Lily is a Southern California-based writer, editor, and traveler. In fact, in our survey of 1,000 travelers, they chose this region as the one they’d most like to visit (winning out at 37.8% over four other national regions). We’ve shown you the prettiest spots along the East Coast. If you’ve ever wanted to visit another planet, the Southern California desert delivers an otherworldly escape. She also loves international travel and always looks forward to crossing another destination off her bucket list. The Emerald City is undeniably gorgeous, and its proximity to refreshing natural spaces is highly in its favor. In Borrego Springs, the earth holds many hues and textures. Where does Gold Beach get its name? From coastal gems to inland beauties, we’ve put together a list of some of the most beautiful smaller towns waiting to be photographed and explored. A college town located on the eastern border of Los Angeles County, Claremont makes for a perfect weekend retreat. The effect of thousands of fluttering gold and black wings in the center of a fragrant eucalyptus grove is an experience too magical to skip. Best West Coast vacation spots, according to our reader poll. For the outdoor enthusiasts, recreational activities abound, including water sports and hiking. No matter the time of year, visitors will also find a range of events, including the Mendocino Music Festival. Inspired by our survey responses, we went in search of our own favorite beautiful places. The red tile roofs of Spanish-style architecture contrast pleasingly with the striking blue ocean and golden sunsets. Locals know: Grants Pass is one of the best places to live in Oregon. Its famous pier and Ferris wheel are likely the first images that come to mind when you think SoCal. She aspires to never be too far away from her next adventure, whether it be exploring the deserts of SoCal or the mossy forests of her native Pacific Northwest. Mine the waves at surf spot Short Sands Beach, explore the bounties of the ocean by clamming and crabbing, and glide along the watery gems of Nehalem Bay by kayak. Lake Chelan is located at the southeast end of the stunning lake of the same name. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and teeming with wildlife, this World Heritage site should only be described in superlatives. Art lovers will enjoy the vibrant murals found throughout Silverton depicting its history, while the charming downtown will appeal to those seeking fun gifts and tasty edibles. One of the oldest homes in the town, it now houses the Cambria Historical Museum. Visit one of the area farms to pick apples or smell the fresh-cut flowers. One must-visit summer event is the Sandcastle Contest. This California stunner certainly gives good face. Cottage Grove, tucked against the Cascade foothills, has six covered bridges, the picturesque red barn at nearby Saginaw Vineyard, scenic hikes, waterfalls, historical buildings, river trails, tree-lined streets, and abundant florals. Infinitely recognizable, Bixby Bridge is a gorgeous feat of engineering, and the 1932 masterpiece offers coveted views from California’s much-touted Highway 1. Now take a journey across sandy beaches, towering redwoods, rushing rivers, and charming towns—these are the most scenic places on the West Coast. Visit the Paddle Sports Center; they’ll get you prepped for the prettiest day on the water. A Bavarian wonderland set against a soaring mountain backdrop, Leavenworth is both quaintly picturesque and impressively grand. Expedia, Inc. is not responsible for content on external Web sites. Joseph is a charming town in Northeast Oregon with a rich Native American history. Word has it that treasure is buried on Neahkahnie Mountain, but we’d posit that Manzanita’s true treasures are in plain sight. A popular tourist destination, the area is surrounded by incredible landscape, including forest-covered mountains, which provides hours of fun for lovers of the outdoors. Need we say more? This colorful, historic town is home to The Oregon Garden, a botanical garden showcasing many specialty landscapes along with a house designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Prettily situated at the entrance to the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, The Dalles is a northwest gem. Travel Podcast S2 Ep #7: Look Into The Travel Future with Expedia’s Travel Trends Report, 9 ways to get the most out of Expedia’s 9 days of deals, Travel Podcast S2 Ep #6: A Trip Down Food Travel Memory Lane, The top destinations and tips for travelers in 2021, Humboldt Redwoods State Park, Weott, California, Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, Alaska, What to see at Disney Parks this holiday season, The best US places to spend a white Christmas. Visitors are encouraged to pick up a map at the Chamber of Commerce and stroll along the streets to discover some of these architectural beauties. Though not part of the regional West Coast, our western-most Pacific state is the very definition of scenic. Diverse landscapes and towns brimming with charm can be found throughout the West Coast states. Also known as ‘The Maritime City,’ Gig Harbor is a beautiful seaside town with a long maritime history, from boat building to commercial fishing. We and our partners use cookies to better understand your needs, improve performance and provide you with personalised content and advertisements. Now take a journey across sandy beaches, towering redwoods, rushing rivers, and charming towns—these are the most scenic places on the West Coast. There are approximately 23,000 trees here including American Elms, Eucalyptus and numerous other species. For a day of eating, drinking, and music with a mesmerizing lakefront backdrop, come for Gorge Blues and Brews Festival. The landscape provides adventure seekers with plenty of fun, from hiking to water sports to wildlife watching. Central Washington beckons you to Ellensburg, where each season wraps itself in beauty and brings a unique set of activities. Cycle the scenic byway, go whale watching, or take a sunset kayak tour—it’s all incredible here. From rocky sea caves to fern-floored forests, Mendocino is full of pleasing retreats. Yes, this town is as charming as it sounds. The 11 Most Beautiful Places on the Pacific Coast.