6 Understated California Towns
As the third largest state in the United States, California offers incredibly diverse landscapes dotted with unique communities. Though many visitors to the state often think of the glitz and glamor of cities like Los Angeles, California is also home to smaller towns nestled in the mountains, deserts, and along the coastlines. With unique settings comes unique entertainment. Whether you want to try surfing in a laid-back beach town or stargaze under the vast desert sky, each of these six unpretentious towns shows off the welcoming spirit of small-town California.
Kelseyville
Part of Lake County, Kelseyville sits along the shores of Clear Lake at the base of Mount Konocti, offering open lake views and a distinctly Northern California setting. The town is surrounded by vineyards, pear orchards, and rolling foothills, with water and mountains shaping nearly every view.
With a population of around 3,300, Kelseyville feels unmistakably small while still offering enough to fill a relaxed visit. Local wineries, including family-run operations like Chasewater Winery & Olive Mill, reflect the area’s agricultural roots. The compact downtown has a handful of independent shops, while nearby trails and shoreline access make it easy to spend time hiking, walking, or simply enjoying Clear Lake and the slopes of Mount Konocti.
Cayucos
Cayucos, California, is a small coastal town on the Central Coast, known for its beach atmosphere and well-preserved historic character. It sits between Cambria and Morro Bay along Highway 1, with a wide sandy beach and a 19th-century fishing pier stretching out in front of town. The waterfront is easy to explore on foot, and the shoreline is a reliable place to spot seabirds and marine life offshore.
With a population of around 2,500, Cayucos maintains a relaxed, small-town feel. Local staples include the Brown Butter Cookie Company, founded by two sisters and known statewide for its shortbread cookies. Cayucos Collective adds a creative touch with rotating art displays and custom-printed apparel. Blending a working beach town’s history with a low-key modern scene, Cayucos remains one of the Central Coast’s more understated stops.
Yucca Valley
Often described as a gateway to the Mojave Desert, Yucca Valley offers access to the open landscapes of the Hi-Desert. The town attracts visitors looking for space, quiet, and a slower pace, yet it remains an active community shaped by artists, makers, and longtime residents. Nearby events such as the King of the Hammers off-road race in Johnson Valley also bring regional attention to the area.
Yucca Valley supports a growing arts scene and a network of independent businesses. Old Town Yucca Valley is a hub for antique stores and small shops, while local galleries showcase work inspired by the surrounding desert. For shopping, places like Rainbow Stew offer handmade goods and gifts, while Hoof & The Horn carries desert-influenced clothing and accessories that reflect the town’s setting and style.
Point Reyes Station
Point Reyes Station is a small town in western Marin County with a population of about 465. It sits just inland from Point Reyes National Seashore, giving residents and visitors quick access to coastal trails, wildlife viewing areas, and landmarks such as the Point Reyes Lighthouse.
Originally established in the late 19th century as a railway stop, the town still reflects its agricultural roots through nearby farms, ranches, and a strong local food culture. Cowgirl Creamery remains a central fixture, while Toby’s Feed Barn family owned and operated general store and working feed barn that has been serving the community since 1942. Nearby oyster farms and casual eateries highlight the region’s coastal economy. Compact and closely tied to its surroundings, Point Reyes Station works well as a base for exploring the landscapes and small communities of West Marin.
Ferndale
A beautifully preserved Victorian village on the north coast of Humboldt County, the Northern California town of Ferndale features beautiful 19th‑century architecture and postcard‑worthy views. The city was settled in the 1850s and built around a thriving dairy industry that still shapes its identity today.
With a population of about 1,361 residents, Ferndale sits between the Redwoods and the Lost Coast. The town offers a blend of historic storefronts, natural beauty, and welcoming local culture. Explore the historic Victorian buildings on its ornate Main Street like Sitka Wine Lounge in the “Gazebo” house. Browse small local businesses like Stitch, a quilting and fabric shop that offers classes and workshops.
Summerland
A serene seaside town, Summerland lies just south of Montecito and Santa Barbara. This slow‑paced town is a mix of boutique shopping, outdoor adventure, and relaxed coastal living. Visitors can stroll along Ortega Hill Road and Lillie Avenue to explore antique shops, wine‑tasting rooms, and home‑goods boutiques. For readers, Godmothers book shop serves as a retreat for bibliophiles and booklovers of all kinds. The adjacent café is a good spot for a tasty bite while relaxing with your latest read.
Enjoy spectacular ocean views in many parts of Summerland. The town’s natural beauty shines at Lookout Park, where you can picnic in the grass or walk down to Summerland Beach for sunbathing and tide pooling. Summerland is also the only spot on the Santa Barbara South Coast where you can go horseback riding on the beach, offering a uniquely Californian experience.
Visit Small-Town California
These unpretentious towns all boast thriving local businesses and small populations, letting you experience small town life in California. Explore lesser-known areas and communities in Northern or Southern parts of the state. These towns have their own local specialties from wine to art.
Discover what makes each town on this list special. Tap into your creativity in the desert town of Yucca Valley, feast on locally sourced oysters in Point Reyes Station, or sip a glass of wine while viewing Clear Lake in Kelseyville. These California towns have much to offer new and returning visitors.
