Discover the Most Charming Small Towns on the West Coast
With beautiful landscapes and striking views, people often say that the west coast is the best coast, and for good reason. From the southernmost tip of California to the northernmost parts of Washington, there are wide expanses of untouched, natural land for people to explore. Plus, we have a broad range of offerings that includes beach towns, mountain escapes, and in-city living. Whether you’re looking for a remote oasis surrounded by the best that nature has to offer, a big city like L.A. or Seattle, or even a quaint getaway in one of our smaller towns, the west coast has it all. Explore some of our favorite and most charming small towns on the west coast.
Sequim, Washington
Situated on the Olympic Peninsula, Sequim isn’t your typical northwestern town in Washington, and this is because it sits within the Olympic Rain Shadow, meaning it gets significantly less rain than its neighbors. Plus, it’s known as the lavender capital of North America and hosts the Sequim Lavender Festival Weekend on the third weekend in July each year. If you love flowers and captivating views, it’s a great place to visit.
Ashland, Oregon
If you love arts and theater, this is the town for you, as it is home to the annual Oregon Shakespeare Festival. Plus, it’s just an hour away from Crater Lake, so if you’re planning a trip there, make sure to pass through this quaint town on your way.
Carmel-By-The-Sea, California
Carmel features beautiful reaches and a sandy, rocky coastline, making it an idyllic California beach town. Plus, for those that make their way over here, it has wonderful shopping, surfing, and art.
Bainbridge Island, Washington
Just a quick (and beautiful) and ferry ride from Downtown Seattle, Bainbridge Island is beloved amongst Seattleites and beyond for its great Puget Sound views and activities, small town feel, eclectic boutiques, and thriving art culture. Plus, there are some great eateries and wineries to enjoy.
Joseph, Oregon
Commonly referred to as the “Little Switzerland of America,” Joseph will make you feel as though you’ve been transported to Europe. This town owes its scenic backdrop to the Wallowa Mountains, which is a popular hiking destination for visitors, and to Mount Howard, which has a gondola if you’re looking for stunning views without the climb.
Solvang, California
Another European-inspired town, Solvang most closely resembles Denmark thanks to its Danish-style architecture, windmill, and replica of Copenhagen’s Little Mermaid statue.
La Conner, Washington
Another floral Washington destination, La Conner is best known for its annual tulip festival that occurs from the time the tulips bloom in April until they are harvested in June. When you go, you’ll also get to cross the famous Rainbow Bridge that takes you into La Conner.
Astoria, Oregon
This port town is known for its captivating views of the Pacific Ocean, as well as its abundance of Victorian-style homes in the area that help make this destination feel quaint, charming, and old-worldly.
St. Helena, California
Located in the heart of Napa Valley, you’ll find St. Helena, a community featuring ample wineries, shopping, farm-to-table restaurants, and historical spots to visit. You can even take a historical tour through St. Helena if you’re interested in learning more about this spot’s rich past.
Leavenworth, Washington
This Bavarian-style village will make you feel as though you’ve been transported straight into Europe—the downtown area was even modeled after towns in the Alps. In the summertime, there are plenty of outdoor activities, but this place really shines in the winter when the whole town is lit up and becomes a snow-filled winter wonderland.
Cottage Grove, Oregon
Known as the “Covered Bridge Capital of the West,” this quaint town is home to six covered bridges! If you go, take a walk or bike ride along the Row River National Recreation Trail which includes the railroad tracks from the movie Stand By Me.
Avalon, California
This popular destination is located along the southeast side of Catalina Island and offers beautiful beaches, an abundance of local shops, and scenic cruises around the island where you can typically spot dolphins and sea lions. Despite the small-town charm this area offers, it’s actually just a short ride from Los Angeles!
Port Angeles, Washington
A small and welcoming harbor community, this spot is situated close to Sequim in the northwestern part of Washington. It’s well-known for its proximity to the Olympic National Park—if you go, make sure to stop by the Wild Game Farm, a driving tour that allows you to interact with animals!
Cannon Beach, Oregon
This beach town is popular amongst locals and attracts visitors from all over to view the famed Haystack Rock. Additionally, once there, you can enjoy restaurants, breweries, shops, and parks, ensuring there is always something to do and see.
Tahoe City, California
Perhaps best known for its Lake Tahoe, this small town is a must-see if you’re nearby. Tahoe City features stunning lake views, along with great shopping destinations and art galleries.
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