11 Undisturbed Towns To Visit On The Pacific Coast

Except for a few outliers, coastal towns are often among the most soothing, undisturbed, and peaceful places to visit. In certain seasons, all you hear is the rhythmic crashing of the waves as they gallop and retreat. The breezy downtowns, where flip-flops pad down the streets and wide-brimmed hats assuage the sun, are typically casual and laid back. The Pacific Coast is no exception. From well-preserved architecture to walkable downtowns with no addresses, the towns that dot the Pacific Coast travel the whole gamut. Starting with Mendocino, California, discover 11 undisturbed towns on the Pacific Coast.

Mendocino, California

Think of a peaceful place where you can go to watch waves crashing against towering cliffs, wander in an old-growth forest that feels surreal, or relish some of America's freshest produce. That's Mendocino; both town and county. There are old-growth redwoods just out of town (check out Jackson Demonstration State Forest), inviting restaurants serving a long list of delicious eats (try the organic light bites at GoodLife Cafe & Bakery), and a vibrant art scene with some mind-rousing displays.

The Mendocino Art Centre has small apartments for visiting artists, a gallery with intriguing knick-knacks to explore, a shop, gardens, and an acceptable number of art studios, including a robust ceramics studio with electric, gas, and wood-fire. That said, Mendocino Headlands State Park is an adorable outdoor paradise and often the undisputed star of the show. It has miles of trails along a cliff, secluded beaches, and an incredibly refreshing atmosphere.

Port Townsend, Washington

A misfortune turned out to be a blessing in disguise for Port Townsend, and is partly the reason it remains one of the most undisturbed towns along the Pacific. Today, although the Northern Pacific Railroad stopped in Tacoma and failed to link up with Port Townsend, the town has put that history behind it and is among the most sought-after vacation spots in the state. It has peaceful waterfront views, 19th-century buildings, and a rich maritime heritage. Centrum’s Jazz Port Townsend is reputed to be Washington’s longest-running jazz festival and is one of several events that light up the town every so often.

Check out the Northwest Maritime Center, which is right on the waterfront, especially if you want boat tours or paddleboard rentals. Fort Worden Historical State Park, with its old forts and battle stations, is an interesting piece of history as it is an outdoor playground with lots of recreational activities. As for delicious food, Asian-influenced eats from Silverwater Cafe should provide the kick you need for the day. Meanwhile, art lovers have several galleries to explore, including Gallery 9 on Water Street.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Cannon Beach is a small, storybook town known for its peaceful beaches, quiet forests, small inns, mind-rousing art scene, and, of course, the iconic Haystack Rock, one of Oregon's most recognizable landmarks. Rising more than 200 feet from the edge of the shoreline, the rock is a fun spot to find fascinating tidepool creatures such as starfish, especially at low tide.

From watching a live performance at Coaster Theatre, loved for its intimate setting, to marveling at how glassblowers transform glowing molten glass into beautiful works of art at Icefire Glassworks, this calm town has lots of stuff to offer. Keep in mind that Ecola State Park, perched dramatically on the edge of Tillamook Head, is a prime venue for watching one of the friendliest sea creatures on the planet: gray whales. As for food, Pelican Brewing has a large interior that feels like eating in a modern wilderness resort. It's a cool place for enjoying clams and oysters.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Even if you have not binge-watched HBO’s "Big Little Lies," Carmel-by-the-Sea, or just Carmel, has a name that tantalizes all your curiosity fibers. It has storybook cottages, hidden courtyards, no street addresses, quiet beaches, and a strict preservation code that protects its old-world charm. For those in the Bay Area, Carmel can make for a quick getaway, considering it is just a few hours away by car.

There's Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, which you will swear to be one of the most beautiful places in the Golden State, especially for its dramatic cliffs and emerald waters. Similarly, there's Cowgirl Winery, one of countless places to enjoy a sparkling variety of wines, and the aptly named Refuge, a tranquil “hydrothermal facility” with views of the Santa Lucia Mountains. It spans about two acres. Finally, even if you don't know how to swing a driver, Pebble Beach Golf Links, which features the most famous 18th hole in the world, is worth taking note of.

Friday Harbor, Washington

Friday Harbor is a sleepy coastal town tucked away on Washington's San Juan Island. It is a serene space with wooden buildings, whale-watching docks, and a relaxed island rhythm. Begin your adventure at Salty Fox Coffee, which serves delicious breakfast sandwiches amid heart-melting harbor views and rustic vibes. After a much-needed kick, work your way to the Whale Museum, which displays well-done exhibits with lots of information about ocean dwellers like orcas and whales.

You will especially enjoy moving stories about some of the individual Southern Resident Killer Whales. The perfect sequel is a whale-watching tour by one of the agencies in the area. Check out Western Prince Whale & Wildlife Tours, which at the time of this writing boasts a perfect five-star rating on Google Reviews. Alternatively, Fairweather Park is a sweet little pocket park near the water just up from the Ferry Terminal. It features small grassy areas and nice views of the marina.

Trinidad, California

You could argue that the only sounds around Trinidad are those of sea lions sunning their blubbery bodies on rocks, or those of the crashing waves on the rugged coastline. Of course, you will thoroughly enjoy either experience. Trinidad is quiet, tiny, sometimes foggy, but always rebelliously undisturbed. The harbor looks unchanged, and the area is a cool place to mill around.

Larrupin' Cafe, loved for its eclectic decor, is a highly recommended seafood restaurant that whips up delicious brisket along with a unique appetizer board with local fruits and cheeses. There's a sea stack called Pewetole Island, where you can relish a moment of calm and clarity, and the Trinidad State Beach, which features a rock shaped like a woman seated by the ocean. Locals call it “grandmother.” If you want to break a sweat, the idyllic Trinidad Head Trail offers the best experience.

Coupeville, Washington

Coupeville is on Whidbey Island, a peaceful place with idyllic beaches and a soft, soothing atmosphere. Coupeville was settled in the years preceding the Civil War and is among Washington’s oldest cities. You will find well-preserved pioneer buildings, quiet streets, and protected farmland.

Start with flaky cardamom rolls with well-balanced flavors at the Little Red Hen Bakery, then stroll down to Aqua Gifts at the end of Front Street to snag some interesting "Practical Magic"-themed goodies, keeping in mind the peaceful town is where the 1998 movie was filmed. Robert Y. Pratt Preserve at Ebey's Landing offers a scenic hike with stunning views of the lagoon and the ocean. Alternatively, Deception Pass State Park, the most visited state park in Washington, is just north of town.

Anacortes, Washington

People come to Anacortes to sip stunning views from Cap Sante, an impressive rocky headland at the northeast corner of the town that offers views extending from Mount Baker to Mount Rainier (Pacific Northwest weather permitting, of course!) — with Rainier is the highest peak in the Cascade Range. Anacortes is a quiet, maritime town with old brick storefronts, forested parks, calm but busy marinas, and panoramic ferry views of the San Juan Islands.

Adrift Restaurant, an adorable gem off Commercial, has an expansive and diverse menu worth every drop of unleaded fuel, because people drive here just for it. Lovers of clam chowder or other seafood in a rich, cream sauce should particularly take note. If you love stopping at local bookshops when visiting small towns, Pelican Bay Books & Coffeehouse will effortlessly draw you in. It has a great selection of books, a cozy cafe, and inviting, bright nooks to sit down with a gripping read. Mount Erie Summit Trail has scenic trails to explore and offers heart-stirring mountain views.

Morro Bay, California

It might look a little more than a set of campgrounds and RV Parks, but Morro Bay is a photo-worthy town by itself, with all the hallmarks of a vacation destination: peaceful and laid-back. Morro Bay is widely associated with Morro Rock, once an important navigational aid for mariners, especially because it was the most visible in a chain of 9 peaks. It is approximately 576 feet tall.

There's Morro Strand State Beach, a fantastic spot for windsurfing and beachcombing, and Morro Bay State Park, which features a mixed forest, golf course, marina, and museum. Dorn's Breakers Cafe is a family-friendly bayside eatery with a focus on fresh, local seafood, including oysters and clam chowder. It offers generous views of the ocean and the iconic Morro Rock. Red Tail Bikes is a sweet, small-town gem and probably the best bike shop in the Central Coast.

Port Orford, Oregon

Port Orford is surrounded by serene wilderness enclosures and set against vast stretches of sandy beach in a raw, pristine area with little human intervention. It is one of the oldest towns on the Oregon coast and is well-known for its rugged, undeveloped coastline. The environment around Heads State Park is incredibly beautiful and features trails with scenic views, a museum with cool miniature dioramas, and a cute gift shop.

You can purchase a lovely piece of art at Tree Wizard Gallery (it is known for its unique wood carvings), then drift into bliss at the Tseriadun State Recreation Site, a great place to be sandblasted by tiny agates on a gorgeous pebble beach. For those who enjoy rockhounding, this is one of the best agate-collecting places you will ever set foot on. Crown the day with some cold carrot juice at Mr. Ed's Espresso, Juice, and Underground Pub.

Brookings, Oregon

With its peaceful beaches, sea stacks, beautiful botanical gardens, and pleasant climate (read about the Chetco Effect), Brookings can consistently put you in a grinning mode. It is small, friendly, and lightly developed. If you enjoy touring new locations on a two-wheeler, Brookings should draw your attention because it was recently designated as bike-friendly. Outdoor spots include The Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, which stretches for over 10 miles and has several viewpoints to soak up fairytale vistas.

Alternatively, there's Harris Beach State Park, where large rocky areas become perfect for tide pooling. Also, as its name suggests, the state park has white-sand beaches often enveloped in spell-binding nautical charm. In the meantime, food lovers have the Catalyst, whose delicious clam chowders are obviously prepared by folks who know their stuff. Just don't miss Azalea Park, a sprawling green space with bright and bubbly azaleas and rhododendrons.

So, whether it is the beautiful wildflowers that sway around in the distance, the awnings and storefronts that carry whispers of a bygone era, or the church steeples and red-brick hotels that have defined townscapes for more than 100 years, it's always a delight to explore a small, undisturbed town with a relaxing atmosphere and a decent number of hidden gems.

The good news? The Pacific Coast has them by the dozens.