11 Best Small Towns In California For A Crowd-Free Summer

The California most people visit gets old fast. Freeways and peak-season parking lots eat the day. The Instagram spots all look the same. These eleven towns don't have that problem. Idyllwild sits cool in the San Jacinto Mountains, Mendocino has a few hundred residents and cliffs above the Pacific that most Californians have never seen, and Murphys has more tasting rooms per block than crowds per sidewalk.

Cambria

Despite the overall popularity of the Central Coast and Big Sur region, many of the area's towns remain surprisingly uncrowded. Cambria is among the best examples, located roughly equidistant between San Francisco and Los Angeles. It's home to the beauty of Moonstone Beach, a popular spot for strolls (particularly at sunset) as well as taking in the unique local fauna, including tide pool creatures, otters, and even whales. Those who'd like to spend more time in nature can enjoy the open, oceanfront expanses of the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve, a popular hiking spot. At the end of the day, visitors can stroll the historic main street, which is lined with shops and restaurants, including longtime local institution Linn's.

Morro Bay

Another one-of-a-kind Central Coast spot, Morro Bay may be best known for the striking visual of the three soaring smokestacks of the area's decommissioned power plant, set against the hulking Morro Rock across the water. It's an ideal community for those who love getting out on the water, whether it's kayaking, paddleboarding, or surfing. Visitors can also check out the lively, authentic Embarcadero, a waterfront corridor lined with restaurants, shops, hotels, marinas, and attractions such as the Morro Bay Maritime Museum. It's also a prime jumping-off point for local whale-watching cruises and fishing charters.

Mendocino

With just a few hundred residents, Mendocino has the fewest permanent residents of any town on this list. However, there's no doubt the coastal northern California escape, which includes a distinctive downtown, punches above its weight when it comes to what it offers visitors looking to avoid more hectic areas of the state. The town's dramatic waterfront cliffs are preserved with public trails as part of Mendocino Headlands State Park, one of the most memorable views of the Pacific you can find. Mendocino is also close to some of California's redwood forests, contrasted with the unique "pygmy forest" of miniature trees and other environments of nearby Van Damme State Park.

Ferndale

One look at Ferndale and visitors will be instantly drawn in. The town itself is among the main attractions of this quiet destination, with exquisitely preserved Victorian architecture combined with traditional American small-town character. In just a few blocks, you'll find galleries, theaters, quirky local shops, and tasty local restaurants. Additionally, consider Ferndale an ideal base for day trips along the remote, unspoiled Lost Coast region of the state, including nearby redwoods and undeveloped Pacific oceanfront. The area also retains a strong dairy heritage, an industry that helped shape Ferndale's Victorian wealth and remains part of the local economy today.

Nevada City

In the foothills of the Sierra, northeast of Sacramento, Nevada City offers a low-key getaway spot with a gold-rush heritage. A walk through the historic downtown can feel like traveling back through time, thanks to preserved brick buildings, the 1865 Nevada Theatre (the oldest continuously operating theater on the West Coast), and a mix of antique shops. However, these old-school standbys have been enhanced by newer restaurants and breweries. After exploring, visitors can head to South Yuba River State Park, which provides river access for swimming, hiking trails, and more. Those who prefer to explore the region on four wheels can hit the road toward Tahoe National Forest, where they'll find a variety of incredible views and tiny, unique communities.

Murphys

Murphys is another Sierra foothills town, but with a unique character of its own. Wine is the name of the game here, with more than a dozen tasting rooms, wine bars, and shops selling the region's wares along Murphys' walkable downtown area. It's a far more relaxed atmosphere than many other, bigger-name wine destinations across California, supplemented by the historic architecture and thriving local businesses. Just outside of town is Mercer Caverns, a cave system that offers visual and scientific appeal, not to mention a chance to cool off on a warm summer day. Of course, its foothills location also means day trips into the mountains are simple and rewarding for those staying nearby.

Bishop

On the eastern side of the Sierra lies Bishop, a quiet summer getaway perfect for those who prefer to spend their vacation outdoors. The environs nearby are home to a truly one-of-a-kind ecosystem, known as the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest. Part of Inyo National Forest, this preserved area is home to landscapes populated by striking, gnarled trees that are thousands of years old, with access rules that can vary by season and conservation needs. This is just one of the countless outdoor recreation opportunities within a short drive of this underrated corner of the Eastern Sierra region, including hiking, boating, fishing, rock climbing, or simply enjoying the area's wide-open, undeveloped spaces.

Idyllwild

Although it's just miles from some of the most scorching corners of the state, Idyllwild avoids this excessive heat with its higher altitude near the San Jacinto Mountains. These mountains provide incredible opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and camping, without the mobs of visitors that flock to better-known destinations. It's one of the most spread-out spots on this list, but still offers a walkable downtown strip, peppered with local restaurants, record stores, art galleries, and more. Combined with its location within a few hours of Los Angeles and other Southern California cities, it's a top spot for those looking for a cooler mountain town that can help them unplug and unwind.

Julian

Julian offers a different take on a Southern California mountain town, this one based on its historic founding during the state's gold rush. Start by strolling the downtown area, lined with saloons, antique stores, and other period-appropriate businesses. The area is also known for growing delicious apples, making it a must-do to grab some pie, cider, and other apple products on any trip to Julian. It shares one similarity with other mountain towns, a cooler environment that makes enjoying time outside during a summer trip far more enjoyable. That's great news for those who want to hike nearby areas like William Heise County Park and Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve.

Los Olivos

Just a short drive from some of Southern California's busiest areas, a trip to this quiet wine town can make visitors feel a world away. A walkable downtown offers a mix of tasting rooms and wine bars, while nearby vineyards also provide tours and tastings. The "olivos" in the town's name isn't just for show, either, with olive oil tasting rooms and regional products adding another local flavor to a visit. Los Olivos is also ideally positioned for day trips, including to the unique (but somewhat more crowded), Danish-inspired town of Solvang, renowned for its unique architecture and culture.

Kernville

Just south of Sequoia National Forest, Kernville sits beside the North Fork of the Kern River, with Lake Isabella just down the road, making water central to the area's appeal. The Kern River is best known for rafting, kayaking, and fishing, offering cool water and scenic views for visitors who choose the right outfitter, season, and conditions. Meanwhile, the nearby lake is a top spot in the region for boating and fishing. For giant sequoias, the Trail of 100 Giants in Long Meadow Grove is about an hour northwest of Kernville and is usually a summer-season side trip.

From the Mountains to the Ocean, a Crowd-Free Summer Getaway is Waiting in California

No matter what kind of California summer escape you're seeking, you don't need to settle for traffic, crowds, and the hassle that comes with them. Quieter but equally rewarding spots exist all across the state, from the Sierra to the Pacific coast. All that's left is to decide which one is perfect for you.