The Best Small Towns in Pacific Coast to Chill Out In 2024

Encompassing the west coast of the US, the Pacific Coast is defined by rugged shores and coastal forests. Weaving old-world charm and cultural gems into the fresh ocean breezes, the small fishing towns and sailing ports give way to a slice of the Pacific tide and landscape for every taste. The towering cliffs feature trails and viewpoints, while the sandy oceanfronts call for relaxation. From surfing meccas to cozy beach towns, each beguiles with a unique flavor of authentic seaside living.

Stroll around sea stacks in La Push or shop locally in Port Orford, while Westport offers access to the adventurous Grays Harbor. Cannon Beach and Morro Bay astound every day with spectacular rock formations. A delicious slab of olallieberry pie will not spoil your appetite for a seafood dinner in the artsy town of Cambria, just a hop from the iconic Hearst Castle. Redwoods, lighthouses, and Olympic National Park offer a peaceful backdrop for memorable adventures and photo opportunities.

Cambria, California

This little gem along a dramatic section of California's central coast is picturesque all the way through its artsy downtown. Incorporated in the 1970s in San Luis Obispo County, Cambria transports you to an old storybook cover with its historic houses, boutique shops, and galleries that add a splash of color to the lovingly preserved old facades. Guthrie Bianchini House is one of Cambria's oldest homes, now the Cambria Historical Museum, and it has artifacts from the past. Even the connoisseurs are stunned by the artwork at Vault, Artifacts, and Mission Galleries. Stock up on gifts and decor at the popular Antiques on Main and Rich Man, Poor Man Antiques, and quiet your grumbling stomach with a delicious slab of olallieberry pie before a seafood dinner at a quirky restaurant. Offering the outdoors from the doorstep, Cambria's Moonstone Beach features slick pebbles and a scenic boardwalk.

Take a stroll through the splashes, where all you can hear is the ocean, with access to surfing and sandcastle-building. Fiscalini Ranch Preserve features trails like the Bluff Trail, which has scenic ocean views and natural landmarks. Pitch a tent by the sea with access to other outdoor attractions and downtown hotspots like Linn's Easy As Pie Cafe's sweet patio seating. Just north, in San Simeon, Hearst Castle is a 20th-century mansion built by the eponymous media magnate at the crown of Hearst San Simeon State Park. Nearby, Piedras Blancas is home to the awkwardly charming elephant seals. Catch the fiery sunset behind the 1875 Piedras Blancas Light Station, part of a protected area offering guided tours.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Surrounded by beaches, Cannon Beach is a popular all-season town with a natural feature that makes it unlike any other along the Pacific Coast. Haystack Rock, an immense monolith protruding from the sea, offers a fantastic vista just off-shore from the picturesque beach. Here, it is all about basking in the sun, strolls, or picnics against the dramatic 235-foot sea stack and more boulders scattered scenically behind. The Cannon Beach History Center and Museum on South Spruce Street reveal the story behind the small town, from its first days to its almost instant climb to fame. From restaurants to pubs and boutiques, many enjoy the art galleries on Hemlock Street, including the DragonFire and Bronze Coast galleries, as well as the whimsical cottages and easy access to the beach.

Seeking serenity? Take a quiet walk along Tolovana Beach within town against the undulating views. To dine, you won't be remiss at the Bistro, Bill’s Tavern and Brewhouse, or Driftwood Restaurant and Lounge, while Mo's Seafood & Chowder and Pelican Brewing host casual, top-rated locations here. Just south, Arcadia Beach State Recreation Site is a low-key, sprawling area for your favorite activities along a sandy beach and picnic spots, with restrooms and parking. John Yeon State Natural Site is located at Chapman Point, offering views of Bird Rocks in the ocean. Onwards, past Crescent Beach, the Ecola Point Viewpoint and Indian Beach Trail mark the outskirts of the iconic state park.

La Push, Washington

Welcoming Twilight fans and their friends, the little village from the screen is so much fun to explore against the infamous backdrop of Olympic National Park. As a year-round springboard for adventures, the northern coastal beauty changes dress according to traditional seasons. Its protected, pristine wilderness brings the word "raw" to mind, impressing even the most weathered travelers. The active can enjoy lengthy hikes through the surrounding forests, while those seeking to relax will find the beach drenched in unreplicable serenity and salty air. Take a guided kayak paddle along the coast and hit Rialto Beach, an otherworldly landscape of iconic sea stacks, geological formations, and driftwood with views of Little James Island.

Home to a small but active population, including the Quileute Indians living on their reservation, the attractions weave the culture into the natural world seamlessly. The tidal pools of First Beach are a spot to wade around after work, while the pounding surf is like a lullaby at night after a weekend of surfing. Enjoy daily morning java at the Native Espresso and stop by the Lonesome Creek Store & Resort for all your provisions, gifts, and a friendly chat with the owners. For local native culture, the Museum at the Quileute Tribal Center spotlights exhibits, heritage, and tribal traditions. From the Quileute Marina to James Island View Point for a sunset watch, River's Edge Restaurant is right between the two overlooking James Island.

Morro Bay, California

Home to the eponymous ancient volcanic mound, Morro Bay awakens the soul, calling out to seafarers and tourists to "come get salty" in the "Land of SloCal." Find the iconic monolith at the end of Morro Rock Beach, basking under the sun among the rugged coastal scenery. Sunbathe yourself or take a leisurely stroll along the sand, gazing into the seaside harbor with marine life like dolphins, seals, and otters. The active can enjoy stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, world-class surfing, swimming, and bayside trails. As an authentic fishing town, every day is "a new catch," according to the local fishermen, hauling in fresh seafood and oysters to oceanfront restaurants and seaside markets. To unwind local-style, the infamous barrel-aged sour beer hits the spot; otherwise, hit the infamous Embarcadero dockside amid unique shops, art galleries, and fun for the entire family.

Just north, the unassuming Morro Strand State Beach is perfect for picnics, fishing, windsurfing, and kite-flying. Further, the most popular Morro Bay Dog Beach must be "where the dogs go to heaven." Just north of Main Street, Morro Bay State Park is made for sailing, fishing, hiking, bird-watching, and golfing, while Bayshore Bluffs Park is a cozy hilltop spot to spy on boats by day and take in the sunset. From whale-watching tours to sunset dinner cruises and fishing charters, step into natural history at the Museum of Natural History with interactive ecology exhibits, education, and a gift shop set authentically along a scenic estuary. From Morro Bay State Park Boardwalk, take the wooden Marina Peninsula Trail back to your campsite at the state park, featuring cozy seafront amenities like coin showers and easy-access restrooms and eateries.

Pacific Grove, California

With Pacific built into its name, the rocky and curving Monterey Bay shore is a great place to chill out if you enjoy an unapologetically traditional attitude. Complementing the setting, the vintage downtown is never overcrowded to explore on a leisurely walk or bike ride along the narrow streets winding along 19th-century cottages. But wait until you hit the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, from Jewell Ave. to Ocean View Blvd. Offering an exhilarating excursion spanning 18 miles along the shore north to Castroville, Pacific Grove’s stretch alone is very attractive. It is just a detour to the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row in Monterey, but wildlife like harbor seals and sea otters just offshore is just as exciting. Loop back to the starting point, Lovers Point Park and Beach, and rent a kayak out if you're hungry for more at the aptly named Adventures by the Sea.

Blending historic architecture into unspoiled nature, Asilomar State Beach & Conference Grounds flaunts the largest conglomeration of Arts and Crafts-style buildings by Julia Morgan, who designed the Hearst Castle. From the boardwalk through the dunes to the mile-long Asilomar Coast Trail along the shoreline, enjoy sailing, fishing, horseback riding, or wine tasting nearby. For outstanding dining, head to Passionfish for inventive seafood and an extensive wine list without draining your wallet. More than just the local "golf kingdom," Monterey Peninsula Golf is home to the 1855 Point Pinos Lighthouse, the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the West Coast. Come celebrate the month of Halloween in a special way at “Butterfly Town U.S.A.” when flocks of monarch butterflies arrive at Monarch Grove Sanctuary in time for the annual Butterfly Parade & Bazaar, a tradition since 1939.

Port Orford, Oregon

This crossroads town, where the forested mountains meet the ocean on the southern Oregon Coast, flaunts attractions way beyond its tiny reach. Home to just over 1,000, Port Orford bursts with artistic flair and a history of fishing as not just the state's oldest platted coastal city but also the most western one in the continental US. This geographical advantage offers unique opportunities, like the best sunset viewing. Enjoy equally easy access to both Bandon and Gold Beach while exploring the spectacular seascapes or mountain hiking trails for panoramic views. History and art fans rub shoulders with outdoors lovers along the Port Orford to Bandon Art Trail, while Hawthorne Gallery features contemporary art and bold, large-scale abstract paintings.

From ocean sailing and cruises to lakefront recreation, the riverside is perfect for angling, boating, and kayaking, with prime wind sailing conditions. The beguiling Battle Rock Park features a curving beach with off-shore formations like the towering Humbug Mountain. Without strip malls, fast-food chains, and even stoplights, who needs them when you're in no hurry, not taking each day for granted? "Stretch your stomach" along the Wild Rivers Coast Food Trail or give into lounging under the sea breeze on a sandy beach amid rocky hills. The authentic Victorian mansion, Hughes Historic House, is a sight to behold. Just north, Cape Blanco State Park offers access to ocean vistas, wetlands, and an 1870 lighthouse via hiking and horseback riding trails, along with a campground.

Westport, Washington

This town of just over 2,000 tips a peninsula between South Bay to the east and the open Pacific to the west. Whether you're in for adventures or relaxation, Westport is a springboard to chill out mind, body, and soul with easy access to Grays Harbor and sandy beaches, making it a popular summertime escape in Washington. Despite a lively downtown area, Westport Marina exudes peaceful vibes with bobbing fishing boats and patrons sauntering between seafood restaurants to taste the fresh catches of the day. Westport Maritime Museum chronicles the town's thriving maritime heritage and the significant fishing industry. Come for the surfable surf and stay for the authentic fishing village feel, where the fresh seafood and the 1898 Westport Light State Park will call you back for more of both.

This 212-acre oceanfront parkland offers accessible hiking trails with sweeping ocean vistas and saltwater fishing. At its southern edge, Grays Harbor Lighthouse is a significant landmark as Washington’s tallest, 107-foot lighthouse, with tours and top views. Just north, the public beach of Half Moon Bay stays quiet through the high season, while the nearby West Jetty, the peninsular tip, is a dog-friendly, rocky area to explore. In addition, the 225-acre, tree-filled Twin Harbors State Park, just south of town, features yurts, cabins, and RV sites, plus a beach for fishing. Take in the serene sunset along the dog-friendly P. Kelly Boss Ocean Walk Landing in the company of just your loved ones. Home to many lodging options like cottages and inns, the top-rated Kila Hana Camperland connects you to nature right in the heart of town.

Embrace the Coastal Charm

The crashing waves, ship horns, and seagulls over the ocean are the fabric of the Pacific Coast, while the towns seemingly frozen in time reveal charm and a lively feel. Home to family-friendly attractions, take time to meander the streets, spanning from stately Victorian mansions to Mediterranean vibes and storybook cottages all the way to the docks and the beaches. Each town provides a curated coastal experience with unique features like piers, boardwalks, and daunting cliffs.

From famous getaways like Westport to the hidden Native Reservation of La Push, travelers can enjoy fresh seafood and surfing, scenic sunsets and artisan boutiques, as well as a laid-back vibe no matter where they land. Each town prfs. So whether you're on a family vacation or a quick respite from the city, the creme de la creme of the Pacific welcomes you with an optimal mix of adventures, picturesque coastlines, and architectural hearts.