9 Old-World Towns to Visit on the Pacfic Coast
There is more to the Pacific Coast than just surf life and Baywatch. It is more than just a pretty face with its glistening waves and dramatic cliffs. This coastal wonderland of over 1,200 miles is home to small historic towns that could give any blockbuster a run for its money. The Pacific Coast is where you will find the tallest trees on Earth, the coastal redwoods, soaring higher than you ever thought a tree could. Washington, Oregon, and California are also part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, nature’s version of a hot yoga class—plenty of earthquakes and volcanic activity, but somehow, it all works out in the end! Historically, these towns are as rich as a triple chocolate cake, dating back as far as 1542 when the Spanish first settled in Old Town San Diego. Each town is a delightful mix of quirky charm and an intriguing past, inviting you to explore art galleries, savor local bites, and maybe even discover a ghost story or two. Book a flight or simply fuel up the RV, and head out to discover these nine Pacific Coast locales that are just waiting to share their tales and treasures with you!
Mendocino, California
Mendocino will greet you and your family with a warm, artistic vibe that feels as inviting as a cozy cottage on a stormy day. Established in the mid-1800s as a lumber town, its historic buildings stand tall, speaking to an era when timber ruled the land. One cannot overlook the dramatic coastline at Mendocino Headlands State Park, where rugged cliffs meet the relentless ocean waves and bubbling sea foam, creating a symphony of nature’s raw beauty. Hikers can wander through trails decorated with native plants, perfect for a bit of rejuvenation and meditation amidst the elements.
Art has flourished in Mendocino, drawing in writers and creators like moths to a flame. The local art scene sparkles with creativity, which is evident during events like the Mendocino Film Festival held at the end of May, which attracts cinephiles eager to explore storytelling in its many forms. For a dive into the area’s past, the Kelley House Museum is a fount of information on logging and the town’s founding. Meanwhile, just a hop and skip away, the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens are where you will discover a sensory feast, blending nature with ocean vistas that seem to stretch on forever.
Cannon Beach, Oregon
Cannon Beach is where the Pacific’s waves crash against the famous Haystack Rock, evoking a sense of wonder and delight that can only be truly appreciated in person. This seaside town began as a humble fishing village in the 1800s, yet it has transformed into a beloved destination for those seeking both adventure and tranquility. Standing guard at the shoreline, Haystack Rock is not just a scenic backdrop; it is a vibrant marine sanctuary, home to diverse sea creatures that thrive in the tide pools.
The Cannon Beach History Center and Museum contains a plethora of artifacts that tell the story of the area’s early settlers, making for a delightful stop to escape the heat and stimulate the minds of children on break from school. Outdoor lovers can relish activities like beachcombing or hiking in Ecola State Park, where trails wind through lush forests with breathtaking views of the entire area. Lastly, the annual Sandcastle Contest turns the beach into an artist's arena and continues the entertainment for children, where sand sculptors create wonders that boggle the mind.
San Juan Bautista, California
The Next stop on your Pacific Coast journey is San Juan Bautista, a charming haven where history feels palpable in the air. Founded in 1797, this town is home to the historic Mission San Juan Bautista, one of California's original missions that has served daily mass for over two hundred years. The Plaza Historic District, with its adobe buildings and colonial architecture, transports visitors back to a time when this town served as a crucial stop along El Camino Real, the route connecting California’s missions.
Annual festivities, like the San Juan Bautista Art and Wine Festival, shine a spotlight on local artisans and vineyards, turning the town into a lively celebration of creativity, while also being a great option for couples getaways. For outdoor adventurers, hiking trails in the surrounding hills provide sweeping views of the Salinas Valley and chances to spot local wildlife, like at the Trailhead for Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail. Additionally, the San Juan Bautista State Historic Park is a must-visit, featuring original buildings and exhibits that breathe life into local history through regular reenactments.
Trinidad, California
Not to be confused with its Caribbean namesake, Trinidad, a quaint seaside town, invites visitors to explore its heritage while enjoying its natural elegance. Established in the 1850s as a lumber shipping port, Trinidad has managed to preserve much of its historic architecture, creating a sense of nostalgia with every stroll down its charming streets. Trinidad State Beach is home to not only stunning vistas but also access to hiking trails on Trinidad Head, perfect for those who crave both nature and adventure.
At the Trinidad Museum, exhibits highlight local Native American history and the town’s past, allowing you and your loved ones to appreciate the area’s deep roots. Each year, the town hosts the Fish Festival, giving you the perfect excuse to visit the town while celebrating the local fishing community and promoting sustainable practices that respect the ocean. Trinidad Harbor remains an active fishing port to this day, supporting both commercial and recreational fishing, and adding a touch of historical authenticity to the town. Not only do you get to learn about its fishing exploits and importance but you get to see it in action as well. Seventeen minutes from town, Humboldt Lagoons State Park gives you additional opportunities for kayaking and birdwatching, adding even more options to the outdoor adventures that are possible in Trinidad.
Port Townsend, Washington
Port Townsend, a seafaring hub since its incorporation in 1851, is sure to grant you all the adventure you could possibly hope for. Most known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture, the town is a living gallery, with many buildings gracing the National Historic Register. Walking through the streets feels like slipping into a different era. Every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered. Fort Worden State Park adds another layer of intrigue, featuring historical military structures amidst stunning natural beauty and a plethora of recreational options along the beach and even opportunities to spot the region’s wildlife.
The Port Townsend Marine Science Center invites curious young minds to dive head-first into marine education, shedding light on local ecology and conservation. Meanwhile, the annual Wooden Boat Festival transforms the waterfront into a lively waterfront celebration, showing off craftsmanship and the town’s deep-seated traditions. The Jefferson Museum of Art and History will even further your appreciation for the town, revealing the region’s history, from Native American influences to the gold rush that shaped its creation. As you stroll the waterfront district, shops, galleries, and restaurants, like Doc’s Marina Grill, beckon with views of Puget Sound, making it an ideal spot for an evening meal as the sun sets.
Eureka, California
It does not take an epiphany to see why the town of Eureka should be the next destination on your annual travel plans. The town invites you to stroll its streets lined with over one hundred historic buildings in the Old Town district. The Victorian architecture here is like an extravagant dress from the formal events of the era for which the style gets its name—bold, colorful, and impossible to ignore. Among the notable sites, the Carson Mansion, built in 1886, reigns as a landmark, now serving as a private club that makes you wish for a peek inside its storied halls.
This charming town sprang to life during the Gold Rush, later becoming a crucial hub for the timber industry. The Clarke Historical Museum located in Old Town, displays everything from Native American artifacts to gold rush memorabilia. For those who appreciate a bit of grit with their history, the nearby Lost Coast is where you will find remote beaches and hiking trails that challenge even the most seasoned adventurer.
Pacific Grove, California
One of the best towns on the Pacific coast for an escape from the daily grind is Pacific Grove, especially for families. Established in the late 1800s as a Methodist retreat, this town has beautifully preserved its historic buildings, each one telling a story, like Chautauqua Hall built in 1881. Another thing this town is famous for is its Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary, thousands of butterflies migrate here annually, creating a fluttering spectacle that enchants locals and visitors alike.
The Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History dives deep into local ecology and wildlife, offering an inside look that makes even the most casual visitor feel like a naturalist. For a bit of action outside in the fresh sea air, biking along the coastal recreation trail or exploring Point Lobos State Natural Reserve provides every chance you need to enjoy the surrounding natural wonders. While you are in town do not miss the Point Pinos Lighthouse, the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the West Coast, guiding mariners while standing proud as a beacon of history and resilience.
Astoria, Oregon
Positioned where the Columbia and Young Rivers kiss the Pacific, Astoria is a historical wonder that practically drips with tales of adventure. Founded in 1811 as a fur trading post, it claims the title of Oregon's oldest city. As coon as you arrive in this town the first activity that should be on your list is to ascend the Astoria Column, a concrete and steel structure built in 1926 surrounded by thirty acres of park, which gifts onlookers with breathtaking views of the river and its Mt. Saint Helens in the distance. History enthusiasts will revel in the Columbia River Maritime Museum, where maritime artifacts narrate stories of ships, sailors, and the relentless waves that shaped this region.
Wandering through downtown, the Victorian-era architecture serves as a nod to the city’s past, with many buildings holding a prestigious spot on the National Register of Historic Places. Astoria’s significance deepened during the Lewis and Clark Expedition, marking it as their final destination in 1805. To celebrate this maritime legacy, the annual Astoria Regatta brings parades and boat races, transforming the town into a festive hub since 1894. Of course, it goes without saying that no visit to town would be complete without finding the perfect spot to dip your feet into the water surrounding the town.
Cambria, California
Founded in the mid-1800s as another logging town, Cambria and its early buildings have stood the test of time, creating a backdrop that feels both nostalgic and inviting. The artistic community thrives here, with over a dozen galleries and studios, such as the Vault Gallery and the town's Center of the Arts, demonstrating the work of talented local artists, making it an absolute must-see for art aficionados.
Just a stone’s throw fifteen-minute drive away, Hearst Castle awaits, once the opulent estate of newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. Tours highlight its lavish past, leaving visitors in awe of its grandeur. Meanwhile, outdoor adventures lay waiting at Moonstone Beach, where tide pooling and coastal walks act as a natural playground for children revealing nature’s hidden treasures. The Cambria Historical Museum documents the town's journey, preserving stories from its logging days to its current artistic identity. Annual events, like the Cambria Art and Wine Festival, celebrate local artisans and the town’s creative spirit and make for a perfect time to visit the town and explore all the wonders it has to offer.
Whether you are wandering through the Victorian streets of Eureka, marveling at the butterflies in Pacific Grove, or soaking in the artistic vibes of Cambria, every corner of the Pacific coast offers a glimpse into a rich past that continues to thrive today. These towns invite you to savor local flavors, explore natural wonders, and connect with the vibrant personalities that call them home. There is so much more to the West Coast than Malibu, Hollywood, and San Francisco. So get out there and find out what adventure awaits.
