7 Small Towns in California You Should Visit

If you’re looking for small towns in California, we have several.

Key Takeaways

We tell ourselves stories about California. That it is gold-dusted and wide open, that it offers reinvention to anyone with a second-hand suitcase and enough gas to reach the coast. But the truth, as it always is, is smaller. Quieter. It waits at the end of winding roads, behind weathered porches and bakery counters where the pie is still made from scratch. The real California—the one we forget exists—is not on a studio lot or behind the glass of a Sunset Strip billboard. It lives in its small towns, where time folds in on itself and the air smells faintly of eucalyptus, salt, and maybe something sweet from a kitchen you’ve never been in but somehow already know.

You don’t stumble into these places. You arrive slowly, on purpose, maybe a little lost. And when you do, everything slows with you. The cell signal drops, the coffee tastes better, and strangers look you in the eye. These small towns in California aren’t a return to the past, not exactly—but they do hold a kind of memory. A flicker of the state as it was before the rush and sprawl, when the word “California” meant not glamour, but possibility.

From the Author: When I lived in San Francisco, I rode my bike to some of these towns (the ones in Northern Cali) on the weekends. I’ve been to all but the last one.

The Best Small Towns in California

1. Stinson Beach

Stinson Beach is about 24 miles north of San Francisco. Once there, it’s stunning, but getting there is also an incredible journey and half the fun.

A path out to the water with a fence and bright green trees.

If you’re coming from San Francisco, you start by driving across the Golden Gate Bridge continuing on Route 1.

The narrow two-lane road goes along the water, and the most breathtaking cliffs force you to pay strict attention to the road; it’s a treacherous but stunning drive under tall trees while overlooking the ocean.

Because the road is so winding, it takes a good 50 minutes to drive the 23 miles, but it’s worth it.

Once there, take in the stunning beach or do what I do and go for a hike.

The Stinson Beach to Mount Tamalpais via Matt Davis and Steep Ravine Trail leads to gorgeous ocean views.

It’s a 15-mile loop trail and well worth it!

2. Petaluma

Petaluma is a straightforward drive 40 miles north of San Francisco, usually taking around an hour by car.

Like most road trips that start in San Francisco, it’s a lovely drive through rolling hills and lush greenery to reach this charming town in Sonoma County.

Beautiful rolling green hills in Petaluma, California,

The city’s historic downtown, adorned with Victorian architecture and bustling boutiques, exudes a nostalgic charm that captivates visitors.

Like most Northern California destinations, especially those in the wine regions, the culinary scene is a standout highlight, with farm-to-table restaurants and artisanal eateries offering delectable dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients.

Petaluma’s scenic landscapes, including its picturesque riverfront and surrounding vineyards, invite exploration and relaxation.

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3. Bodega Bay

Bodega Bay is another charming town in Northern California that offers great hiking, great beaches, amazing fresh seafood restaurants, the best viewing point in California to spot the migration of grey whales, and plenty of things to do other than being on the beach.

Foggy seaside cliffs with a path in front of it.

Not only that, but it’s stunning and peaceful.

Bodega Bay is located approximately 60 miles northwest of San Francisco along the stunning Sonoma Coast.

You may recognize Bodega Bay from the famous Hitchcock film The Birds. The film was entirely shot in Bodega Bay.

Visit Bodega Bay, you won’t regret it.

4. Avalon

Avalon is the main hub and bustling center of Catalina Island. Catalina Island is located 22 miles off the coast of mainland California.

Avalon Harbor in Catalina Island from above.

To get to Catalina Island, park your car at the garage next to the Long Beach Port Terminal — cars are prohibited on Catalina Island — and take the Catalina Express ferry to Avalon.

There are also many restaurants, museums, and endless activities in Avalon.

The one-hour boat ride will take you to Avalon Harbor, where there are plenty of things to do, like renting a golf cart to tour the island, hiking, snorkeling, boating to Two Harbors, and much more.

5. Pismo Beach

If you’re looking for a relaxing, laid-back vibe by the ocean with a cool breeze, look no further than Pismo Beach.

Rock cliffs next to the water from above.

Approximately 175 miles northwest of Los Angeles along the Central Coast of California is quiet Pismo Beach.

Getting to Pismo Beach from Los Angeles means a scenic drive along the stunning Pacific Coast Highway along the Pacific Ocean.

Pismo Beach is renowned for its beautiful coastline, luxury hotels on the water, sandy beaches, and the iconic Pismo Pier, making it a popular destination for relaxation and outdoor activities.

6. Yountville

Despite its size, Yountville has a big reputation for luxury and relaxation — two of my favorite things.

Yountville is home to the three Michelin-star restaurant, The French Laundry. The French Laundry deserves its three stars, and the food is worth the wait and hassle of getting onto the waiting list for a reservation.

Bright yellow flowers in a field in front of a mountain.

However, down the road from The French Laundry, I had a $7 breakfast sandwich that was a close second at The Model Bakery.

The English muffin-type bread they use for the breakfast sandwich is out of this world.

One of my favorite things to do in life is boutique shopping. And Yountville gets an A++ on boutique shopping.

Boutique shopping is the opposite of shopping at large chain stores. Each boutique owner curates unique products to appeal to customers.

You can find some fantastic stuff at the boutiques in Yountville, one-of-a-kind treasures worth shopping for.

The town’s culinary prowess is complemented by its picturesque vineyards and wineries that produce some of the finest wines in the world (I LOVE California’s wine regions; Napa and Sonoma are two of my favorite places on earth).

And if that weren’t enough, visitors can indulge in spa treatments, stroll through beautifully manicured gardens, or take hot air balloon rides to admire the stunning vistas of the valley.

7. Auburn

Auburn, nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills, boasts a unique blend of rich history, outdoor adventure, and a vibrant community spirit.

The town’s historic downtown exudes charm, lined with quaint shops, cafes, and landmark buildings that transport visitors back in time.

Auburn is a gateway to outdoor exploration, with its proximity to stunning hiking trails, including the renowned Western States Trail and the beauty of the American River Canyon.

Outdoor activities include hiking, mountain biking, and trail running, while the nearby rivers offer opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and scenic picnics amidst nature’s beauty.

The sense of community is palpable in Auburn, evidenced by its lively events and festivals celebrating local art, music, and culture.

From classic car shows to art walks and farmers’ markets, there’s always something happening that brings locals and visitors together.

Auburn’s warm hospitality and breathtaking natural surroundings make it a haven for those seeking both adventure and a genuine small-town experience.

Final Thoughts: Charming Small Towns in California

From the culinary paradise of Yountville to the historic charm of Auburn and the coastal allure of Pismo Beach, these small towns in California offer visitors something different.

Each town offers a unique tapestry of experiences, whether savoring world-class cuisine, immersing oneself in rich local history, or embracing the breathtaking beauty of nature.

Collectively, these towns paint a vivid picture of California’s vibrant culture, inviting travelers to explore, indulge, and create lasting memories amidst the warmth and character of these captivating destinations.

California Travel Planning Guide

🚑 Should I buy travel insurance for California?

100% YES! – With basic coverage averaging $1.50 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from SafetyWing, one of the biggest names in travel insurance. (Read more)

💦 Can you drink the water in California?

Yes — But I wouldn’t. It doesn’t taste very good and there are contaminants in it. You’ll want to buy a Water-To-Go Bottle, which filters drinking water while on the go (traveling) and helps keep you hydrated.

🚙 Is it safe to rent a car in California?

Yes — Renting a car in California is one of the best ways to explore this vast, awesome state, and kind of a must! I always rent with Discover Cars, which checks both international companies and local California companies, so you get the best rates. (read more)

🏨 What’s the best way to book my California accommodations?

For California hotels, Booking is the best site, but for hostels, use Hostel World. If you’re considering a California Airbnb, don’t forget also to check VRBO, which has better rates than Airbnb.