It may surprise some to know that you do not have to wander far from the beaten path in the Golden State to find tiny towns full of history, culture, and the small-town charm we often crave. In fact, several of my favorite small towns in Southern California are located within a few miles of each other and close to major highways. But, make no mistake about it, each of these places will envelope you in a little world of its own.

The route to visit these five charming towns is only 85 miles in total and is beautiful to drive. It requires less than two hours of actual driving time (give or take), leaving plenty of time for exploration. Click on the map above for detailed directions and to customize your trip - there are plenty of fun stops you could add along the way!

We start things off in the Old West town of Los Alamos. The tiny downtown is packed with character, from its historic buildings to its popular antique mall to some pretty great restaurants. And of course, being in the Santa Ynez Valley - known for its wine country - Los Alamos has several wonderful wineries you can visit. 

You’ll definitely want to consider having breakfast or brunch at the French-inspired bistro, Bell’s Restaurant. You would probably not expect a Michelin-star restaurant in a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it town like Los Alamos, but here it is. If you’d like to get an early start on your small-town road trip, you could come and stay the night before in one of the town’s cool historic hotels such as the 1880 Union Hotel or book one of the fantastical themed rooms at Victorian Mansion Bed and Breakfast.

From Los Alamos, it’s less than 12 miles to our next stop, another tiny Santa Ynez town called Los Olivos. Anyone who knows this town that began its history along a stagecoach route in 1861 knows it is an excellent place for winetasting. There are over 25 stunning wineries and tasting rooms in and around the town. Zaca Mesa Winery, just north of town, is one of my personal favorites. 

What many don’t realize, although the town’s name is a huge hint, is that Los Olivos is the olive capital of the state, known for its many olive trees and olive oil production. In fact, you can enjoy gourmet olive oil tastings and balsamic vinegar pairings at Olive Hill Farm. You may just discover something new.

Nearby Solvang is widely known and a very popular tourist town, but it also happens to be one of the most charming European towns in the state and it would be a shame to pass through the area without exploring. There are so many things to do in Solvang, from shopping to wine tasting to sampling yummy Danish treats and pastries. I highly recommend visiting Vinhus for wine, cheeses, chocolates, and much more.

You could rush through this road trip and try to catch a glimpse of each town in one long day, but you should really consider taking at least a weekend to explore and enjoy these visit-worthy towns. To that end, might I suggest a stay at The Landsby - an elegant yet affordable European-style hotel that also happens to house one of the best restaurants in town?

From Solvang, we take one of my favorite scenic drives down through the San Marcos Pass to Santa Barbara. Just south of Santa Barbara, Carpinteria is a relaxed beach town populated with palm trees and cool local businesses. I always stop at the Lucky Llama Coffee House for a Mayan Mocha, and right next door is the cutest shop, Heritage Goods and Supply, that I can never keep myself from popping into while I’m here. 

There are tons of great little shops and places to eat on the two main cross streets, Carpinteria and Linden Avenues. You’ll find breakfast, burgers, tacos, pizza, and nearly anything else you’re craving, as well as the awesome Island View Brewing Company, in this laid-back, walkable beach town. Of course, the beach itself is also a major reason to visit Carpinteria. I highly recommend a walk through the peaceful Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve to enjoy gorgeous ocean views, a walk on the sand below the bluffs, a seal sanctuary, and natural tar pits.

Another pretty drive through the mountains and around Lake Casitas leads to our last stop in Ojai. Tucked between the scenic mountains in Ojai Valley, this friendly town is full of art, history, culture, and gorgeous architecture. Explore, shop, grab a snack or some coffee, and wander through the shelves of the wonderful outdoor bookstore, Bart’s Books. Then drive up about a mile to the hidden Ojai Valley Scenic Overlook for stunning views of the entire valley. 

End your trip with a fantastic comfort-food dinner at Boccali’s Pizza and Pasta. You cannot go wrong with any of the mouthwatering Italian dishes (the lasagna is huge and amazing) and you will fall in love with the classic red and white checkered decor. It might be a challenge, but if you can manage it, save room for the spectacular Strawberry Shortcake - it’s big enough to share.

How many of these sweet little Southern California towns have you explored? Which are your favorite? We would love to hear from you in the comments. If your favorite way to explore this state is by driving through it, be sure to check out another of our favorite Southern California road trip ideas!