Charming California Small Towns to Explore Solo

If your dream trip includes redwood trees and/or palm trees, ocean views, and strolling through a farmer’s market holding a lavender latte like it’s a personality trait, you’re in the right place.

I’ve wandered solo through these towns and found that smaller doesn’t mean boring. It means fewer crowds, friendlier baristas, and more time to think “Could I live here?” before casually checking Zillow.

My Favorite California Small Town Escapes

Arnold, CA: Why This Tiny Town Was the Perfect Mountain Escape

Cabins. Forest trails. Pizza that made me emotional. This quiet Sierra town turned my getaway into a main-character movie montage.

Carpinteria Beach Cottages: My Cozy Coastal Retreat

It’s just south of Santa Barbara, but with fewer people and better parking. I stayed in a cottage so cute I considered asking it out.

Capitola: Colorful Seaside Charm in the Santa Cruz Mountains

With candy-colored beachfront cottages, ocean breezes, and restaurants and shops galore, Capitola is where charm goes on vacation.

Pacific Grove: Solo Travel on California’s Prettiest Peninsula

Butterflies, tidepools, and shoreline paths that made me want to quit my job and take up watercolor. 

Small Town Travel Tips for Solo Women

  • Where to Stay Alone (But Not Lonely): I love locally owned inns with friendly hosts and spaces where it’s totally normal to chat about muffins with strangers.
  • Transportation Notes: Some towns are walkable. Some are not unless you're secretly a mountain goat. I include real notes on transit, parking, and walkability in each guide.
  • Safety Vibes: I do a solo traveler vibe check. If I didn’t feel good walking to dinner alone or journaling in the town square, it’s not on this list.

Browse by Region

🌲 Northern California

🌊 Central Coast

🌴 Southern California

Planning a California Escape?

Start with a long weekend. Pack your comfy shoes and your curious spirit. Leave room in your suitcase for small-batch jam, handmade candles, and possibly a whole new identity as “that woman who moved to a town with one stoplight and a surprisingly decent wine bar.”

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