California is known for its vibrant cities and breathtaking scenery, but it also has quaint little villages that offer a distinct fusion of West Coast flair and New England charm.
Nestled among vineyards, rolling hills, and picturesque seaside vistas, these charming communities offer a tranquil haven from the bustle of the big city.
Come us as we discover some of the most charming tiny communities in California that encapsulate the spirit of both areas.
Ferndale
- Population: 1,481
Nestled amidst Humboldt County’s towering redwoods sits Ferndale, a richly historic town featuring breathtaking Victorian architecture.
The town’s social and cultural scene developed together with its growth, and tourists can now observe the lingering effects of those past decisions.
The oldest building in the town, the Shaw House, is a marvel of Gothic architecture, and nearby are the ancient Fellows Hall and the ancient Masonic Hall (and if an old Masons Lodge doesn’t scream New England to you, I don’t know what does).
Like many small historic towns in New England, tourists can immerse themselves in the town’s past simply by strolling around and taking in the architecture.
Visit Fern Cottage to witness a superb example of genuine Victorian furnishings, or visit the Ferndale Library to find a quaint little village that is a book lover’s paradise, reminiscent of Camden, Maine.
Pacific Palisades
- Population: 23,468
Perhaps it’s the area’s modern yet stylish eateries and cafés, or maybe it’s the aspirational glitter of its people. However, the Pacific Palisades truly competes with New England when it comes to its extravagant Fourth of July festivities.
During the summer break, the nearby high school becomes the center of Americana joy, complete with kid-friendly events on the football field, a long line of food trucks in the school parking lot, and an amazing fireworks show to cap the evening off.
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Avalon
- Population: 3,201
Avalon has a vintage, boardwalk feel to it, reminiscent of places like Orchard Beach in Maine, yet you won’t forget that you are in Southern California when you come.
Avalon appears to draw inspiration from the world’s greatest seaside towns. The island is a singular gem of a town that combines the New England nautical style with a SoCal attitude and European-inspired architecture.
Enthusiasts of water sports should enjoy the many activities available in Avalon and surrounding the island, such as sailing, kayaking, and snorkeling. Hikers and backpackers will also adore the area’s stunning hiking and trekking paths.
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San Marino
- Population: 12,513
San Marino is such a little, tranquil town that you could drive right past it and into Pasadena if you closed your eyes.
And while its larger sister city is distinctly New England in its own right, with a historic downtown, neighborhood stores, and cafés evoking memories of Lowell, Massachusetts, San Marino is home to one of Southern California’s largest and most well-known museums.
It is a common misconception that the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens are located in Pasadena. But in actuality, this sprawling old house is located among the verdant avenues of San Marino.
Today the Huntington preserves the extensive series of gardens on the site with ethnological themes and showcases the most valued pieces from Henry and Arabella’s art collection.
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Oak Glen
- Population: 369
About two hours east of Los Angeles is the quiet, tiny agricultural hamlet of Oak Glen. The town comes to life in the fall with events that will take you back to New England, even though the area faces intense summer temperatures and dusty landscapes.
The region is especially well-known for the large number of apple farms where visitors can PYO (pick your own) apples as a traditional fall pastime.
Every farm has an own personality, with some even having apple cider donut kiosks and even pumpkin picking as an extra pastime. Like other New England locations such as Sturbridge Village or Plimoth Patuxet, the farm offers living history programs all year round.
In the fall, they throw an array of events that evoke the spirit of autumn and seem to have been lifted directly out of Stars Hollow.
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