The 10 Friendliest Little Towns In Southern California
Despite having around as many people as the entire country of Canada, life in California can feel a little lonely at times. If city life in SoCal is getting you down, many small towns are offering a warm welcome and a change of scenery to do your soul some good. Here are the ten friendliest little towns in Southern California where you can restore your faith in humanity. From the island charm of Avalon to the mountain warmth of Lake Arrowhead and the artistic soul of Ojai, each destination proves that kindness still thrives in the Golden State.
Lake Arrowhead
Lake Arrowhead’s location in the San Bernardino Mountains has earned it the title of the Alps of Southern California. Just over 20 miles from the city of San Bernardino, it is home to exclusive homes along the shores of the Lake Arrowhead Reservoir. But do not let the exclusivity fool you. The town welcomes visitors to explore the beauty of the area with open arms.
Step aboard the Lake Arrowhead Queen to experience travel on a paddlewheel boat. Settle in to listen to friendly guides sharing fun facts and local history as you take in the scenery. Who is more friendly than the jolly elf himself? The story goes that Santa Claus crashed in the NorthWoods and was so enchanted by its beauty, he set down roots. Tour those very woods at Santa’s Village, where the oldest tree in the forest shares magical tales during a nighttime forest walk. The village is open year-round and transforms into a magical mountain wonderland during the holidays.
Lake Arrowhead Village is a historical area built in the 1920s. Over 50 establishments line the shore in quaint Tudor-revival chalets, each sporting a distinctive red roof. Locals and visitors alike have feasted on waffles at the family-run Belgian Waffle Works for over 40 years. Welcoming servers and the tempting aroma of heavenly Belgian waffles greet guests who cannot get enough of their golden yumminess.
Avalon
Avalon is located in the California Channel Islands just off the coast of Long Beach. What Santa Catalina Island lacks in size, it more than makes up for in the warmth and hospitality of its free-spirited art community, where “free” is the keyword. You know a town is friendly when it welcomes visitors to experience the heart of the community free of charge. The Annual Catalina Festival of Art has been going strong for over 65 years, making it one of California’s longest-running art festivals. Artists from across the country participate in the celebrated art festival, where fine artists, sculptors, jewelers, ceramists, crafters, and photographers gather to share their creativity.
The free art continues at the US Bank, where the Catalina Art Association displays a collection of local art. Stop by The Trailhead, where friendly island ambassadors direct you to the second-floor Plein-Air Art Gallery to browse dozens of paintings.
The world-famous Catalina Casino has been welcoming guests since 1929. A Casino Tour takes you back to the glamor days of the island, where you can view the historic movie theater’s stunning murals and 1928 pipe organ. Stand under the domed ceiling in the glorious ballroom surrounded by light-filled windows, and step onto the promenade to take in the spectacular views of Avalon Harbor.
Ojai
Ojai is just north of the Pacific Ocean in a secluded valley about 80 miles northwest of downtown Los Angeles, where the sense of community means every encounter is met with warmth and authenticity. Point in fact: Rory’s Place. The beautifully thought-out restaurant décor offers an inviting space where servers share the same passion for food and hospitality as the sisters who own the place. You will never feel rushed and will often be urged to slow down and explore the menu and wine list to savor your experience. Ojai is hailed as SoCal’s emerging food scene, where dining at the renowned Rochers at the Ranch House feels like dinner at a friend’s. Despite the “bougieness” of the secluded gardens, the menu-less concept is based on the whims and creativity of your host, and pre-dinner cocktails are part of the mix.
If you prefer a more casual setting, Topa Topa Brewing Company’s tasting room welcomes guests to grab a cold beer, order the highly recommended tater tots at the walk-up window, and await the “pink moment” at sunset when Topa Topa mountain views take your breath away. For a tasting room of a different color, specifically olive green, the Ojai Olive Oil Company invites guests to spend a few leisurely hours in their tranquil centuries-old olive grove. Dip chunks of fresh local bread into an assortment of olive oils and balsamic vinegars to discover the richly layered flavors.
Julian
Julian sits in the Cuyamaca Mountains about an hour east of downtown San Diego. Although the town is always ready to welcome visitors, the fall embraces the lusciousness of the apple harvest. Nothing is more comforting than a slice of apple pie. There are ample shops and eateries serving up their own little slices of apple delights, including the traditional apple crumble pie at Julian Pie Company. A perfect crust, a crunchy and crumbly topping, and a tasty apple filling take the prize at this friendly little pie shop.
Julian’s annual Oktoberfest is a main fall attraction held at Julian Station. Whether you help celebrate the harvest at the traditional German event or visit the historic site’s restaurant, you are sure to find an enthusiastic welcome, exceptional food, and three enticing tastings at Julian Hard Cider, Julian Wine & Chocolate, and The Cooler Craft Beer Tap & Tasting Room. They also offer live music every Saturday and Sunday afternoon, along with an eclectic mix of shopping venues.
Nestled among the boulders and oaks of the Santa Ysabel landscape sits Ilan-Lael. The 10 acres of oak woodlands, gardens, and cluster of buildings offer a unique art and nature experience. Discover the magic behind the hand-built sculptural home created by James and Anne Hubbell. Step into their world, where nature, art, and the comforts of home blend seamlessly.
Solvang
Solvang is a Danish-themed town in the Santa Ynez Valley about 40 miles northwest of Santa Barbara. Just minutes from the Pacific coast, it is an unexpected destination with old-world charm. The town comes alive with Danish hospitality during its two most popular celebrations. Solvang Danish Days immerses visitors in Danish heritage, living the life of Vikings. Sample authentic Aebleskiver pastries, sip Danish-style beer in the garden, and test your Viking skills at the axe-throwing arena. Live concerts fill the air with music, and the Old-World artisanal crafts marketplace offers hours of browsing.
Solvang’s annual Julefest celebration is a traditional “Julehygge” event. Even the biggest Scrooges get into the holiday spirit while strolling the stunning European-inspired streets decked out for the season. Parades, dazzling light displays, and wandering carolers make holiday shopping a joy, especially when your shopping includes Danish holiday sweet delights and the incentive to warm yourself sipping holiday-inspired drinks in the spirit garden.
Take in the European charm of Little Denmark in a horse-pulled trolley, listening to the cheerful clip-clop of hooves as you tour the historic town. Dine at one of Solvang’s three Michelin-recognized restaurants, where welcoming hosts treat you to unique meals. peasants FEAST is at the heart of the food community, where guests sample the flavors of farm-driven comfort food featuring the ingredients supplied by local producers, artfully prepared by the executive chef and co-owner, Michael Cherney.
Idyllwild
Idyllwild is nestled in a serene San Jacinto Mountain valley, where fragrant pine forests and dramatic granite domes provide a tranquil setting, just southeast of Palm Springs. Although the town seems made for solitary experiences, communing with nature, its friendly shops and eateries wait to welcome weary hikers.
Head to El Buen Cacao for a warm hot chocolate and a selection of handcrafted chocolates. The friendly makers love sharing their passion for chocolate in all its darkly rich beauty. With the energy from your chocolate fix, head to Idyllwild Park to explore 202 acres of mature forests, open meadows, and mountain views.
Recover from your nature adventure on the patio at Idyllwild Brewpub for a cold craft beer with a bowl of chili or a smash-style burger. If wine is more to your liking, Middle Ridge Winery’s welcoming terrace is designed for companionable conversation while sampling their award-winning wines. Nibble on charcuterie, fruit, and cheese while watching the people stroll by or browse their Idyllwild Collection of inspired work featuring paintings, sculptures, and photography.
Carpinteria
Carpinteria is situated between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, about 12 miles from Santa Barbara. It is proving itself a worthwhile stop for anyone driving along the coast, surprising visitors who stumble upon this friendly gem. Warm, amiable service is at the heart of the food lovers’ experience at Carp Kitchen. Their unique mix of products and services makes it a must for foodies looking for not just an innovative menu but also the chance to discover shoppable gourmet items from olive oil to fine wines and delectable chocolates to the owner’s favorite cookbooks. Grab some exceptional picnic items to take along on your way to Carpinteria State Beach. The diverse landscape of this coastal park offers a mile-long beach for swimming, terraced bluffs with exceptional views, and tide pools to explore. It is also home to one of four harbor seal rookeries where you can watch the blubbery “haulout” frolicking in their natural habitat. Trails also take you by a section known as Tar Pits Park, where inky tar dribbles down the bluffs onto the beach.
Audiophiles find their way to Murphy’s Vinyl Shack, where owners welcome customers to browse for hours, listening to an eclectic mix of music and chatting with fellow music lovers and staff. Apiary Taproom is a cozy spot to sample unusual tipples made from unique local ingredients, including honey and florals. Not your usual tasting experience, meads, ciders, and kombucha offer distinct flights featuring flavors inspired by the seasons.
San Juan Capistrano
San Juan Capistrano is located in southern Orange County, halfway between LA and San Diego. The town’s warmth culminates in a diverse heritage blending Native American, Spanish, Mexican, and European cultures.
The San Juan Capistrano Mission is a testament to the town’s rich Spanish and Native American heritage. Founded in 1776, it is considered the birthplace of Orange County. The historic site tells the story of how Spanish Padres and Native Americans worked together to create a thriving community built on agriculture, industry, and religion. Explore the grounds and exhibits, featuring a diverse range of items, from religious artifacts and paintings to Native American art, gardens, fountains, and adobe-preserved architecture.
Plan your visit for St. Joseph Day on March 19th, when San Juan Capistrano celebrates the Miracle of Swallows. The festival marks the return of the graceful birds from Goya, Argentina. Everyone is welcome to join the traditions, from the ringing of the historic bells to Native American storytelling and the lively music of Mariachi bands to dramatic Flamenco dance performances.
You can also wend your way through the streets of the Los Rios Historic District, exploring the charming buildings dating from the late 1700s to the present day. Have lunch at Ellie’s Table, where their motto is “Happiness truly is Homemade.” The lovely 1883 home setting is like a visit to grandma’s, where many recipes are based on the founders’ favorite dishes and served with the same loving attention.
Morro Bay
Morro Bay is on the Central Coast of California, just over 10 miles north of San Luis Obispo. Although the temperature here can be 30 degrees cooler than inland areas, it does not take away from the warmth of the town.
The two most dominant landmarks in Morro Bay are the stunning giant volcanic Morro Rock in the harbor and the contrasting large smokestacks looming over the town. Very yin and yang. While some might think the three towers sour the views, a visit to Morro Bay State Park will show you nothing could be further from the truth. Two of the Nine Sisters chain of volcanic peaks offer trails with outstanding views. Black Hill trail takes you through Monterey Pine trees, opening up to a panoramic view of the bay and summit, while Cerro Cabrillo has several trails along its base. To make a day of it, grab some sandwiches at Gilligan's Sandwich Shop for a picnic, where the Zepedas are known for their freshly made sandwiches served up with a friendly smile and casual conversation.
Slip through the surprisingly calm waters in the harbor and estuary over swaying kelp forests on kayaks rented from Morro Bay Paddlesports. Friendly locals at the shop also offer guided kayak tours. The Morro Bay Golf Course is the perfect spot for a friendly round of golf on a beautifully designed course affording panoramic ocean views. Warning: the views might interfere with your swing!
Wrightwood
Wrightwood is located in the San Gabriel Mountains’ Swarthout Valley, just under 80 miles northeast of LA. This is a slice of heaven if you are drawn to the magic of wintry mountain towns. Mountain High Resort is the main winter attraction in Wrightwood, where snowboarders, skiers, tubers, and nature lovers revel in the endless beauty of the San Gabriel Mountains. Start your visit with a scenic chair ride that soars 8,200 feet, offering a view that extends as far as Catalina Island and the Mojave Desert.
The Wrightwood Arts Center offers a unique perspective, showcasing the San Gabriel Mountains through the work of local and regional artists. The creative hub welcomes guests to explore all of the arts, whether it is visual arts in the galleries, music and performance art, or the works of literary artists. You will feel the sense of community the moment you enter the tiny log cabin. The downtown area is home to cozy eateries where home-cooked meals are a welcome sight on cold winter days. Spots like the Grizzly Café know the meaning of hospitality and serve up platters of country-style breakfasts to fuel your day. Diners pile on the homestyle cooking, like grilled pork chops or sirloin steaks served on a heap of mashed potatoes. Wrightwood even has a little craft brew pub where you can sample a humble selection of tasty Wrightwood Brew Co. beers alongside a signature hot sandwich stacked high with tantalizing fillings.
Meet Friendly Locals In These SoCal Towns
SoCal’s welcoming towns are filled with lovely scenery and locally owned shops and eateries where one-of-a-kind characters have a story to tell. From the breathtaking coastline to the snow-covered mountains and pastoral wine country to remote islands, these ten friendliest little towns in Southern California welcome travelers of all walks and interests with warm smiles. Whether you are fleeing the traffic of LA, are looking for a day trip from Palm Springs, or want a weekend getaway from life in Santa Barbara, you can find yourself enjoying new experiences in under two hours.
