Crockett, CA

Small and seemingly timeless, Crockett has a thriving artist community, is rich in early California history, and is surrounded by thousands of acres of scenic parkland. Yet, it has managed to remain a secret in the bustling Bay Area.

Even though a million or so people speed over the riverside hamlet on the Carquinez Bridge each week, most people are unaware of the town's good restaurants, live jazz performances and panoramic hiking paths.

In fact, all most people know is that Crockett is home to the redbrick C & H Sugar refinery, which has loomed over Carquinez Strait for nearly 100 years.