The 30 Most Beautiful California Cities to Visit

Avalon, on Santa Catalina Island, just might remind you of the Mediterranean, thanks to the lush vegetation, hillside homes and beautifully clear waters. The only incorporated city on the island, it was first developed into a resort town by George Shatto. Droves visit Avalon each year for the outdoor activities, small shops, art galleries, restaurants with incredible views of the water, and more. Thanks to the temperate climate year-round, it’s a great place to explore whether it’s June or December. For a truly unique experience, you can even book a semi-submarine tour of the island, setting off from Avalon and exploring Santa Catalina below the surface.

Solvang is a scenic Danish community in the heart of Santa Barbara wine country. With a name that translates to sunny field, this gem was founded in 1911 and has delightful architecture, including the Bethania Lutheran Church. Visit the Elverhøj Museum of History and Art and the Hans Christian Andersen Museum for more insight into this quaint village, or search through more than 150 shops for unique gifts and authentic treats. Solvang is also home to several restaurants and wine-tasting rooms, as well as many great old town hotels.

Founded after the Civil War by fortune seekers, Julian is a historic mining town in the Cuyamaca Mountains of Southern California. Today, the town is known for historic sites and orchards; locals apples are made into mouthwatering pies, ciders and other delicacies. Julian is a great place to learn more about Californian history, and one way to do it is to stop by the Chamber of Commerce to pick up a History Hunt card, which will guide you to various places, including the Pioneer Cemetery and Julian Jail. You can even book a tour of the local gold mines, which date back to 1870.

Located 90mi (145km) north of Los Angeles, Ojai is the perfect spot to escape hectic city life and enjoy a relaxing retreat. Settled in the 1800s, the town features wonderful Spanish mission revival architecture, as seen in the Arcade Plaza, which is filled with shops, restaurants and art. Scenic backgrounds are provided by the Los Padres National Forest and Topatopa Mountains. An artsy town, Ojai is bursting with galleries and other arts and culture venues, including the Ojai Valley Museum and Ojai Art Center. Also, Libbey Park hosts the Ojai Music Festival each year, and stunning vineyards. Embrace the artsy spirit by booking a pottery workshop at Firestick Studio.

A historic railroad town in Northern California, Dunsmuir is a serene mountain retreat with a peaceful ambiance. The location makes it a prime destination for lovers of the outdoors; there are many adventures waiting for you, from fishing to hiking to mountain climbing. If you want a dose of history, the downtown district has buildings dating back to the early 20th century. It’s a lovely place to wander around, where you can discover boutiques and tasty treats. If you’re about during the summer, be sure to visit the Botanical Gardens for a colorful display of flora.

Ferndale is an agricultural Victorian community that blossomed in the late 19th century and is as charming today as it was back then. Take a leisurely walk along Main Street, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, to absorb the beauty of the colorful buildings that now house a variety of art galleries and specialty shops. If you want to explore nature, visit the nearby Lost Coast, a stunning section of coastline that’s been left the way nature intended. There’s also Russ Park, a closed-canopy Sitka spruce forest that acts as a bird sanctuary.

A California gold-rush town, Nevada City is brimming with both charm and history. Locals have been careful to preserve the Victorian buildings for visitors and future generations. Park the car and walk along the narrow streets to see the beautiful architecture up close, then discover the art, handmade jewelry, clothes, books and tantalizing cuisine. Many events take place throughout the year, including the Nevada City Classic Bike Race, First Friday Art Walks and Victorian Christmas.

One of the beautiful towns in California is Carmel-by-the-Sea, also known simply as Carmel. This town is a European-style town on the Monterey Peninsula popular with tourists. At just 680 acres (275ha), it’s a great area to explore by foot, whether you’re hiking down to the white beach or strolling along the streets to marvel at the charming architecture. The village also hosts a number of annual festivals, including the Carmel Bach Festival. A must-visit is the San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo Mission: a compound that comprises a basilica church, several small museums and beautiful grounds. Book a walking tour to get a proper grasp of this charming city.

Boasting 3.5mi (5.6km) of shoreline, Santa Monica is LA County’s laid-back seaside gem. From taking long walks or bike rides along Santa Monica State Beach to joining in on the fun at Santa Monica Pier – check out Pacific Park, an amusement park complete with Ferris wheel, aquarium and cotton-candy stands – this town feels like summer no matter when you choose to visit. Test your stamina on the workout equipment of the Original Muscle Beach, shop till you drop on Third Street Promenade and take in the stunning ocean vistas from Palisades Park. Don’t miss the farmer’s market; it’s where all the restaurants’ fresh produce comes from. Recommended by Konstantina Pyrnokoki.

If Santa Monica had a bohemian sister, it would be Venice Beach. Its crowded beachfront Boardwalk is filled with T-shirt stands, tarot card readers and quirky street entertainers who put on all kinds of strange performances – don’t be alarmed if you witness people walking on glass or juggling chainsaws, it’s just another day in Venice. The town has its own popular Muscle Beach, ideal for bulky, fitness types, while on Abbot Kinney Boulevard, you will find the best boutiques and galleries in the area. Be sure to stroll around the dreamy canals in the Venice Canal Historic District, modeled after Italy’s Venice. Book a walking food tour with Secret Food Tours to get a better taste of Venice Beach. Recommended by Konstantina Pyrnokoki.

Especially favored by the rich and famous, Santa Barbara – or, the American Riviera, as it is sometimes called – is as elegant and upscale as it is charming. Expect to find red-tiled rooftops, bright bougainvillea and sandy stretches, which give way to designer boutiques, wine-tasting rooms, an arts district and a plush harbor. Explore the immense Los Padres National Forest, home to roaming condors, coyotes and black bears, before hitting the high-end stores and eateries on State Street. The summer festival “Old Spanish Days” celebrates the town’s Spanish roots; it was maritime explorer Sebastián Vizcaíno who arrived here in 1602 and gave Santa Barbara its name. Book a trolley tour of the city to see all the sights in quirky comfort. Recommended by Konstantina Pyrnokoki.

Stretching across more than 30mi (48km) – 20 of which are gorgeous beaches – Malibu is where A-list celebrities and top athletes spend their summer. Catch that dream wave at Surfrider Beach or head to Zuma Beach for some people-watching and mingling with the crowds. Nothing really beats the tangerine Malibu sunsets, except maybe for the secret waterfalls hidden deep within the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. Follow the many hiking trails and you might stumble into one. Wine tasting is also a must, as is a visit to the sophisticated Getty Villa, displaying ancient Greek and Roman art. The coastal views here are best seen on a thrilling electric mountain bike tour. Recommended by Konstantina Pyrnokoki.

This beautiful coastal town is known for its fascinating fauna and amazing landscape, marked by pine trees and untamed beaches. Moonstone Beach is probably the best one in Cambria, its shores filled with shiny gemstones that people collect to make jewelry. The fairytale-like Hearst Castle sitting on a verdant hill is among the must-sees; around it, you might even see zebras roaming freely. At the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery, you’ll also come across myriads of elephant seals, making for a truly unique sight. Head to downtown Cambria to scour the numerous antique shops for precious finds. Recommended by Konstantina Pyrnokoki.

Another surf town – or actually the Surf City, since this is where the sport was originally introduced in the US from the then Hawaiian kingdom – Santa Cruz is the embodiment of mellow beach vibes. Engage in thrilling games at the Boardwalk’s amusement park, browse through offbeat pieces in art galleries and dine al fresco. This part of the town has an ‘80s feel to it, complete with arcade games, a carousel and corn dogs. Then there’s the boho chic spirit of Santa Cruz, which comes alive through vintage shops and restaurants serving organic food. Carve out some time to visit the nearby village of Capitola – the Capitola Venetian Hotel houses are too photogenic even for Instagram. Santa Cruz is also a great place from which to book a whale watching tour in Monterey Bay. Recommended by Konstantina Pyrnokoki.

St Helena is surrounded by hilly vineyards. Not only is it a wine-lover’s paradise; it’s also the home of the Culinary Institute of America. There’s a historic, picturesque downtown with architectural gems housing a variety of boutiques, galleries and dining establishments. The terrain around St Helena also offers a plethora of activities, from hiking to biking, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts as well. Fancy treating yourself with a boutique stay in Napa County? Check out our picks.

The birthplace of the Californian wine industry, Sonoma is surrounded by rolling hills lined with vineyards. It’s another great place to discover the local past, since it’s home to the last Spanish mission built in California, Mission San Francisco Solano, which was founded in 1823. Other areas of interest include the central plaza, which is home to unique shops, fine-dining establishments and incredible art – not to mention the wineries. As an iconic hub for grape growing in California, there’s no better place to book yourself an indulgent wine tour.

Located in northern Sonoma County, Healdsburg has an essence that seamlessly blends history with the modern. The town is centered upon the historic Healdsburg Plaza, which looks much as it did when it was first built over 100 years ago. Radiating outward from the town square, there is a range of trendy shops, eateries, and hotels, from the local favorite Flying Goat Coffee to the luxurious Healdsburg Inn. The hamlet is also the location of the Healdsburg Museum, which is housed in the former Carnegie library and is dedicated to preserving Healdsburg’s history. Furthermore, the town is a short drive from the Ferrari-Carano Winery, which is set apart from the rest by its five-acre Franco-Italian style garden and is a must-see for wine enthusiasts and amateurs alike. The Healdsburg Wine Tasting and Food Pairing Walking Tour, meanwhile, is not to be missed. Recommended by Morgan Palumbo.

This preeminent spa town is home to the acclaimed Calistoga Hot Springs and is known for its local specialty, which is a mixture of fine volcanic ash and steaming mineral water otherwise known as a mud bath. Regardless, Calistoga’s appeal does not end with its hot springs. Located only a couple miles outside Calistoga, the Castello di Amorosa holds the distinction of being both a winery and an authentic castle. Rather than being yet another grandiose winery in a region full of them, the Castello di Amorosa is a work of art, which was built after years of research and planning by its owner, Dario Sattui. Following your visit to the Castello, take a quick trip back into Calistoga to witness the spectacle that is the Old Faithful of California, which was created when a man accidently drilled a hole into the casing of a well in the late 19th century. Recommended by Morgan Palumbo.

The city that gives the famous valley its name also serves the gateway to all of Wine Country. Situated in the south of Napa Valley, the city of Napa is inundated by a charm and culture that flows through its numerous boutique shops and high-end restaurants. Take a walk through the downtown area to the riverfront, where you can enjoy a nice glass of wine while gazing out at the Napa River as it meanders southward. Close your eyes for a moment and you may begin to think you’re at a riverside café in Paris or Rome rather than Northern California. As one of the most prominent cities in the region, Napa acts as a magnet for the various creative forces that came together to forge Wine Country’s distinctive identity. Present in every culinary masterpiece and glass of fine wine, these forces allow Napa to retain all the charm of a small town while incorporating a sense of cosmopolitanism and sophistication. See the city with a bird’s eye view on an unforgettable hot-air balloon experience. Recommended by Morgan Palumbo.

Surrounded on all sides by the rugged, natural beauty of Western Sonoma County, Occidental has a rustic feel to it that contrasts completely with the better-known destinations in the region. The town’s character is an eclectic mix of environmentalism and the arts, which is ideal for all those searching for a more atypical Wine Country experience. The Occidental Arts & Ecology Center, a center for education, advocacy, and the community, clearly demonstrates the town’s unique identity. The Occidental Center for the Arts is another fantastic example, which also happens to serve as the finish line for a whacky event entirely unique to Occidental, The Fool’s Day Parade. On April 2nd, participants meet up at the Occidental Community Center. Dressed in their silliest outfits, they then march through town in what is always an exciting and amusing spectacle. Last but not least, no trip to Occidental is complete without signing up for Sonoma Canopy Tours, which offers people the chance to zip line amongst the area’s towering redwoods. Recommended by Morgan Palumbo.

The town of Sebastopol offers a welcome change in a region filled with unending swaths of grapevines. Sebastopol is known throughout Wine Country for the magnificent apple orchards that surround the quiet hamlet. The orchards are open to all and hold the promise of a tasty treat with every visit. Similar to the other fashionable small towns of Wine Country, Sebastopol also hosts its very own culinary and arts center. Named The Barlow, the 220,000 square-foot institute deserves to be a part of any extended visit to the town. Additionally, Sebastopol houses the West County Museum, which focuses on the distinct history of Western Sonoma County. Western Sonoma’s natural beauty can also be experienced through a visit to the Laguna de Santa Rosa. A fantastic location to kayak and appreciate the local wildlife, the Laguna is a tributary of the mighty Russian River and the largest system of freshwater wetlands in the country. Recommended by Morgan Palumbo.

Although Wine Country is known for its valleys and vineyards, it is also home to one of the most incredible stretches of coastline in the world. To people interested in experiencing the majesty of California’s immaculate coast, Bodega Bay is the ideal starting point for a journey north along the legendary HW1. The town’s charm and beauty are evident in the fact that it has served as the location for several popular films, such as The Goonies (1985) and I Know What You Did Last Summer(1997). Moreover, the town is filled with high-end wine bars, restaurants, and inns, as well as an assortment of hiking trails, one of which will take you up to the famed Bodega Head. Located near the bay’s outermost point, the Bodega Head offers spectacular views of both the vast Pacific Ocean and the surrounding countryside. See it style on a private sailing tour of the bay. Recommended by Morgan Palumbo.

The pint-sized town of Geyserville is a place where Wine Country meets the Old West. Geyserville draws its name from The Geysers, which is a nearby geothermal field that happens to be the largest in the world. Decades before the region became known for its vineyards and food, individuals like Theodore Roosevelt came to the area for its hot springs, which have since been converted to a power-plant. Although The Geysers have ceased to be a local attraction, Lake Sonoma, and the Russian River are both only a few miles away and offer a range of activities, from a mellow day, spent fishing to an hour-long kayaking excursion. Geyserville also hosts a number of historic inns, such as the Hope-Merrill House, all of which specialize in the art of hospitality and are recognized throughout Wine Country for their outstanding breakfasts. Recommended by Morgan Palumbo.

Removed from the rest of Wine Country by the ruggedness of Western Sonoma County, Guerneville is currently undergoing a revival caused by an influx of artists. The town is now home to several excellent restaurants and fascinating art galleries. Throughout its history, Guerneville has always been defined by its immediate proximity to the Russian River, which can be experienced in a number of ways. Situated on the riverbank near the center of town, Johnson Beach affords people the opportunity to cool off in the river’s waters during a hot summer day. There is also the historic Guerneville Bridge, which allows people to appreciate the beauty of the river from a distance. For more sight-seeing opportunities, take the 20-minute drive along River Road from Guerneville to the coast, and witness all the natural wonders that help make Wine Country the place to be. Recommended by Morgan Palumbo.

With a little over than 30 beaches to choose from, Laguna Beach seems like the perfect place to make the most of the Southern California coastline. Some beaches have mystical coves, like Crescent Bay, while others require a little more effort to get to, such as Thousand Steps – don’t worry, you’ll only have to brave 222 stairs to access it. Then there are expansive parks, like the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park or the colorful Heisler Park, brimming with hiking and biking trails, which will immerse you deeper into nature. Art enthusiasts will love the Laguna Art Museum, one of California’s oldest, as well as the vibrant murals painted all around town. Recommended by Konstantina Pyrnokoki.

Newport Beach is popular with tourists for numerous reasons, the most obvious being its gorgeous beaches. Balboa Island offers shopping, a fun zone with games and rides, and its famous Balboa ice cream bars and frozen bananas. Meanwhile, the scenic Corona Del Mar boasts some of the best views along the coast. Photographers might also enjoy stopping by the beautiful Environmental Nature Center and the Sherman Library and Gardens. This is also one of the best places in the country to book a whale-watching cruise. Recommended by Juliet Bennett Rylah.

Thanks to its Spanish Colonial-style buildings, San Clemente is often called the Spanish Village by the Sea. The Orange County town offers a plethora of parks, restaurants and shopping outlets guaranteeing a fun stay. With legendary year-round swells, the beaches here are supreme surfing spots. There’s a range of skate and surfboard stores to choose from, along with a surfing school, and the Surfing Heritage and Culture Center that recounts the history of the sport in California. If riding the waves is not your thing, take a stroll along San Clemente Pier – the Pacific Ocean views are unreal – or pop by Avenida Del Mar for some retail therapy. Recommended by Konstantina Pyrnokoki.

Dana Point attracts visitors with its mild climate and stunning coastline. Key activities include surfing, whale watching, fishing, and boating. Dana Point is also home to numerous resorts and spas for additional unwinding. While visitors can go whale watching year-round, the annual Festival of Whales occurs every March in celebration of the migration of the California Gray Whales. Guests may also learn more about marine life at the Ocean Institute. Recommended by Juliet Bennett Rylah.

Huntington Beach has adopted the moniker Surf City. As the name implies, its beaches are popular with surfers, and it’s also home to the International Surfing Museum. Huntington Beach features the longest pier on the West Coast, coming in at 1,850 feet (564 meters). Visitors can also go horseback riding at the Huntington Central Park Equestrian Center, or explore the Bolsa Chica Wetlands’ trails. Recommended by Juliet Bennett Rylah.

San Juan Capistrano is known for its rich history and Spanish-style architecture. It takes its name from a Catholic mission established in 1776, which you can still tour today. Visitors may also stroll through the Los Rios Historic District, the oldest neighborhood in the entire state. Recommended by Juliet Bennett Rylah.