California is the state where diversity is rich and different cultures are everywhere. California is the state where you can find trendsetters that pioneer innovation, popular culture, and environmentalism. As one of the largest and most populous states in the whole country, it is composed of the largest and most economically strong city among others. Moreover, California is also rich with stunning nature, immersive culture, mouthwatering gastronomy, and an appetite for an unforgettable adventure. The small towns are also something you should take note of. These small towns are usually found by the coast beside and high on the mountains composing most of California. Check out the 10 best small towns in California that you will appreciate most for their beauty.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 07, 2024.
1. Avalon (from USD 169)
Finding a place that is similar to Mediterranean towns in California is a unique experience. It is quite unlike compared to just going to the other common tourist attractions. See homes built on the hillsides of the island and appreciate the green and blue hue of the vegetation and the sea surrounding Avalon. It is impressing to know that over a million people visit the town just to experience the outdoor events, galleries and great cuisine that is waiting for guests in Avalon.
Catalina Island Inn
Address: 125 Metropole Avenue
220.87 km (137.3 mi) from Ostrichland USA
2. Wrightwood (from USD 156)
Reasonably priced cabins with charming decor and modern amenities.
Cozy, well-decorated cabins with comfortable beds, complimentary streaming apps, and a convenient laundry facility.
Perfectly situated in the heart of Wrightwood, within walking distance to restaurants, bars, and shops, and close to the Acorn trailhead and PCT.
Convenient access to nearby cafes, bars, and restaurants, and a friendly bar with great customer service.
Nestled in the San Gabriel Mountains, guests can expect the whole place to be cloaked by pine trees and a high elevation for cool weather. This place was a ranch during the 19th century and later on, it was divided to become residential lots after being a vacation community. The magnificent views of the mountains and the trees make it ideal to stay and have a vacation in town. It is best to look for accommodations that will maximize the coziness and the comfort of this whimsical place covered by trees and fresh air.
Grand Pine Cabins
Address: 6045 Pine St
234.57 km (145.8 mi) from Ostrichland USA
3. Murphys (from USD 124)
Reasonable pricing for spacious rooms and convenient location.
Fun treats at check-in, spacious rooms with kitchenettes, and easy parking.
Conveniently close to downtown Murphy's and Ironstone Amphitheatre.
Delicious donuts and fresh coffee delivered in the morning, with a variety of breakfast options.
Murphys is a small town or village located near the vast and majestic Sierra Nevada mountains in Calaveras County, California. Murphys is a town that is ideal for those groups of travelers or even couples who appreciates tasting great and quality wine. Regarded as the “Queen of the Sierra”, it is the home of more than a dozen tasting rooms and vineyards. They are an embodiment of their iconic wine culture.
Murphys Suites
Address: 134 E Highway 4
393.04 km (244.3 mi) from Ostrichland USA
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4. Solvang (from USD 158)
The Danish capital of America is just inside a small town in Santa Barbara county in the state of California. The Danish tradition and community inside the town make a visit to Solvang almost like a visit to Denmark. The wonderful Danish architecture and cuisine are why tourists visit the place. There are also great accommodations and boutique hotels in the small town that can provide a whole farm and vineyard experience without compromising modernity and comfort.
Hotel Corque
Address: 400 Alisal Road
3.73 km (2.4 mi) from Ostrichland USA
California Tour Guide
Stephanie Eley
I'm a graduate of ITMI, International Tour Management Institute and 17 years as a licensed Tour Director and Program Director. My expertise began in NYC and Washington, DC where I'm a licensed guide and has expanded to Europe, South America, Cuba and the Western / Southwestern National Parks of the US. I'd love to introduce you for a day or a week to Denver, Colorado and the 4 corners region of... Read more
Tours by Stephanie
5. St. Helena (from USD 319)
The small town of St. Helena is a perfect place for culinary enthusiasts who desire a taste of the finest wines, experience rich gastronomy, and perfect pastries. St. Helena is known as Napa Valley’s main street because of world-class restaurants and admired wineries. St. Helena is also the home of 416 vineyards and ‘The Culinary Institute of America’ at Greystone and the campus of Napa Valley College.
Harvest Inn
Address: One Main Street
477.68 km (296.9 mi) from Ostrichland USA
6. Pacific Grove (from USD 235)
Reasonably priced for its oceanfront location and historic charm.
Antique decor, cozy dining areas, and a well-kept garden.
Conveniently situated near Cannery Row and a coastal path with abundant wildlife.
Delicious breakfast with ocean views, wine and hors d'oeuvres, and a delightful afternoon snack.
Known for its iconic Victorian homes, Pacific Grove is a unique and definitely a quiet and peaceful place to walk around. It is situated beside the beach facing the Pacific. It is an overshadowed small city because of larger cities beside it that are often visited by the majority of tourists. However, it does not mean that Pacific Grove has nothing to offer, their architecture and the serene activities that you can do there is the best relaxation you can have. Traveling to Pacific Grove? Make sure to read more about the possible itineraries you can take advantage of at this quiet and peaceful town.
Martine Inn
Address: 255 Ocean View Boulevard
273.26 km (169.8 mi) from Ostrichland USA
7. Columbia (from USD 109)
Columbia, California is a town within the Tuolumne County inside Sierra Nevada foothills making it a place for tourists. Known as the “Gem of the Southern Mines” it was founded in 1850. Situated near the foothills and Sonora, it is definitely a perfect place to stay and tour in before or after having an adventure in the Sierra Nevada foothills or the Yosemite National Park. Columbia State Historic Park preserves the features of the 19th-century mining town that used to be operating in town.
Historic Sonora Inn
Address: 160 South Washington Street
375.96 km (233.7 mi) from Ostrichland USA
8. Los Olivos (from USD 325)
A town that is one of five that makes up Santa Ynez Valley, it is a well-known town for its wineries and tasting rooms. Los Olivos is a small town where you can feel the old European vibe in Mediterranean weather. The small town is ideal for wine enthusiasts where the most recommended Fess Parker Wine County Inn offers a complimentary wine tasting for two. The locally made wines in this place compliment the peaceful neighborhood that is ideal for relaxing.
Fess Parker Wine Country Inn
Address: 2860 Grand Ave
8.62 km (5.4 mi) from Ostrichland USA
9. Julian (from USD 139)
Apple picking and a quick stroll around a small town that is friendly, accommodating, and at the same time peaceful, is a way for some people to let off steam and relax. You can enjoy riding horses at the closest ranch, have some gold fever visiting the museum to learn about Julian’s rich past, then go out to appreciate the night sky at Observer’s Inn.
The Julian Inn
Address: 2343 Sunset View Drive
370.99 km (230.6 mi) from Ostrichland USA
10. Carmel-by-the-Sea (from USD 119)
You can find Carmel at the Monterey Peninsula where the whole town is an ideal place to stroll around in. Just like Avalon, Carmel is a European-style town that displays breathtaking architecture, museums, and cottages. You will see old churches surrounded by wonderful natural scenery. If you are inclined with arts, Carmel is also glazed with artists with a dynamic and alive art culture.
Carmel Lodge
Address: San Carlos Street at 5th Avenue P.O. Box 951
268.24 km (166.7 mi) from Ostrichland USA
Small towns with grand experiences
The small towns featured here are considered the most unique and that can offer the best experiences in California. Adventure and thrill-seeking travelers like you would love to visit each one of them before leaving the state of California. The best way to stay in these small towns is to have an accommodating, comfortable, and small-town identity-related hotel to stay in. There is no question on to why these places are featured and mostly, the best way to enjoy them is to immerse yourself in the unique cultures each small town provides. Moreover, these small towns are all known to be peaceful and uniquely stunning.
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