Capitola By The Sea, California: A Delightful Day Trip

Capitola, California, is a picturesque seaside town on the northern shore of Monterey Bay, about 5 miles east of Santa Cruz and 70 miles south of San Francisco. Known for its colorful charm, sandy beaches, and laid-back vibe, Capitola is a gem of the Central Coast that blends small-town character with coastal beauty. Here is an itinerary of things to do for a delightful day trip in Capitola, filled with scenic beauty, good food, and laid-back activities:

A Quick Look at the History of Capitola, California

Capitola, originally known as Soquel Landing, has a fascinating history that adds to its unique charm.  In the 1850s, the town’s wharf was a bustling hub for shipping lumber from the nearby hills. As the local trees were harvested, a visionary landowner transformed the area into a seaside vacation spot, Camp Capitola. It marked the beginning of the town’s evolution into the beloved Capitola by the Sea, a name it proudly carries today.

Things To Do and See in Capitola, California

Capitola Beach: The heart of the town, this sandy stretch is perfect for lounging, swimming, or watching surfers. Its calm waves and vibrant row of pastel houses make it postcard-worthy.
Capitola Village: A compact, walkable downtown filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and eateries. It’s got a relaxed, artsy feel with a touch of tourist-friendly charm.
Capitola Wharf: Built-in 1857 and rebuilt after storms, this wooden pier stretches 800 feet into the bay. It’s a spot for fishing, strolling, or enjoying the ocean breeze.

Venetian Court: These brightly colored, stucco homes on the beach are a historic and photogenic highlight, often called “California’s Little Venice.”
Capitola Museum: To learn about the town’s history and surrounding area, pop into the tiny but informative museum in the central part of town. The whole thing only takes about 20 minutes to see, and it’s completely free! Address 410 Capitola Ave. Website
Capitola Village: Wander through this quaint downtown area filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and a small-town charm. Check out places like Capitola Book Company for unique reads, or browse local crafts at Artisan’s Gallery.

Standout Places to Dine in Capitola

Capitola, California, offers delightful dining options that match its coastal charm—think fresh seafood, cozy vibes, and spots with killer views.

Zelda’s on the Beach is a local favorite for seafood and American classics, offering a front-row seat to the ocean. Be sure to try the clam chowder in a bread bowl, fish tacos, or crab Benedict for brunch.
Paradise Beach Grille features fresh seafood with a Cali flair—grilled salmon, Dungeness crab cakes, or ahi poke are highlights. The outdoor seating catches the ocean breeze, and the mai tais are a tropical treat.
Shadowbrook has been a Capitola icon since 1947, and it is famous for its romantic ambiance and cable car ride down to the creekside dining room. Go for the prime rib, artichoke ravioli, or seared scallops. The lush garden setting feels like a hidden escape. Website.

Tips for a Fun Day Trip:

The best time to visit is in March. The weather can be mild (50s-60s°F), so bring layers. It’s off-season, meaning fewer crowds.
Where to Park: The village has metered street parking and a small lot near the beach—arrive early to snag a spot.
Shopping: The community is tight-knit, with a focus on local businesses—no big chains dominate here.

Nearby Beach Destinations

Capitola’s, where you can sip coffee overlooking the waves, browse quirky shops, and feel the salty breeze in a day. If you want to explore, you can visit one of Capitola’s nearby beach destinations to escape the town center.

New Brighton State Beach boasts a beautifully rugged landscape. This popular northern California State Beach is a 93-acre park close to one mile of shoreline, with a group picnic area and a campground on the bluffs overlooking the beach, as well as campsites and parking spots for day-use visitors.

Seacliff State Beach. If you want a leisurely walk along a classic pier, head to Seacliff State Beach, where it might just be you and the Pelicans! Seacliff is a popular camping spot with a well-traveled walkway between the campground and the beach. Make reservations ahead of time to pitch your tent along the waves.

Summary

Capitola, California, is a charming seaside village on the Monterey Bay, perfect for a relaxing and fun day trip. Here’s a plan for a delightful day in Capitola, filled with scenic beauty, good food, and laid-back activities.

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