Sonoma
When people talk about California's wine country, Napa Valley often comes to mind first. However, Sonoma Valley is actually the true birthplace of California's wine industry, boasting 17 AVA wine regions and over 400 wineries. It also has a charming nickname, 'Valley of the Moon.' If Napa is like a well-dressed gentleman handing out invitation cards at the entrance of a newly opened trendy bar, then Sonoma is like a country man, dressed in jeans and a torn T-shirt, leaning against a wall, casually holding a wine glass and saying, 'Come taste the wine, as you please.'
Petaluma
Petaluma is a small town located in Sonoma County, right near Highway 101. However, if you are from the Bay Area, you might have passed by it many times without knowing that it offers more than just farms and happy cows. The history of Petaluma can be traced back to the Spanish colonial period in 1776, all the way to the American West Gold Rush in 1849. The 1906 San Francisco earthquake destroyed most of the Victorian buildings in the town, but Petaluma was perfectly preserved. Because of its authenticity, many American movie scenes have been filmed here. Not into architecture? If you consider yourself a literary enthusiast, you definitely shouldn't miss Petaluma. Its unique cultural charm has attracted many specialty coffee shops and art boutiques.
Larkspur
Larkspur retains the most typical California small-town style, with ancient architectural relics everywhere making this town one of the national historic towns in the United States. Whether it's the Victorian-era buildings or the Renaissance-style churches and town halls, they all highlight Larkspur's sense of history. These buildings are also witnesses to the rise and fall of the Gold Rush. The entire Larkspur is divided into east and west halves by a highway. The west side of the highway is the historic town center, while the east side is an old quarry known as Larkspur Landing, which is now a bustling market and a center for shopping, concerts, and leisure activities.
Tiburon
This harbor-style small town, Tiburon, is an undeniable gathering place for the wealthy. Most of the houses are built on the hills, offering a panoramic view of San Francisco across the bay right from home. The mirage-like cityscape of San Francisco presents different views in different weather and seasons. Additionally, the town was once the terminus of the North Pacific Railroad until it completed its final mission on September 25, 1967. After the train service ceased, a bike path was built on the original railway line.
Sausalito
In 2000, Maggie Cheung and Leon Lai starred in a romantic love story called Sausalito. The Chinese title translates to 'Love at First Sight,' and it is set against the backdrop of San Francisco and Sausalito. Just like the movie's title, Sausalito is a charming bay town that makes people fall in love at first sight. Developed in the 19th century, Sausalito is one of the oldest communities in the San Francisco Bay Area and is considered a historical landmark. Spanish explorers named this place 'Saucalito,' derived from the willows growing along the waterways and underground springs. To this day, this small town remains a favorite destination for sailors from around the world.
Niles
Most people know the small town of Niles because of Charlie Chaplin, but it is not easy to find. Even people who have lived in the Bay Area of California for decades may not know about it. The main street of Niles, Niles Blvd, has a museum that houses all of Chaplin's films (Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum). The hotel where Chaplin stayed and the cafe he frequented, Essanay Cafe, are also on this street.
Pescadero
The town of Pescadero actually has only one main road, but you can't underestimate this street. It has a school, clinic, hotel, and a famous restaurant that has been around for over 100 years. There are also supermarkets, antique shops, thrift stores, boutiques, high-end handmade furniture stores, a church, and real estate companies. It can be said to have everything you need. Leaving the bustling big city and coming to this uniquely charming small town, you will feel novelty and tranquility. What makes this town even more attractive is that it is a coastal town. The sea water is azure blue, and the stones in the sea are black, presenting a beautiful scenery under the sunlight.
Capitola
The City of Capitola faces the Pacific Ocean, established in 1949, located 75 miles from San Francisco. The town is small, covering an area of only 1.6 square miles, with a population of about 10,000 people. However, it is known as the most beautiful seaside town in California. From a distance, a thin mist envelops the town, creating a dreamy and surreal atmosphere. The town is elegant and quaint, with very clean streets. There are no skyscrapers or bustling crowds here. The town is adorned with antique buildings, various boutique shops, antique stores, and galleries, giving it a fresh and unique charm.
Montara
Montara, a small town hidden in nature. This town, with a population of only 3000, is more like a village, concealed in the woods where you can hear the waves but not see people. Strolling along the mountain paths, you can feel a sense of peace and tranquility. Although the houses look old, every household has plants and flowers planted in front of their doors and on their windowsills, blending into the beautiful natural scenery and far from the hustle and bustle of the city. In the small farm Alpacas By The Sea on the northern side of the town, the adorable alpacas can keep you in a good mood all day.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming seaside artistic town on the Monterey Peninsula. It is very close to the exit of the 17-Mile Drive and only about a 2-hour drive from San Francisco. As early as 100 years ago, 'Carmel of the artists, poets, and writers' was already famous, known as a town rich in culture and a gathering place for artists. Even the master of Chinese painting, Zhang Daqian, was attracted to live here for many years, calling his residence 'Ke Yi Ju' (a place to live). Over the past century, Carmel, with its population of just over four thousand residents, has retained its charm. It has become a highlight of the California coastal highway with its beautiful natural environment and elegant artistic atmosphere.
