There's something about a small town that feels quite magical. From the quaint shops and the local markets to the traditional annual events and parades, a small town has that special something that makes you want to linger awhile. We are lucky to have many of those places right here in Southern California. If you're looking to experience charming, cute small towns in Southern California, then this list just might suggest your next best day trip!
Come for the kind folks and the small restaurants and the beautiful scenery. Come to get out of the city, leave the intensity of your home life behind, and indulge in a low-key, simple experience that will give you that break you're looking for. Here's a list of some of the best places to visit in Southern California, and we hope you enjoy it. There's no better way to experience SoCal than by way of its small towns and kind people!
1. Avalon, CA
An island town is perhaps the best of the best when it comes to charming small towns in Southern California. Imagine sipping your morning coffee with this kind of view. What an inspiring experience!
Take an awe-inspiring stroll through the streets of downtown Avalon:
2. Solvang, CA
Walking through Solvang is like stepping into a magical European village. This darling town is tucked away in the Central mountains, and it's truly one of the most beautiful towns in Southern California. Make sure to try the aebleskivers for us!
3. Lake Arrowhead, CA
A popular mountain and lake getaway scattered with cozy cabins, gingerbread houses, and woodsy hikes. Lake Arrowhead is right out of a Norman Rockwell painting and one of my all-time fave small towns to visit for a weekend away.
4. San Juan Capistrano
Continuing along with our list of charming small towns in Southern California ... just look at those trees! San Juan Capistrano is best explored on foot. There is so much history and stunning architecture at every turn that it's worthy of a nice, long stroll.
5. Ojai, CA
It doesn't get much better than an outdoor patio filled with books. This charming bookstore (Bart's Books) is one of the many reasons Ojai is tops on my list for the best small town. It's considered one of the best getaway spots in Southern California.
Check out this jaw-dropping walkthrough of downtown Ojai in 4k:
6. Malibu, CA
How about a small town where you can stroll on the beach in your backyard? Malibu is known for its wildly expensive real estate and celebrity locals, but it's also a great place to go for a visit.
Pay a visit to Malibu's beautiful Zuma Beach right from your couch:
7. Julian, CA
Just one of the many cute shops scattered around Julian that adds charm galore to this small town. Oh, and it's also the best place for stargazing in Southern California.
8. Temecula, CA
A bustling commercial strip in Old Town Temecula captures the old-time feel of this charming wine country to the south.
9. Idyllwild, CA
This popular mountain resort is the perfect choice for a small-town getaway. Fresh air, grand views, and a thriving arts scene add to the appeal of this place. Truly one of the most charming small towns in Southern California.
10. Coronado, CA
The tree-lined streets in Coronado look like the perfect spot for a bike ride. Coronado
It's hard not to fall in love with each and every one of these places as they're all very special in their own way. Are there any memorable small towns that you would love to see on this list? Do you have your own suggestion for the most charming small towns in Southern California? Let us know in the comments. We can't wait to hear about the cute towns in Southern California you've come to know and love!
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