California really does have it all. It is well known that you can go from surfing in the morning to skiing in the evening in the third largest – and most populous – state in the country. Many travelers will head straight for the cities of Los Angeles or San Francisco to take in all those famous destinations have to offer.
There is no doubt that the biggest cities in the Golden State have unlimited attractions for any visitor. But there is much more to California than Hollywood and the Golden Gate Bridge. With year-round sunshine, incredible food and drink, and now the best California betting apps, this place has something for everyone. That also includes small town USA.
Small towns and cities are not the first thing most people think of when it comes to California. But there are some stunning locations up and down the West Coast that absolutely deserve some more attention. Just make sure you get there quickly, before these secrets become too well known.
Sausalito
Not all of our lesser-known Californian destinations are out of the way. Just head north over the Golden Gate Bridge out of San Francisco and you will find the picturesque bayfront city of Sausalito. You could even treat a visit here as a day out from a main vacation in San Francisco. Just be ready to experience major waterfront house envy.
You will instantly fall in love with Sausalito thanks to its incredible views of the bay and San Francisco. But there is a lot to take in here too. The olde worlde shops of Bridgeway, the main street, will keep you interested for a while – and the restaurants are obviously a major draw too. If you are crossing back over the bridge, just make sure you take in the multi-colored houseboats first.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Head down Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to Big Sur and you are likely to see countless incredible shoreline towns and cities that you will dream of moving to when your lottery numbers come in. But one that really stands out on the Monterey Peninsula is Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Even the name evokes sand dunes and Californian surf and this is a small town that definitely packs a punch. Take a walk through its charming streets and you will see that chain stores are not allowed, promoting an independent vibe that is just so Californian. The beaches and nature are legendary here – but there is also a distinct artistic element to check out too.
Ojai
Not all Californian hotspots are found on the coast. About an hour and a half northwest of Los Angeles – and due east of Santa Barbara – is another haven for artists. Set in the valley of the Topatopa Mountains, Ojai is well known for its wellness vacations, as well as a perfect small town start off for hiking the Californian countryside.
Outdoor activities are plentiful in Ojai. So, if you enjoy horse riding, rock climbing, or even 4-wheel tours, this is the place for you. But don’t forget to check out the town center itself, with its Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. You also need to extend your stay until at least one evening so as to catch a sunset that you will remember for the rest of your life.
Julian
Further south into California – and about an hour’s drive east from San Diego – is the mountain town of Julian. A former gold mining center, Julian has hardly changed from those days, with wooden-fronted storefronts and a distinct wild west feel. If you are looking for a slice of Americana, you will have come to the right place.
But you will also need to find yourself a slice of apple pie before you leave too. Julian is world famous for its version of the famously American sweet dish. Set on the border of the Cuyamaca Rancho State Park and the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, the scenery is stunning – and in 2021 Julian was named as only the 30th International Dark Sky Community. So, you will want to spend some time under the stars.
Capitola
California has been welcoming visitors from across the globe as long as the state has existed. But Capitola can claim to be the first beach resort in the Golden State, thanks to the camp that opened way back in 1974. The camp is now long gone but visitors are still just as welcome as they ever were.
This small town is home to some incredible views of the Monterey Bay coastline, as well its own golden sand beaches. The food and drink of the intimate establishments of Capitola Village will make it difficult to leave and you may well start looking into the availability of the colorful houses and hotels that dot the slopes of the hills surrounding the town.
We have somehow made it this far through a guide to California without mentioning one of its most famous exports. The wine country in the north of the state is world-renowned. So, where better to sample its delights than in the very place the grapes are grown. Any of the small towns in this region are well worth a visit but Sonoma gets our recommendation.
Sonoma County is home to many vineyards and tasting rooms but the small town of Sonoma itself tends to be less touristy and cheaper than nearby Napa. The colonial architecture and obvious sense of history will enchant any visitor – and keep you occupied for a little while longer before you return to one of the many wineries.
