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No matter what kind of vacation you're looking for, the Golden State won't disappoint. Part of California's charm is the variety of the state's landscape—after all, as people who live there will often tell you, it's possible to go surfing in the morning and snow skiing in the afternoon. Aside from the mountains and beaches, California also boasts plenty of scenic desert landscapes, rolling vineyards, and relaxed lakeside destinations for you to explore. We've rounded up 40 of the best and most quaint small cities, towns, neighborhoods, and villages in California—several with gorgeous European influence—so you can start planning your next trip.
Whether you're planning a weekend getaway with your girlfriends, a romantic and cozy vacation with your sweetheart, or a family-friendly adventure for the whole crew, these places with small-town charm deserve a spot on your list. No matter what activities you want to enjoy—wine tasting, hiking, boating, fine dining, surfing, sailing, or simply relaxing with a good book and a nice view—there's sure to be a spot on this list that feels like it was made just for you.
Venice
It doesn't get more picturesque than this LA beach town with Italian influence—hence all the canals and bridges. Walk or bike along the four-mile boardwalk that runs from the southern end of Venice Beach to the nearby Santa Monica Beach and marvel at the street performers and eclectic shops.
Sonoma
Expect to enjoy plenty of scenic vineyards, hiking trails, and a quaint downtown area. When it's time to rest your feet, pull up a chair at one of the many tasting rooms or world-class restaurants near the town's plaza.
Sutter Creek
If you're looking to learn about the history of the California Gold Rush, enjoy a charming Main Street of shops and restaurants, and enjoy nature-filled strolls, head here for your next weekend trip.
Ferndale
This Victorian-inspired town features plenty of unique architecture, natural vistas, and of course, small-town charm. 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.
Solvang
Situated in the southern Santa Ynez Valley, near Santa Barbara wine country, "The Danish Capital of America" has a strong Danish influence, of course—hence the quaint cottages and town windmill.
Truckee
Truly an all-seasons destination, you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding in the winter months—or biking, hiking, and rock climbing in the warm months. Scenic landscapes and outdoor adventures abound, and you can enjoy a vibrant Main Street filled with boutiques and restaurants too.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
A fairytale-like coastal community, Carmel-by-the-Sea has it all: natural beauty, gourmet cuisine, nearly 100 galleries, and one-of-a-kind shopping—all within one square mile.
Palm Springs
Whether you want adventure or relaxation, Palm Springs has it. There's nearby Joshua Tree National Park if you need to recharge, or a more bustling downtown, where you'll find one-of-a-kind boutiques, restaurants, and the Palm Springs Walk of Stars.
Bishop
This small California town is located in the Eastern Sierras, not too far from the Nevada border. Plan to spend most of your time here enjoying the great outdoors, since popular activities include hiking, fishing, rock climbing, and biking.
Coronado
This island has been a popular vacation destination for decades, thanks to its pristine beaches, oceanfront mansions, and beautiful gardens. The iconic Hotel del Coronado, pictured here, was the setting of 1959's Some Like It Hot, starring Marilyn Monroe.
San Juan Capistrano
Home to the ruins of the 1797 Great Stone Church, the Zoomars Petting Zoo, and more, this city in Orange County that's bursting with Spanish influence can be a quick day trip from Los Angeles.
La Quinta
This Southern California town is called "The Gem of the Desert"—and boy, does it ring true. Golfers will find plenty to enjoy here, because La Quinta and the immediate surrounding area are home to more than 100 golf courses! Besides golfing, enjoy world-class spas, shopping, fine dining, and plenty of poolside lounging.
Healdsburg
Wine tasting should be on the agenda when you head to this city with small-town charm in the heart of Sonoma County. When you've had your fill of vino, enjoy the charming town square, quirky shops, art galleries, and Michelin-Starred restaurants.
Mariposa
If you're looking to cross Yosemite off your bucket list, the town of Mariposa is an ideal place to anchor yourself. You'll get to enjoy all the park has to offer as well as plenty of historic sites, fine dining, spas, and more.
Avalon/Santa Catalina Island
Walking is a way of life here, so bring the right shoes! There's currently a 14-year waitlist to have a car on the island, making it easy to stroll around the one-square-mile town of Avalon or on Green Pleasure Pier—that is, when you're not relaxing on the white sand beaches, snorkeling off the coast, or climbing the island's highest peak (Mt. Orizaba).
Dana Point
Located on the southern end of Orange County, Dana Point is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the sun and sand. With more than six miles of beach, you can expect to see plenty of surfers, paddleboarders, kayakers, volleyball players, and more (and you can be one of them!) when you visit.
Guerneville
You won't be able to resist spending plenty of time on the water when you visit this tiny Northern California town. Rent a kayak to float down the gentle Russian River, or set up a chair and umbrella at local favorite Johnson's Beach. For a wine tasting excursion, head to Korbel Winery (isn't the property beautiful?)—about three miles from downtown.
Mendocino
Bundle up for your drive along the rugged Mendocino coastline, which boasts breathtaking views around every turn. Don't forget to refuel with a coffee and pastry at one of the town's adorable bakeries or cafes.
Borrego Springs
If you've heard of this area, it's likely because of the wildflower superbloom that usually happens in Anza-Borrego State Park following a rainy season. Even if you don't catch the wildflowers, opt for incredible stargazing, unique metal sculptures that mysteriously appear in the desert, and a thriving arts community.
Los Alamos
Los Alamos' Old West heritage is on display as you stroll past the art galleries, antique shops, and tasting rooms along the main street. Stay at the Victorian Mansion, pictured here, an adorable bed and breakfast that boasts themed suites—think '50s or French.
Idyllwild
Idyllwild's town website reads, "If you are ready to get away from the traffic jams, or the noisy city life, this is the town for you." That really says it all! This quaint mountain village offers plenty of hiking and a few local shops and restaurants, including an idyllic tea shop called Merkaba Tea.
Los Olivos
Rolling hills of vineyards and olive trees might convince you you've been transported to Italy, but Los Olivos is actually located in California's Santa Ynez Valley. Visit one of the region's many tasting rooms or grab a bottle of wine and some panini for a picnic overlooking one of the area's scenic vistas.
Auburn
This centuries-old town (you're looking at a historic firehouse) is less than an hour north of Sacramento and offers plenty of trails for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. After a day at Auburn State Recreation Area, reward yourself with a drink at one of the area's breweries or wineries.
Julian
Fall is the best season to visit this small mountain town in Southern California. Head to the orchards for apple picking, or just go straight for the good stuff and pick up an apple pie from Julian Pie Company. You'll also have the chance to explore the tunnels of an old gold mine and enjoy miles of hiking trails.
Point Reyes Station
If the unspoiled California coastline, a charming small town, and towering redwoods sound like your idea of a perfect vacation, head to Point Reyes Station. Nature lovers will find plenty to enjoy here, with whales, birds, and elephant seals all being frequently spotted in the area.
Pismo Beach
Take yourself to California's central coast for this laid-back beach town. In Pismo Beach, you'll get to enjoy wine tasting, golfing, horseback riding, surfing, and of course, long walks on the beach.
Solana Beach
This small town in San Diego County is home to plenty of scenic trails and beaches. Enjoy surfing, tide pools, golf, farmers' markets, shopping, and more. Best of all, most of the city's attractions are within easy biking or walking distance from the beach.
Crestline
Located in California's San Bernadino Mountains, the main attraction here is Lake Gregory, where visitors can indulge in fishing, swimming, boating, hiking, biking, and plenty of other outdoor activities.
Cambria
This Central California coastal town is perfect for a weekend getaway. In addition to beautiful beaches, tour nearby Hearst Castle, indulge in wine and beer tastings, and explore plenty of historic landmarks.
Calistoga
Napa Valley is home to this small town, where, in addition to world-class wine and food, it's known for its geothermal hot springs. Be sure to leave yourself a day or two to visit Calistoga's spas and resorts, where you can take a dip in the mineral springs and enjoy a restorative mud bath.
Bodega Bay
This fishing village is actually so small—it's home to less than 1,000 people—it doesn't even count as a town. You might recognize some of the sites in the area from Alfred Hitchcock's The Birds, which was set and filmed here.
Del Mar
Take time to walk the trails at Torrey Pines State Park (pictured here), where it's possible to wind through cliffs and canyons until you reach the beach. This town is home to fewer than 5,000 people, but it's connected to the larger city of San Diego, so you'll have plenty to explore.
St. Helena
In the heart of Napa Valley, this extremely walkable town is often seen as the gateway to the surrounding wine country. Its downtown features a half-mile of boutiques, restaurants, and tasting rooms set amidst charming inns. For a wine tasting, visit Beringer Vineyards—the longest continuously operating winery in Napa—where you'll also find this gorgeous historic mansion called The Rhine House.
Sausalito
Situated on the northern end of the Golden Gate Bridge in the San Francisco Bay area is this picturesque enclave. Day trippers come from the city to visit the boutiques and cafes overlooking the yacht-filled harbor—with a view of downtown San Francisco in the distance.
Morro Bay
Called the "Gibraltar of the Pacific," Morro Bay is a scenic fishing town where you can explore the water during the day and spend your evenings at one of the many waterfront restaurants. Don't miss Morro Rock, a longtime landmark for sailors finding their way to the shore.
Paso Robles
If you can't choose between mountains, beaches, and deserts, Paso Robles is your destination. Midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, this town is beautifully decorated with public artwork: murals, tile mosaics, and sculptures line the streets.
Capitola
On the northern point of Monterey Bay lies Capitola—one of the oldest seaside resort towns on the west coast. Today, you can choose from a range of beach houses, bed and breakfasts, and hotels that are just steps away from Soquel Cove.
San Clemente
Surfers flock here to catch a wave on the San Onofre and San Clemente state beaches. Its picturesque pier sets it apart from other southern Orange County towns.
Ojai
Sprinkled with New Age shops and art galleries, Ojai borders the Los Padres National Forest northwest of Los Angeles. Every year, visitors flock to Ojai for classical music at the renowned Ojai Music Festival. The "pink moment" at sunset is another very special feature of this tiny town.
South Lake Tahoe
On the border between California and Nevada, South Lake Tahoe is a year-round resort town attracting visitors with its bright blue water in the summer and ski hubs, like Heavenly Village, in the winter.
