23 Best Small Beach Towns in America You’ve Probably Never Heard Of

21. Pescadero, California – A Secret Coastal Retreat

Tucked between Half Moon Bay and Santa Cruz, Pescadero is a hidden stretch of California’s coastline that few tourists stumble upon. This peaceful coastal village is surrounded by rolling green hills, dramatic seaside cliffs, and remote sandy beaches perfect for long walks. Pescadero State Beach offers stunning tide pools, rock formations, and wide-open spaces to relax away from the crowds. The town itself is charming and small, with family-owned shops, farm-to-table restaurants, and the famous Pescadero Goat Dairy, where visitors can sample fresh, handmade cheese.