When most people think of the Bay Area, they think of San Francisco, San Jose, and Oakland—the region’s three major cities. But there are many small towns in this region with lots of character and history. Whether you’re looking for a quiet weekend getaway or a quaint town to call home, here are five small Bay Area towns you’ve likely never heard of—but you’ll definitely want to know more about.

St. Helena

Beringer Vineyards photo courtesy of Guy Huntley

Napa Valley is endlessly appealing as a weekend getaway, a place to live, and a wine-tasting destination. After all, Napa’s wines are world-famous for their full-bodied flavor. As a small town in Napa Valley, St. Helena is pretty much the archetype of what you’d imagine a quaint American town to be. This fairytale-like city is as serene as it is green and gorgeous. St. Helena is also home to Beringer Vineyards, the oldest continuously operating winery in California. Founded in 1876, it has earned a coveted spot on the National Register of Historical Places, and it’s also a California Historical Landmark. If you visit Saint Helena, stopping by this winery for a tasting is a must-do. 

Occidental

Occidental, CA photo courtesy of Craig Howell

In this tiny town, you’ll find yourself feeling dwarfed by the numerous Redwood forests and endless evergreen trees. Nestled in Sonoma County, Occidental only had 1,100 residents at the time of the 2010 census, so it’s the perfect spot for a quiet getaway if you want to escape the city for a weekend. Swing through the treetops with Sonoma Canopy Tours, or taste some wine at Iron Horse Vineyards in nearby Sebastopol. Whatever you do, you’re guaranteed a serene experience in this quiet town. 

Marshall

Tomales Bay in Marshall

In the sleepy town of Marshall in Marin County, you’ll think you were dropped into the heart of a Maine fishing village.Marshall has endless charm, offering a peaceful respite by the water thanks to its location along the east shore of the Tomales Bay. Tomales Bay, an inlet of the Pacific Ocean, is the perfect destination for oyster hunting and kayaking, while Marshall Beach and Indian Beach are popular places to hang out by the water. Although this quaint town by the shore offers peace and quiet, the homes are rather on the expensive side with some homes priced over the $1 million range.

Bolinas

Bolinas Lagoon photo by Shutterstock

Proudly wearing the title of the oldest town in Marin County, Bolinas is a seaside community that has largely held onto its 19th-century feel as the county developed around it. The Bolinas Lagoon separates the town from the rest of the country, giving Bolinas a private, isolated feel. Check out Alamere Falls, which is part of the Point Reyes National Seashore, for a truly beautiful waterfall experience.

Tiburon

Shoreline view of Tiburon photo by Shutterstock

This tiny town may be visible from San Francisco, but having done an excellent job of preserving its history, Tiburon still has the feel of a quaint getaway. Tiburon was once a boomtown during the California Gold Rush, making it a great destination if you want to experience a bit of the old California. Take a ferry and check out the historic Lyford House, a Victorian home listed on the National Register of Historic Places, or go for a hike—without having to compete with fellow hikers for trail space—on Mount Livermore.