These Small Towns in Northern California Come Alive in Summer
When planning a trip to California, the bigger cities often come to mind; people generally tend to flock to their fantastic urban settings, buzzing downtowns, and iconic postcard attractions–and for a good reason. But while places like Los Angeles and San Francisco will always have their merit, there are also so many equally amazing, lesser-known gems waiting to be discovered. Northern California is dotted with small towns that fit this very description. And although these small towns may not carry quite the same volume of the hustle and bustle found in California's larger cities, they offer their own unique and epic travel opportunities, bursting with infectiously active, close-knit communities that come alive during the summer months. These small towns welcome visitors to indulge in their romantic shorelines, redwood forest terrains, and other breathtaking natural wonders to experience a different side of California–a California off the beaten trail.
Ferndale
Northern California is especially known for its magnificent redwood forests, making Ferndale a must-see small town for those looking to immerse themselves in the wonders of these ancient and enormous trees. The town prides itself on being a redwood home base of sorts, as it is located between Humboldt Redwoods State Park and the Redwoods National and State Parks, meaning you will definitely have the benefit of visiting one or more parks depending on how much time you have. So whether you are hoping to solo hike or stroll the redwood forests with family and friends, Ferndale is a hiker's oasis, ideally located in between some of Northern California's most iconic redwood landscapes. The icing on the cake, though, is Ferndale's adorable accommodation options; lodging includes a range of ornate Victorian structures, including inns, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. Some popular and highly reviewed examples include Gingerbread Mansion, the Shaw House Inn, or the Old Rectory. All in all, Ferndale is by all means the perfect embodiment of history in nature and architecture alike, which is why this highly sought-after Northern California destination should make it onto your travel list this summer.
Jenner
Jenner is a darling coastal town in Northern California whose picturesque beaches and sunsets lure visitors from near and far. Like many coastal towns during the summer, Jenner is especially vibrant and alive during its warmer months, welcoming visitors to enjoy popular local spots like Goat Rock Beach. Supposedly named for the goats that grazed near the beach over a hundred years ago, Goat Rock Beach is one of the Sonoma Coast's most beloved beaches due to its scenic sandy shores along the Russian River, which leads into the Pacific Ocean. This fantastic location means that whale sightings are a fairly common yet treasured experience at Goat Rock Beach, and visitors are also likely to encounter Pacific Harbor Seals and other memorable wildlife. It is worth noting that the town currently hosts two main lodges: River's End Restaurant & Inn, and Jenner Inn. However, there are also other vacation rental options and nearby coastal lodges if you find these options are fully booked.
Bodega Bay
With breathtaking access to the Pacific Ocean, Bodega Bay is a stunning and humble fishing village with an impressive list of must-see natural attractions, delectable oceanside dining, and unique coastal lodging. Bodega Head, for example, is one of the village's favored spots; this serene and rugged stony cliff offers incomparable views overlooking the Pacific, making it an ideal place to picnic, stroll, and whale watch. Keeping with its coastal vibe, The Tides Wharf & Restaurant is one of Bodega Bay's most popular dining options, known for its locally caught seafood and spectacular waterfront views. Alternatively, if you are feeling a bit more adventurous and want to try catching your own dinner, Bodega Bay also offers fishing gear rentals and local charter fishing cruises. To savor your fresh catch, the town is brimming with countless cliffside and waterfront home and cottage rentals equipped with kitchens, perfect for preparing the ultimate fresh seafood feast. For these reasons and more, Bodega Bay is known to be incredibly popular during the summer months, especially for travelers hoping to take advantage of a California coastal town that many would consider an underrated gem.
Guerneville
With the glorious Russian River running through the heart of Guerneville, it is truly no wonder this spirited cottage town welcomes so many visitors during the summer. The community is by all means a nature lover's haven; whether you are hoping to walk amongst California's ancient and awe-inspiring redwoods or enjoy a sunkissed beach day, Guerneville has you covered. The town is home to Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve (just a few miles from the town's main street, in fact), so if you are visiting Guerneville, you pretty much have direct access to the glory of this spectacular nature sanctuary and its 805 acres of redwood forest. The town also takes pride in Johnson's Beach, a beloved local spot ideal for kayaking, tubing, sunbathing, swimming, beach combing, and of course: relaxing. Johnson's Beach kindly offers several gear rental opportunities to make your beach day as simple as possible, including kayaks, canoes, beach umbrellas, and beach chairs. For the ultimate ease and comfort, the beach is also a popular overnight destination, with cozy cabin rentals and comfortable campgrounds.
Dunsmuir
Known as a gateway to unbelievable waterfalls and equally incredible lakes, Dunsmuir is a Northern California mountain town with a lot to offer–especially when it comes to its stunning water-based landscapes. The town is located in the beautiful Trinity Mountains, and you can find the quaint community nestled on the Sacramento River. In addition to offering exceptional river recreation, the town is also a gateway to serene waterfalls such as Sweetbriar Falls or Hedge Creek Falls, just a scenic hike away. Located just 3 miles from Dunsmuir, you can also find Castle Crags State Park, whose iconic hiking trails feature views of the astonishing, rugged rock formations. These stunning landscapes are just the tip of Dunsmuir's iceberg, though, which is why it makes sense that its summertime tourism had consistently boomed since the 1800s when the construction of a railroad lured visitors from the surrounding areas. To truly experience the town's rich railroad history, today you can stay at the town's Railroad Park Resort and Dining Car Restaurant, whose restored vintage caboose rooms and dining car are arguably one of the most unique accommodation opportunities in Northern California.
Sonora
At the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, visitors can find the beautiful town of Sonora: a modern municipality named after the Sonora Mexico miners who settled there in 1848. Today, the town proudly maintains its Gold Rush history through its charming, picturesque downtown, where you can marvel at the historic buildings and architecture–many of which now contain elegant shops and restaurants. In addition to strolling the town's vibrant streets, you can hike through the town's Dragoon Gulch Trail, a string of scenic nature trails leading through Mother Lode's woodlands in the heart of Sonora with amazing views of the surrounding mountain and city. With its combination of history, nature, and modern comforts, Sonora is a town that welcomes visitors year-round but is especially popular to explore during the summer months, making it a great addition to your summer travel list.
Trinidad
Located in Humboldt Country, Trinidad is a Pacific coastal town in Northern California favored for its picturesque beaches and beautiful offshore rocks. Home to ten public beaches, even though Trinidad is one of California's smallest incorporated towns, its unique shores draw visitors from all over during the summer months. From vacation rentals to bed and breakfasts and RV parks to inns, Trinidad is equipped with a range of accommodation options for any type of traveler. Trinidad Bay Bed & Breakfast Hotel, Turtle Rocks Oceanfront Inn, and Azalea Glen RV Park are just a handful of the town's highly sought-after and admired accommodations, each with their own unique benefits–whether that be a more peaceful seclusion, a more lively location in the heart of town, or the perk of an ocean view. Ultimately, Trinidad is a beach town that truly epitomizes an adventure off the beaten path and is a must-see for those looking to explore Northern California's lively beach communities.
When it comes to traveling in Northern California, oftentimes, the ideal vacation destination is a small town, or community one might normally underestimate. To truly escape the ordinary, a trip to any of these small Northern California towns will help you find the extraordinary sights, experiences, and opportunities you are looking for. Venture away from the postcard destinations this summer to experience these surprisingly lively and spirited communities by yourself or with family and friends; you may even find yourself searching for more underrated small towns to explore in the future.
