These Small Cities in California Are Bursting With Beauty and Charm
California has a reputation for large cities such as Los Angeles and San Francisco, but a few small cities tucked away in the Golden State are charming and beautiful. These lesser-known gems make for a great escape from the ‘usual’ hustle and bustle to get a taste of something more peaceful and picturesque about California.
These small cities offer charm, from coastal retreats to mountain hideaways, and are ideal for a peaceful retreat or a day of exploring. If you’re planning a getaway to California, get ready to discover some of the state’s most charming small towns.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Half a block off Highway 1, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming little village of storybook cottages with a laid-back vibe. It is famous for its beautiful beaches, art galleries, and pleasant boutique shops. Walk Ocean Avenue Street, where every shop is something straight out of a fairy tale. Don’t miss the sunset at Carmel Beach which leaves most people in awe.
Solvang
Solvang is known as “California’s Little Denmark,” for its Danish style architecture, windmills, and bakeries. When you walk through the streets of Solvang, you feel as if you’ve brought yourself to a quaint little Danish village with real Danish pastries and all the cultural sites you’d imagine. Make sure you visit the Hans Christian Andersen Museum, and try some aebleskiver, a Danish specialty.
Healdsburg
Healdsburg is a delightful combination of small town charm and world-class wine, situated in the heart of Sonoma County’s wine country. Tasting rooms, artisanal shops, and farm to table restaurants have filled the town square. Healdsburg’s relaxed atmosphere is perfect to enjoy a glass of local wine, the view of the vineyards, and the rolling hills.
Nevada City
This Gold Rush town is loaded with Victorian architecture and history. Boasting well preserved downtown, charming shops, cozy cafes, and art galleries. The tree lined streets are perfect for quiet walks and you can soak in the old world feel of town, or try the hiking trails nearby for a little nature.
Paso Robles
Paso Robles is well known for its award-winning wineries and hospitality. The town has a lively downtown area with boutique shops, great restaurants, and a laid-back vibe. With its rolling hills and fabulous countryside, Paso Robles is irresistible.
Ojai
Ojai is a mountain-surrounded haven for artists, nature lovers, and all who want to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life at the pace of minimalism. The town has many galleries and studios, a thriving art scene, and a local farmers’ market where fresh, organic produce is sold. Don’t miss the Pink Moment—when the sunset turns the Ojai Valley pink.
Mendocino
Mendocino is a rambling coastal village on a scenic, rocky cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The town’s cottages are charming, the shops quaint, and the views breathtaking. Visit Mendocino Headlands State Park and enjoy the view.
Grass Valley
Grass Valley is another Gold Rush-era town with an enormous presence, a strong history, and an existing community. The historic downtown is full of beautiful, preserved buildings, antique shops, and local eateries. Interestingly, the Empire Mine State Historic Park is nearby, which offers visitors a trip down memory lane to California’s mining days.
San Juan Capistrano
This small city is home to the historic Mission San Juan Capistrano. The storied Spanish colonial architecture and exquisitely manicured gardens will charm you. This is the ‘Jewel of the California Missions’ and a must-visit, with its serene, historic setting. Stroll around the cozy downtown and go sightseeing, dining out, and shopping at local boutiques.
Murphys
This delightful mountain town, often called the ‘Queen of the Sierra,’ has a rich history and lively culture. Rustic and welcoming, the charming Main Street has lined wine-tasting rooms, shops, and restaurants. Surrounded by the foothills of Sierra Nevada, Murphys is the perfect place to relax or have a great outdoor adventure.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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