Best Coastal Towns in California
The state of California has quite the shoreline. While beaches are prominent on this shoreline, there are also plenty of coastal towns to check out in the area. Many of those towns are wonderful. However, there are a few that are considered the best coastal towns in California. Today, I am going to share those with you, as well as why you should visit them instead of the larger cities.
Best Coastal Towns in California
Carlsbad, CA
Carlsbad is one of the best coastal towns in California. You will find this charming town approximately 35 miles to the north of San Diego. One of the favorite things to do in Carlsbad is experiencing the Carlsbad tide pools. Other options include wandering around the Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch and visiting the marine life at Sea Life Aquarium.
Relaxing is possible at South Carlsbad State Beach. Although, it is also a fabulous place for surfing, scuba diving, and paddleboarding. Picnic lunches can be served over at Poinsettia Park. One not-to-miss activity in Carlsbad is attending a show at New Village Art.
Additionally, Carlsbad has a great selections of restaurants around town. Check out the best restaurant Carlsbad.
Crescent City, CA
Crescent City is a coastal town in California that is tucked away on the Redwoods Coast. During a visit to Tolowa Dunes Park, you will want to find the hidden gem known as Kellogg Beach. Amazing outdoor adventures can be found within both the park and beach areas.
Other adventures include sea kayaking tours and safaris out at the Castle Rock Wildlife Refuge.
Mendocino, CA
Mendocino is one of the most charming coastal towns in California. Days can be spent exploring the Victorian villages, botanical gardens, and wineries. The best time to visit is the month of March. This is when the whale festival is held.
Don’t worry if you can’t make it during that time. The rest of the year brings numerous wine and food festivals and events.
Oh, and if this town looks familiar during your visit, it should. It was featured during the filming of “Murder She Wrote”.
Carpinteria, CA
If you are searching for a lesser-known destination in California, Carpinteria should be near the top of your list. This is one of the best coastal towns in California, because it is not as touristy as some of the others.
This town has the sandy beaches California is known for. Although, they can be quite foggy in the early morning hours. They simply aren’t as crowded as some of the other beaches in the state though. Carpinteria also has a relaxed vibe that is perfect for vacations.
Cambria, CA
One of the must-see attractions in Cambria is Hearst Castle. The castle itself is spectacular. However, the zebras that commonly roam nearby add to the ambiance. Finding gemstones to turn into jewelry is a popular activity on Moonstone Beach.
Antique stores are everywhere in the downtown area. However, it is the elephant seals at the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery that will truly capture your attention.
Avalon, Catalina Island, CA
You can really escape the hustle and bustle of the real world when you take the time to visit this best coastal town in California. Avalon is a charming town over on Catalina Island. You can only get there by ferry unless you have your own boat.
Walking around Avalon is a popular activity. You will find numerous art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants in town. If you want more action, head to the water for some of the best snorkeling and diving in the state.
Santa Monica, CA
One of the busier coastal towns in California is Santa Monica. This is not the destination for you if you want peace and quiet. It is quite busy in this town. Especially down by the Santa Monica Pier. The pier is where the amusement park, aquarium, arcade, and other attractions are located.
You will always have something to do while on vacation in Santa Monica. One quick tip… Ride the Pacific Wheel, also known as the Ferris wheel, at night. Seeing the entire area lit up is quite incredible.
Elk, CA
Elk is one of the smaller of the best coastal towns in California. This town was once a logging community. You can still learn about that history during a visit. Most people choose to spend time in this town for its artistic vibe. It is one of the best places to purchase art in the state.
When you are not visiting local artists, you may find yourself on the secluded beach near the Navarro River.
These are the best coastal towns in California. Choosing which one to visit can be daunting, because they all have great qualities. I recommend deciding whether you want small and quaint, or large and bustling, for your next coastal town vacation in California. This will help you narrow down your choices and allow you to find the perfect destination for your needs.
