6 Quietest Small Towns Near Long Beach

Coastal vibes and bustling streets are all part of Long Beach, California. While the city is a lively place to live or visit, it’s easy to escape the noise by venturing into some of the surrounding quieter towns. These destinations offer mountain views, peaceful settings, and unique characteristics that set them apart from the urban pace. With these six small towns, you’re sure to return from a weekend away feeling satisfied with what you uncover. Let’s take a closer look at six peaceful California towns, all within an easy drive of Long Beach.

Ojai

Ojai is the perfect spot for a short weekend getaway and an ideal place to recharge your batteries. Start your journey with a hike or run at the Ojai Valley Land Conservancy, where you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous mountain views and fresh air. After your morning dose of nature, refuel at The Dutchess, a local spot serving healthy breakfast and lunch options, including granola bowls, chicken salads, and hot beverages. A trip to Ojai wouldn’t be complete without immersing yourself in the local arts and culture scene at the Ojai Art Center. Throughout the year, the center hosts a variety of events showcasing photography, theatre, music, and other artistic mediums, sure to leave you feeling inspired. For the ultimate experience, book a stay at the Ojai Valley Inn, where luxury spa treatments, a golf course, and sweeping mountain views set the stage for a truly relaxing escape. After all, who could ever say no to mountain views?

Montecito

Let Montecito inspire you with its beautiful coastline views and shimmering blue water. On your getaway, be sure to stop at Jeannine’s for a delicious breakfast, featuring standout dishes like lemon poppyseed pancakes and classic eggs Benedict to start your day off right. Pack your bathing suit and head to Butterfly Beach, perfect for a relaxing day soaking up the sun. Or, if timed just right, catching a truly marvellous sunset. At Lotusland, wander through lush botanical gardens while learning about plant conservation as you explore the estate of Madame Ganna Walska. Complete your stay with a night at the Rosewood Miramar Beach, a luxurious hotel located right on the coastline, making it easy to enjoy scenic walks along the coast throughout your visit.

Julian

With roots in the 1870s gold rush, the small town of Julian is rich in history. Best known for its apples and historic gold mines, this mountain town offers a wealth of experiences for visitors. Step back in time with a visit to the Eagle Mining Company, where guided tours immerse you in Julian’s fascinating mining past. No trip is complete without picking up a freshly baked apple pie from Julian Market and Deli, along with local produce and meats to satisfy your appetite. For a moment of calm, drop in at Zen Mountain Yoga for a class focused on relaxation, stress relief, or improved flexibility. Wind down at the Orchard Hill Boutique Hotel, where a cozy mountain experience and thoughtful amenities make for a comfortable and memorable getaway.

Oak Glen

With a population of just a few hundred people, the small town of Oak Glen may be tiny, but it offers plenty of opportunities to discover, just a short drive from Long Beach. Set against the scenic San Bernardino Mountains, the area is known for its peaceful landscapes and rustic charm. Operating for more than 50 years, the Oak Tree Mountain amusement park offers a variety of activities and amenities, including a bakery, animal park, and even axe-throwing, making it a fun stop for visitors of all ages. At the Oak Glen Preserve, you’ll find some of the area’s best hiking trails, diverse natural habitats, and a historic apple farm that dates back more than a century. For a step into the past, visit the Oak Glen Schoolhouse Museum, a one-room schoolhouse featuring a surrounding park and picnic tables, perfect for a relaxed afternoon. After a full day of exploring, stay at Stone Oak Manor, a rustic stone house built in 1926 that offers a cozy stay complete with a continental breakfast.

Lake Hughes

For a rustic weekend getaway, Lake Hughes offers a blend of natural scenery and abundant wildlife. At Quail Run Ranch, you can see ostriches up close and learn about the sustainable farming techniques the ranch uses. For a meal, stop by Salt Lick Tavern, where you can enjoy classic American cuisine while taking in the beautiful Lake Hughes surroundings. Animal lovers will also enjoy a visit to the Shadowland Foundation, a sanctuary dedicated to protecting endangered wolves and educating the public about their importance to humanity. Since Lake Hughes is a very small town with limited lodging options, consider a drive to the Days Inn by Wyndham Castaic / Six Flags Magic Mountain for comfortable accommodations and great rates during your weekend stay, or check out options in town on Airbnb.

Aguanga

The last stop on our list is Aguanga, located southeast of Long Beach. With its desert landscape and abundance of outdoor activities, you’ll find plenty to explore during your visit. Begin at the Ricardo Breceda Gallery and Sculpture Garden, where striking metal sculptures are spread out across the desert, honouring the work of this incredibly talented artist. For something different, unwind at Elim Hot Springs and soak in the sulfur baths while reaping the natural health benefits. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to the Stagecoach Inn for a Western-saloon-inspired meal featuring comfort favourites like mozzarella sticks and chicken wings. For accommodations, the Rancho California RV Resort offers a memorable stay with access to amenities and beautifully maintained RVs available to rent. When visiting the desert, it’s best to embrace the local way of life. After all, that’s how you get the full experience.

Venturing Outside of Long Beach

Just outside the hustle and bustle, you’ll discover something truly extraordinary. From restaurants celebrating classic American cuisine to encounters with wildlife, breathtaking natural landscapes, and beaches that showcase the very best of California, these destinations offer a refreshing change of pace. There’s something special about exploring smaller, lesser-known towns, and you may even be surprised by what you uncover along the way. Whichever destination you choose outside of Long Beach, you’re sure to return feeling grateful you ventured beyond the city limits and inspired to do it again.