The beach may be calling your name this winter, but what about discovering a side of California you may not know exists?
While Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego tend to steal the spotlight, you’d be surprised how many charming small towns there are tucked away from the hustle and bustle of major cities.
The best part is you don’t have to trek very far to reach them as many are within a short drive from major airports, and another is considered a gateway to visit towering snow-dusted Sequoia trees.
If you’re seeking a serene place to unwind, check out these 4 California hideaways oozing vintage vibes with cozy cabins perfect for a peaceful getaway:
Idyllwild: Recharge In The San Jacinto Mountains
Set between San Diego and the delightful desert oasis of Palm Springs lies a trendy mountain town locals from both cities hold dear as their ‘staycation’ haven.
In what’s considered “downtown”, if there is such a thing in an unincorporated community of 3,500 residents, you’ll find vintage Craftsman buildings of a select few cafes, galleries, and boutique shops.
This quirky town welcomes everyone with a thriving arts scene and even more eye-popping natural beauty, hence another booming industry: vacation rentals.
Wooded cabins are available throughout the year from local agencies and Airbnb. Winter is a great time to score deals since the average West Coast traveler is seeking winter sun at the beach.
While it does snow in Idyllwild from time to time, expect a cool 55 – 60 degrees, perfect for scenic daytime hikes capped off by nighttime s’mores.
Big Bear: Ski, Relax, Or Explore
Nestled upon picturesque lakes lies the charming town of Big Bear, one of my favorite weekend getaways in SoCal.
The main strip is packed with local shops, incredible restaurants, and great stays ranging from rustic lodges to name-brand resorts, such as Holiday Inn Resort: The Lodge at Big Bear Lake.
Big Bear is a popular ski destination, but it’s also great for unwinding in a wooded, cozy cabin or old-timey lodge.
It’s a small town but modernized enough with plenty of grocery stores to load up the fridge and even Starbucks to get your morning caffeine fix.
There are ample hiking trails offering stunning views deep into the forests, but just remember it’s named Big Bear for a reason!
For the ultimate tranquility, visit the north side of Big Bear Lake’s tiny town of Fawnskin, brimming with quiet, rustic lodges and cabins and scenic roads amongst sky-high Pines.
Julian: Come Hungry, Leave Happy In San Diego’s Timeless Escape
Those seeking a relaxing hideaway in a town with no stoplights should look no further than Julian.
This former mining town has transformed into a trendy ‘staycation’ spot for many, but its many bed and breakfasts and cabin rentals are suited for longer stays too.
Julian’s claim to fame, however, isn’t their glory days of the gold rush; it’s actually a battleground for pie shops claiming to be the best.
From classic diners and line-out-the-door pie shops to urban wineries, like my personal favorite, Blue Door Winery, your tastebuds will thank you for venturing into San Diego’s Cuyamaca Mountains.
If you’re a wildlife lover, there are beautiful trails winding through the lush greenery and occasional frosted trails, or you could book a tour at Julian’s California Wolf Center, a stepping stone for wolves to readjust to the wild.
Or say hello to SoCal’s friendliest pup, Oliver, at the Blue Door Winery. He’s basically the town mayor.
Kernville: Vintage Vibes Galore In The Gateway To Sequoia National Park
The Sound of Silence isn’t just a mega-popular hit by Simon 7 Garfunkel; it’s a real thing.
Kernville is often considered the gateway to the highly sought-after Sequoia National Park, but in the wintertime, it’s a dead-quiet retreat where all you may hear is the flowing Kern River and a rusty hinge on your cozy cabin entryway.
Exuding vintage vibes, this small town lined with historic “saloons”, rural lodges, and local-favorite Kern River Brewing Co. is located just an hour outside Bakersfield with an airport serving Dallas, Phoenix, San Francisco, and Denver.
My favorite place to stay is Kern Riverfront Lodge, a comfortable, spacious stay that has aged gracefully and is conveniently located to walk about town.
Check Road Conditions
California may be synonymous with year-round sunshine, but conquering mountain roads is not always an easy feat.
For winter travel, even in the ‘Golden State’, it’s important to check road conditions prior to visiting.
Click the following links to check each destination’s frequently updated road conditions:
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.