Cute Towns
San Francisco Day Trips and Vacation Side Trips

By Betsy Malloy, About.com Guide

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Downtown Occidental

Berkeley: If you live in the Bay Area, you may overlook Berkeley, but it's got a lot going for it.
Calistoga: The less-crowded northern end of Calistoga has lots of hot springs spas and a cute downtown.
Capitola: This seaside town's pastel-colored buildings make it look like a bag of salt-water taffy.
Los Gatos: Full of well-preserved Victorian-style houses, with a cute downtown and a weekend farmers market.
Occidental: So cute you just want to hug it, this tiny Sonoma County town enchants everyone who wanders in.
Palo Alto: Besides the university, there's a lively downtown with a wonderfully restored classic movie theater.
Pescadero: Don't miss the artichoke soup at Duarte's Tavern or a peek at the antique shops and artisan's studios before stopping at Arcangelli Bakery for a loaf of bread. Just across the highway is one of the best places for tidepooling.
San Juan Bautista: The still-intact 1800s town square is a slice of California history and downtown has a pleasant selection of shops for browsing.
Santa Cruz: We live the lively feel of downtown Santa Cruz and its individualistic attitude.
Sausalito: It's an easy ferry trip across the bay, but if you drive you can see its unique Floating Homes.

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