From a Gold Rush-era Outpost to a Storybook Danish Village, These Small Towns Are Full of Character
With its Hollywood stars, redwood forests, surf culture and nine National Parks, it’s little wonder the Golden State is one of the country’s most popular places to visit. But beyond major metropolises like San Francisco and Los Angeles, small towns steeped in history with stellar food scenes and outdoor adventures are drawing those eager for a different kind of weekend getaway or day trip. So pack your bags! We’ve rounded up 13 California towns worth visiting—from an artsy enclave in Monterey County to a Catalina Island escape!
Coronado
Rumored to be haunted and the filming location for multiple Hollywood pictures, Victorian-era resort Hotel del Coronado is considered the most iconic landmark on Coronado Island, although main street Orange Avenue draws its fair share of visitors, too. After soaking up the sun on the award-winning Coronado Beach or taking a lesson at the Jamie O’Brien Surf Experience, stroll into town and grab a table at one of Coronado’s many standout places to eat—classic American diner Clayton’s Coffee Shop is a longstanding staple while Blanco Cocina + Cantina has generated plenty of buzz since opening. To explore further, rent a Surrey Bike and cycle the island or take a scenic gondola ride through canals and waterways of the Coronado Cays.
Laguna Beach
A palm tree-lined slice of Southern California paradise, Laguna Beach has enticed artists, surfers and New Age dreamers for decades. Pristine beaches like Pearl Street and Thousand Steps are perfect for sunbathing, surfing and tide pooling. In contrast, the town’s artistic heritage shines at the Laguna Art Museum and events like the Sawdust Art Festival. Laguna also boasts plenty of great shops and restaurants in its walkable downtown village, from Michelin-recommended spots to low-key local favorites (think smoothies or brunch at Urth Caffe and sunset happy hour at Larsen inside the Hotel Laguna), while notable historic sites include bluff-top Heisler Park. Check into Hotel Joaquin, hang up the car keys, and hop on the free Laguna Beach Trolley to explore.
Tiburon
Surrounded by water on three sides, the tiny town of Tiburon in Marin County boasts stunning views of the San Francisco Bay and city skyline. Despite only being a 30-minute ferry ride from the city, its tranquil ambiance, storybook main street and pretty downtown make it a favorite no-car, day-trip destination for SF locals and a romantic getaway for visitors (we recommend boutique stay The Waters Edge Hotel). You’ll find plenty of high-end shops and restaurants, including Malibu Farm, Petite Left Bank inside the Ark Row Shopping Center and waterfront mainstay Sam’s Anchor Cafe. Outdoor recreation is another huge draw with ample opportunities to hike and bike—try Blackie’s Pasture or hop on a ferry to nearby Angel Island State Park.
Old Town La Quinta
Home to chic boutiques, restaurants and galleries, this Coachella Valley lifestyle destination-meets-shopping district is not only super photogenic (think cobblestone sidewalks and lovely whitewashed adobe buildings) but is also home to a roster of weekend events, from Music in the Plaza and Art On Main Street to the Certified Farmers Market that takes place every Sunday. Beauty and wellness are also highlights—land on mats at GATHER Yoga + Wellness, book bridal party packages at Alankara Aveda Salon or shop coveted skincare brands at h2o Closet. Visitors will also be spoiled for choice when it comes to eating out. There’s Main Street Coffee for cappuccinos and avocado toast, TQLAS Agave Bar & Grill for mezcal, margaritas and modern Mexican dishes, plus Yes Please for superb pastries and desserts. Cruising around town on rental bikes from Pedego Electric Bikes is another must-do in this charming enclave of the Coachella Valley.
1/1
Solvang
Danish roots run deep in this kitsch but quaint village in the Santa Ynez Valley. Gen up on Solvang’s history at the Elverhøj Museum, ride the trolley around town and shop Scandi design items at The Copenhagen House before grabbing a bite (aebleskiver, aka pancake balls, and kringle) at one of the authentic bakeries that line its main street—Birkholm’s being the oldest. Dinner at Mad & Vin restaurant inside boutique hotel The Landsby or drinks at its swanky Lobby Bar are both highly recommended. Stop by The Good Life bottle shop tasting room for a Little Mermaid statue photo op.
12/16
Morro Bay
Whether coming to surf “The Rock,” hike the Elfin Forest Trail or look for wildlife on a kayak tour, this petite Central Coast city attracts all types of travelers but is best suited for a back-to-nature getaway. For those who take to water, Morro Bay has an active sea otter population and whale-watching is possible almost year-round. Families have fished here for generations, so the sea-to-table dining is legit—try OG spot Dutchman’s Seafood House or the tiki-style Harbor Hut, which has postcard-worthy bay views. Museums, galleries, shops and bike trails round out the long list of things to do.
12/9
Avalon
Located on pretty Catalina Island and reached by ferry or helicopter, the tiny town of Avalon is the southernmost city in Los Angeles County and one of its most picturesque. There are a handful of places to stay, like Hotel Atwater in town or the historic Mt Ada on Wrigley Road, and activities for every type of traveler—from ziplining and scuba diving to a backcountry bison expedition. Get boujee with a cabana or daybed at Descanso Beach Club, tee off at the nine-hole Catalina Golf Course or set aside time for a little self-care at Catalina Sea Spa.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Enchanting Carmel on the Monterey Peninsula has attracted its share of famous residents over the years, including writer Jack London and actor Clint Eastwood who once served as mayor. Its walkable downtown is filled with upscale restaurants, tasting rooms (download this handy Wine Walk Guide), independent boutiques and storybook homes. Art enthusiasts will enjoy the range of galleries (there are close to 100), tours and workshops and the historic Carmel Mission. Be sure to catch a sunset at Carmel Beach (which is dog-friendly, much like the rest of town and its hotels) or drive the 17-mile scenic coast road.
Ojai
Located 90 minutes north of Los Angeles, wellness seekers have flocked to this peaceful valley in Ventura County since the ‘60s for soul-recharging getaways. Hikes, horseback rides and bike trails are the main draw, although a burgeoning restaurant scene has put Ojai on the map for foodies. Visit The Dutchess for cappuccinos and croissants, Little Sama inside Topa Topa Taproom and the Ojai Farmers’ Market. For retro motel vibes, there’s Ojai Rancho Inn, but if a spa resort is more you, try the Ojai Valley Inn. Another must? Reservations for a self-guided sunset tour at nearby Meditation Mount.
Julian
With its historic main street, eclectic shops and tasting rooms, there’s more to this 1870s-era gold rush town in the Cuyamaca Mountains than its famous apple pie. Just over an hour from San Diego, there are hiking trails and old gold mines to explore, plus orchards and farms to pick your own fruit and flowers, depending on the season. Browse Western antiques at Julian Station or stop by for live music on Sundays. You can also learn about wild wolves at the Julian Visitor Center and Nature Store or book a tour at the nearby California Wolf Center Conservation Facility.
San Juan Capistrano
Halfway between Los Angeles and San Diego—and easily reached by train from both cities—beautiful San Juan Capistrano is the perfect day-trip destination. The main draws are undoubtedly its historic sites, including the landmark mission, museum and gardens, and Los Rios Historic District, the oldest neighborhood in California with quaint cottages and cafes that line the train tracks. Ramos House Cafe is a popular spot for breakfast and lunch. It’s also where you’ll also find Zoomars at River Street Ranch petting zoo and nonprofit therapeutic garden Goin Native, which is on a mission to help save the monarch butterfly.
Ferndale
With its beautifully preserved Victorian architecture and inclusion in the Register of Historic Places, strolling through Ferndale in Humboldt County on California’s far north coast feels like stepping back in time. Lined with ornate Queen Anne-style buildings, its quaint Main Street and surrounding blocks reveal galleries and independently owned shops like The Farmer’s Daughter and Golden Gait Mercantile, but as the hometown of Food Network star Guy Fieri, good eats abound here, too. Consider the deli sandwiches at the Ferndale Meat Company and perfect pour-overs at Mind’s Eye Manufactory. Stay at one of Ferndale’s historic inns (we love The Gingerbread Mansion), for a weekend and explore hiking trails within hidden gem nature preserve Russ Park or towering redwoods of the nearby Lost Coast.
Idyllwild
If a chilled back to nature getaway floats your boat, then consider Idyllwild. Nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains but just a two-hour drive from San Diego and Los Angeles, Idyllwild’s small town charm lies in its artistic community, with galleries, craft shops and music festivals reflecting its creative vibe. Framed by pine forests and stunning views, outdoor enthusiasts love it here and can enjoy rock climbing and scenic hikes, like the popular 5.1-mile out-and-back Devil’s Slide Trail or easy half-mile loop around Lake Fulmor. Cozy A-Frame cabins and rustic woodsy inns, plus inviting restaurants—including family-friendly breakfast spot Mama’s Egg House, tasting room The Wine Finch and tea shop Shala Tea Company—also add to the appeal.
Keri Bridgwater is a freelance writer covering travel and lifestyle. Her work has been featured in Fodor’s Travel, Marie Claire, Matador Network and InsideHook, among other outlets and publications.
