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While the 鈥淕olden State鈥� of California is a rightfully cherished component of America鈥檚 West Coast, often times, the northern portion of the State is overlooked in favor of its more famous Southern attractions. Indeed, Southern California never disappoints, from San Diego to Los Angeles. But what about Northern California? Though not necessarily the first zone to come to mind, it remains as equally beautiful and captivating as any destination in the South. Here, splendid Pacific Ocean coastlines, cooler temperatures, fascinating history, and welcoming culture create a special ambiance that will undoubtedly delight visitors of all ages. And through a trip to its unique, smaller, and quieter towns, one can really gain a renewed appreciation for the extraordinary appeal that is California. So come see California鈥檚 North and explore these excellent towns, where quiet, relaxation, and tons of beauty to rival any Southern neighbor await!

Capitola

Right on the shores of Monterey Bay, Capitola has a modern history dating back to the 1860s, making it one of the oldest seaside resorts in California. Officially incorporated in 1949, today, this beautifully picturesque community of just under 9,500 residents welcomes guests with its cooler temperatures, scenic beach areas, and a welcoming array of businesses and hospitality. Located just some 35 miles from San Jose, tourists can expect to find a quieter and more relaxing pace of life, with all the amenities of modern-day living. Browse through shops and restaurants like Zelda鈥檚 on the Beach and the Brown Ranch Marketplace while learning more about history in the intriguing Riverview Historic District, which is always fun.

Located along Soquel Creek, one can admire Spanish colonial architecture here, while at the photogenic Venetian Court neighborhood, a wonderful display of colorful houses and other buildings will make everyone want to pose for photos! Finally, as an oceanside town, there is always a demand to go swimming, sailing, fishing, and simply sunbathing in the awesome beaches and sparkling water.

Truckee

Truckee is the largest town in Nevada County, and it was named for a Native American chief upon its founding in the 1860s. Home to just under 17,000 residents, Truckee is conveniently located just a short 20-minute drive away from the famed Lake Tahoe along the border with Nevada. Featuring warm summers and cool, snowy winters as well as plenty of breathtaking panoramas of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Truckee is indeed a fantastic place to enjoy the outdoors in a relaxing, quiet setting. Enjoy such activities as hiking, cycling, swimming, and even fishing at the local Trout Creek while exploring the downtown historic district, which exposes one to a bevy of 19th-century buildings and landmarks.

Meanwhile fine Western style eateries like the Old Town Tap offer some of the best in American cuisine, while browsing for goods at La Galleria is the perfect way to bring home a unique souvenir of time spent in this charming town.

Shelter Cove

Situated at an elevation of some 138 feet, the town of Shelter Cove hides itself away on the beautiful Lost Coast of Humboldt County. And with a population of just some 800 inhabitants, it can be easy to overlook this quiet and peaceful community. Yet for travelers looking to experience some much-needed rest and relaxation and a quiet escape from big city life, Shelter Cove is definitely a place worth experiencing. With stunning Ocean coastline trails and bike paths, special rock formations, and the lulling sounds of crashing waves, spending time here is always a delight. And with mild winter and warm summer temperatures, there is never really a bad period to be in Shelter Cove.

Add in cute diners like the Black Sands Bistro in the adjacent community of Whitehorn, and rustic shopping outlets including the Shelter Cove General Store and another side of the 鈥淕olden State鈥� can be appreciated.

Davenport

Just under 400 residents (according to 2020 census numbers) call the cute community of Davenport home, which was founded as a whaling village back in the 1860s. Lying at an elevation of some 260 feet and beautifully set along the Pacific Ocean coastline, the quiet and spectacular views in Davenport make it a veritable paradise for those who love the outdoors. Enjoy cool and comfortable summer temperatures here while secluded beaches, special surfing areas, and dramatic rock cliffs create the perfect environment to unwind and relax. Spend afternoons at the scenic Davenport Beach, while the very special Shark Fin Cove is a true natural marvel that invites photos from multiple angles!

Meanwhile, amongst the cultural attractions in town, be sure to stop by the Jail Museum (1914) and the Saint Vincent De Paul Church, which was constructed entirely of cement in the early 20th century. Finish off the day with a meal at the Davenport Roadhouse and then head back to the seaside to fully absorb the tranquility of this very special Northern California town.

Mendocino

The town of Mendocino boasts a humble population of just under 1,000 inhabitants, and it remains a most inviting place to enjoy splendid views of the State鈥檚 Pacific Ocean coastline. Founded in the 1850s and named for a Spanish colonial governor, the entirety of modern Mendocino is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, where 19th-century history can still be felt. Explore many buildings, landmarks, and Victorian-style homes here, including the Mendocino Presbyterian Church (1867) in the Headland Historic District. As a locally known artists' colony, one can browse through a cute selection of galleries and boutique shops, all against a backdrop of ocean beauty.

Finally, as a coastal community, there is no doubt that enjoying nature and being outdoors is always popular in Mendocino. Visit the Mendocino Headlands and the picturesque Woodlands State Park, where lush greenery, local wildlife, and a most peaceful and quiet outing can be enjoyed by the young and old in any traveling party.

Angels Camp

Named in its entirety as a California Historical Landmark, the lovely town of Angels Camp lies at an elevation of some 1,400 feet in Calaveras County. Founded in the 1840s as a mining center, today, a modest population of just over 3,600 reside in this most picturesque mountain destination.

Known for its hot summer and mild winters, enjoying the outdoors is popular here throughout the year, and fun activities include hiking, camping, cycling, fishing, and picnicking. And with the mighty Sierra Nevada Mountains standing sentinel and the nearby New Melones Lake, there is never a shortage of breathtaking scenery to soak in. Add in a charming array of local eateries and shops like the Pickled Porch Caf茅 and the Bee Essential Shop, and an authentic slice of small-town USA California style will be experienced in a quiet and inviting ambiance.

Placerville

The seat of El Dorado County, Placerville, was founded as a mining town in the 1850s where today nearly 11,000 reside. Part of the greater Sacramento metropolitan area, this historically and culturally alluring place is a wonderful destination to discover some of the best of Northern California.

Get a feeling of the old Gold Rush Day and explore several 19th-century landmarks here that are included on the National Register of Historic Places, like Confidence Hall (1860) and the Church of our Saviour (1865), while an eclectic range of charming shops and restaurants dot the landscape. And do not forget about the Gold Bug Park and the El Dorado County Historical Museum, which further immerses guests in the daily life of a miner in the 1800s.

Fort Bragg

Just some 10 miles north of the previously discussed Mendocino, Fort Bragg is another scenic Pacific coast community with plenty to offer guests looking for quiet amidst beautiful nature. Established in the 1850s as a military garrison, just under 7,000 residents call this modest and stunningly picturesque place home today.

Along the Shoreline Highway, basking in the area鈥檚 natural beauty is not difficult to do, and among the destinations of note near Fort Bragg include MacKerricher State Park, the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, and the famed Glass Beach, which features hundreds of years worth of naturally forming sea glass! Add in stunning wetlands, coves, dunes, and inviting park spaces where hiking and cycling are always popular, and Fort Bragg truly stands out as a marvelous place to enjoy a quieter and more relaxed pace of life. And do not forget about such fine seafood establishments like the Sea Pal Cove and The Wharf, which, in addition to tasty dishes, offer great ocean-side views!

Northern California鈥檚 Tranquil Towns: A Different Side of the Golden State

California is celebrated not just in America but across the 麻豆AV for its unique natural setting, its rich history, and its fascinating cultural heritage. But while the 鈥淕olden State鈥� is surely popular, its Southern portion continues to be the most visited. Yet Northern California should not be overlooked, and a trip here reveals more of the beauty that has long been associated with the State but in a cooler and less densely populated area. Though cities like San Francisco and San Jose are rightfully known, there are also a number of smaller and quieter towns in Northern California that are worthy of firsthand exploration. From the coastal communities of Mendocino and Capitola to the mountain settings of Truckee and Angels Camp, these quiet and relaxing places offer loads of fun cultural activities and stunning natural scenery that will surely please the young and old alike. When considering one鈥檚 next trip to California, then do not forget about the North, where some of the most alluring and captivating destinations await, always ready to show why the State has earned its 鈥淕olden鈥� moniker.