Two cities in California, Santa Barbara and Santa Cruz, have been recognized on a list of the most beautiful college towns in the United States. The list, compiled by House Beautiful, highlights 11 locations that offer students a combination of scenic surroundings and a lively atmosphere with amenities catering to student life.
Santa Barbara, home to the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB), was ranked fourth on the list. The city is noted for its picturesque setting, where mountains meet the ocean. Its landscape features palm trees, Spanish Colonial architecture, and red-tile roofs. The mild coastal climate allows for easy access to both beaches and hiking trails. The surrounding wine country and abundance of farm-to-table restaurants also contribute to the town's appeal for students.
Farther north along the California coast, Santa Cruz secured the seventh spot. This city is characterized by its association with surf culture, sandy beaches, and proximity to redwood forests, offering students a unique environment where they can transition between the coast and the forest. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a tourist attraction for over a century, further enhances the town's status as a notable college town destination.
California was one of several states with multiple cities featured on the list. Other recognized college towns include Ames, Iowa; Madison, Wisconsin; Charleston and Greenville, South Carolina; Georgetown in Washington, D.C.; Bellingham, Washington; Manhattan, Kansas; Syracuse, New York; and Wellesley, Massachusetts.