8 Most Charming Cities On The Pacific Coast
North America's Pacific Coast region comprises the westernmost political entities of the United States and Canada. These include the states of Alaska, Washington, Oregon, California, and the Canadian province of British Columbia – all of which have extensive Pacific Ocean coastlines. Many of the cities that blossomed along this section of the continent blend the everyday energies and necessities of political/financial/population hubs with seductive natural environments – everything from surf-friendly beaches to piercing mountain ranges to soul-soothing forests. Popping off for a lunch-break splash or five o'clock group hike can really help keep those cortisol levels in check. These eight cities (arranged from South to North), are as charming as they are practical.
Carlsbad, California
In Southern California, about 35 miles North of San Diego, Carlsbad combines quintessential So-Cal beaches (and weather) with tons of fun social outlets. "The Village by the Sea" may have grown beyond its humble roots (~115,000 residents as of the 2020 census), but it's still easy to see what inspired the quaint designation. Carlsbad has seven miles of sandy beaches that are largely compartmentalized from the urban action by ruggedly beautiful cliffs. Full days in the sun are perfectly complemented by the city's combination of craft breweries, award-winning restaurants, and classic street grub.
Santa Barbara, California
Jumping over Los Angeles (not that the City of Angels isn't plenty appealing in its own right) to the idyllic beaches, inviting natural surroundings, palpable Spanish influence, and world-class wineries of Santa Barbara. This Central California city, and seat of the county by the same name, is what likely springs to mind when pondering a fantasy vacation to the Golden State. The broad and smooth sandy beaches are, of course, the main attraction, but the colonial architecture and the combination of the Santa Ynez Mountains and Los Padres National Forest (immediately inland), as well as Channel Islands National Park (located just offshore) perfectly round out the scenery. Santa Barbara is also revered for its restaurants and cafes (everything from laid-back, beach-appropriate options to upscale establishments), and the Urban Wine Trail brings the best bottles from the peripheral wine country to over two dozen tasting rooms.
San Francisco, California
San Francisco might not be the aforementioned beach mecca that many people expect from California getaways, but this centralized, peninsular city is memorable in many other respects. One of the best ways to get a lay of the land, feel that ocean breeze, and get lost in a reverie of childhood nostalgia is to rent a bicycle. San Francisco has large parks and generous bike lanes, and you can even pedal across the Golden Gate Bridge (upon doing so, why not explore the Golden Gate National Recreation Area?). Sure, there are hills to contend with, but the burn in the legs will only sweeten the rewards. Touring without an itinerary is part of the magic, but at some point, make sure to pass by the string of houses known as the Painted Ladies, as well as the equally colorful Chinatown. San Francisco does still have a lengthy beach. The waters may be cool, but it's still a sweet spot to enjoy a West Coast sunset.
Seattle, Washington
Mount Olympus nods to the Space Needle across Seattle's skyline – on clear days, that is. Sure, the Emerald City gets its share of rain and clouds, but this only adds to the coziness of the coffee and music-loving Washington city. The spontaneous weather is part of the charm, as it can dictate different rewarding itineraries, whether it is exploring the 485 urban parks, venturing across Puget Sound to the lush forests of Olympic National Park, or retreating to an indie bookstore, coffee shop, or maybe even taking a tour of the enormous waterfront aquarium. Rain or shine, be sure to peruse Pike Place Market – home of the original Starbucks, over 200 artisanal vendors, and buskers.
Victoria, British Columbia
Just across the Salish Sea from Washington's Olympic Peninsula, the capital of British Columbia brings the quest for West Coast charm into Canada. Situated on the Southeast corner of the idyllic Vancouver Island, the city of Victoria acts as a launching point for outdoor adventures, such as hiking the West Coast Trail through the rainforests of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve or surfing the shores of Tofino, but is also a cherished destination unto itself. The Victorian architecture, artsy community, and temperate climate give Victoria a distinct personality – one that likely does not match the immediate connotation most people have when it comes to the Great White North. In fact, Victoria is known as the "City of Gardens," and it won't take visitors long to find out why.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Jumping over to the far West of mainland Canada, British Columbia's crown metropolis is not to be missed. Vancouver is one of those rare places in which you can surf, ski, and golf on the same day. The once again moderate climate leaves many Canadians flocking here every chance they get or fantasizing about somehow securing a home in the deservedly high-demand city. The plethora of glass-forward buildings reflects the blue of the sky and surrounding waters and the blue-green (and often white) hue of the North Shore mountains. Stanley Park juts out between Burrard Inlet, English Bay, and Vancouver Harbour, offering those in the downtown area a natural and social sanctuary. The perimeter walking/jogging/bicycle path sees lots of daily activity, as do the beaches, the aquarium, and the pitch & putt.
Juneau, Alaska
The capital of Alaska is surrounded by impeccable beauty and can only be accessed by boat or plane (criteria no other state capital can claim). Juneau's character-rich downtown sits in the shadows of Mount Juneau and Mount Roberts and is cozied up against the Gastineau Channel, with Douglas Island and the rest of the Alexander Archipelago sheltering it from the brunt of the Pacific Ocean. Within this transition zone, Admiralty Island National Monument and Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve are only a magnificent boat ride away. The former gold-mining town's layout and early 19th-century architecture along Historic South Franklin Street ground this larger-than-life environment. For amidst the grandeur and bustling port is a wholesome community.
Anchorage, Alaska
Alaska's largest city eclipses a quarter-million residents (288,121 as of 2021) but, like Juneau, is humbled by the arresting, pantheistic splendor that is the Northwestern coastline. Anchorage sits at the top of the Cook Inlet, which flows in from the Gulf of Alaska and fractures into the Knik Arm (which frames the Northwest side of the city) and the Turnagain Arm (which covers the Southeast). The waters and modest metropolitan skyline are backdropped by the domineering, often shimmering, Chugach Mountains. Beyond the city limits, there are spectacular managed outdoor spaces to explore. The gargantuan Kodiak bears (or Alaskan brown bears) can be safely observed to the South, at Lake Clark National Park and Preserve or Katmai National Park and Preserve, and the tallest peak in North America (i.e., one of the "Seven Summits") can be spotted to the North, at Denali National Park and Preserve. Ferry rides or seaplane adventures aren't the only way to delve into Alaska's backcountry, for immediately East of town, the wonders of Chugach State Park can be more easily accessed. But don't just look outside for enjoyment. Anchorage prides itself on showcasing its Indigenous and Klondike gold rush histories (featured in the local museums and with hands-on activities), as well as its warming cultural side – with something always happening at the many performing arts venues.
The Pacific Coast showcases some of the best parts of North America. From California to Alaska, there are so many charming cities – places that, amidst the bustle, don't lose sight of the bigger picture. The vastness of the ocean, mountains, old-growth forests, glaciers, and even deserts not only help maintain a healthy perspective but also provide playgrounds for an endless list of nourishing activities. Driving from the Mexican border to the Last Frontier could easily be the trip of a lifetime. And stopping over in these eight charming cities will make it all the more memorable.
