For many Californians, homesickness isn’t always about the big landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge or Disneyland, but rather the small, everyday details that quietly define life in the Golden State. Whether you’re away for a short time or have moved elsewhere, these small, familiar parts of California life can leave you with a strong sense of longing. Here are ten unexpected “small things” that often trigger nostalgia for home.
1. Saying “Hella”
A word that’s distinctly NorCal, “hella” is often used to express emphasis or a large quantity, like saying “a lot” or “very.” If you’re from Northern California, hearing this word—or even just thinking about it—can instantly bring back memories of home. Outside of California, you’ll rarely hear it, making its absence a notable reminder of where you’re from.
2. In-N-Out Burger
The craving for In-N-Out Burger is real. Known for its simple yet satisfying menu and its secret “animal style” options, many Californians who move away find themselves missing the fast food joint. Whether it’s the fresh burgers, crispy fries, or just the nostalgic feeling of pulling into one of their drive-thru lanes, In-N-Out holds a special place in the hearts of many.
3. The Laid-Back Vibe
California’s laid-back attitude is one of its most distinct qualities. The casual friendliness of strangers, the relaxed pace of life, and the general “chill” atmosphere of the state can be hard to replicate anywhere else. Many who leave California miss the easy-going nature of their daily interactions, where people seem a little more patient and open.
4. The Scent of Eucalyptus and Jasmine
There’s something special about the smell of eucalyptus trees or the sweet fragrance of jasmine blooming on warm evenings. The scent of these plants brings back vivid memories of the California landscape, even if you didn’t live near them. These smells evoke a deep sense of home and comfort, making you miss California more than you’d expect.
5. Beach Sunsets (Even If You Didn’t Go Often)
You may not have gone to the beach every day, but knowing you could head to the coast for a sunset over the Pacific was a comforting thought. Whether you went often or rarely, the possibility of witnessing a breathtaking beach sunset made living in California special. Missing the view of the ocean and the sky turning colors at dusk can unexpectedly bring on homesickness.
6. Hearing Spanish Everywhere
In California’s multicultural environment, it’s common to hear Spanish in daily life—whether it’s on street signs, in casual conversations, or in music and media. For many, this bilingual atmosphere becomes a part of their identity, and its absence can leave a noticeable void in a place where other languages aren’t as prevalent.
7. Avocados on Everything
In California, avocados are a staple. From avocado toast to tacos, to simply adding them to your salad, this creamy, rich fruit seems to find its way onto everything. Whether locally grown or part of the vibrant food culture, the easy access to fresh avocados makes their absence in other places feel like a loss. You’ll miss them more than you might expect.
8. Distinctive Local Chains
Certain local chains, like Peet’s Coffee, See’s Candies, and Safeway, can trigger strong feelings of nostalgia. Whether it’s the distinct taste of Peet’s coffee or the memories of walking through the aisles of Safeway, these local stores are part of California life. Their absence when you’re elsewhere can make you realize how much they’ve shaped your daily routine.
9. The Weather (and Microclimates)
California’s microclimates are a part of what makes the weather so unique. From the foggy mornings in San Francisco to the warm, sunny afternoons in Sacramento, the ability to experience such different weather in one day is one of the state’s perks. The feeling of cool coastal breezes after a hot inland afternoon is another example of California weather that’s hard to replicate. When you’re far away, you realize just how much you miss these changes.
10. Regional Quirks and Inside Jokes
California’s regional quirks—like referring to “the 405” or the rivalry between NorCal and SoCal—are ingrained in the state’s culture. These inside jokes and familiar references make you feel connected to a community. When you leave California, these little markers of identity can make you feel like an outsider in places where no one understands the humor or references.
These small things may seem trivial to outsiders, but for many Californians, they are what make the state home. Whether it’s the language, the food, the weather, or the people, these everyday details are what you’ll miss most. The next time you’re homesick, it might not be the beaches or the big cities you miss most, but these simple, everyday parts of life that quietly define California.
Sources
[1] https://www.reddit.com/r/California/comments/11qdwd/rcalifornia_im_homesick_this_may_sound_weird_but/
[2] https://www.buzzfeed.com/tomvellner/23-ways-to-feel-a-little-less-homesick
[3] https://learningcommons.ubc.ca/food-to-cure-homesickness/
[4] https://kidshelpphone.ca/get-info/feeling-homesick-heres-how-cope/
[5] https://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/unhappy-campers-helping-kids-deal-with-homesickness-0129155/