40 of the Best Small Towns in California That Are Bursting With Beauty
Amid scenic desert landscapes and rolling vineyards, the Golden State is chock-full of relaxed coastal villages.
No matter what kind of vacation you're looking for, the Golden State won't disappoint. Part of California's charm is the variety of the state's landscape—after all, as people who live there will often tell you, it's possible to go surfing in the morning and snow skiing in the afternoon. Aside from the mountains and beaches, California also boasts plenty of scenic desert landscapes, rolling vineyards, and relaxed lakeside destinations for you to explore. We've rounded up 40 of the best and most quaint small cities, towns, neighborhoods, and villages in California—several with gorgeous European influence—so you can start planning your next trip.
Whether you're planning a weekend getaway with your girlfriends, a romantic and cozy vacation with your sweetheart, or a family-friendly adventure for the whole crew, these places with small-town charm deserve a spot on your list. No matter what activities you want to enjoy—wine tasting, hiking, boating, fine dining, surfing, sailing, or simply relaxing with a good book and a nice view—there's sure to be a spot on this list that feels like it was made just for you.
Venice
It doesn't get more picturesque than this LA beach town with Italian influence—hence all the canals and bridges. Walk or bike along the four-mile boardwalk that runs from the southern end of Venice Beach to the nearby Santa Monica Beach and marvel at the street performers and eclectic shops.
Sonoma
Expect to enjoy plenty of scenic vineyards, hiking trails, and a quaint downtown area. When it's time to rest your feet, pull up a chair at one of the many tasting rooms or world-class restaurants near the town's plaza.
Sutter Creek
If you're looking to learn about the history of the California Gold Rush, enjoy a charming Main Street of shops and restaurants, and enjoy nature-filled strolls, head here for your next weekend trip.
Ferndale
This Victorian-inspired town features plenty of unique architecture, natural vistas, and of course, small-town charm. If you visit, be sure to drive Avenue of the Giants, a 31-mile stretch of historic Highway 101 that winds right through Humboldt Redwoods State Park.
Solvang
Situated in the southern Santa Ynez Valley, near Santa Barbara wine country, "The Danish Capital of America" has a strong Danish influence, of course—hence the quaint cottages and town windmill.
Truckee
Truly an all-seasons destination, you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding in the winter months—or biking, hiking, and rock climbing in the warm months. Scenic landscapes and outdoor adventures abound, and you can enjoy a vibrant Main Street filled with boutiques and restaurants too.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
A fairytale-like coastal community, Carmel-by-the-Sea has it all: natural beauty, gourmet cuisine, nearly 100 galleries, and one-of-a-kind shopping—all within one square mile.
Palm Springs
Whether you want adventure or relaxation, Palm Springs has it. There's nearby Joshua Tree National Park if you need to recharge, or a more bustling downtown, where you'll find one-of-a-kind boutiques, restaurants, and the Palm Springs Walk of Stars.
Bishop
This small California town is located in the Eastern Sierras, not too far from the Nevada border. Plan to spend most of your time here enjoying the great outdoors, since popular activities include hiking, fishing, rock climbing, and biking.
Coronado
This island has been a popular vacation destination for decades, thanks to its pristine beaches, oceanfront mansions, and beautiful gardens. The iconic Hotel del Coronado, pictured here, was the setting of 1959's Some Like It Hot, starring Marilyn Monroe.
San Juan Capistrano
Home to the ruins of the 1797 Great Stone Church, the Zoomars Petting Zoo, and more, this city in Orange County that's bursting with Spanish influence can be a quick day trip from Los Angeles.
La Quinta
This Southern California town is called "The Gem of the Desert"—and boy, does it ring true. Golfers will find plenty to enjoy here, because La Quinta and the immediate surrounding area are home to more than 100 golf courses! Besides golfing, enjoy world-class spas, shopping, fine dining, and plenty of poolside lounging.
Healdsburg
Wine tasting should be on the agenda when you head to this city with small-town charm in the heart of Sonoma County. When you've had your fill of vino, enjoy the charming town square, quirky shops, art galleries, and Michelin-Starred restaurants.
Avalon/Santa Catalina Island
Walking is a way of life here, so bring the right shoes! There's currently a 14-year waitlist to have a car on the island, making it easy to stroll around the one-square-mile town of Avalon or on Green Pleasure Pier—that is, when you're not relaxing on the white sand beaches, snorkeling off the coast, or climbing the island's highest peak (Mt. Orizaba).
Dana Point
Located on the southern end of Orange County, Dana Point is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the sun and sand. With more than six miles of beach, you can expect to see plenty of surfers, paddleboarders, kayakers, volleyball players, and more (and you can be one of them!) when you visit.
Guerneville
You won't be able to resist spending plenty of time on the water when you visit this tiny Northern California town. Rent a kayak to float down the gentle Russian River, or set up a chair and umbrella at local favorite Johnson's Beach. For a wine tasting excursion, head to Korbel Winery (isn't the property beautiful?)—about three miles from downtown.
Borrego Springs
If you've heard of this area, it's likely because of the wildflower superbloom that usually happens in Anza-Borrego State Park following a rainy season. Even if you don't catch the wildflowers, opt for incredible stargazing, unique metal sculptures that mysteriously appear in the desert, and a thriving arts community.
Los Alamos
Los Alamos' Old West heritage is on display as you stroll past the art galleries, antique shops, and tasting rooms along the main street. Stay at the Victorian Mansion, pictured here, an adorable bed and breakfast that boasts themed suites—think '50s or French.
Jamie Ballard (she/her) is a freelance writer and editor who covers news, lifestyle, and entertainment topics, including sex and relationships, TV, movies, books, health, pets, food and drinks, pop culture, shopping, and personal finance. She regularly contributes to Cosmopolitan, Woman’s Day, Good Housekeeping, and YouGov, among other publications. When she’s not working, you can find her running, traveling, or scrolling TikTok. Follow her on Twitter.
A Weekend in Connecticut's Litchfield County
Coastal Meets Country in This Tiny Florida Town
A Texas Town Famous for a Two-Steppin' Christmas
30 Magical Christmas Towns to Visit This Year
