The Best Small Towns in Southern California to Chill Out
Southern California is home to some of the most sought-after climates around the world. There is so much more to California than the big city and that can be enjoyed when you visit the small towns of SoCal. Get a break from the hustle and bustle of the big city and chill out among the majestic landscapes of these dreamy small towns.
Ojai
Ojai is an opulent small town in Southern California that offers five star spa experiences, top notch outdoor experiences and Lake Casitas, home of the 1984 Olympics canoeing and rowing events. Walk through the Ojai Valley Land Conservancy to explore hundreds of miles of trails through the stunning hilltops of the SoCal mountain ranges. Check out the majestic Los Padres National Forest before heading over to the Ojai Valley Inn where farm to table food and vine to glass wines are available.
Los Alamos
Ranches and vineyards describes Los Alamos, the small town in California with a population of less than 2,000 people. Found in the Santa Ynez Valley, this old Western city was named Los Alamos, Spanish for “the cottonwoods” to describe the extensive nature in the area. Located between Santa Barbara and Monterey, Los Alamos offers a space that seems straight out of an old Western movie. Offering an authentic experience of the old west, this small town in SoCal is one of the most underrated places to catch food, wine and entertainment.
Joshua Tree
Located in the Mojave desert of Southeastern California, Joshua Tree National Park is world renowned for its yucca trees, rock formations and expansive landscapes. A sight to see, Joshua tree is home to a cactus garden that sits in front of desert mountain backdrops. Although the land appears barren, it is expansive and the wildlife that lives there ranges from goats to tortoises. The park has very low levels of light pollution making it the best place to see the stars in the night sky. Grab a date shake, a shake made up of the famous locally sourced dates and sold at many nearby shops. Joshua Tree provides visitors with a once in a lifetime experience and is one of the greatest relaxing retreats to take in Southern California.
Wrightwood
Located in San Bernardino County, Wrightwood is a small town with an elevation of 6000 ft and a population of 3000. A perfect place to get away and relax, Wrightwood offers a cattle ranch, apple orchard, and more in this mountain resort community. Enjoy the secret wonders of the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail, Angeles National Forest and Mt. Baden Powell. Wrightwood is home to some of the best skiing in all of California with nearly over 20 miles of trails for skiers from beginner to advanced. Wrightwood is a small town with major wonder and one of the best places to get away and embrace the ambiance of Southern California.
Idyllwild
Originally known as Strawberry Valley, Idyllwild can be found in the San Jacinto Mountains and offers extensive outdoor experiences that are unmatched in all of Southern California. Idyllwild is perfect for a relaxing getaway with its mountainous backdrops, majestic trees and natural wildlife. The land is full of wild strawberries and other u-pick items that you can enjoy. Hear the crickets or ride an off road vehicle through the deep and rugged forest. This mile high paradise offers the perfect ambiance to reduce the busy noise of the city and escape to the stunning outdoors that is Southern California’s claim to fame.
Palm Springs
The desert resort city of Palm Springs, located in the Colorado Desert’s Coachella Valley, is one of the most famous destinations in Southern California. Comprising three Palm Springs Canyons, the Andreas, Murray, and Palm, Palm Springs boasts some of the most spa-like natural environments. Canyons, small rivers, endangered species, and a desert floor make the area unique. Head to Tahquitz Canyon for a swim beneath the 60-foot waterfall cascading over soft rock. Palm Springs has been inhabited by the Cahuilla Indians for over 5,000 years, who called the land Sec-he, or boiling water. The Spanish translated it to Agua Caliente. With its mysterious, magical, and spiritual qualities, Palm Springs offers an unforgettable experience and is a must-see for anyone visiting Southern California.
Solvang
Solvang offers a unique and authentic Danish experience, making it a must-visit in Southern California. Visitors can enjoy windmills, Danish treats, and a quaint walkway lined with shops and boutiques. Located near Santa Barbara, Solvang’s small-town charm provides a relaxing escape from everyday stress. Be sure to visit the Old Mission Santa Ines museum and drive through the picturesque town square filled with charming boutiques. Stepping into Solvang means immersing yourself in a completely different lifestyle. Recognized as one of the best small towns in Southern California, Solvang is more than just a destination, it's a memorable experience.
Southern California is a busy place, but there are many places to get away. These small towns are the best places to chill out and relax if you’re looking for an escape. Breathe in the fresh, feel the natural light on your face and chill out in one of these epic SoCal small towns.
