When, a well-stocked antique store. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Estero Bluffs State Park just north of town, offering hiking trails and scenic views of the Pacific Ocean.
Mendocino, California
Mendocino is a small unincorporated community on the Pacific Coast, located in Mendocino County, about three and a half hours north of San Francisco. With a population of just over 900, it is notable for its 19th-century New England-style architecture, a rarity in California. The town has a rich history, originally established as a logging community in the 1850s, and is now recognized for its vibrant arts scene and designation as a California Historical Landmark. Mendocino’s coastal cliffs and proximity to the Pacific Ocean have made it a popular filming location for movies and television shows, including Murder, She Wrote.
The Mendocino Headlands State Park surrounds the town, offering scenic trails along the cliffs with views of the Pacific and access to secluded beaches. The Kelley House Museum provides insights into the town’s history, while the Mendocino Art Center hosts galleries and workshops featuring local and regional artists. Dining options include Café Beaujolais, known for its seasonal menu, and Patterson’s Pub, offering hearty fare in a relaxed setting. Shoppers can visit The Gallery Bookshop, a long-established bookstore with a curated selection of titles. Nearby, Russian Gulch State Park offers additional hiking opportunities, including the waterfall loop trail.
Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Carmel-by-the-Sea, commonly called Carmel, is known for its strict building codes—there are no street numbers, and chain businesses are limited—Carmel retains a unique charm. The town’s artistic roots date back to the early 20th century when it became a haven for artists, writers, and musicians, including notable residents like author Jack London and poet Robinson Jeffers. Clint Eastwood, the actor and filmmaker, served as the town’s mayor from 1986 to 1988, adding to its cultural significance.
The Carmel Mission Basilica, established in 1771, is a well-preserved historic landmark offering tours and a museum. Art enthusiasts can visit the Carmel Art Association Gallery, featuring works by local artists, or explore the numerous independent galleries on Ocean Avenue. For dining, La Bicyclette offers French-inspired cuisine, while Dametra Café specializes in Mediterranean dishes. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the white sands of Carmel Beach or hike through the nearby Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, known for its wildlife and ocean vistas. The Cottage of Sweets, a British-style candy shop, provides a nostalgic treat for visitors.
Brookings, Oregon
With a population of approximately 6,500, Brookings is known for its mild climate, often referred to as the “Brookings Effect,” which creates unusually warm conditions for the Oregon Coast due to warm air currents. Founded in 1913 as a logging town, Brookings retains its historic charm while serving as a hub for outdoor recreation and coastal beauty. The city is also notable for its Azalea Park, home to azaleas over 200 years old, and for hosting the annual Azalea Festival.
Harris Beach State Park, located just north of town, offers sandy beaches, tide pools, and views of Bird Island, a National Wildlife Refuge. Food options include Black Trumpet Bistro, known for its Italian-inspired menu, and Oxenfre Public House, which serves locally sourced dishes in a casual setting. For coffee and pastries, Bell & Whistle Coffee House is a popular choice. Art lovers can explore Manley Art Center, which features works by local artists and offers workshops. The Chetco River, ideal for kayaking and fishing, adds another dimension to Brookings’ appeal.
Seaside, Oregon
Seaside has a population of about 7,000 and is known for its historic significance as the endpoint of the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1806, commemorated by the Lewis and Clark Salt Cairn Historic Monument. The town also boasts Oregon’s first seaside resort, established in the 1870s, which contributed to its development as a tourist destination. Seaside’s iconic 1.5-mile oceanfront promenade, locally known as “The Prom,” offers stunning views of the Pacific.
The Seaside Aquarium, one of the oldest aquariums on the West Coast, is known for its hands-on exhibits and the chance to feed harbor seals. Broadway Street, the town’s main thoroughfare, features shops like Beach Books and Funland Arcade. Dining options include Maggie’s on the Prom for seafood with ocean views and Dough Dough Bakery for freshly baked goods. Outdoor activities abound at the Necanicum Estuary, a prime spot for birdwatching and kayaking. Nearby, Tillamook Head offers hiking trails with views of the coastline.
Petrolia, California
Petrolia is an unincorporated community in Humboldt County, located in the Mattole Valley along the Lost Coast, one of the most undeveloped stretches of coastline in the continental United States. With an estimated population of 300-500 people, Petrolia is known as the birthplace of the California oil industry, with the first oil well drilled here in 1865. The town is surrounded by rugged natural landscapes, including the King Range National Conservation Area, making it a secluded haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Visitors to Petrolia can explore the nearby Mattole River, ideal for kayaking, fishing, and swimming, or hike the Lost Coast Trail, starting from Mattole Beach, a popular spot for backpackers. For a glimpse of the area’s agricultural heritage, the Petrolia General Store provides local products and serves as a community hub. The town’s proximity to the Humboldt Redwoods State Park offers access to hiking trails through some of the world’s tallest trees. Additionally, the Lost Coast Outpost, a small local café, serves simple meals for visitors.
Newport, Oregon
Newport is a small coastal city in Lincoln County and is home to the Yaquina Head Lighthouse, the tallest lighthouse in Oregon, and the Oregon Coast Aquarium, one of the region’s premier marine science attractions. The city also houses the Hatfield Marine Science Center, a hub for marine research and education.
The historic Bayfront district offers shops, seafood restaurants, and galleries, including the Fish Peddler’s Market and Local Ocean Seafoods, which specializes in fresh, sustainably sourced dishes. Nye Beach features unique boutiques and cafes like Café Stephanie, known for its hearty breakfasts and baked goods. Science enthusiasts can visit the Oregon Coast Aquarium to see exhibits on marine ecosystems or take a guided tour of the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area for tidepool exploration and wildlife observation. Breweries such as Rogue Ales & Spirits offer locally crafted beverages with views of the harbor.
The Pacific Coast offers more than its famous tourist hubs—it’s a tapestry of hidden towns with unique histories, landscapes, and attractions. From the quiet charm of Cayucos to the rugged beauty of Petrolia, these lesser-known destinations provide diverse experiences for travelers seeking something different. Whether you’re drawn to historic piers, artist communities, or untouched coastlines, these towns invite you to explore the Pacific Coast’s rich culture and natural splendor beyond the usual stops.
