7 Secluded Towns in Northern California

California is the most urbanized state in the country, with 94.2% of its population living in urban areas. As a result, small towns can often feel like a rare find. However, we have done the work for you, uncovering some of the state's most secluded yet exciting destinations. Whether you are craving a weekend among the vineyards, a peaceful river float, or a charming stay in a coastal inn, these seven towns in Northern California offer the perfect mix of relaxation and recreation—just what you need to recharge after city life.

Dunsmuir

Dunsmuir, a mountain town with a population of around 1,600, has earned its reputation as the “Home of the Best Water on Earth.” Set in the Trinity Mountains along the Upper Sacramento River, the town’s water comes from snowmelt, naturally filtered through volcanic rock, sure to refresh visitors who stop by.

Dunsmuir's location also makes it an ideal spot for anglers, with opportunities to fish for rainbow and brown trout in the Upper Sacramento and McCloud Rivers, as well as go ice fishing in Castle Lake. To admire some waterfalls nearby, visitors can explore Sweetbriar Falls and Hedge Creek Falls. Want to experience a unique piece of Dunsmuir history? Book a stay at Railroad Park Resort, which lets guests lodge in refurbished, vintage cabooses.

Murphys

Murphys, located in the Sierra Nevada foothills, has over twenty tasting rooms throughout the town, making it a popular destination for wine enthusiasts. Locke Vineyards, Four Wind Cellars, Jazz Cellars Tasting Room, and Val Du Vino are just a few wineries and tasting rooms worth checking out.

Just a 10-minute drive from town, travelers can explore Calaveras Big Trees State Park, where they can walk among groves of massive sequoia and thousands of acres of pine forests. Several cave systems surround Murphys as well, such as Moaning Cavern, home to the state’s largest single cave chamber, and Mercer Caverns, discovered in 1885, which descends 160 feet below the entrance.

Nevada City

Nevada City, home to a community of 3,000 residents, thrives with energy year-round, hosting a variety of annual festivals such as a Mardi Gras celebration, film festivals, and a beloved Victorian Christmas event. It also has an active live music scene, with bluegrass, rock, and classical performances thriving in venues like the Crazy Horse Saloon & Grill and InConcert Sierra.

Coming up in December, the Nevada City Victorian Christmas event will feature carolers in traditional Victorian attire, hot buttered rum and mulled wine, a 25-foot Christmas tree, visits with Santa, and more. For skiers, there are numerous ski resorts less than an hour’s drive away, such as Donner Ski Ranch, Sugar Bowl, and Royal Gorge Cross Country Ski Resort. Cross-country skiers can additionally enjoy the trails of Steep Hollow in the wintertime.

Moss Landing

Moss Landing is a peaceful and tiny village situated along the mouth of Elkhorn Slough, one of the state’s largest and most biodiverse wetlands. To experience the local wildlife, visitors can partake in a tour with Elkhorn Slough Safari Nature Tours for a relaxing wetland cruise, offering the chance to spot seals, sea otters, and hundreds of bird species.

Feeling hungry after a morning on the water? Visit Haute Enchilada Art Cafe, which functions as both an art gallery and a restaurant offering Mexican-style dishes. For a peaceful and historic overnight stay, travelers can choose Captain’s Inn at Moss Landing, built in 1906, featuring colonial revival, Tuscan order, and Queen Anne cottage-style architecture.

Davenport

Davenport, a remote town overlooking rugged coastlines and solitary beaches, makes the perfect escape for disconnecting from city life and reconnecting with nature. Wilder Ranch State Park is a great place to start, covering 7,000 acres and offering 34 miles of trails that wind through valleys and coastal terraces, ideal for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders.

Visitors can also enjoy spectacular coastal views and marvel at the sea arches at Shark Fin Cove, home to a striking, fin-shaped rock formation that protrudes out from the ocean near the shore. Those who need a pick-me-up after exploring Davenport’s coast can grab a coffee and cookie from Whale City Bakery, which has a full-service espresso bar, boutique bakery, patio seating, and occasional live music.

Olympic Valley

Known worldwide as a hub for outdoor adventure, Olympic Valley gained international recognition after hosting the Squaw Valley Olympic Winter Games in 1960. The Palisades Tahoe ski resort attracts countless visitors in the winter months, with 3,600 acres of slopes and 6 peaks. Some of the trails even offer views of Lake Tahoe from above. Travelers can also hop on the Palisades Tahoe Aerial Tram, a 10-minute ride that features panoramic mountain and lake views.

Prefer relaxing and staying cozy on your vacation? Think about visiting Everline Resort, which includes a charming shopping village to explore and a luxurious spa for total relaxation. For an extra special experience, guests can stay at the Olympic Village Inn, featuring amenities such as a heated pool, hot tubs, a sauna, free arcade access, and a private balcony in each room.

Gualala

Gualala stands out as a bit of a phenomenon compared to many of its coastal neighbors. Ocean winds often keep fog at bay, resulting in more bright and sunny days along its shores. Travelers can take advantage of this nice climate to explore its natural surroundings, including the See Pygmy Redwood Forest, home to groves of Bolander pines, Bishop pines, petite redwood trees, and Mendocino cypresses. While many of the trees are over 100 years old, their growth is stunted by Gualala’s climate, keeping them relatively short in stature.

Kayakers and canoers can explore the Gualala River, a calm waterway that frequently attracts herons, osprey, and river otters. After paddling, visitors might get hungry. For fresh seafood, they can visit the Gualala Seafood Shack, a popular local spot offering items like fish tacos, fish and chips, and clam chowder.

Final Thoughts

Think about escaping the busy cities of San Francisco or Santa Cruz for your next getaway and relaxing in one of these quieter towns. Despite their small populations, each town is brimming with excellent restaurants, natural attractions, and inviting inns that provide a friendly atmosphere. Whether you're eager to discover lush forests, rugged mountains, or pristine coastlines, you'll surely be captivated by the distinctive beauty of each town.