When we say a town is “blink-and-you’ll-miss-it,” we mean it’s really small, but in the case of Harmony, California, if you happen to close your eyes for a moment when you pass the small sign on the highway, you will quite literally miss it! I once randomly decided to take the turn-off (not expecting much, to be honest) and discovered an itty-bitty hidden gem. Now, I stop here every time I visit the Central Coast.
Tucked on a quiet road off the highway just south of Cambria, Harmony is worth keeping your eyes open for. It is a quirky one-block town with a big heart, a rich history, and an official population of 18.
Harmony was founded around local dairy ranches in 1869 and became the capital of dairy production in California’s Central Coast for some 50 years. The Harmony Valley Dairy Co-Op, founded in 1901, was known for producing traditional Swiss butter, as well as high-quality cheese and other products. It closed around 1955 and the population of the town steadily declined.
Beginning in the 1970s, Harmony attracted the attention of a young counter-culture population. The old creamery buildings were restored and turned into shops, studios, and galleries. It has gone through ups and downs, restaurant and shop openings and closings, neglect and restoration. Today, the town survives as a small but vibrant artist’s haven.
Harmony Glassworks is one of my favorite spots to visit on the Central Coast. It is a studio, school, art gallery, and shop all in one. You can shop for all kinds of handmade glass items from jewelry and nail files to incredible glass sculptures. You can also watch a master glass-blower at work or even take a class to make your own glass.
Across the street, you’ll find Harmony Valley Creamery, where you can enjoy amazing small-batch ice cream, coffee, and pastries. You can also grab a cup or cone at the Scoop Truck in town. Behind the creamery, some of the most unique and beautiful ceramic art and porcelain jewelry can be found at Harmony Pottery Studio and Gallery.
Next to the pottery studio is the quaint Harmony Chapel and Gardens, available for indoor and outdoor ceremonies with a guest list of up to 100. You can also enjoy your ice cream or a picnic in the gardens.
There is nothing not to love about the tiny town of Harmony, CA. Have you had a chance to visit yourself? Do you have another blink-and-you'll-miss-it town you'd like to share? Why not nominate it here for a chance to be featured? If you plan to visit the Central Coast, be sure to check out another tiny but wonderful town, Santa Margarita. And if you need a place to stay while you explore the area, check out this lovely beachfront hotel in Cambria.
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