It’s a great time of year to visit those lesser-known towns that may have flown under your radar previously. Lucky for us, Northern California is loaded with these types of underrated small towns, and a few of them were recently featured in a list of 60 Charming American Towns by Oprah Magazine. One town that we were happy to see made the list was Trinidad on the North Coast. Definitely don’t put off visiting this charming small town because it’s loaded with reasons that’ll make you love it!
Several California towns made the list of 60 Charming American Towns You Haven't Heard of But Should Visit ASAP", but there was one, in particular, we were happy to see featured. As one of the smallest cities in California, Trinidad is easy to overlook but is definitely worth visiting!
Located 80 miles south of the Oregon border, the small, 360-resident town is best-known for its seaside charm and breathtaking coastal beauty. Sitting atop a bluff that overlooks picture-perfect Trinidad Bay, it's hard not to fall in love with this little town on the spot.
There are numerous spots around Trinidad to soak up the area's fantastic natural beauty, including Little River State Beach and Trinidad State Beach. Featuring miles upon miles of shoreline, these beaches represent the best of North Coast beauty.
History enthusiasts will also find something to grasp onto when visiting Trinidad since it's known as the first human settlement on California's North Coast. Spanish explorers may have found it in 1775, but the Yurok had settled here at least 1,000 years before. Patrick's Point State Park is famously home to a reconstructed Yurok Village and is located north of town.
The Trinidad Head Lighthouse is another must-visit spot in the area. First constructed in 1866, it's by far one of the most historic lighthouses on the California coast and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Be sure to stop by the famous Trinidad Pier, too! Considered California's northernmost oceanfront pier, it provides the perfect vantage point of the coast's rugged scenery. It extends into Trinidad Harbor, a popular fishing and crabbing destination.
Of course, the city itself is full of gems including awesome restaurants, fantastic accommodations, and charming small businesses. Experience all that this oceanside town has to offer and visit Trinidad soon!
Have you been to Trinidad, California? We’d love to hear about your experience with this charming small town on the coast! And don’t forget to nominate YOUR favorite small towns in Northern California to be featured here in the future.
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