Apr 14, 2024 · Los Alamos. Newport Beach. But if you want to truly experience the West Coast, sans the crowds, then it is highly recommended that you Mar 6, 2024 · The iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, stunning state parks, and incredible sunsets draw thousands of annual visitors to one of the best California coastal towns across the bay from Monterey. Compared to the surrounding towns, Santa Cruz has a vibrant yet low-key vibe that makes it one of the best beach cities in California for twenty-somethings. Avila Beach, California. Shutterstock. #21 in Best California Beaches for 2024. Boasting 12 months of sunshine, and only 20 inches of rain per year, it’s the perfect place for families looking for the beach lifestyle that made California Apr 20, 2018 · Just north of the buzzy beach towns of Ocean City, Maryland, and Bethany Beach, Delaware, Rehoboth Beach offers many of the same vacation amenities with the added benefit of fewer crowds. Each town has its own charm and uniqueness. This relaxing East Coast retreat is filled with charming bed-and-breakfast accommodations and Jan 23, 2024 · A highlight is the Cambria Wine & Art Festival, beginning on Friday, May 26, 2024. May 4, 2021 · Newport Beach. St. Julian is a small mountain town in the Cuyamaca mountains of San Diego County, known for its seasonal changes—a rarity in Southern California. Beyond being a great place to visit, Half Moon Bay is one of the best small beach towns in California to live in. The surfing culture is huge in Solana Beach. Crescent City is the best small beach town to retire in Northern California. " Yet while famous names like Beverly Hills, Long Beach, and Los Angeles get much of the tourist attention, the state's many smaller communities often outdo their larger neighbors regarding scenery. California's small towns offer adventures, from beaches to Redwoods, with activities tailored for memorable experiences in places like Carmel and Avalon. Jun 23, 2023 · #21: La Jolla. 7-miles of shoreline. Each California town has its own culture and unique atmosphere. Pixabay: David Mark. 8. Morro Rock, an ancient volcanic mound, is the city’s must-see centerpiece landmark. Best of all, most of the Jan 26, 2020 · 6. Bayside beauty also abounds throughout town, including massive redwood groves in Arcata Community Forest. This tight-knit beach town is everything anyone may ever look for in a hometown. Beach lovers can enjoy stunning views and outdoor activities like surfing, hiking, and tide-pooling in these small beach towns in California that are affordable for a vacation. Population: 715. With a climate so mild it’s impossible to stay away, Grover Beach is a small beach community, right in the centre of the coast. May 8, 2022 · 14. In fact, it’s more like a small, surf-oriented neighborhood than a town. Mendocino is a Charming and quaint town known for its gorgeous beaches at Mendocino Headlands State Park and hiking trails. Feb 4, 2024 · Pismo Beach: Classic California Vibes. You can even ride the Ferris Wheel or play in an arcade. Can’t-miss highlight of this California mountain town: World-class skiing and one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. Dunsmuir. Because of this, it leaves a bevy of possibilities for locations to live. With a population of around 4,000, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming beach town located about an hour north of Big Sur by car. To kick off our list of small towns near San Diego, we have Carlsbad! This charming sea town is approximately 35 miles from San Diego and is home to stunning beaches, flower fields, and a world-famous aquarium that’s home to over 6,000 marine creatures! The fact that it’s one of the small towns near San Diego that’s right on the Related:10 Small Beach Towns In California That You'll Choose Over Venice Tahoe City . [ CC by 2. To complement its spirit of inclusivity, there are many craft brewers, plenty of fresh seafood and, of course, long stretches of sandy beaches. Aug 3, 2023 · San Simeon is a small town located on Highway 1 in central California. In the surrounding San Bernardino National Forest, the Dec 29, 2023 · A few of our favorite California central coast towns are Morro Bay, Los Osos, Cambria, San Simeon, Avila Beach, and Pismo Beach. and San Francisco, the Pacific Coast gem Cayucos might as well be a million miles away. Jul 28, 2021 · Crescent City. 3 days ago · What is so great about Rehoboth Beach is that despite its small size, it has been one of the most inclusive beach towns in the country for many decades. Some have a small-town vibe. Southern California's small towns offer a unique, relaxing escape with natural beauty, historical charm, and farm-to-table cuisine, away from urban hustle. 4 (US average of 100) Median income: $59, 795. It has hosted the Apr 28, 2024 · The small coastal town of Mendocino, California, is a popular getaway for Bay Area residents. Alisa Mala January 16 2024 in Places. Tickle Pink Inn, Carmel-by-the-Sea; Oyster. Median home price: $1,833,430. From Trinidad to Crescent City, there are plenty of options with uncrowded beaches and comfortable weather . Location: Check on Google Maps. With just over 5,000 residents, Big Bear Lake is the quintessential mountain town along the south shore of a lake with the same name. What Is the Best Small Town to Live in California? Montara is a small, scenic, yet underrated coastal town of around 2,465 people in San Mateo County. Enjoy surfing, tide pools, golf, farmers' markets, shopping, and more. Along with its beautiful sea views and a gorgeous beach, the park has a small waterfall, fascinating rock formations, including canyons and cliffs, and scenic hiking trails. Nov 30, 2023 · Santa Cruz, Capitola, and Stinson Beach are the best beach towns to visit if you’re looking to enjoy the sun, sand, and water. These beach towns offer a variety of activities and attractions, from surfing and swimming to exploring scenic trails and restaurants. This beachside destination boasts a year-round Mediterranean climate, and some of the most beautiful beaches in the state, including Butterfly Beach, East Beach, and Leadbetter Beach. Just 13 miles north of San Diego lies beautiful La Jolla —one of the best small towns for artists. 21. 0] via Flickr. Fans of surfing, this town is for you! Nov 24, 2023 · Cities. The 19th-century Ford House is now home to the Visitor Center and museum, which showcases local historical exhibits. Main street, street view, and tourists in Solvang, a beautiful small town in California that is known for its traditional Danish style architecture, via HannaTor / Shutterstock. Known as the “Jewel by the Sea'', the town is a breathtaking fusion of the au naturel and art scene magnifique. Charming Guerneville is set mid-way between Santa Rosa /Hwy 101 and the coast/Hwy 1. About 46 miles from Santa Barbara, the town of Los Alamos, California, is almost as explosive and dynamic as the Los Alamos in New Mexico, where the Manhattan Project was completed. These shores provide a serene setting for leisurely sunbathing or a refreshing swim in the ocean. This quaint town is the perfect retreat for art lovers and pet Jan 22, 2024 · Malibu: Celebrity Beach Retreat. com. Sep 10, 2021 · Solana Beach. 93 (per 1,000 residents) In San Diego County, you’ll discover Imperial Beach, one of the more affordable beachfront cities to live in within the Southern California region. Average home value: $1,278,300. Sep 20, 2023 · Carlsbad. Carmel–by–the–Sea Suppose, there remained merely the beach, it would be adequate for the California beach town Carmel-by-the-sea. 6 Best Towns in Southern California to Visit in 2024. Santa Barbara. 7 Small Summer Towns With The Best Beaches In California Escape the crowds this summer in these charming small California beach towns, boasting stunning shores, quaint shops, and laid-back vibes Jan 10, 2024 · 10. Founded following the discovery of gold in 1869, Julian quickly became a mining town. 13 Unforgettable Small Towns to Visit in California. Grover Beach Source: flickr Grover Beach, California. It’s well known for its proximity to Hearst Castle, one of the largest and most famous estates in the United States. The amusement park in Santa Monica is a must-visit attraction when you are in L. 6 days ago · Crystal Cove State Beach comprises 2,400 acres of backcountry wilderness and has a variety of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails. dentok // Getty Images. You’d be hard-pressed to find a traveler who hasn’t heard of our spotlight coastal communities like Malibu and Laguna Beach. The boardwalk on Moonstone Beach, Cambria, California. If this is a more ~bougie~ stop on your trip, I suggest the Ritz. From gorgeous beach towns to quirky communities hidden beneath redwood trees, bucolic villages in wine country to Feb 8, 2023 · It’s one of the most beautiful, quaint towns in California. Monterey, San Francisco, and Carmel-by-the-Sea are our favorites for fun and relaxing weekend getaways. With beautiful scenery, ample tourist attractions, and more, most of the Golden State's coastal cities do not disappoint. Jun 4, 2020 · This adorable small town in northern California is historical for being home to California's first beach resort, Camp Capitola, which first opened its doors in 1874. Located on the Northern coast near Eureka, Mendocino is a cultural hub that houses the Mendocino Art Center, the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, and the Kelley House Museum . Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,700. The main features of the state park include unbelievable surfing and ideal conditions for scuba diving. Dec 10, 2023 · Small Beach Towns in California Carpinteria. Carmel-by-the-Sea is like stepping into a storybook on the Monterey Peninsula. " Known for its attractive storefronts and world-class waterfront dining, this small beach town in Monterey County appeals to more than just shopaholics. Venice V Hotel (rated highly) Hotel Erwin Venice Beach (spectacular waterside views) BEACH TOWN 7. Dec 10, 2022 · The Best of LA Tour - Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Griffith Park More. If you’re looking for a quintessential California beach town experience, look no further than Pismo Beach. Editorial credit: littlenySTOCK / Shutterstock. Oceano is about 7% cheaper than Grover Beach, while its median home price is almost $70,000 lower. 📍 Google Maps. Both professionals and beginner surfers Oct 29, 2017 · Terramar Point at Carlsbad State Beach (Photo: Brett Shoaf Artistic Visuals) Carmel-by-the-Sea. Nov 11, 2023 · Big Bear Lake. As elegant and luxurious as it sounds, it’s actually one of the most affordable coastal towns in California. This pocket of paradise, once run by Hollywood-star-turned-Mayor Clint Eastwood (1986-88), along the Central Coast ranks as one of the best beach towns in the United States. The La Jolla Playhouse is where the magic happens. But there’s more to this, one of the best small California towns to visit than just wine. Finally, a visit to the magnificent Hearst Castle, a 20th-century mansion built by William Randolph Hearst, with its fascinating history, is a must. Johnson's Beach, Guerneville, California, on the Russian River. Dec 25, 2023 · Previously split into five different towns, Encinitas became what it is today in 1986 by the combination of Old Encinitas, New Encinitas, Cardiff-by-the-sea, Olivenhain, and Leucadia. Feb 23, 2024 · Getty Images. Jul 21, 2022 · San Juan Capistrano is the “Jewel of the California Missions. Elevation: 6,237′. Situated in Del Norte County, it is named after the crescent-shaped stretch of beach situated south of the city. Luxuriating in the vivacious Santa Ynez Valley and near Cachuma Lake, Los Alamos was named from the Spanish word “cottonwood,” which still dominates Discover affordable retirement in California's hidden gems—10 small towns beckon, offering a peaceful lifestyle for under $2,000 monthly. We like to spend a day in Santa Barbara every once in a while, popping May 26, 2022 · The campus of Humboldt State University in Arcata adds to the casual tone of the city, and the Arcata Plaza displays its rich heritage with cultural spots like the Arcata Hotel and the Minor Theater. La Jolla, a neighborhood of San Diego, is the last beach town in California on our list. There are many things to do when you visit California’s central coast cities. One of the most mesmerizing Golden State landmarks—Battery Point Light—is found here. Quality Inn & Suites Capitola is a budget motel just 10 minutes from the beach. Mar 29, 2024 · Retiring in California may be pricey, but there are affordable beach towns like Arcata, Mendocino, and Myrtletown. Often considered one of the best small town in California to live in, Half Moon Bay is known for its beautiful coastline, scenic beaches, and busy harbor. Here are the 15 best beach towns in Southern California that are TOO GOOD TO IGNORE. Dec 21, 2023 · Nothing like a Doritos Locos Taco overlooking a beach sunset! 8. Visit Julian, a beautiful mountain town known for apple orchards and delicious pies. The charming town of Leucadia is full of local restaurants and beachy vibes. Arcata. What Mar 20, 2024 · 1. Median home price: $1,508,470. If you're headed to Big Sur, stop in one of California's best small towns, Carmel-by-the-Sea. Over 100,000 people fill the streets, trails, and 22 miles of shoreline many weekends of the year. The property features free WiFi and a seasonal swimming pool. Though tiny, Trinidad’s dramatic coastline boasts 10 beautiful beaches with rocky Apr 26, 2022 · Helena is located in the famous, wine-producing Napa Valley. 1. Don’t expect the typical California beach town! If you walk down the Coastal Bluff Trail, you’ll be able to admire the coastline, Moonstone Beach, pine trees, and a rugged landscape. The native Pomos used to call the area “q-ahwala-li”, which roughly translates to “coming down water place”, which the river does indeed do at Robinson’s Gulch right in town. Take the ferry to Balboa Island and visit this beautiful little tourist trap for the day. If you haven’t heard of these spots, perhaps it’s time to venture out and explore them. Gualala. Nov 3, 2023 · Solvang. This small town in San Diego County is home to plenty of scenic trails and beaches. Apr 24, 2024 · Laguna Beach is a storybook town of about 22,000 residents, renowned for its spectacular coastal parks, particularly the stunning Crystal Cove State Park. Mar 22, 2024 · La Jolla. Mar 16, 2023 · Cambria. Sample apple pie and tour orchards in Julian, a quaint mountain town in Southern California. Jan 8, 2024 · California offers a variety of retirement options, from bustling beach communities to smaller, affordable towns with reasonable rent and house costs. VISIT. From Los Alamos to Running Springs, and many towns in between, Southern California’s small towns are ethereal portraits of beauty. Top attractions here include a dog-friendly beach that sits just south of the famous Pebble Beach golf Oct 7, 2022 · Population: 348 In Humboldt County, Trinidad is one of the least populated small towns in California. Jul 20, 2023 · Best Mountain Towns in California. The town also has some great hiking trails that offer stunning views of the coastline. This quiet Northern California coastal town is named for the river that flows through town and into the Pacific. San Diego, or Long Beach, though. and historic wineries like Beringer Vineyards . 👇. Malibu is a small beach town that is known for its celebrity residents. It's an excellent opportunity to savor delicious food, refreshing wine, and stunning art in a lively atmosphere. Rehoboth Jun 23, 2023 · Popular areas like Malibu, Monterey, Santa Barbara, and Venice Beach, for instance, are absolutely worth a tour. Image: Half Moon Bay 4/26/22. 9 Most Memorable Small Towns in Southern California. It is also home to some of the best camping near San Diego. Aug 6, 2023 · 10. A charming little spot on the Central Coast with a population of over 29,000 people, Monterey is best known for its calm Monterey Bay and Cannery Row, a once massive sardine-packing industry made famous by the novelist John Steinbeck. Malibu. Solana Beach, one of California’s most underrated small towns, happens to be one of the best places to raise a family. Carmel-by-the-Sea. Northern California is home to many charming coastal towns ranging from historic destinations to small hamlets Apr 8, 2024 · Historic area of Julian, California. Population: 22,535. Morro Bay is a small, charming town nestled on an unspoiled piece of California’s Central Coast that offers plenty of activities in a stunning natural setting. Crime Rate: Moderate. Pacific Grove, CA. Borrego Springs, Mariposa, and Bass Lake are examples of affordable retirement towns in California with a range of recreational opportunities. Average Rent: $1,630 per month. Sep 10, 2023 · Cannon Beach, Oregon, USA. Home. Great for: Retirees, beaches, ocean views, weather, beautiful homes. Crime rate: 15. May 23, 2023 · Ferndale. Located down the coast from Santa Barbara, this seaside city has so much going for it. The largest town on of the lower Russian River with under 5,000 residents offers fresh-air pursuits with pee wee golf, biking, sport & tackle shop, and beaches. Experience the serene beauty of small beach towns like Pescadero and Sereno Feb 27, 2024 · With a population of just under 90,000, Santa Barbara is a “bigger small town” in California that packs a ton of culture and charm into its 42 square miles. Coastal fun and adventure is inevitable when playing on Solana Beach’s 1. NEARBY BIG CITY/CITIES – Los Angeles (55 Miles) & San Diego. ”. 3. South Lake Tahoe. Dec 29, 2020 · This town on the California Central Coast offers a lot for being such a small town, starting with the raw, beautiful landscapes. It is a year-round destination for the Seal Beach Christmas Lighting ceremony Jan 12, 2024 · Thankfully, small towns like Mendocino make that type of life a reality. These small communities preserve historic architecture, ranging from Victorian mansions to rustic cottages, creating a unique seaside ambiance. If you're looking for the quintessential California beach experience, head to Huntington Beach. 2 days ago · Solana Beach. Fisherman's Wharf at Monterey Bay, California. Half Moon Bay. Visit and check out the stunning beaches perfect for tide Feb 25, 2024 · Healthcare options, outdoor activities, and low crime rates make small towns like Avila Beach, Carpinteria, and Indian Wells ideal for retirement. Drive from San Francisco: 36 minutes. May 6, 2024 · Solana Beach. Median home price: $2,002,500 La Jolla, CA homes for sale La Jolla, CA apartments for rent. SoCal offers new attractions and adventures in towns like Avalon, plus thrilling experiences in Laguna Beach and skiing at Big Bear Mountain Resort. This incredibly small town in California is very historic and has peaceful vibes. Cambria is your go-to destination for rejuvenation in the fresh sea salt air after seeing elephant seals, strolling for antiques, and visiting the nearby wine country in Paso Apr 6, 2024 · Affordable beach towns for a vacation in California include Pointe Arena, Fort Bragg, Trinidad, Shelter Cove, and more, and all offer scenic beauty and adventure. Newport Beach is delightfully scenic coastal city in California with its cliffside views and some of the best surfing in the state. This Victorian-inspired town features plenty of unique architecture, natural vistas, and of course, small-town charm. It is an affordable coastal living in California and is famous for its “hippie vibe”. A luxurious beach city where celebrity glamour meets pristine surf beaches. Living in Southern California means residents are just a few hours from sand, surf, or the mountains. Mar 6, 2024 · The iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, stunning state parks, and incredible sunsets draw thousands of annual visitors to one of the best California coastal towns across the bay from Monterey. The first on the list of best beach towns in California is the lovely Carpinteria. Leucadia is one of the most low-key of San Diego’s beach towns. Cost of Living: 154. The small coastal town of Capitola was named one of the best beach towns by Sunset magazine in 2012, and it's clear it still retains the charm that garnered such esteem all those years ago. California beach towns stand out for their relaxed, inviting spirit, their beauty, and their boundless ways to play. Morro Bay. Best of all, most of the May 26, 2023 · Yet while cities such as Los Angeles, San Diego, and Long Beach, are major attractions, this part of California is also home to several picturesque towns that vacationers will love discovering. 7. Explore the friendly town's quaint, immaculate neighborhoods and a walkable Main Street laden with hotspots. To help you decide from (literally) hundreds of cute small towns in California, Oregon and Washington, we came up with the 10 best Pacific Coast destinations with fewer than 10,000 residents. Oceano is a small little town that is right next to Grover Beach, which was #10 on this list of the cheapest beach towns in California. Apr 1, 2024 · Half Moon Bay. Nov 10, 2023 · Summary. Jan 21, 2023 · A lovely Estero Bay resort town about halfway between L. May 30, 2024 · Where to Stay in Capitola. Population: 1,311 Jun 7, 2024 · California may be known for big cities like San Francisco or Los Angeles, but look closer and you’ll find charming small towns in nearly every area of the state. Known for its incredible beaches, Carpinteria is a favorite among surfers and anyone looking for sun and sand. Complete with charming coastal vibes and a small-town Americana feel, this beachy beauty has plenty of quaint spots to explore—including a historic pier dotted with shops, restaurants, and stellar sea views. Jun 12, 2024 · Nestled on the Monterey Peninsula, Carmel-by-the-Sea boasts fairy-tale cottages and pristine sandy beaches that enchant visitors. Nicknamed the “Danish Capital of America,” the city draws visitors From colorful beach towns that seem to have hopped straight from a postcard to enclaves nestled by the lakeshore, we’ve narrowed down our top 30 most beautiful towns and cities across California Sep 28, 2022 · Guerneville. San Simeon, California is famous for its fairy tale castle, Hearst Castle, and boasts coastal Dec 28, 2023 · The 18th-century Carmel Mission, second-established along El Camino Real Highway 101, showcases stunning Spanish architecture. But nestled along the California coastline sit dozens of off-the-grid beach towns, many of which are true hidden gems. Helena is an upscale destination with luxe propertiees like the ALiLa Napa Valley. Imperial Beach. Sharon Mollerus. You’ll want to get tickets in advance (Adult $30, Child $15) and plan to spend about 2 hours exploring. Encinitas is known for being one of the best small beach towns in California to catch a wave or two. Mar 31, 2023 · 8. Jul 8, 2019 · Here are the nine cutest beach towns in California. It’s literally on top of an oceanfront cliff. Malibu is a world-renowned beach city, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and luxury. The name alone hints at the romantic quality of the picturesque downtown area, which has Feb 14, 2024 · Best Beach Towns in California. May 30, 2023 · 2 Monterey. Enjoy leisurely strolls, secluded beaches, and hidden gems in Moss Beach, Montara, La Selva Beach, Manchester, and more. With a population of around 17775, the beach offers the most pleasing view and an easy lifestyle for all the inhabitants. Less than 40 minutes south of San Francisco, this quaint oceanside community is as picturesque as beach towns get. It is worth spotting some unique Spanish architecture styles in this charming small town in California. Jan 8, 2024 · Cities. Best known for its walkable and convenient downtown core, the town of Solana Beach has a little bit of everything with beaches just as beautiful as other coastal towns in Southern California. A. Pacific Grove is a little beach town off Monterey Bay and one of the best small towns in Northern California. Feb 7, 2023 · Solana Beach. 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. Dubbed Surf City USA, Huntington Beach Jan 5, 2023 · 6. Set along a white sandy beach, this small European-style village has fairy-tale cottages, shops, and fun things to do for the whole family. Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz – Capitola is a mid-range hotel that offers an outdoor pool and spacious suites. Median home price: $596,723. Jun 7, 2024 · Leucadia. Alisa Mala November 24 2023 in Places. Emerald Bay near South Lake Tahoe. Median home price: $275,650. Newport Beach is a great place to visit and one of its primary draws is the picturesque coastline, with notable beaches such as Newport Beach, Corona del Mar, and Balboa Beach. The city of Santa Barbara, which includes Hope Ranch and Montecito, has a population of approximately 90,000, and it receives millions of visitors per year thanks to its proximity to the beach and its upscale, laid back vibe. Often referred to as "SoCal," Southern California is home to some of the best travel destinations in "The Golden State. These are just eight of the many quaint seaside communities you should stop in sometime to explore. Mar 26, 2023 · Median Home Price: $466,300. These towns offer scenic views, welcoming neighborhoods, low housing prices, and a sense of community for retirees to enjoy. Carmel is a must-visit, especially for fans of HBO's "Big Little Lies. Solvang is a quaint Danish town in the Santa Ynez Valley of Southern California. With its miles of sandy beaches, vibrant pier, and laid-back atmosphere, Pismo Beach embodies the essence of the California dream. Nov 13, 2023 · San Simeon. Spend your days basking in the sun on the golden shores of Pismo Beach. 🏨 Accommodations in close proximity to Venice Beach. San Simeon is a quintessential Golden State coastal town known for its imposing terraces, turquoise pools, lush gardens, and extravagant art collections. In Humboldt country sits Arcata beach, meaning “where there is a lagoon”. Summary. Bar Harbor is small-town Maine at its finest. Take one part water, one part sand, one part sun-soaked coastal charm, and you’ve got the recipe for some of the Golden State’s most appealing destinations. Dec 23, 2023 · These 10 small towns in California are treasures waiting to be explored, each offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Hidden gem towns along the Pacific Coast offer old-world charm, fresh ocean breezes, and picturesque architectural facades. On the northwest shore of beautiful Lake Tahoe sits one of the most beautiful towns in the region, Tahoe City Jan 16, 2024 · Cities. Examples include Malibu, Santa Cruz, and Laguna Beach. Aunindita Bhatia January 8 2024 in Places. #1 in Best Small Towns to Visit in the USA. Located on historic Main Street, Beringer provides an Apr 1, 2024 · 6 Most Scenic Small Towns In Southern California. Yes, there are many small beach towns in California. Rows of homes facing the Pacific Ocean at Solana Beach. Feb 9, 2024 · Huntington Beach. One of the town's claims to fame is its colony of elephant seals that haul out on the sand at Piedras Blancas. Head a few miles south to find the beautiful Mendocino Coast Botanical Garden while the famous Skunk Train departs from Fort Bragg for rides through the redwood forests. Nestled on the Central Coast, the seaside village of Cambria charms visitors with its beaches, art galleries, and boutiques. Travelers can enjoy scenic views, artisan Oct 16, 2023 · 10 Cambria. The town has some of the most beautiful beaches in Southern California and is perfect for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. Ferndale, California is a historic Victorian town without a coastline, but still filled with excitement and charm. Half Moon Bay is one of the best places to live in Northern California for many reasons. This town makes up for its small size with dramatic coastal beauty as seen at Montara State May 26, 2023 · Seal Beach is down-to-earth and one of the nation's friendliest towns, according to Forbes readers, at the gateway to Orange County's 42 miles of coastline. May 18, 2023 · Glass Beach, made up of small, smooth, colored pieces of “sea glass” can be accessed from town, providing hours of fun searching for that perfect piece. Sausalito, California offers a bohemian spirit and stunning Bay Area views, making it a top alternative to Carmel-by-the-Sea. Jan 26, 2024 · Bar Harbor. Abalone Cove, Cambria, California. Jan 18, 2024 · Explore a small distance from the beach town and discover many of the world’s best golf courses in the Pebble Beach. Waterfront in Big Bear Lake, California. The low-key, small beach town in the shadow of Hearst Castle boasts a whole array of sights and experiences in one small place. Population: 25, 807. From the seaside charm of Carmel-by-the-Sea to the historic streets of Nevada City, they offer unforgettable experiences that capture the heart of California's diverse and enchanting landscape. Feb 22, 2024 · Are There Any Small Beach Towns in California. rr fe ss mv at ge bl lx xs dp