When most people think of Southern California, the first things that come to mind are the plentiful sandy beaches, the endless blue skies, and the warm summer days that seem to stretch on throughout the entire year. There’s one thing, though, that many people overlook when it comes to Southern California, and that is the charm of our many small towns nestled throughout our part of the state. Here are 11 of our favorite tiniest towns in Southern California. Which small town tops your list of must-visit places here in SoCal?

1. Sierra Madre
facebook/sierra madre chamber of commerce
Located in Los Angeles County, this small town with a population under 12,000 feels like it's a million miles away from the big city. In addition to its charming main street and local shops, Sierra Madre is also nicknamed "Wisteria City" as it's home to the largest blooming wisteria vine in the world.

Read more about this town right here.
2. Julian
flickr/chris jepsen
An official California Historic Landmark, the delightful town of Julian is one place in SoCal not to be missed. Whether you show up for apple season or you explore the peaceful countryside on foot in the spring, summer or fall, this peaceful town in San Diego County with a population close to 1,500 is an absolute treasure.

Read more about this town right here.
3. Forest Falls
wikimedia commons
Who can resist a tiny town that's nestled on the edge of the San Bernardino National Forest? With lots of fantastic trails to explore and several waterfalls to discover, this small SoCal destination with less than 800 houses is a little slice of magic.
4. San Dimas
flickr/kaizer rangwala
When you're seeking out a slice of SoCal that captures the look and feel of the good old days, then make sure to head to San Dimas, a small town with a population under 35,000. Take a stroll along the charming old town district along Bonita Avenue and browse the local shops and restaurants.

Read more about this town right here.
5. Oak Glen
flickr/don graham
Located in San Bernardino County, approximately 15 miles east of San Bernardino, this charming town with a population of less than 1,000 as of its last census will steal your heart. You'll love taking a Sunday drive along rural roads and stopping along the way at Oak Tree Village for a day of shopping in a setting that will remind you of simpler times.

Read more about this town right here.

Related Stories

I Rediscovered A Favorite Local Spot For Delicious Mediterranean Food

I Rediscovered A Favorite Local Spot For Delicious Mediterranean Food

 The Magnificent Lakefront Airbnb In Southern California That Is Perfect For A Spring Retreat

The Magnificent Lakefront Airbnb In Southern California That Is Perfect For A Spring Retreat

 You Will Never Forget This Incredible Cosmic Experience In The Southern California Desert

You Will Never Forget This Incredible Cosmic Experience In The Southern California Desert
6. Pine Valley
wikimedia commons
Head down Old Highway 80 in the Cuyamaca Mountains in San Diego County and you'll discover the tiny town of Pine Valley with its equally tiny population of 2000. Make sure to swing by Major's, the local coffee shop, or stop for a burger and ice cream cone at Frosty Burger to make your visit complete.

Read more about the town of Pine Valley right here.
7. Trabuco Canyon
flickr/flannery626
You know you are are in the heart of this small Southern California town when you reach the general store. Perhaps one of SoCal's most hidden gems, Trabuco Canyon is a spot few people know about but a destination you'll never forget once you have the chance to visit.

Read more about this town right here.
8. Avalon
flickr/david prasad
What could be better than a tiny island town? Located on Catalina Island and reachable by ferry, the town of Avalon is one of SoCal's most delightful destinations that captures the charm of small-town living.

Read more about this town right here.
9. San Juan Capistrano
flickr/kent kanouse
Perfect for strolling and enjoying the historic architecture and lush green trees, the town of San Juan Capistrano is positively delightful. Although not the tiniest town on this list, with a population that's under 40,000 this destination is just the right size. From great local shopping to picturesque areas for walking, this is one place that should be on everyone's bucket list.

Read more about our favorite park in this town right here.
10. Running Springs
Running Springs Chamber
17 miles west of Big Bear Lake you'll find the small town of Running Springs, with a population under 5,000, just waiting to be explored. From local parades to weekly farmers markets and frequent community events, this SoCal destination should definitely be on your radar if you want to experience a slice of Americana right here in SoCal.

Read more about this town right here.
11. Wrightwood
wrightwood chamber
When you're seeking out some peace and quiet in Southern California in a destination that's filled with nothing but small-town charm, then Wrightwood is the perfect place to be. You'll find hiking, tasty restaurants, and wildlife galore in this small mountain town tucked inside the San Gabriel Mountains.

Read more about this town right here.

Do you have a favorite small town on the list? Did we leave any out that you think should be listed? Let us know in the comments what small town in SoCal you love to visit most.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

tiniest towns in Southern California

Kim Magaraci | February 28, 2021

What's the most beautiful hike in Southern California?

It's easy to find a stunning hike in Southern California, and some of our favorites range from easy to challenging. Take a quiet seaside hike along Treasure Island Beach in Laguna for an easy stroll along tidepools and cliffs, or tackle a more challenging canyon hike up to the Top Of The World at Alta Laguna Park. The climb to Potato Chip Rock in Poway is among the most famous hikes in California, and the Bridge to Nowhere in Angeles National Forest is also famous. Tackle a day hike or section hike along the Pacific Crest Trail for stunning views and an unforgettable experience.

What are the most popular foods in Southern California?

Our coastal state is known for the best California Roll sushi around, thanks to our fresh avocados and seaside location. Citrus is also popular in almost every form here - I mean, we're home to Orange County, after all! Of course, no visit to SoCal is complete without a stop at In-N-Out, right? And you can find some of the most delicious Mexican food in the state down here, close to the border. Dining in Southern California is truly a treat.

Where can I find more of the best photos of Southern California?

If you're looking for pictures of the state's natural beauty, read 10 Magnificent Photos Of Southern California That Prove This Slice Of Paradise Is Truly The Most Stunning Place On Earth. For a glimpse back in time, check out These 11 Photos Of Southern California From The Early 1900s Are Beyond Fascinating, and to see the documentation of one of our worst natural disasters, read These 9 Photos From Southern California's Massive 1933 Earthquake Will Make Your Jaw Drop.

Related Articles

Featured Addresses
Sierra Madre, CA 91024, USA
Julian, CA 92036, USA
Forest Falls, CA 92339, USA
San Dimas, CA, USA
Oak Glen, CA 92399, USA
Pine Valley, CA 91962, USA
Trabuco Canyon, CA, USA
Avalon, CA 90704, USA
San Juan Capistrano, CA, USA
Running Springs, CA, USA
Wrightwood, CA, USA