7 Pacific Coast Towns With A Slower Pace Of Life
The Pacific Coast of the United States (also known as the West Coast) is one of the nation’s most geographically splendid places, where stunning views and a pleasing climate delight all ages. Together with fun cultural attractions and fascinating local histories, the communities that lie along and near the Pacific Ocean are truly special hot spots. From the vistas of the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State, the rugged shorelines of Oregon, and the extraordinary character of California’s resorts, the towns of America’s Pacific Coast are wonderful treasures just waiting to be discovered. Delay no more and come see the US Pacific Coast through a trip to these exquisite towns and see why a slower pace of life and breathtaking panoramas can make for the ideal holiday!
Morro Bay, California
A delightful harbor town, Morro Bay is scenically located along the Central Coast of California. Home to a modern population of just under 1,000 inhabitants, this historic community can trace its foundational roots to the 1870s, though Spanish explorers had settled the area as early as the 1580s. A great place to unwind and enjoy a slower pace of life, visitors can appreciate Morro Bay’s cooler summer climate and its picturesque coastal views. Spend time on the pretty beaches and enjoy activities such as swimming, sailing, surfing, sunbathing, and even birdwatching in a serene environment. And it is difficult to miss the imposing Morro Rock, which stands out at a height of some 576 feet as the town’s centerpiece.
Meanwhile, a cute assortment of local shops and restaurants, including the Dutchman’s Seafood House and the Rustic Diamond Gift Shop, really adds a welcoming charm to the community. Finally, with a short 30-minute drive, one can visit the famed Hearst Castle. Though construction began in 1919, the style reflects classic Spanish architecture, and the property is even listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Astoria, Oregon
Established in 1811, Astoria is Oregon’s oldest non-indigenous settlement, and today, this seat of Clatsop County boasts a modest population of just over 10,000. Beautifully situated along the State’s Pacific Coast and along the southern shores of the famed Columbia River, the splendid vistas in Astoria are second to none. With a comfortable year-round climate, swimming, sailing, cycling, and fishing are always popular here.
Additionally, Astoria's cultural and historic allure make it a well-rounded place to enjoy a holiday, and numerous landmarks await, ready to create a special set of memories. Visit the Historic District and marvel at such buildings as the John Jacob Astor Hotel (1923) and the Captain George Flavel House (1885), which are included on the National Register of Historic Places. Cross the scenic Astoria-Megler Steel Bridge (1966), while admiring the 125-foot-tall Astoria Column and its spiral staircase to the top, which features some of the town’s best views. Do not forget about the historic Astoria Riverfront Trolley, which brings guests back in time on a three-mile journey through some of Astoria’s most beautiful neighborhoods and photogenic spots.
Mendocino, California
Mendocino is one of Northern California’s prettiest seaside destinations, with a slower pace of life and a comfortably cool climate. Named for a 16th-century Spanish governor, but founded in the 1850s, just over 900 permanent residents call this peaceful community home today. Named in its entirety on the National Register of Historic Places, there is never a shortage of 19th-century attractions to appreciate here. Stroll through the historic district and admire the many homes and other edifices built in Victorian style, while dramatic rock cliffs and calming sea breezes create a unique ambiance.
Spend time at the nearby Mendocino Headlands and the Woodlands State Park for more extraordinary panoramas. At the same time, a cute array of local galleries, diners, and shops in town make for a most charming afternoon. These include The Study Club Boutique and Patterson’s Pub, often with great ocean-side views. And if in town in the month of July, be sure to catch the sights and sounds of the Mendocino Music Festival, where genres including jazz, blues, and classical delight the tastes of music lovers of all ages!
Port Townsend, Washington
Located on Washington State’s Quimper Peninsula (an extension of the larger Olympic Peninsula), Port Townsend is a historically fascinating and naturally charming place, perfect for a relaxing sojourn. Chartered back in the 1790s, today, this seat of Jefferson County boasts a moderate population of just over 10,000, and cool winters and summers are the norm. With its cool coastal breezes, the stunning peaks of the Cascade Mountains, and the vast vistas of the Pacific Ocean, the natural photogenic delights of Port Townsend shine through brilliantly.
Meanwhile, the historic character of the town is also on display, and time spent in the waterfront Historic District brings visitors back to the late 18th and 19th centuries. Including such landmarks as the Bartlett House (1883) and St. Paul’s Episcopal Church (1865), amongst others listed on the National Register of Historic Places, a feeling of another time is sure to be felt vividly. From there, stop by the Fort Worden Historic State Park and get acquainted with the history of the American military, while enjoying such activities as camping, cycling, swimming, fishing, and more! Finally, be sure to take in the town’s assortment of family-friendly annual events in September, including the Wooden Boat Festival and the Film Festival, amongst others.
Bandon, Oregon
Along the banks of the Coquille River (leading to the Pacific Ocean), Bandon is a most charming town, founded by Irish pioneers in the late 1800s. Today, just over 3,300 residents call it home, where cool year-round temperatures and loads of scenic beauty make it a nice place to get away for a relaxing holiday outing. Admire the many natural landscapes of the area, including stunning and dramatic rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, and soothing river banks perfect for a stroll. Meanwhile, the major attractions of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge and the Bandon Dunes Golf Resort are awesome ways to immerse oneself in the region’s coastal landscape. And be sure to visit the Coquille River Lighthouse (1896) for some of Bandon’s most exquisite oceanside vistas.
And with cute local businesses like the Sassy Seagull Gift Shop and Lord Bennett’s seafood, the small town allure is not hard to feel when in Bandon. Finally, if visiting in fall, be sure not to miss the Cranberry Festival in September, featuring a parade, games, live music, vendors, and more fun dedicated to the harvest of the tasty and humble cranberry!
Coupeville, Washington
Home to a humble population of just under 2,000, the quiet and scenic community of Coupeville is the perfect place to enjoy a slower pace of life. Situated on Whidbey Island (Washington State’s largest island) and along the shores of Penn Cove, the town was founded in the 1850s, and today it also serves as the seat of Island County. A splendid place to enjoy raw nature and alluring 19th-century history, visitors to Coupeville will find a truly delightful destination ready to create special holiday memories.
Spend time at the historic waterfront district featuring a collection of preserved 1800s buildings and homes all along the sparkling blue waters, and where temperatures are always cool and breezy. Then visit the inviting Fort Casey and Fort Ebey State Parks for additional extraordinary coastal vistas, tranquil spots for outdoor recreation, and chances to see some of the State’s native wildlife. Meanwhile, back in town proper, a friendly smile is never hard to find, and the small town Americana is on full display here. Browse through the goods at Aqua Gifts and The Crow’s Roost while enjoying a fine meal at Front Street Grill along the waterfront, which are great ways to create lasting memories that all ages will remember.
Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Carmel by the Sea lies right along California’s Pacific Coast Highway and on the Monterey Peninsula, where it has been charming its residents and guests for centuries. Established by Spanish colonists in the late 18th century, the modern town was only incorporated in 1916, and today it boasts a modest population of just over 3,200. One of the most culturally inviting and naturally stunning communities in the "Golden State," Carmel by the Sea features awesome ocean views, dramatic rocky cliffs, loads of special architecture, and a thriving arts scene that has made it a favorite for many.
Browse through the many locally owned galleries, artists studios, and other boutique shops, while inviting cafes and restaurants like Pangaea On Ocean Ave and Portabella offer delicious dishes with exquisite seaside views. Spend time at Carmel Beach, walk along the rocky cliffsides, and be ready for plenty of photo and video opportunities. Carmel by the Sea is simply a marvel. And do not forget about such fun events like the weekly Carmel Farmers’ Market, the Carmel Art Walk, the International Film Festival, and more!
Visiting America’s Pacific Coast (or West Coast) is an experience that will have the young and old alike excited to embark on, and with the vast natural beauty and cultural allure awaiting, it is not difficult to see why this region of the nation is so beloved. Featuring a number of welcoming communities, guests can expect a most special holiday outing where a slower pace of life creates a unique set of remembrances. From the coastal towns of Mendocino and Carmel, California, to the island delights of Washington State’s Olympic Peninsula, the beauty of these Pacific Coast towns shines brightly for all those fortunate enough to visit firsthand. So wait no longer and come see the United States’ Pacific Coast through a journey to these pretty towns, and see where nature, culture, history, and relaxation come together to create a perfect set of holiday memories not soon to be forgotten!
