6 Most Beautiful College Towns In California
California, also known as the Golden State, is one of the most famous destinations in the United States. Home to everything from Silicon Valley to the Sequoia National Park and its massive trees, there is something for everyone. However, many overlook California’s high-quality education. It features over 750 higher education institutions, the most of any American state.
Whether you want to pursue an undergraduate architecture program in San Luis Obispo or study with Aggies in Davis, students have ample opportunities. Along with education, Cali’s college towns abound with activities and scenery, making college life more fun and easy. To help you decide which town is the best for college or a vacation, this article delves into some of the most beautiful options in California.
San Luis Obispo
Starting along the Central Coast, San Luis Obispo is the county seat of its namesake county and home to California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. This institute was founded in 1901, making it the oldest polytechnic university in the California State University system. The rich heritage is palpable throughout the 9,200-acre campus, which features the Leaning Pine Arboretum, a five-acre expanse of Mediterranean forests, woodland, and more. Buildings like the Performing Arts Center and the Dexter Lawn add to the campus's beauty. Add more than 20,000 students on campus, and it is a scenic environment full of life at all times, except maybe summer vacations.
Off campus, San Luis Obispo’s coastal location shines through in its landmarks, and Highway 1 is the best way to take it all in. This stretch of road runs along the coast, featuring over a dozen beaches, parks, wineries, and more. If you’re not the one driving, the town's own Chamisal Vineyards is a great stopping point for some delicious wine tasting with views of the vineyards. On the other hand, those looking for a hiking experience can challenge themselves to conquer Bishop Peak. Considered one of the Nine Sisters peaks, it is approximately four miles from San Luis Obispo, where one can witness the region from over 1,500 feet above sea level.
Davis
Davis is a bustling college town in Northern California's Sacramento Valley. It is home to the University of California, Davis (UC Davis), one of the state’s largest institutions with over 40,000 students as of 2023. UC Davis is considered a Public Ivy League school with a lovely campus adjacent to the town. Here, visitors and students can explore plenty of landmarks, from the 100-plus-acre UC Davis arboretum with its more than 4,000 tree specimens to the seven public art statues known as the Eggheads. The best part is that the entire campus, and most of Davis, is bicycle-friendly, so you only need a bike to witness all these sights and more. It's no wonder the town has been called the biking capital of America.
Those looking for more will adore cycling along the Davis Greenbelt. This network of trails spans over 60 miles in town, with sections like the Old North Fork of Putah Creek, to the Green Meadows Greenbelt, which connects to Oak Grove Park. Visitors can check out The Artery, one of the region’s premier galleries, for a different kind of beauty. It is a cooperative gallery, showcasing work from over 60 artists, best seen during the 2nd Friday ArtAbout, which is always full of vibrance. End the day with students at the Segundo Dining Commons for a delicious brick-oven pizza and plenty of friendly faces.
Santa Cruz
Students and tourists interested in some watersports and coastal scenery adore the town of Santa Cruz along Monterey Bay. It is considered a seaside resort and a college town, home to the University of California, Santa Cruz. The institute has more than 19,000 enrolled students and was established in 1965. Along with plenty of courses and amenities, the campus offers views of the Pacific Ocean, with forested hills and various hiking trails amidst the greenery. One such trail leads to Porter Caves, a popular spelunking option with three underground chambers. It is not for the faint of heart, so take necessary safety measures.
More scenery lies in and around the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, lined with an arcade, roller coasters, mini golf, and more. Visitors can also opt for a more relaxing day of sunbathing along the crashing waves of this beautiful beach. Nearby, Natural Bridges State Beach is a 65-acre expanse of beauty that beckons travelers from all over. One can witness a stunning natural bridge along the coast and an eucalyptus grove home to the beautiful monarch butterflies. Those visiting during migration season can witness thousands of these lovely insects flying around. Last but not least, families can hop aboard Roaring Camp Railroads for a fun train ride through redwood trees and wildlife.
Arcata
Escape from the hustle and bustle of urban living in this quaint community on Arcata Bay. Arcata is home to California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, which has over 6,000 students. It is divided into three colleges, and the main campus sits on a hillside along a coast redwood forest. The campus has many places to explore, from Fern Lake's hiking trails to the Jolly Giant Creek. A short walk east lies the Arcata Community Forest, an almost 800-acre expanse divided into various tracts. It is a popular spot for hiking, birding, and camping, although you’ll have to stay at the Redwood Lodge, a lovely accommodation with a rustic ambiance.
On a different note, those looking for beauty indoors can visit the Natural History Museum or Arcata Plaza. The museum is part of Cal Poly, beckoning curious students and tourists with exhibits on fossils, prehistoric mammals, and more. The plaza is a lovely area in central Arcata, lined with eateries and businesses, such as the delicious Sushi Spot Arcata.
Claremont
Home to the seven Claremont Colleges, a consortium of seven private institutions, Claremont is one of California’s best college towns. The colleges have a 540-acre suburban campus with over 8,500 students and tons of things to see nearby. Those interested in natural beauty can choose between the California Botanic Garden and the Claremont Hills Wilderness Park. The garden spans nearly 90 acres with around 22,000 native plants that visitors can explore amongst the San Gabriel foothills. Meanwhile, the Claremont Hills Wilderness Park offers a five-mile trail and views of the San Gabriel Mountains.
Beyond nature, Claremont exudes college charm, especially through its rich cultural landmarks. For example, the Raymond M. Alf Museum of Paleontology comprises two 4,000-square-foot exhibition halls with 140,000 specimens in its collection. From a fossil of the Tyrannosaurus rex to camel and elephant tracks, it provides a complete insight into paleontology. If this isn’t enough, one can check out the Claremont Lewis Museum of Art. As the name suggests, this museum bustles with artistic charm, from the abstract Complications in Color exhibit to the Artful Evening event set for the end of June.
Palo Alto
Known as the birthplace of Silicon Valley for its technological impact, Palo Alto is the place to be for both students and curious travelers. Started by the industrialist who founded Stanford University, this town is just a short drive from Stanford and is also home to Palo Alto University (PAU). To this end, there is no shortage of education and scenic campus life. Staying within town limits, there is a lot to explore near PAU's campus, especially when it comes to outdoor sights. The Pearson-Arastradero Preserve is a prime option, boasting 622 acres of preserved land open for hiking and biking with 10-plus miles of trails. Visitors can walk along the quaint Arastradero Creek, hike with their dog, or even spend some time wildlife watching for bobcats, deer, and birds.
After some outdoor exploration, Rossotti’s Alpine Inn in Portola Valley is a local hotspot, offering some of the best beer, burgers, and vibes in town. Once you’re recharged, head into town for some cultural charm at the Stanford Theatre, an excellent site for movies. And, if all else fails, Stanford University is just a short walk away with tons of heritage and landmarks to explore.
California’s college towns are more than just academic hubs; they are vibrant communities brimming with natural beauty, culture, and exciting experiences. Whether you are drawn to the redwood forests of Arcata, the sunny shores of Santa Cruz, or the biking paths of Davis, each town offers a distinctive blend of lifestyle and learning. With excellent universities, scenic trails, charming downtowns, and plenty of student-friendly amenities, these towns make studying or visiting California a rewarding adventure. No matter your interests, one of these destinations will feel like a perfect fit.
