The Best Small Towns in Northern California to Chill Out In 2024
While Northern California may grab less attention than its southern counterpart, it is no less exciting. What makes this region most tourist-worthy are the many charming small towns that capture the heart and soul of the region through their innumerable attractions, cozy ambiance, and rich cultures. From the gorgeous beaches of Sausalito and Carmel-by-the-Sea to the vineyards of Calistoga and the Sierra Nevada Mountains in Bishop, here is a list of some of Northern California's best towns to spend quality time with loved ones.
Sausalito
Sausalito is a relaxing community known for its eclectic dining cuisine, natural scenery, and a floating home community. Over 400 multi-colored houseboats exist, and it is one of the biggest attractions in the community and shows off the town's creative side. The town also houses a number of award-winning art galleries like Studio 333 and The Studio Shop. The diverse dining options include Scoma's of Sausalito, Poggio Trattoria, and The Trident. This fun and artsy town is near the Golden Gate Bridge and provides excellent views of San Francisco Bay, which only adds to the charm of Sausalito.
Nevada City
Founded in 1849 at the height of the Gold Rush, the town of Nevada added the "City" to avoid confusion with the neighboring state. It is California's best-preserved Gold Rush town, evidenced by the historic downtown. The downtown area holds treasures like the National Hotel, Nevada Theater, and the Miners Foundry Cultural Center, which are available to view along the walking tour.
Nevada City is also the gateway to the Tahoe National Forest and has stellar views of the Northern Sierra Mountains and lush forests. If you take the walking tour, don't forget to stroll past the rows of beautiful Victorian homes and Firehouse No. 1. The firehouse is the most photographed structure in Nevada City and has been a museum since 1947.
Carmel-By-The-Sea
Carmel By The Sea is a small community on Monterrey Bay and one of the prettiest in California. It has always been a hub for creatives and artists; over 100 galleries and antique stores represent artists' works. Ocean Avenue is the most famous road leading to majestic Carmel Beach. Don't forget to find the hidden passageways downtown.
`The charming downtown area is very walkable, with hidden gems and courtyards down 28 hidden passageways. Downtown was built in the 1920s with fairy tale cottages designed by Hugh Comstock, and today, it includes extraordinary restaurants. Chez Noir was recently awarded the prestigious honor for its European-inspired cuisine. The views, walkability, and dining make this one of the best places to chill in the region.
Half Moon Bay
Half Moon Bay is a popular surfing destination south of San Francisco. Coastline Trail connects Half Moon Beach to Pillar Point, near the world-renowned surf break of Mavericks. For a more chill time than big wave riding, downtown offers historic buildings on Main Street and many shopping and dining options.
The Summer and Fall seasons offer several festivals like Shakespeare in Carter's Park and the Art and Pumpkin Festival. If you are an art lover, this is the town for you; pick up an Art Walk map and discover artistic works of every type. This historic surfing locale has an exceptional cultural and dining scene and provides the perfect respite for relaxation.
Calistoga
In the heart of Napa Valley, Calistoga is known for its hot springs and sophisticated wineries. The most notable spring is the Old Faithful Geyser, one of only three in the world with the "faithful" moniker. One of the more prominent wineries is the Castello Di Amorosa, set in a replica of a 14th-century castle. The elegant setting offers wine tasting and food pairings daily.
Sterling Vineyards is another staple in the Napa Valley. Founded in 1964, it was among the first to introduce Bourdeaux-inspired red wines, putting Napa Valley terroir on the map. For lodging, the Indian Springs Calistoga is hard to beat. It is a four-star Bohemian retreat with a 1910 mineral pool and elegant furnishings, a perfect lodge for a chill weekend.
Eureka
Eureka is a graceful port town with Humboldt Bay on one side and beautiful mountain ranges on the other. Its Old Town section is filled with elegant Victorian Mansions, including the famed Carson Mansion. This historic town includes over 1,500 structures built in the mid-19th century, including Queen Anne architecture, and there are tours to explore this fascinating history.
A fantastic attraction is the Redwood Sky Walk at the Sequoia Park Zoo. The wooden bridge is 100 feet above the redwood forest floor and is a unique vantage point from which to view California's diverse ecology and natural beauty. After a day of Skywalking or exploring the architecture, dine at one of the many restaurants, like Tavern 1888 or Humboldt Bay Provisions.
Bishop
The mountain town of Bishop is charming, has friendly people, and offers many outdoor adventures. For a more chill visit, walk through the downtown area, surrounded by the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the west and the White Mountains to the east. You can also take the Big Loop AutoTour, a 62-mile driving tour through Bishop's fantastic backyard.
The walkable downtown has attractions like the Laws Railroad Museum and Historical Site. The 11-acre property contains an 1888 railway depot and the last train that ran through the region. Afterward, stop in at the historic Whiskey Creek restaurant. This fine dining establishment opened in 1924 and serves American fare and Western barbeque.
Mammoth Lakes
Mammoth Lakes is a stunningly beautiful town in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It is known for skiing in the Mammoth and June Mountains, hiking, and Rainbow Falls. It is also home to the Devil's Postpile National Monument, a geological wonder that has been federally protected since 1911 and includes the 101-foot Rainbow Falls.
If relaxing is on your agenda, dip in one of the many hot springs in the area. Wild Willy's and Rock Tub Hot Springs are two popular options. The June Lake Loop is a scenic drive around many picturesque lakes that is even more stunning in the Fall. The natural beauty of Mammoth Lakes is breathtaking, and it can be enjoyed on foot or by vehicle. It is one of the best places to visit in 2024.
Surfers and beachcombers will love Half Moon Bay, outdoor enthusiasts will love Bishop, and oenophiles will love Calistoga. In fact, all the towns in the list above are special in their own way. Northern California has much to do, but you can relax and soak in the exquisite natural beauty. Whatever your definition of chilling out is, you can find it in these towns.
