If you love cute small towns as much as I do, this one’s for you! After living in Northern California for more than 40 years, I’ve spent countless days exploring its tiny towns, and they’ve become some of my favorite places to be. Some trips were planned, others were happy accidents, and more than a few started as a “quick stop” that turned into an entire afternoon.
These are my personal picks for the cutest small towns that are perfect for quick getaways or just saving for your future bucket list.
➞ PS: Be sure to check back often. I’ll keep adding to this list as I visit and discover even more cute small towns along the way!
Mendocino County
I’ve spent more anniversaries than I can count wandering Mendocino County, and each visit still feels like discovering it for the first time. The storybook-perfect coastline, dramatic bluffs, and charming Victorian villages make it a place you want to slow down in, not just pass through.
Hopland
a laid-back little wine town where tasting rooms outnumber stoplights
24-Hours in Hopland: Start your morning with coffee at Cafe Poppy, then grab breakfast at the Bluebird Café before heading out for some tasting. Spend the afternoon sipping wine at Campovida, tasting olive oil at Terra Savia Winery, and playing a casual game of bocce ball at Brutocao Cellars (no rush, this town is all about going slow). For lunch, The Golden Pig is a must, and when dinner rolls around, head to Stock Farm Hopland for wood-fired pizza and a relaxed evening vibe. Wrap it all up with an overnight stay at the beautifully restored Thatcher Hotel, right in the heart of town, so you can wake up and do it all again, or at least linger a little longer. For more information, see my perfect day trip itinerary for Hopland, California.
Mendocino
Storybook charm meets dramatic coastal views.
24-Hours in Mendocino: Start your morning with breakfast at GoodLife Café & Bakery, then head out for an easy hike along the Mendocino Headlands where the ocean views practically beg you to linger. Spend the afternoon wandering through art galleries, popping into the shops around Mendocino Village, and strolling the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens when you’re ready for a little nature break. Grab pizza for lunch at The Brickery, then treat yourself to a cozy, memorable dinner at Cafe Beaujolais. When it’s time to settle in, stay at the warm and welcoming Brewery Gulch Inn, or go the glamping route at Mendocino Grove if you want something a little more fun and outdoorsy.
If you want the full plan, I’ve got you covered in my Perfect Weekend Getaway Guide for Mendocino, California.
Boonville
A tiny Anderson Valley town with a big personality and vineyard views.
24-Hours in Boonville: Start your day with coffee at Paysanne, then grab breakfast at Mosswood Market before heading out to explore. Spend the morning wine and cheese tasting at Pennyroyal, browse the shops downtown Boonville, and make sure you pop into Farmhouse Mercantile because it’s one of those places you’ll wish you had at home. In the afternoon, visit the Philo Apple Farm or take an easy hike through Hendy Woods on the Discovery Trail to stretch your legs among the redwoods. Lunch at Boonville Distillery is a must, followed by a pre-dinner drink at Disco Ranch when you’re ready to ease into the evening. For dinner, you can’t go wrong with the Boonville Hotel or Offspring at Farrer, and staying the night at the Boonville Hotel makes the whole experience feel effortlessly complete.
Sonoma County
Sonoma County blends wine country sophistication with laid-back, small-town feel. It’s the county that’s been my home for most of my life, so I’ve had the joy of exploring its vineyards, hidden cafés, and quiet corners over and over again.
Occidental
A blink-and-you’ll-miss-it town famous for Italian food and redwoods.
24-Hours in Occidental: Start your morning with breakfast at Howard Station Café, then wander through the local shops before heading out to zipline through the redwoods or take an easy hike at the Grove of Old Trees. In the afternoon, slow things way down with a unique cedar enzyme bath at Osmosis Spa. Grab lunch at The Altamont General Store, then settle in for dinner at the Union Hotel, the oldest restaurant in town and an absolute classic. For the night, stay at the Inn at Occidental or the Union Hotel so you can fully soak up this charming little corner of Northern California without ever needing to rush.
Glen Ellen
Sleepy and elegant, with literary roots and vineyard views.
24-Hours in Glen Ellen: Start your day with breakfast at Les Pascals Patisserie et Boulangerie, then head out for a hike through Jack London State Historic Park or stroll the SculptureWALK at Jack London Village. Spend the afternoon wandering the Sonoma Botanical Garden or enjoying wine tasting at Imagery Estate Winery when you’re ready to slow things down. Grab lunch at The Mill at Glen Ellen, then go for a cozy, memorable dinner at Glen Ellen Star. For an overnight stay, treat yourself to the beautiful Gaige House, or keep it more budget-friendly at Jack London Lodge. If you want to turn this into a simple itinerary, check out my perfect day trip to Glen Ellen.
Geyserville
Tiny but mighty, with world-class wineries and dramatic scenery.
24-Hours in Geyserville: Start your morning with breakfast at the Geyserville Grille, then spend the day wine tasting at Coppola Winery, taking a scenic drive through Dry Creek Valley, or stroll through the sculpture trail. Make time to wander around downtown Geyserville and, if you want a nature break, head over to Lake Sonoma for fresh air and wide-open views. Grab lunch at Diavola Pizzeria & Salumeria, then wrap up the day with a classic Italian dinner at Catelli’s. Stay the night at the Geyserville Inn so you can wake up to vineyard views.
Bodega Bay
A coastal fishing town made famous by Hitchcock, where fog, chowder, and ocean views set the pace.
24-Hours in Bodega Bay: Begin with breakfast and coffee at The Birds Cafe, then grab something sweet at Patrick’s Salt Water Taffy before heading out to fly a kite at Salmon Creek Beach. Spend the afternoon hiking the Bodega Head Trail, stopping by the famous filming locations from The Birds, and squeezing in wine tasting at Sonoma Coast Vineyards. Lunch at the Fishetarian Fish Market is a must, and dinner at the Casino Bar & Grill feels delightfully old-school in the best way. Stay overnight at The Lodge at Bodega Bay, which was voted #1 out of 50 by Condé Nast readers. For a simple plan, see my Perfect Day Trip Itinerary to Bodega Bay, California.
Guerneville
A Russian River favorite known for redwoods, river floats, and an artsy, inclusive vibe.
24-Hours in Bodega Guerneville: Grab breakfast at Piknik, then head out for a hike among the giants at Armstrong Redwoods or spend the morning kayaking on the Russian River. In the afternoon, stop for a tasting at Korbel Winery or lean into the town’s whimsy with a round at Guerneville Pee Wee Golf. Lunch at Three Cultures Kitchen is always a win, followed by wandering around town before cocktails at El Barrio. Dinner at Boon Eat + Drink or Trillium wraps up the day perfectly, with ice cream at Nimble & Finn’s if you still have room. Stay at Dawn Ranch or Boon Hotel. For something more bucket list worthy, stay in an airstream or glamping tent at AutoCamp Russian River. For more information, see my post: A Perfect Day Trip Itinerary to Guerneville, California
Healdsburg
Polished yet approachable, this is one of wine country’s most walkable and food-forward towns.
24-Hours in Healdsburg: Start your morning with breakfast at Acorn Cafe, then stroll around the Healdsburg Plaza before heading out for wine tasting or a scenic drive through Dry Creek Valley. Lunch can be casual at Troubadour Bread & Bistro or a little more refined at Arandas. Spend the afternoon popping into tasting rooms or simply enjoying the slow pace of town. For dinner, Guiso Restaurant delivers comforting Latin fusion flavors that always hit the spot. Stay at Appellation Healdsburg or Harmon Guest House so you’re right in the heart of it all.
Sebastopol
A creative, farm-to-table town surrounded by apple orchards and rolling vineyards.
24-Hours in Sebastopol: Begin the day with coffee at Taylor Lane and breakfast at The Wild Poppy Cafe, then wander Florence Avenue to check out the quirky junk art displays. Spend the afternoon wine tasting at Pax, shopping and exploring The Barlow, or playing a few nostalgic pinball games at The Rewind Arcade. Lunch options are solid, from tacos at Handline to a sandwich at The Porch Kitchen. For dinner, Ramen Gaijin or Goldfinch are my favorites, and dessert at Screamin’ Mimi’s is non-negotiable. Stay at Pearlessence Vineyard Inn or nearby at the Inn at Occidental, and if you want a simple itinerary, see my post How to Spend One Day in Sebastopol, California: 12-Hour Itinerary.
Napa
Napa County towns balance luxury and simplicity, where Michelin stars and farmers markets coexist.
Calistoga
Relaxed and rustic, known for hot springs and old-school wine country vibes.
24-Hours in Calistoga: Grab breakfast at Sam’s General Store, then soak in the thermal hot springs at Dr. Wilkinson’s or Calistoga Spa Hot Springs. Spend the afternoon hiking in Bothe-Napa State Park, visiting Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park, or checking out Old Faithful Geyser if you’re in a touristy mood. Wine tasting here is fun and unique, with stops like Tank Garage, Sterling Vineyards or Castello di Amorosa. Lunch at Picobar keeps things casual, while dinner at Solbar feels like a treat. Stay at Solage for a splurge or Harvest Inn for a more budget-friendly but still charming option.
St. Helena
Classic Napa elegance with a walkable main street and serious culinary clout.
24-Hours in St. Helena: Start your morning with breakfast at The Model Bakery, then spend the day wine tasting at AXR Napa Valley or Trinchero Napa Valley. Take a tour at the Culinary Institute of America or treat yourself to a spa day at Alila if slowing down is the goal. A burger lunch at Gott’s St. Helena is always a good idea, and dinner at Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch is one of those meals you’ll be thinking about long after you leave. For a relaxing overnighter, stay at Rancho Caymus Inn or the Wydown Hotel.
Marin
Marin towns feel effortlessly refined, where morning hikes, ferry rides across the bay, and stopping by a favorite bakery are just part of everyday life.
Bolinas
Famously elusive and fiercely local, this beach town marches to its own drum.
24-Hours in Bolinas: Spend the day walking Bolinas Beach, stopping by the Bolinas Museum and Art Gallery, and grabbing something fresh from the Gospel Flat Farm Stand. If you’re up for exploring more, a trip to the Point Reyes Lighthouse adds dramatic coastal views to the mix. Breakfast or lunch at BoVida is a must, and dinner at Coast Café feels like a hidden reward for those who made it here. Stay nearby at Sandpiper Lodging at the Beach in Stinson Beach to keep the laid-back coastal vibe going.
Fairfax
A music-loving, bike-friendly town tucked into the hills with a bohemian spirit.
24-Hours in Fairfax: Start your day with brunch at Amélie Fairfax or lunch at Más Masa, then head out for a hike to Cascade Falls or a visit to the Marin Museum of Bicycling. Spend the afternoon shopping downtown and soaking up the town’s creative spirit. Dinner at Stillwater or Village Sake rounds out the day perfectly.
Mill Valley
Woodsy and sophisticated, with trailheads that start just beyond the coffee shops.
24-Hours in Mill Valley: Begin with breakfast at Flour Craft Bakery, then head to Muir Woods for an early walk among the redwoods. Spend the afternoon shopping in downtown Mill Valley, visiting California’s prettiest library with its redwood views, or exploring the Mill Valley Lumber Yard. Lunch at Hook Fish Co. at the Proof Lab Beer Garden is casual and delicious, while dinner at Playa makes for a great end to the day. Stay at the Acqua Hotel for easy access and water views..
Point Reyes Station
A gateway town to wild coastline, oyster farms, and long, windswept hikes.
24-Hours in Point Reyes Station: Start with coffee and pastries at Brickmaiden Breads, then head out for cheese tasting at Point Reyes Farmstead or a mead tasting at Heidrun Meadery. Spend the afternoon exploring Point Reyes National Seashore, kayaking on Tomales Bay, or indulging in oysters at Hog Island Oyster Farm. Lunch atSide Street Kitchenand dinner at Cafe Reyes keeps things deliciously local. Stay at Nick’s Cove for waterfront views and serious coastal charm.
For more information check out my Day Trip itinerary to Point Reyes, California: 12-Hour Itinerary or my Weekend Travel Guide for Point Reyes National Seashore.
Sausalito
Mediterranean-feeling and postcard-perfect, just across the Golden Gate Bridge.
24-Hours in Sausalito: Grab breakfast at Frank & Coffee, then stroll the Bridgeway Promenade, check out the floating homes, and stop by the Bay Model Visitor Center. Head up to Hawk Hill for one of the best Golden Gate views around, then grab lunch at Fish.. Dinner at Le Garage is cozy and classic French. Stay at The Inn Above Tide for unbeatable views, or The Gables Inn for a more budget-friendly option.
For the best day, follow my Sausalito Day Trip Itinerary that includes what to see, eat and do!
Tiburon
Quietly elegant, with skyline views that feel almost unreal at sunset.
24-Hours in Tiburon: Spend the morning walking the Old Rail Trail from Blackie’s Pasture, then stroll and shop along Main Street. Take the Angel Island ferryfor an easy adventure, or keep it local with a swing at the Tiburon Hippie Tree or a movie at the cool Cinelounge. Brunch at Malibu Farm is a favorite, followed by wine at Squalo Vino and dinner at Troya. Stay at the Waters Edge Hotel, The Lodge at Tiburon, or one of the town’s boutique inns to fully soak in the views.
South of San Francisco
Half Moon Bay
A classic coastal town known for pumpkins, bluffs, and big-wave surf nearby.
24-Hours in Half Moon Bay: Have your morning breakfast at Johnny’s Half Moon Bay, then shop for plants at Pastorino Farms or try something totally different with a glass-blowing class at Bay Art Glass. Spend the afternoon wine tasting at La Nebbia Winery or head to Mavericks Beach to watch surfers chase giant waves. As the day winds down, catch the sunset at the Ritz-Carlton for those wow-factor ocean views. Lunch at Barbara’s FishTrap is a must, followed by an Italian dinner at Pasta Moon. Stay at the Nantucket Whale Inn or Seal Cove Inn, and for more ideas, see my article about the best things to do in Half Moon Bay.
Pescadero
A tiny farming town famous for artichokes, goats, and legendary pie.
24-Hours in Pescadero: Wander through downtown, then stop at Pie Ranch Farm Stand for a freshly baked slice that’s worth the drive alone. Spend the afternoon exploring Pescadero State Beach, visiting the historic Pigeon Point Lighthouse, or taking a goat tour at Harley Farms. Coffee at Downtown Local keeps things simple, lunch at Arcangeli Grocery Co. is all about the artichoke garlic herb bread, and dinner at Duarte’s Tavern is a local classic. Stay at Pescadero Creek Inn or base yourself nearby in Half Moon Bay.
Capitola
Colorful, compact, and impossibly cheerful, with a village right on the sand.
24-Hours in Capitola: Start your day with breakfast at Blue Lava Café, then spend the morning hanging out at Capitola Beach or strolling the charming village. In the afternoon, rent a paddleboard, go fishing off Capitola Wharf, or head out for wine tasting at Armida. Lunch at La Marea is easy and beachy, while dinner at Trestles Restaurant feels like a treat. Stay at Seascape Resort for ocean views and a laid-back coastal vibe.
Other Northern California Charming Towns
Victorian village, where historic homes and old-school storefronts line the streets.
24-Hours in Ferndale: Spend your day visiting the Ferndale Museum, driving the Lost Coast Loop, exploring the Lost Coast Headlands, or catching a show at the Ferndale Repertory Theatre. Coffee and pastries at Mind’s Eye Manufactory & Coffee Lounge start things off right, lunch at Ferndale Pizza Co. is casual and good, and a Mexican dinner at Tuyas is a local favorite. Stay at the Gingerbread Mansion Inn for full-on Victorian charm.
Winters
Small, sunny, and friendly, with wineries and outdoor access just minutes away.
24-Hours in Winters: Grab breakfast at Steady Eddy’s Coffee House which is a local staple. Then stroll the historic downtown, explore Putah Creek Nature Park, or pop into a tasting room for an easy afternoon. If you’re visiting in season, picking your own bouquet at Park Winters Flower Farm is such a simple joy. Head to Preserve for lunch, and to Ficelle for a Spanish dinner that feels special without being stuffy. Stay at Hotel Winters right in the heart of town.
Nevada City
Artistic, walkable, and beautifully preserved, with a strong sense of community.
24-Hours in Nevada City: Start the day with breakfastat Communal Cafe. Spend the afternoon exploring downtown, visiting Empire Mine State Historic Park, hiking in South Yuba River State Park, or paddleboarding at Scotts Flat Lake. Wine tasting at Nevada City Winery adds a relaxed break to the day. For lunch go to Heartwood Eatery for one of their healthy bowls, and enjoy dinner at Restaurant DaKan that has a passion for sustainable dining using local goods. Stay at the historic National Exchange Hotel to fully soak up the town’s charm.
Placerville
Once called ‘Hangtown,’ now a friendly Gold Rush-era destination.
24-Hours in Placerville: get breakfast at Cuppa Coffee & More, then take a stroll downtown. After head out to explore Apple Hill, tour Gold Bug Park & Mine, or stop by a local winery. For lunch, The Market on Main is an easy favorite, and dinner at The Smith Flat House leans into the town’s history in the best way. Stay at Eden Vale Inn for a cozy and relaxing overnight.
Traveling Soon? Use my Favorite Resources for Booking Your Trip!
Book Your Flight
Expedia is my favorite flight search engine, because it checks dozens of airlines so you can easily find the best fare deals. You can also select ‘Watch Prices’ to get an email alert when the prices change.
Book Your Accommodations
I use both Booking.com and Expedia for hotels, because each offers a couple different hotel choices and I like to compare the reviews on each one. If you have a group or are looking for more of a home atmosphere, head over to VRBO or AirBNB that has houses, apartments and even just a room for rent in every price range.
Book Your Rental Car
If love the freedom to explore like I do, driving from place to place is the best option! I always book with RentalCars.com (it’s part of booking.com) for the best prices and top brand options.
Book Some Fun Tours!
Viator and Get Your Guide are my go-to search engines for cool bucket list experiences! Each one can have different tours, so check both—why limit yourself, right?
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel can be unpredictable. Whether it’s a last-minute cancellation, an injury, or (ugh) theft, things happen. That’s why I recommend never leaving the country without travel insurance. Here are my faves: Safety Wing and World Nomads.
Get Packing & Travel Essentials Ready
Check out the Bucket List Journey Amazon Store to find all my favorite travel essentials. Everything from Packing cubes, to travel adapters and toiletry containers to walking shoes.
*Lastly, check travel.state.gov for visa requirements and safety information.
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