9 Most Underrated Towns in Southern California
Renowned for its diverse landscapes, from undulating coastlines to towering mountain peaks, Southern California (SoCal) is a land where anything is possible. You can be scuba diving in Two Harbors, catching the legendary surf break in Encinitas, waterskiing on Lake Elsinore, and skiing in Lake Arrowhead, all on the same road trip!
Starting from the mirage-like Lake Elsinore to the world's Citrus Capital, Santa Paula, which feels like a year-round celebration of arts and nature, our journey begins in Bishop. Perhaps over coffee at one of its renowned bakeries, we plan adventures to either the Sierra Nevada on one side or the White Mountains on the other.
Bishop
Nestled between the Sierra Nevada and the White Mountains, Bishop is an often overlooked yet naturally irresistible town. Known to outdoor enthusiasts, artists, and its locals, it shines along the foothills. Discover why it is dubbed the "Mule Capital of the World" while indulging in outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, climbing, and hunting. The Bishop Mule Days Celebration, a six-day, 14-show event held the week before Memorial Day from Tuesday through Sunday at the Tri-County Fairgrounds, hosts one of the largest non-motorized parades in the nation that Saturday.
Whether you're here for culture or adventures in outdoor recreation via Highway 168 into the Sierra Nevada Mountains to access campgrounds and trailheads, don't miss the town's famous bakeries, like Erick Schat's Bakery. Start your morning with coffee and a treat to-go along the recreational areas for a picnic at Pine Creek, Rock Creek, or Fish Slough and Pleasant Valley Reservoir, all under 30 minutes from downtown. North Lake, South Lake, and Sabrina Lake are within a quick drive from Bishop Creek Canyon, while the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest offers trails through some of the world's oldest trees. In winter, Bishop welcomes skiers and snowboarders to the state's premier powder slopes at the neighboring Mammoth Mountain Ski Resort.
Brea
Brea, a quaint town in Orange County (OC) with a population of 46,500, is often overlooked in the famously bustling county. Unlike the renowned Newport Beach, Brea offers more than a handful of big-city amenities in a revitalized downtown that combines comfort, style, and convenience. This lively and artistic city boasts a thriving public art scene, inviting visitors to explore a mix of businesses in vibrant neighborhoods, from farmers markets to sporting goods stores.
The scenic 1-mile trail in Carbon Canyon Regional Park is perfect for a morning hike through giant redwoods and lakesides, featuring playgrounds and fishing opportunities, or explore the family favorite Arovista Park. Brea deserves a closer look for its museums, art galleries, and unique restaurants. The Brea Museum & Historical Society, open to the public, reveals the city's heritage, while the Brea Mall, with over 170 specialty stores and boutiques, offers ample retail therapy opportunities.
Encinitas
Just north of San Diego lies Encinitas, a unique beach town among California's countless coastal gems. It evokes a 1960s oceanside lifestyle with its beloved Moonlight State Beach. A haven for surfers, yogis, young families, and commuters, this coastal gem offers a dreamy escape for couples with its extensive collection of unique nurseries and gardens. It's also a paradise for friends who enjoy legendary surfing. A must-visit is the San Diego Botanic Garden, home to 29 specialty gardens with over 5,000 plant varieties from around the world, including the world’s largest bamboo garden.
Encinitas provides vibrant and authentic attractions under the Southern California sun. Enjoy a boutique shopping spree in a small-town atmosphere with contemporary restaurants perfect for catching up with friends, or plan a family getaway to enjoy the endless outdoor activities along the six miles of Pacific coastline. With a beach and vibe for every preference, enjoy a seaside java and pastry at Pannikin Coffee & Tea, a charmingly converted train station with more than half a century of history, and wander to find the perfect spot like a family-friendly beach or the breaks at Swami’s Beach, renowned worldwide.
Glendora
With a population just over 49,000, Glendora is a charming city that boasts a storybook-like main street in Glendora Village. It feels secluded from the hustle and bustle, despite being only 30 miles from Los Angeles. Nestled in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, it is known as the "Pride of the Foothills," celebrated for its beautiful weather year-round and scenic location. Locals enjoy quick access to downtown Los Angeles and the world-class Pacific beaches, drawing those who wish to escape the beach crowds to Glendora’s parks, hiking trails, unique cultural venues, restaurants, and cafes.
Glendora offers an escape from the ordinary, showcasing a unique side of Southern California for every taste. Known for its renowned yet uncrowded shopping areas such as Glendora Marketplace Shopping Center, Glendora Village Gateway, and Foothill Plaza, it also hosts a number of family-friendly festivals and events, including the Glendora Annual Chalk Fest, the Earth Festival, and the Heritage Festival. The Glendora Historical Society exhibits artifacts from the early 1800s to the mid-1900s, including attire, old photos, furnishings, farming tools, and office equipment.
Lake Arrowhead
Nestled in the San Bernardino National Forest, Lake Arrowhead is an alpine village in Southern California that offers a serene escape amidst the quaintness of the San Bernardino Mountains. From pristine woodlands to tranquil lakes, it serves as a real oasis of tranquility for urbanites seeking to disconnect. Tourists can explore the native lands via beautiful trails, paddle on the lake in summer, or enjoy fishing and boating on the picturesque lake. With more distinct seasons than the rest of Southern California, the town transforms into a winter wonderland with the first snowflakes, delighting children, snowshoers, skiers, and snowboarders with its ski resort catering to both beginners and experts.
Just 30 minutes north of San Bernardino and 90 minutes from Los Angeles, Lake Arrowhead offers a picturesque mountain resort experience year-round. Whether you're looking for a quick getaway or a prolonged vacation of backpacking, hiking, and water skiing, the area boasts an impressive range of accommodations, from rustic cabins to luxury cottages. The Saddleback Inn is renowned for its lodging and dining on the mountain, just like Lake Arrowhead Village and the Heaps Peak Arboretum are notable landmarks. Don’t miss a sightseeing tour on the Lake Arrowhead Queen across the glassy waters, and be sure to pick up some thoughtful gifts from Hearth & Sage General Store before you leave.
Lake Elsinore
Lake Elsinore is a fantastic destination with an abundance of outdoor and entertainment opportunities nestled in the picturesque Temescal Mountains. The glassy Lake Elsinore, its main attraction, presents a serene vista, akin to a mirage conjured up in the mind on a hot summer's day drive through the region. The scenic views from the shore invite visitors to stretch their legs with a refreshing hike, cycle, or horseback ride along the meandering pathways suited for every skill level, through the hills and up the mountains.
The lake offers a variety of activities, from canoeing and kayaking to fishing, boating, and water skiing, all set against the backdrop of its calm waters and natural beauty. For those seeking thrills, the nearby Ortega Mountains offer rock climbing, while paragliding remains a popular activity in town. Don’t miss Ortega Falls to the south, and when back in town, recharge at Don Mere's Restaurant with a hearty meal or enjoy a cold treat on a hot day at Bloom Ice Cream + Coffee, which boasts an outdoor terrace. Elsinore Hot Springs & Lodge offers a great accommodation option.
Santa Paula
Known as the Citrus Capital of the World, Santa Paula is located in the heart of the fertile Santa Clara River Valley in Southern California. Surrounded by rolling hills of lemon, orange, and avocado groves, it provides a refreshing escape. Begin your visit on the charming main street or at the vintage airport and Aviation Museum, and don’t miss the Santa Paula Murals. From the historic California Oil Museum to the Santa Paula Train Depot and Railroad Plaza Park, the oldest in the county, there's plenty of culture to soak in. Be sure to see the Floating Granite Ball, one of the town's most photographed sites.
With a population of around 30,000, Santa Paula is a "happy place" for its residents and visitors alike, featuring cultural festivals set against a picturesque backdrop and offering beautiful weather for outdoor explorations. Venture east along the Santa Clara River to the stunning Heritage Valley on a sunny day. Find your spot among the 50 campsites along Santa Paula Creek at Steckel Park, which features scenic trails, shaded picnic areas, and barbecue spots, or stay at the renowned Glen Tavern Inn. It’s surprising how this flavorful town, with events like the Citrus Festival in July, the Ghost Walk at Halloween, and the Santa Paula Art and Photography Show in February, remains overlooked.
Temecula
Temecula, an Inland Empire gem indeed, lies just a 90-minute drive from Los Angeles. Often overlooked in favor of more glamorous destinations, this historic town in the Temecula Valley is home to some of the state's most stunning landscapes, offering visitors a chance to admire the tapestry below from a hot-air balloon. Boasting exquisite cuisine, Temecula olive oil, and a Mediterranean-like climate, it feels almost too good to be true as you stroll through the surrounding wine country. With around 50 wineries in the valley, the vineyards produce Italian, Spanish, and French grapes for small-batch vintages.
Europa Village is a unique wine resort that echoes the charm of small wine-region villages found overseas. It’s essential to try standout wineries such as Akash, Altísima, Danza del Sol, and Peltzer. Temecula's casual and laid-back atmosphere makes it accessible for families, couples, and groups of friends to enjoy a taste of the high life amidst the sweeping valleys and distant rising mountains. For a different perspective, Old Town showcases this historic Southern California community’s 1800s buildings, Wild West vibe, and charming mom-and-pop shops.
Two Harbors
Nestled on the less-visited west end of Santa Catalina Island, the most popular of the Channel Islands, Two Harbors is a rustic village that treasures its quiet existence away from the crowds that flock to Avalon. Just 22 miles from the Southern California mainland, this idyllic retreat, squeezed between Isthmus Cove and Catalina Harbor, welcomes a limited number of tourists. Arriving via high-speed ferry from San Pedro or by private vessel reveals the village’s charm, with over 700 moorings for rent signaling a heartfelt welcome. An alternative is the Discover Two Harbors Cyclone Power Boat from Avalon, inviting visitors to explore this paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering everything from snorkeling and world-class scuba diving in crystal-clear waters.
Enjoy the simplicity of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, camping, kayaking, boating, and fishing in the cool ocean breeze, or simply relax under the warm sun harborside. Harbor Sands, featuring the Harbor Reef Restaurant, offers signature food and drinks on a waterfront deck, while accommodations like the historic Banning House Lodge, Villa Santa Cruz, and Villa Santa Rosa, alongside some of the best campgrounds in California, cater to every preference. From its early inhabitants, the American Indians, to being a refuge for Spanish explorers, fur traders, and pirates, the village’s history is rich and varied. Despite its past as a military outpost during the Civil War and its role in Hollywood films, today’s Two Harbors is a peaceful retreat where one might even encounter American Bison, introduced for the movie "The Vanishing American."
The Takeaway
These ten underrated gems throughout Southern California's vast tapestry each deserve a closer look, embodying the allure of the underappreciated while showcasing the Golden State's diversity. From the serene ambiance of La Presa, a short drive from downtown San Diego, to the vineyard-dotted landscapes of Temecula, where indulging in a glass of wine or a hot-air balloon ride over the vineyards is within everyone's reach, these towns offer unique experiences far from the beaten path.
