The U.S. Cities That Make the Best (and Worst) First Impression

Return-Visit Ranking: 58th percentile

Population: Just under 4,000

Love at first sight: It's hard not to fall head-over-heels for the quaint charms of this Northern Californian beach town, just south of Monterey. Romantics in particular were drawn to the intimate inns and B&Bs, breakfast cafes, shops and galleries, nearby vineyards, and beachside walks. If it all sounds a bit too twee, consider a visit to the Carmel Mission—the second to be founded in California in 1771—and a wonderful example of Spanish Colonial architecture and history.