10 Secretly Amazing Places to Retire in Southern California

Choosing where to retire shouldn’t be taken lightly. Deciding where to live out your wonder years is a big deal. Make a decision based on what you love to do, what climate you are most comfortable in, and the people you want to surround yourself with. Southern California is a popular place to retire because life seems to move a little slower there. As a result, people are more relaxed and like to enjoy the simpler things in life. Below are 10 secretly amazing places to retire in Southern California.

1. Ojai

Ojai is nestled in the Ojai Valley and is a quaint town with a close community. It is known for its good weather, warm in the summer and relaxed winters. This is great for retirees who need comfortable living conditions throughout the year. If you are in touch with your spiritual side, Ojai is perfect for you, as it focuses on wellness and spirituality, with its numerous yoga studios, spas, and meditation centers. In addition, the town is surrounded by the Topatopa Mountains, so the views are sensational. Ojai has a population of around 8,000, but it feels much smaller. Furthermore, it is a short drive from bigger cities like Santa Barbara and Ventura.

2. Seal Beach

This inviting coastal town has a population of around 25,000 people and offers a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for retirees. Additionally, Seal Beach provides residents with numerous recreational activities. For example, it is known for its beautiful sandy shoreline, where residents can take leisurely strolls and sunbathe. There are also plenty of beachcombing opportunities. For those outdoor enthusiasts, Seal Beach National Wildlife Refuge is perfect for observing wildlife and birdwatching. In addition, the charming Main Street district has several restaurants, quaint local shops, and historical architecture. The town also holds a lively farmers market.

3. San Juan Capistrano

If you like history and horses, San Juan Capistrano is an amazing place to retire in Southern California. And the cherry on top is its relaxed atmosphere. Residents are treated to multiple historical sights to explore, like the iconic Mission San Juan Capistrano, a historic landmark and museum. Furthermore, the town hosts various cultural events like the Fiesta de las Golondrinas and the Swallow’s Day Parade. San Juan Capistrano Equestrian Center offers world-class trainers, with classes for all ages, from beginners to experts. Residents can visit the beaches close to Dana Point Harbor, where they can spend their days boating, fishing, and sometimes whale watching.

4. Sierra Madre

Sierra Madre sits at the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. But if that is not beautiful enough, its charming tree-lined streets with magnificent architecture might catch your eye. Retirees can access endless mountain trails to hike, picnic, and observe wildlife. However, one of the best things about living in this town is the Wistaria Festival, a yearly celebration when the hillsides explode into purple fields of blossoming flowers. Sierra Madre has a population of approximately 11,000 people, so it is the ideal place to retire in Southern California.

5. Carpinteria

Another coastal town perfect for retirement is Carpinteria, which sits between Ventura and Santa Barbara. Carpinteria is known for its peaceful ambiance and pristine beaches. Retirees can enjoy long walks on the beach, birdwatching, and swimming. However, downtown also offers plenty to do and see with locally-owned shops, restaurants, and cafes. There is always something going on in this coastal town, like the Carpinteria Valley Museum Marketplace and the California Avocado Festival. But residents can also connect with nature by hiking, biking, and observing wildlife at the Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve and the Los Padres National Forest.

6. Fallbrook

Fallbrook lies between the coastal city of Oceanside and the vast Cleveland National Forest. It is known as the Avocado Capital of the World, and this agricultural heritage is celebrated yearly with the Avocado Festival. Furthermore, the town is home to the Fallbrook School of the Arts, which offers programs and workshops. But, what makes Fallbrook so special is its unique location, providing residents with easy access to the beach and mountainous regions, so there is something for everyone.

7. Los Olivos

Los Olivos sits in the Santa Ynez Valley and presents retirees with a peaceful, laid-back life. This town is legendary for its internationally recognized wineries and tasting rooms. Downtown Los Olivos is lined with eateries, art galleries, and boutique shops, so you can shop all day while sampling the local cuisine. In addition, this quaint town hosts various community events, like the yearly Los Olivos Jazz and Olive Festival, where guests can enjoy a variety of local wines, olive dishes, and, most importantly, live jazz. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the proximity to the Los Padres National Forest, which is the perfect place for birdwatching, hiking, and getting in touch with nature.

8. Solvang

Also known as the Danish Capital of America, Solvang is a unique and charming town in Southern California, perfect for retirees. It truly is a special town with its Danish-inspired architecture and European charm. The town is walkable and very pedestrian-friendly, allowing residents to explore the many restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions. There are also numerous museums for history buffs, like the Hans Christian Andersen Museum and the Elverhoj Museum of History and Art. But, if you prefer the outdoors, Slovang is close to the Santa Ynez Valley, where guests can enjoy biking, hiking, and horseback riding. This area is also known for its beautiful vineyards and wineries.

9. La Quinta

La Quinta receives over 260 days of sunshine each year, so if you want to retire in a sunny piece of paradise, this town is perfect. Retirees in La Quinta enjoy playing golf, the mountain scenery, and solitude. This Southern Californian town is home to several world-class golf courses, the perfect places to make new friends. Furthermore, La Quinta hosts Arts Festivals in February and November each year. This town also has excellent healthcare facilities, including the Eisenhower Medical Center. And if you retire here, you are so close to other popular destinations, like Palm Desert, Palm Springs, and Joshua Tree National Park.

10. Santa Clarita

Santa Clarita is the ideal blend of small-town values in a refined living community. This picturesque town attracts retirees from all over the U.S. because of its gorgeous scenery, great weather, and quality of life. While it may seem expensive, the town offers over 50 communities with lower housing rates. So there is something for every budget.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Calahan59 / CC BY-SA 3.0 – License / Original