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September travel to northern California

Hi,

We are trying to plan a possible trip to California in late September. Is there a small coastal town that we could get a nice ocean view room and a walkable town that has shops, galleries, things to do, etc. in to spend a couple of days?

Northern California has several charming coastal towns that provide beautiful ocean views, walkable streets, and a variety of shops, galleries, and activities, perfect for a two-day visit in late September.

Some excellent options include:

  • Carmel-by-the-Sea: Famous for its fairy-tale cottages, art galleries, and boutique shops. You can stay in hotels or inns with ocean views, and the downtown area is very walkable. The beach is easily accessible, and there are plenty of dining options ranging from casual to upscale.
  • Monterey: Known for the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row. Monterey offers oceanfront hotels and a variety of seafood restaurants. Downtown is pedestrian-friendly with shops, galleries, and walking paths along the waterfront.
  • Cambria: A quieter, artistic town along the Central Coast. It has boutique inns with ocean views, galleries, antique shops, and easy access to Moonstone Beach Boardwalk. It’s ideal if you want a more relaxed and scenic stay.
  • Fort Bragg / Mendocino: Further north along the coast, Mendocino offers dramatic cliffs and ocean views, along with charming galleries, shops, and restaurants. Fort Bragg has the Glass Beach and a more commercial vibe, but still very walkable and scenic.

Tips for planning your trip:

  • Late September is a great time with fewer crowds and generally pleasant weather along the coast.
  • Book hotels with confirmed ocean-view rooms early, as they can fill quickly even in shoulder season.
  • Consider exploring nearby state parks or scenic drives to maximize your experience, such as 17-Mile Drive near Carmel/Monterey or the Mendocino Headlands State Park.

For a balance of walkability, ocean views, and a vibrant town center, Carmel-by-the-Sea or Monterey are top choices, while Mendocino offers a more secluded, picturesque coastal experience.

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