2 California Destinations Named Best Small Towns in the US

California’s small towns just scored major bragging rights in the travel world — with two Golden State destinations ranking among the top 10 small towns in a new national ranking.

Santa Barbara ranked No. 5, while Healdsburg ranked No. 8 in Condé Nast Traveler’s latest Readers’ Choice Awards, putting the two California cities ahead of a string of better-known destinations across the country.

And they offer very different versions of the California getaway.

Santa Barbara brings the glamor of the seaside. Situated between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains, the Central Coast city is known for its Mediterranean-like climate, Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and laid-back atmosphere, a combination that has earned it the nickname “the American Riviera.”

Its coastal setting is a major draw, but the city’s appeal goes beyond the beach. White stucco buildings, red tile roofs, mountain scenery and more than 300 days of temperate, sunny weather give Santa Barbara a decidedly relaxed atmosphere, while its location offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles.

The city has an estimated population of 86,422 and a median household income of $106,182, according to recent figures from the U.S. Census Bureau.

Healdsburg, on the other hand, offers a typical wine experience.

The Sonoma County city has evolved from a sleepy community to a culinary and wine destination, while maintaining a more relaxed character than its neighbor Napa Valley.

Its historic downtown and plaza are clustered in an easily walkable neighborhood filled with galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and wine tasting rooms.

The local culinary scene draws heavily on the surrounding region, with everything from Pacific Coast seafood to produce from nearby farms. Visitors can also visit the Healdsburg Farmers Market on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Healdsburg has an estimated population of 11,172 and a median household income of $103,554.

The California duo joined Charleston, South Carolina, which took first place, along with Alexandria, Virginia; Santa Fe, New Mexico; Greenville, South Carolina; Lexington, Ky.; Savannah, Georgia; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and St. Augustine, Florida.

The ranking comes from 798,867 votes in Condé Nast Traveler’s annual survey, with readers rating destinations on factors including food, culture and architecture.

Final grades were based on the average percentage of excellent and very good grades.

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