Southern California is a great place to go on holiday because it is sunny, cool, and full of life. Not only does this part of “The Golden State” have some of the biggest cities in the U.S., but it also has a lot of interesting and unique small towns that are spread out along the coast, in spiritual deserts, under tall mountains, and even on a few islands in the Pacific Ocean. The energy doesn’t just come from the land, though. Fun things to do, art and culture, tasty food, and world-class wines all make this area lively. Here are seven of Southern California’s most appealing towns.
La Quinta
People have called the resort city of La Quinta the “Gem of the Desert” and the “Golf Capital of the World.” It has a positive vibe that attracts many summer visitors. This Riverside County town makes the most of its maximum sunshine and minimal rain. It is in Coachella Valley, just 25 miles southeast of Palm Springs. As you might think, there are a lot of golf courses—over 20 in fact—that host major PGA tournaments as well as courses for vacationers and retirees.
Coronado
The small but lively vacation city of Coronado, also in Southern California, is also called “The Crown City.” Coronado is on a small peninsula that feels like an island. It is right across from San Diego and has access to both the calm waters of San Diego Bay and the light surf of the Pacific Ocean. The grand Hotel del Coronado from the 1800s is a National Historic Landmark and the most famous building in the area.
Two Harbors
Santa Catalina Island is only 22 miles from the coast of Southern California. Most people get there by ship or private boat, but there is also a small airport. There are two major towns on this beautiful and exciting rock: Avalon, which is the only incorporated city, is on the southeast end, and Two Harbors is on the northwest.
Two Harbors and Little Harbor are only 18 miles apart, so they naturally complement each other. However, Two Harbors might be the best choice for quick access to a variety of outdoor activities and a nice mix of rural and cozy accommodations.
Suggested: This is the Best U.S. City to Retire for $1,800 in a Month
Lake Arrowhead
Lake Arrowhead is a lively town that is on both a lake and a mountain. The San Bernardino National Forest, also known as “The Alps of Southern California,” has a lot of places to go outside and have fun. On the 230-acre SkyPark at Santa’s Village, you can ride your mountain bike or go on a trip on the Lake Arrowhead Queen Paddleboat.
You can also hike part of the famous Pacific Crest Trail. The 1920s shoreline town is made up of Tudor-style buildings and has more than 50 specialty shops, restaurants, and even a few English-style taverns. It also has a full calendar of events.
Ojai
Ojai in Ventura County is another great example of a lively mountain town in Southern California. This small but lively town is in the Topatopa Mountains and is a great place to play golf or relax at the spa, go rock climbing, ride with the local riding group, cool off at Lake Casitas, or explore a part of the 2-million-acre Los Padres National Forest, which has more than 1,200 miles of rough hiking trails. There is a fun mix of coffee shops, craft shops, and New Age shops in Ojai. There is also Bart’s Books, which is the largest privately owned bookstore in the US and the largest outdoor bookstore in the world.
