10 Most Breathtaking Towns In California
The Golden State is famous for its large cities, diverse landscapes, iconic landmarks — both natural and man-made — and its leadership in the entertainment and technology industries. However, many communities across the state are stunning and make visitors want to return for a second and third visit. The state itself is the third largest in land area and is filled with amazing communities to explore or potentially call home. Let's visit the 10 most breathtaking towns in California.
Eureka
Eureka is a city with a population of 26,512, nestled in Humboldt County in the northern part of the state, adjacent to the Arcata Bay and the Pacific Ocean. Eureka is known for its blend of breathtaking natural beauty and cultural events. Being a very natural town, Sequoia Park is an excellent place to explore. The park is filled with redwood pine trees, two small yet charming creeks, a duck pond, a playground, open turf grass, and is next to the Sequoia Park Zoo, which has plenty of exciting animals for all to see.
Within the city is Old Town, which is filled with restored commercial buildings dating back to the Victorian era of the late 1800s, overlooking the waterfront. One old building to visit in Old Town is the Carson Mansion, a historic mansion that was the home of William McKendrie Carson, a lumber baron. Today, the mansion is known as the Ingomar Club, as it hosts weddings, has fine catering, and hosts other lavish events in one of the most photographed buildings in the state.
Right on Waterfront Drive is the Humboldt Bay Aquatic Center, a multipurpose facility providing boating safety, recreation, and education opportunities for visitors and residents. People can rent kayaks, canoes, sailboats, and aquatic gear for a safe and enjoyable exploration of the Samoa Channel, Arcata Channel, and Pacific Ocean. These landmarks and activities make the city breathtaking, along with the islands and beach communities around the area.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Just next to Monterey Bay and right at the northern tip of Big Sur is the city of Carmel-by-the-Sea, a coastal community with a population of 3,220. Carmel-by-the-Sea is known for its stunning scenery on the coastline, unique architecture, and vibrant artistic community. Being a beach community, Carmel Beach gives residents and visitors a breathtaking beach with luscious white sand, which is regarded as one of the best beaches in the state. The beach is dog-friendly, people can go surfing, and people can have group beach fires, but must follow the safety procedures when having a fire, and there are plenty of scenic pathways to explore.
A unique landmark to visit in town is the Tor House and Hawk Tower, the home of poet Robinson Jeffers and his family in the early 20th century. The building was built with magnificent granite stone and was modeled after a Tudor barn in England, making for an incredible landmark to visit. Today, the house is open for tours, but is limited to six people per tour, and the breathtaking building can host various events for the community.
Walking through the cozy community gives visitors and residents a warm welcome throughout the walkable streets filled with local and charming restaurants and shops. On Dolores Street, there are plenty of art galleries to visit, such as the Winfield Gallery, where visitors are treated to exhibits displaying sculptures, wonderful paintings, and much more in an elegant location on a very quaint street in town. The gallery was founded in 1989 by Christopher Winfield to promote local and upcoming artists and their careers. The gallery also resells select works from the 20th century on behalf of private individuals and institutions.
Solvang
A bit west of Santa Barbara is Solvang, a city with a population of 6,126. Solvang is known for its Danish Village atmosphere, which makes the community look like something out of a storybook with its charming architecture and delightful bakeries. The city is also referred to as "the Danish Capital of America" with European-inspired buildings. Within downtown is the Elverhøj Museum, which celebrates the city's Danish culture, the Danish American immigrant experience, and showcases fine art from local artists. The museum also hosts events and gives group tours for all who visit the facility.
Another attraction in the city that further gives the place a feeling of a fictional novel coming to life is the Solvang Windmills, landmarks in the city that were inspired by Danish windmills that used wind power to grind grains for flour, which attract a good number of tourists and their cameras for some fun and amazing photos as if they were in Europe. The most well-known windmill is the Blue Windmill on Copenhagen Drive, which houses local businesses like Viking Tower Pizza and the Right Gift souvenir shop.
In one of the most beautiful and adorable streets in the state, as if it were something out of a fairy tale, Copenhagen Street truly brings Danish culture to the state with a plethora of local shops, bakeries, and restaurants. A great restaurant to visit, as if people were in Copenhagen, is the Copenhagen Sausage Garden, a beer garden and restaurant serving family-made sausages, including two vegan sausages, served on a charcuterie plate, which is a great combination with wine and beer. Other dishes served include a pretzel with cheese, French fries, apple, and arugula salads, and much more.
Laguna Beach
Located in the very southern end of Orange County is Laguna Beach, a coastal city with a population of 23,032. Laguna Beach is known for its luscious beaches, coves, and luxurious beach resorts right on the Pacific Ocean. The Main Beach is one of many reasons why the city is gorgeous and breathtaking for residents and visitors. Its iconic lifeguard tower sets it apart from other beaches, too. The beach is very wide, so spreading a towel to lie on the sand won't be an issue. There are basketball courts, beach volleyball courts, and a public boardwalk for all to enjoy, taking in the waves and sun.
An immaculate hotel to visit and stay at in town is the Casa Loma Beach Hotel, which has a pool and rooms giving guests impeccable views of the Pacific Ocean and the glorious sunshine shining bright on the blue ocean water. The pathway behind the hotel allows visitors and residents to see the Sea Breeze statue and all her glory as she enjoys the vibrant weather all season long.
A natural wonder to explore north of town is Crystal Cove State Park, a stretch of cliffs and beachfront coves between the Pacific Coast Highway (California Route 1) and the Pacific Ocean. The park allows visitors to explore caves, 3.2 miles of beaches, 2,400 acres of undeveloped woods, and much more. Crystal Cove is used by scuba divers for water exploration, surfers and swimmers also make solid use of the ocean, the tide pools and sandy coves are a treat to see in person, and by mountain bikers looking to explore further inland. Crystal Cove is one of many natural examples of why Laguna Beach is breathtaking.
Avalon
Located on Catalina Island is the coastal city of Avalon, a community in Los Angeles County with a population of 3,460. Avalon is known as the only incorporated city on Catalina Island and is a breathtaking getaway from major cities for a weekend trip, as it's a luscious resort community, thanks to its Mediterranean-like setting. A true gem in the city to visit and explore for the weekend is the Catalina Casino, an Art Deco-styled casino that opened its doors in 1929 by William Wrigley Jr., as it overlooks the Pacific Ocean and the palm trees all around the building. The building hosts dances and performances, and the ballroom can host several other interesting events to this day.
Another breathtaking site to visit in town is the Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden, with a memorial honoring William Wrigley Jr. for his work and legacy in making the community the tourist destination that it is today. The memorial is made from local stone and Catalina tiles and gives residents and visitors amazing views of the Avalon Canyon and the San Pedro Channel to the mainland. The Botanic Garden, which is under the control of the Catalina Island Conservancy, has wonderful species of plants thriving like local cacti, palm trees, and other various plants only local to the Catalina Islands.
The rest of Avalon is beautiful and immaculate, as the city gives residents and visitors from the mainland and out of state a charming and warm welcome. Within the heart of downtown is the Green Pleasure Pier, a Catalina Island icon known for its vibrant atmosphere, scenic views of the island and adjacent ocean, and historical significance to the island and state. It's a popular spot for boating, fishing, and enjoying the island's marine life, and has plenty of local restaurants and shops, giving people access to Crescent Avenue, which overlooks the Pacific Ocean and offers all local sculptures, shops, and restaurants to enjoy.
Ojai
Just north of Ventura is the city of Ojai, a community with a population of 7,637, and it is known for its creative culture, environmental sensitivity, and spiritual focus in a stunning area known for its breathtaking landscapes. Being a naturally oriented community, the Ojai Valley Trail is a perfect spot for hiking, mountain biking, running, and more, offering a trail that combines natural beauty, history, and recreational opportunities. There's also a fenced horse-riding trail for those wanting to explore the land via horseback.
Ojai's downtown area is situated in a very scenic location, surrounded by mountains and trailheads. The Ojai Valley Museum showcases art, the history, and culture of the Ojai Valley Region. The exhibitions at the museum showcase the valley's history, beautiful glassware, paintings, sculptures, and statues throughout the facility. The museum also hosts various events such as Town Talks, walking tours, and a Halloween Bash.
A natural wonder to visit near town is the Rose Valley Falls Trail, a very popular 0.8-mile-long trail within the Los Padres National Forest. Within the trail is a cascading waterfall, which is breathtaking to see with the naked eye as the natural water flows down a moss-covered rock wall. The trail is accessible all year round, has campsites, but campers and visitors must bring water to drink and cook with, as none is provided.
Mount Shasta
Just near the state line is Mount Shasta, a city with a population of 3,223. The city is known for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and spiritual significance, and it earned its namesake from the adjacent Mount Shasta Volcano. Being a very outdoorsy city, there are plenty of trails to explore, both within and outside of town. A particular trail to explore is the Mount Shasta via Avalanche Gulch Route, which is 10.1 miles long, but a can be a bit challenging since it goes up the potentially active volcano. Timing is essential when exploring the route, along with having the proper equipment and the necessary skill set.
Another natural landmark to visit near the town is the McCloud River Waterfalls, another natural and breathtaking landmark in the region. The trail is four miles long and is a more moderate trail to explore compared to the Avalanche Gulch Route. It's recommended to begin at the lower waterfall, then head to the middle falls, which have a popular swimming hole, and the upper falls. The trail also displays the history of Mount Shasta's eruptive history with carved layers of basalt lava rock and volcanic mudflows.
An iconic place to visit and spend a weekend in the Mount Shasta region is Castle Lake, the Mount Shasta Resort. The resort gives visitors immaculate views of Mount Shasta, the region itself, and it has a golf course. The course is an 18-hole course, which opened in 1993, was designed by Jim Summers and Sandy Tatum, and allows people to see various wildlife local to the region. The resort also has a restaurant called the Highland House Restaurant and can host weddings with incredible natural views all around.
Cambria
Located just south of Big Sur is the seaside village of Cambria, a coastal community with a population of 5,678. Cambria is known for its artistic atmosphere, coastal beauty, and proximity to landmarks and attractions like the Hearst Castle. Since Cambria is a coastal community, an incredibly breathtaking place to visit is Moonstone Beach, a beach famous for its luscious coastlines and immaculate views. The beach allows visitors and residents to go fishing, sink their feet in the warm and crispy sand, explore tide pools, view sea otters from a distance, and go surfing.
A Cambria landmark to see in the breathtaking village is the Guthrie House, also known as the Cambria Historical Museum, a museum preserving the history of the community. The home was built in 1870 and is one of the oldest homes built in town, which allows tours, events, from meetings, birthday parties, and family reunions, in a restored Victorian-style house, which has seen 20,000 visitors since becoming a museum in 2008.
Another breathtaking natural site to visit in town is the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve Bluff Trail, one of the most scenic spots in town, allowing visitors to explore different trails from dawn until dusk with beautiful and somewhat dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean right by their side. The trail allows people to see different sea mammals, birds, and plants throughout. The land itself almost became a golf course, but the community prevented it from happening and preserved it as the gorgeous natural haven that it is today.
St. Helena
Within Napa County, also known as "Wine Country," is St. Helena, a gorgeous city with a population of 5,430. St. Helena is known for its world-class wineries, upscale boutiques, stunning scenery, and luxurious lifestyle. One of the best wineries to visit in the city is the V. Sattui Winery, a winery founded in 1885 and re-established in 1976, as it's known for its world-class wine and amazing meals served in a wonderful property with luscious gardens, picnicking grounds, and endless amounts of vineyards. The V. Sattui Winery is also one of the first wineries to put picnic tables for a truly amazing experience for guests to enjoy a glass of freshly prepared wine.
A breathtaking site of nature to explore outside of town is the Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, a 1,900-acre state park, allowing visitors year-round camping, picnicking, hiking, and swimming. Bicycles and horses are allowed on some trails, and dogs are allowed in campgrounds on a leash, but not on trail systems. Woodfires are banned. However, charcoal, propane grills, and cook stoves are allowed for responsible cooking, but are banned if there are red flag warnings or high heat/humidity periods.
Just outside the historical district is the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, a museum that preserves the history and works of Robert Louis Stevenson, who spent his honeymoon in the community. The museum contains over 9,000 items, including manuscripts of Stevenson from his library, as well as his connection to the region. The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. with free entry to everyone.
Shelter Cove
About 87.4 miles south of Eureka is Shelter Cove, a census-designated place with a population of 803 residents. Shelter Cove is known as the gateway to the "Lost Coast," a remote and rugged stretch of coastline known for diverse landscapes, history, and recreational activities like hiking and mountain climbing. The Lost Coast is breathtaking, an undeveloped land known for its challenging terrain. The Lost Coast is excellent for camping, staying at one of the local resorts or bed and breakfasts, and the endless number of hiking trails in the region.
Another natural wonder to explore just north of town is the Black Sands Beach, a picturesque beach that gives its visitors a relaxed atmosphere, immaculate views of the scenery, and black sand, thanks to the effects of volcanic materials and iron deposits. However, the beach has steep inclines and dangerous rip currents, making swimming unsafe. Regardless, the beach and landscape are breathtaking and enjoyable for all who visit the area.
Towards the south of town is the Cape Mendocino Lighthouse, a historic lighthouse that was moved to Shelter Cove in 1998 and opened to the public in May of 2000. The lighthouse is owned and maintained by Humboldt County and gives visitors and residents immaculate views of the coastline, beaches, and the landscape. The lighthouse is open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. seven days a week from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and from Fridays to Sundays from Labor Day to Memorial Day.
Overall, each of these communities presents the state differently, with a vast amount of natural beauty, local shops, and businesses that bring these towns and cities to life. They are potential places to settle down and call home. Each community has its own quirks and charms that keep people coming back for more, much like a buffet-style restaurant, which adds to the towns' appeal. The stunning scenery and views will leave visitors spoiled for a true California Adventure beyond the state's major cities, opening the door to new and exciting possibilities.
