Planning a summer getaway? 2 California spots are among top ‘quaint coastal towns’ in West

Looking for surf, sand and sunset views? Two California spots are among the top quaint coastal towns to visit on the West Coast, according to AAA.

The automobile association recently came up with a list of the best “waterfront communities to see the sights, grab a meal and experience unique perks.”

“The West is full of charming coastal towns with surprising features,” AAA writer Laura Kiniry wrote in a June 18 article titled “8 Quaint Coastal Towns in the West.”

Those include Carmel-by-the-Sea and Cayucos, according to AAA.

Why is Carmel-by-the-Sea a top coastal town?

“A whimsical seaside village on California’s Monterey Peninsula, Carmel draws crowds with its bevy of 1920s cottages that look like something out of a fairytale,” Kiniry wrote.

Other attractions include a variety of upscale shops and Carmel Beach, “a favorite among surfers and dogs,” AAA said.

According to the automobile association, local restaurants and shops worth visiting include Bruno’s Market and Deli and Cottage of Sweets.

What makes Cayucos a popular West Coast destination?

Another Central Coast community made AAA’s list: Cayucos, described by the automobile association as the “coolest little beach town.”

“Along with miles of beach, visitors can stroll along the historic pier — a perfect place for catching the sunset — or peruse downtown’s antique stores and specialty shops, all perched along an easily walkable stretch,” Kiniry wrote.

Things to do in Cayucos include hiking at Estero Bluffs State Park and exploring “kelp beds and hard-to-access beaches” on a kayak tour led by Good Clean Fun, AAA said.

Local restaurants and stores worth a visit, according to AAA, include:

• Brown Butter Cookie Company
• Cayucos Surf Company
• Hidden Kitchen
• Schooners Restaurant

AAA: Check out these quaint coastal towns

Here’s the full list of coastal communities worth check out on the West Coast, according to AAA:

• Cayucos
• Carmel-by-the-Sea
• Neskowin, Oregon
• Seabrook, Washington
• Sequim, Washington
• Seward, Alaska

This story was originally published June 24, 2024 at 11:05 AM.

Sarah Linn

The Tribune

805-781-7907

Sarah Linn is an editor and reporter on the West Service Journalism Team, working with journalists in Sacramento, Modesto, Fresno, Merced and San Luis Obispo in California and Bellingham, Olympia and Tri-Cities in Washington, as well as Boise, Idaho. She previously served as the Local/Entertainment Editor of The Tribune in San Luis Obispo, working there for nearly two decades. A graduate of Oregon State University, she has earned multiple California journalism awards.