California's Best Small Towns for a Weekend Escape
California is a large and varied state in terms of natural beauty. Encompassing most of the Pacific coast of the United States, you can go surfing or golfing one day, and rock climbing or skiing the next, all within the same state. Aside from the big and notable cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, or even San Diego, you can find many small towns dotted throughout California's many differing landscapes that pack just as much character and beauty. Today, we will be looking at 10 of the best of these small towns for an ideal weekend escape in the Golden State. Gas up, pack some clothes, and get ready for the ultimate weekend road trip!
Julian
Julian, a historic gold mining town in the Cuyamaca Mountains just east of San Diego, is fun for the historian and the sightseer alike. Step back in time by exploring the Eagle Mining Co., where guided tours will reveal the town's Gold Rush past and info stories about the people who lived here during that time. For more historical action, the Julian Pioneer Museum contains exhibits about the original settlers of Julian, displaying artifacts and exhibits dating from the 19th century and beyond.
For nature lovers, nearby Cuyamaca Rancho State Park is filled with miles of trails, perfect for day hikes, and campgrounds, for a less expensive stay outdoors while you're here. For something perhaps a little more comfortable, and indoors, the Julian Gold Rush Hotel, California's oldest continuously operating hotel, adds to the historic draw of this town. This charming bed-and-breakfast features Victorian-style rooms.
Hungry for a snack after a day of traveling around? Julian is also famous for its apple pies, and a visit to the Julian Pie Company is a must for any visitor.
Solvang
Looking for a unique European escape close to your home in California? Solvang, a Danish-inspired town in California's Santa Ynez Valley, is known for its distinctive architecture, along with much more to do and see in and around town. Find a range of experiences here, from exploring historic sites to enjoying the surrounding natural beauty.
The Old Mission Santa Inés, dating back to 1804, gives a look into California's early history, primarily about the American and Spanish pioneers who originally settled in this region. For that Danish culture which you likely came here to experience, visit the Elverhøj Museum of History & Art, which highlights the notable amount Danish settlers who came to Solvang. Outdoor enthusiasts can venture to the nearby Santa Ynez Mountains for hiking and amazing vista views around this southern California town.
To stay, the Hotel Corque is a popular choice with modern amenities and convenient access to downtown Solvang. This boutique hotel is an excellent base for exploring the town's many bakeries, shops, and wine-tasting rooms in this ideal wine-growing region.
Mendocino
Mendocino, located on California's northern coast, offers visitors a picturesque escape with its rugged coastline and notable Victorian architecture downtown.
Start your visit at the Mendocino Headlands State Park, where you can explore miles of scenic trails with ideal views of the Pacific Ocean. For a touch of history, the Kelley House Museum provides insights into the region's long history, while the Mendocino Art Center showcases work done by local artists. Spend your afternoon at Portuguese Beach or partake in something a little more demanding at Point Mendocino Trail, both within walking distance from the small downtown core.
Accommodation at the MacCallum House Inn adds to the experience, offering historic charm in a building constructed in 1882 and modern comfort.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel-by-the-Sea, a coastal gem on the Monterey Peninsula, is popular for its extensive white-sand beaches and historic landmarks. Make sure to spend at least one afternoon at Carmel Beach, a spot that is not only a great place to relax but has great surf and attracts surfers from around the world.
Learn more about the history of Carmel-by-the-Sea at the Mission San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo, founded in 1771. Here, you can partake in an educational experience in this wonderfully maintained structure. You may like the numerous galleries scattered throughout the town, with the Carmel Art Association Gallery being a highly recommended spot.
For a comfortable stay, La Playa Carmel offers a historic yet luxurious accommodation option. This hotel, set in a restored mansion, contains beautifully landscaped gardens and viewpoints over the ocean on its property.
Ojai
Ojai, a small town in the Topatopa Mountains just north of Los Angeles, has many excellent attractions for those who are interested in the arts and the culture of this coastal region. To start, the Ojai Valley Museum is full of exhibits on local history, art, and culture and is based in a Spanish-style former Catholic church. For a unique shopping experience nearby, stroll down Ojai Avenue in the town's downtown core, home to locally owned stores, galleries, and cafes. The Ojai Valley Inn is a popular place to rest your head, with its top-notch accommodations, golf course, and spa services all within reach.
The area surrounding town is worth checking out too, with the Ojai Meadows Preserve, a beautiful spot for wildlife-watching and hiking being a short drive away. Don't miss the chance to visit the Meditation Mount, where you can see panoramic views of the Ojai Valley, especially famous for sunsets. The sunsets in this area, due to its geography, are particularly beautiful and are locally known as "pink moments" while they last.
Nevada City
In the Sierra Nevada mountains, near the pristine Lake Tahoe, Nevada City offers a clear window into Califonia's pioneer past, with its well-preserved 19th-century mines and buildings, amongst other attractions.
Be sure to see the Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum, and continue your explorations at the historic Nevada Theatre, California’s oldest existing theater. This old theater hosts a variety of performances and events on a regular basis. Buy your tickets on the spot or in advance online.
Take a drive to the nearby South Yuba River State Park, which is chock-full of hiking trails, swimming holes, and picnic spots for a scenic lunch out in the desert. After a day of adventure, lodging at the National Exchange Hotel, a beautifully restored Victorian inn, offers a unique blend of history and modern comfort. This landmark hotel, dating back to 1856, provides elegantly furnished rooms and a central location downtown.
Healdsburg
Situated in the heart of Sonoma County's wine country, Healdsburg is the town to visit for any wine enthusiasts out there. Its world-class vineyards, downtown filled with world-class restaurants and tasting rooms, and surrounding countryside make it a paradise for any wine lover.
Start with a stroll around Healdsburg Plaza, the town's center, featuring gourmet restaurants like Dry Creek Kitchen, and renowned tasting rooms like the LIOCO Wine Tasting Room, The Meeker Vineyard Tasting Room, and many more. Visit the nearby Dry Creek Vineyard, which provides you with an excellent opportunity to taste more of the region's finest wines right from the source. Finish your night in the Hotel Healdsburg, a highly recommended hotel smack dab in the center of downtown Healdsburg.
Explore the countryside at spots like the Healdsburg Ridge Open Space Preserve, a park that offers miles of trails for walks of varying lengths, all with great views of the Russian River and the surrounding vineyards.
Pacific Grove
Another town on the Monterey Peninsula above Monterey Bay, Pacific Grove is celebrated for its coastal scenery and other maritime-related landmarks. For one, the Point Pinos Lighthouse is the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the West Coast and is located at the northern tip of town beside the equally scenic Pacific Grove Golf Links. The Monarch Grove Sanctuary is another must-visit, where thousands of monarch butterflies migrate each year, creating a spectacular natural display. For more leisurely outdoor activity, the Pacific Grove Coastal Recreation Trail is a scenic route that is perfect for walking or biking along the Pacific coastline.
The Seven Gables Inn is an inviting place to rest during your visit. Enjoy its Victorian-style architecture and unbeatable views of the ocean from many of its rooms.
St. Helena
Sitting in Napa Valley (another renowned grape-growing region in California), St. Helena is widely visited for its premium wineries, upscale dining, and scenery. New visitors to this town are recommended to take a tour of the iconic Beringer Vineyards, the oldest continuously operating winery in Napa Valley, where you can enjoy tastings and see its famous cellars up close. Foodies will appreciate The Culinary Institute of America at Greystone, an institution that offers cooking classes, demonstrations, and a top-rated restaurant run by the students of the school The food is of course served with only the best local wines.
A hike up to the peak of Mount St. Helena is well worth it. From the top, you will get unobstructed views of the surrounding wine country and hills. After a long day of wine tasting, eating, and hiking, you can sleep at the Harvest Inn by Charlie Palmer, a luxurious hotel set amid vineyards and lush gardens.
Avalon
Avalon, the only incorporated town on Santa Catalina Island, will give you a unique island escape with its Mediterranean-like climate and crystal-clear waters. Access to Santa Catalina Island is open via a number of ferry services starting from Los Angeles.
A first-time visit is made complete at the iconic Catalina Casino in downtown Avalon, a historic building that houses a theater, ballroom, and museum that gives insight into the island’s history. Explore more of the natural side of Avalon at the Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden, a destination that is full of native plants and lookout points over the island.
Accommodation at the Pavilion Hotel provides a comfortable and stylish stay, with modern amenities and a prime location just steps from the beach at the edge of town. This hotel features spacious rooms, complimentary breakfast, and an optional evening wine and cheese reception.
Make Your Weekend Escape in California Special
As you can clearly see, California is jam-packed with things to see and do at every corner. Whether it is the big city life in Los Angeles that you would like to experience or a more charming small town, there is something for everyone in this vast and beautiful state. Check out wine country, visit a Gold Rush-inspired museum, or go for a hike in the hills, the possibilities are endless. When it comes down to it, the only limiting factor is the amount of gas in your tank.
