The boardwalk in Avalon, California. Image credit: Michael Rosebrock / Shutterstock.com.

The Most Picturesque Towns In California

Known for its golden beaches and sunsets, it is not just the rich history that is embedded in the nickname 'Golden State.' Home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, California's small towns are windows to the state's soul, inviting admiration from millions of visitors year-round. From Ferndale's quaint Victorian charm near the Lost Coast to snorkeling and whale watching in Laguna Beach, it is time to embark on a journey of a lifetime, sipping vino and soaking in the beauty of the Napa Valley, or watching Mavericks loom over Half Moon Bay's horizon.

Avalon

Overlooking Avalon, California. Image credit Rob Crandall via Shutterstock
Overlooking Avalon, California. Image credit Rob Crandall via Shutterstock

Just a scenic ferry ride off LA's coast, Avalon feels unreal, with distinct Mediterranean notes under the temperate climate and breathtaking skies on Santa Catalina Island, which has a history of human settlement dating back over 8,000 years. The tropical vegetation and homes etched into the lush hillsides inspire a painting on the eastern shore, with open views, breathtaking sunrises, and something extra special for everyone outdoors, such as an aerial adventure or a semi-submarine exploring Catalina below the surface.

Avalon, California, a resort community on Santa Catalina Island. Editorial credit: Darryl Brooks / Shutterstock.com
Avalon, California, a resort community on Santa Catalina Island. Editorial credit: Darryl Brooks / Shutterstock.com

From the Lover's Cove Scenic Vista, you can hear the Catalina Chimes Tower. The 1925-built Spanish-style tower rings melodies every 15 minutes across the artsy town's shops and restaurants overlooking the clear turquoise bay. Lone Tree View Point is a challenging 3-4 hour ascent to an edge-of-the-world view of the Pacific and San Clemente Island. Meanwhile, Moonstone Beach invites relaxation along a sandy shoreline with rocky outcrops, a boardwalk, and seasonal whale watching.

Calistoga

Buildings on the streets of historic Calistoga, California. Image credit Dragan Jovanovic via Shutterstock
Buildings on the streets of historic Calistoga, California. Image credit Dragan Jovanovic via Shutterstock

Calistoga retains its untouched feel at the northern tip of Napa Valley, situated at the base of Mount Saint Helena, a prominent summit accessible by a trail within the Mayacamas to the west. Bordered to the east by the "Vacas," the town is beyond pretty, from the world-famous geothermal hot spring pools downtown to the turreted profile of the family-owned 13th-century-castle-style winery. Old Faithful Geyser of California erupts within a scenic garden, inviting relaxation amidst a backdrop of palms and peaks.

Vineyards near Calistoga, California.
Vineyards near Calistoga, California.

Known for its Roman baths, art, and wine, Calistoga's 1973 Chateau Montelena beat out the best French wines at the legendary Judgment of Paris in 1976. In addition to spas and B&Bs, you can tour the 121,000-square-foot castle on a hill, with five towers, a courtyard, a Tuscan-style farmhouse, a frescoed great hall, stables, and even a torture chamber. Opened to the public in 2007, Castello di Amorosa offers fascinating tours and tastings, producing Italian-inspired wines.

Capitola

Colorful residential neighborhood in Capitola, California.
Colorful residential neighborhood in Capitola, California.

What began as a humble tent camp welcoming the first travelers in 1874 emerged as a quaint seaside village. A century and a half later, the romance of the original Camp Capitola, California's first seaside resort, permeates the sea salt air on the sunny Central Coast. Minutes from Santa Cruz and just 1.5 hours south of San Francisco, Capitola's hallmark seaside cottages enchant city-weary travelers in search of a scenic escape, with shops, bars, and restaurants ringing the sandy shore.

Capitola Venetian Hotel and Capitola State Beach in Capitola, California. Editorial credit: Ken Wolter / Shutterstock.com
Capitola Venetian Hotel and Capitola State Beach in Capitola, California. Editorial credit: Ken Wolter / Shutterstock.com

Enduring shops line the hillside along Soquel Creek, from the pink history museum to the quirky Shadowbrook Restaurant across the creek. Down to the bayfront promenade, the main beach strip invites scenic strolls onto Capitola Wharf, a fishing pier extending far into the stark blue water views of Monterey Bay. Meanwhile, New Brighton State Beach offers a woodsy allure with a beachfront backed by pine and oak trees, a trail system, and a small campground on a bluff with bay views.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. Image credit: Robert Mullan via Shutterstock
Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. Image credit: Robert Mullan via Shutterstock

Under an hour south of Capitola, stretch your legs in the idyllic views along Carmel Beach Walk, then stop, breathe in, and feel the tension leave your body at the beach, backed by cypress trees. Carmel-by-the-Sea exudes European elegance on the Monterey Peninsula, enchanting visitors with its upscale vibes and stunning views. There's no pressure to spend a pretty penny surfing, dog walking, and window shopping—even the circa-1771 church on a tour with its serene courtyard.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. Editorial credit: Naeblys / Shutterstock.com
Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. Editorial credit: Naeblys / Shutterstock.com

Indeed, it is hard to comprehend so much beauty in just 680 acres, from the curving white-sand beach to the venerable Carmel Mission Basilica. Praised as one of the most beautiful towns in California, you can easily fulfill your thirst for scenic inspo with sunsets and architecture alone. Carmel's popularity doesn't detract from its omnipresent allure. Mission Trail Park offers an escape from the bustle, set on a former estate transformed into a 33-acre nature preserve with miles of trails through pine and redwood forests.

Copperopolis

Editorial Photo Credit: Cassiohabib via Shutterstock. Lake Tulloch in Copperopolis
Editorial Photo Credit: Cassiohabib via Shutterstock. Lake Tulloch in Copperopolis

Copperopolis transports you to the Mediterranean countryside in the heart of California's beautiful Gold Country, beyond the illustrious name. Named for the once-thriving 1800s copper mining era, the Square at Copper Valley is revitalized around the traditional, pedestrian-friendly town square and landmark gazebo. Built in 1866, the beautiful brick Copperopolis Congregational Church is one of the two remaining Gothic Revival-style buildings in the entire county of Calaveras.

Copperopolis Congregational Church. Photo via Wikimedia Commons
Copperopolis Congregational Church. Photo via Wikimedia Commons

After your fill of specialty boutique shops, local restaurants, and lofts along the covered walkways, it is time to explore beyond. Tucked in the Sierra foothills, the beautiful Lake Tulloch invites relaxation, photography, and water sports such as boating, fishing, kayaking, and jet skiing along its 55 miles of gorgeous shoreline, with opportunities for camping. Just a quick drive outside, Vista View provides the best vantage over the Central Valley, particularly in its sunrise and sunset glory.

Del Mar

Aerial shot of Powerhouse Park in Del Mar, California.
Aerial shot of Powerhouse Park in Del Mar, California.

Just north of San Diego, Del Mar originated as a hub for horse racing and gained popularity in its early years. The iconic racetrack, co-founded by Bing Crosby in the late 1930s, hosts major racing events, with stadium seating, trackside dining, and suites. You don't have to be a fan of thoroughbred horse racing to enjoy the fairgrounds and coastal beauty in the mild climate with your pup. It is just a stroll to the sparkling San Dieguito Lagoon for birdwatching and kayaking.

The gorgeous beach at Del Mar, California.
The gorgeous beach at Del Mar, California.

You can drop by the local animal shelter to see tropical species like parrots, or while away an afternoon at a nearby park. Cliffs and a pine-wooded nature reserve back the sandy, lifeguarded Torrey Pines State Beach. A detour along the Sea Cliff Coastal Trail reveals undulating blufftop views of the ocean horizon and a sheer beach expanse perfect for swimming and surfing. From the dog beach to the inland trails through hills, Les Artistes Inn offers intimacy with uniquely themed rooms.

Ferndale

Vintage buildings with stores and restaurants in Ferndale, California. Image credit photojohn830 via Shutterstock
Vintage buildings with stores and restaurants in Ferndale, California. Image credit photojohn830 via Shutterstock

Born out of agriculture and filled with architecture, this Victorian city is undoubtedly picturesque, 10 miles inland from the untouched Lost Coast. Having blossomed in the late 19th century, Ferndale is more charming than ever, along Main Street, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The colorful strip invites exploration and photography, featuring historic facades, galleries, and specialty shops. From the local general store to the iconic repertory theater, it is easy to feel part of a play yourself.

Victorian home, Ferndale, California
Victorian home, Ferndale, California

It is impossible to miss the elegant landmark B&B Gingerbread Mansion Inn, a restored Victorian-era mansion. The Cape Mendocino Lighthouse lens was moved to a replica lighthouse in Ferndale, then to the Ferndale Museum, where it was converted to house the invaluable artifact. Nearby, Russ Park is a dog-friendly place to explore within a closed-canopy Sitka spruce forest and bird sanctuary. Catch the sunset west along the pristine beaches and coastal trails at Centerville Beach County Park.

Half Moon Bay

Beach and seaside cliffs at Half Moon Bay, California.
Beach and seaside cliffs at Half Moon Bay, California.

This coastal town stands out among its counterparts along the picturesque coastline. In the winter months, the storm swell pushes the surf into some of the world's biggest waves, known as Mavericks. Looming large on the horizon, Half Moon Bay State Beach lures surfers from around the globe, offering four beaches in total for kayaking, tidepooling, and SUP. The Sandy Francis Beach offers perfect surf breaks, along with camping and stargazing opportunities, featuring tent and RV sites near a coastal trail.

The Andreotti Family Farm in Half Moon Bay, California. Editorial credit: bluestork / Shutterstock.com
The Andreotti Family Farm in Half Moon Bay, California. Editorial credit: bluestork / Shutterstock.com

Half Moon Bay delivers an equally charming and dramatic seaside experience, with numerous state beaches and coastal trails. Backed by looming mountains with hiking and biking trails, the coastal town enchants surfers and sightseers alike with dining and wining, local shops, and championship courses. Sunbathing, fishing, and picnicking are popular at Poplar Beach, while time stands still at the wooded Burleigh H. Murray Ranch State Park along a creek with a rare 19th-century dairy barn.

Laguna Beach

The spectacular coastline of Laguna Beach, California.
The spectacular coastline of Laguna Beach, California.

    Laguna Beach is renowned for its pristine coastal environment, boasting over 30 coves and beaches that are part of a California marine reserve. This artsy Orange County city has a reputation for easygoing luxury and low-key indulgence, with friendly locals and nearly seven miles of beaches with stunning oceanfront scenery, clear waters, and tide pools. The downtown-adjacent Main Beach boasts its iconic lifeguard tower and shallow, calm waters, perfect for families, swimming, and paddleboarding.

    Photo of Laguna Beach, California
    Photo of Laguna Beach, California

    Halfway between bustling Los Angeles and San Diego, Laguna Beach paints its colorful character with picturesque cliffs, artist colonies, and hidden coves. Tainted by Hollywood fame, it maintains a tranquil year-round atmosphere, offering dreamy escapes straight from the screen, with snorkeling and whale watching available in the summer and fall. Enjoy Treasure Island Beach’s clear waters that lure snorkelers, or try bodysurfing at the moon-shaped Crescent Bay Beach, with sea stars and anemones in tide pools.

    From the state's best-kept secrets to Hollywood starlets, these nine are uniquely picturesque throughout the Golden State. The distinct charisma and experiences make for real standouts among thousands of candidates, inspiring millions of visitors year-round. While some are no strangers to praise as the most beautiful, each is a golden standard for the state, revealing California's diverse beauty. Every picturesque town inspires a vivid fantasy, with curated ways to immerse oneself in the history and culture, and outdoor experiences to take in the views.

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