“Nothing charms like a small downtown that beckons visitors with historic architecture and boutique shops or local culture and tree-lined streets,” HGTV’s writers assert. “Many small downtowns are located in beautiful settings or have stunning views. Others welcome visitors with lively festivals, delicious foods or a nostalgic atmosphere.”

Whether you’re after ocean views or small-town charm, these California coastal gems make weekend dreams come true.

Two Bay Area cities have been identified as being among the best U.S. cities to visit by Condé Nast Traveler in its annual Readers’ Choice Awards.

The world-famous Pacific Coast Highway (or PCH) runs from Dana Point in California to Tumwater in Washington State. It traverses some of the most stunning coastal regions on the West Coast, from Big Sur to the Olympic Peninsula.

Route 66 once connected thriving towns across the country, including this California ghost town, which boasts historic buildings in a charming desert landscape.

This article originally published at 'Communities will not survive': Insurance nightmares could empty small California towns. Doing your own research is crucial to ensure you aren't overpaying for your vehicle.

What do stairs have to do with California’s housing crisis? More than you might think, says this Culver City councilmember.

Summer temperatures linger an average of eight days longer in 14 California cities, Climate Central found. While that can mean more time for fun in the sun and for crops to grow, it also ushers in a host of less positive effects.