Capitola Travel Guide

Want to relax and unwind by the beach? Now you can in Capitola California. This beach town is on the coast of Monterey Bay and was the first seaside resort in California. Since 1874, it has welcome vacationers from across the globe, with colorful cottages, blue sea and plenty of sunshine. There is no better way to spend the day that lazing on the sandy beach and walking along the promenade. While there are seaside shops for shopaholics, you'll also find the only enclosed shopping center there is in Santa Cruz County here. When it comes to eating, everyone can find somewhere they like in Capitola. From casual cafes to dinner with a view, this town caters to everyone. Of course, seafood is top of the menu!

Things to Do in Capitola

Top things to do in Capitola include spending the day at Capitola Beach. The picturesque beach glows with golden sand and blue water. You can also admire the colorful tile art here and relax in Esplanade Park too. At New Brighton State Beach, swim in the ocean, enjoy fishing and hike through the pine and oak forest. To learn more about the rich history of Capitola, visit the Capitola Historical Museum. There are lots of photographs and artefacts that will keep history buffs entertained for hours. For some shopping, head to Capitola Mall where you can browse through more than 60 stores, as well as restaurants for a bite to eat.

Best Time to Visit Capitola

Capitola is a popular summer vacation spot due to sunshine and high temperatures. That said, fall can be a time to enjoy cheaper accommodation here.

A Local's Guide to Capitola Vacation Rentals

Capitola CA has humble beginnings as a small tent camp on the waters of the bay, welcoming its first visitors back in 1874. Since then, hotels have sprung up and the town has seen substantial growth. Today, the romance of the original area can still be seen in the quaint colorful shops and the many eateries lining Soquel Creek. A huge range of Capitola vacation rentals can also be found in town, from a beach cottage with ocean views, to a fully-furnished vacation rental in the center of town near shops and restaurants, it couldn’t be easier to find the perfect beach getaway. House rentals vary from town to town, including pet-friendly properties and condos.

The town has a perfect beach, meaning you can relax and unwind on the powder-soft sands and paddle in the waters of Monterey Bay. Taking a walk along the Bayfront promenade is a quintessential experience, and is a must for any visitor to the town. If there is no room on the many benches that line the promenade, simply perch yourself on the arching sea wall, adorned with colourful tiles that have all been lovingly painted by members of the local community. During the summer, enjoy the many live music performances or catch a free outdoor movie screening.

The shopping scene in Capitola CA is one of a kind, and shopaholics should opt for a rental in Capitola town center so they don’t have too far to walk with all their purchases! There are countless boutiques that sell a range of cute souvenirs and beachy home décor, or local galleries selling a range of paintings.

One of the most unique parts of the seaside landscape is the array of colorful beach house rentals that line the shore. Built back in 1925, they were intended to bring a bit a Venice charm to the town. Today, they make an ideal home away from home from which you can explore all of the Santa Cruz county. The Capitola Beach Suites have spectacular balcony views of Monterey Bay, just steps to the beach and fine-dining opportunities. In the heart of Capitola village, you will find a few luxury hotels, the Capitola Hotel, Capitola Venetian Hotel and the Inn at Depot Hill are just a few of your options. These are just a small selection of vacation rentals that the town offers its many visitors.

If you have an interest in the other events that shaped the town, then the Capitola Historical Museum is well worth a look in. Look for a vacation rental in Santa Cruz for the ultimate beach getaway, and you are sure to find the vacation home that is perfect for you.