Fun Things to Do in Capitola | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Capitola Travel Guide
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Welcome to Capitola, a charming coastal town located in the United States. Nestled along the shores of Monterey Bay in California, Capitola offers a picturesque setting with its colorful beachfront houses and stunning ocean views. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals, this hidden gem is the perfect destination for those seeking a relaxing beach getaway. Whether you're strolling along the Capitola Wharf, exploring the quaint boutiques and art galleries in the Capitola Village, or enjoying a day of sunbathing on the pristine Capitola Beach, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this idyllic seaside town. So pack your bags and get ready to experience the beauty and tranquility of Capitola.
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Things To Do In Capitola
Capitola is a charming coastal town located in Santa Cruz County, California. It offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some things to do in Capitola:
1. Explore Capitola Village: Start your visit by strolling through the picturesque Capitola Village. This colorful seaside neighborhood is filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and delicious restaurants. Don't forget to take a walk along the Capitola Wharf for stunning views of the ocean.
2. Relax on Capitola Beach: Capitola Beach is a beautiful sandy beach that is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking. You can rent beach chairs and umbrellas or simply lay out a towel and soak up the sun. The beach is also known for its iconic Venetian-style beachfront houses, which make for great photo opportunities.
3. Go Stand-Up Paddleboarding: Capitola is a great place to try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). Rent a paddleboard from one of the local rental shops and explore the calm waters of Capitola Bay. It's a fun and relaxing way to enjoy the ocean and get some exercise at the same time.
4. Visit Capitola Historical Museum: If you're interested in learning about the history of Capitola, make sure to visit the Capitola Historical Museum. It showcases the town's rich history through exhibits, artifacts, and photographs. You'll gain a deeper understanding of Capitola's past and how it has evolved over the years.
5. Take a Wine Tasting Tour: Capitola is located near the Santa Cruz Mountains, which is known for its excellent wineries. Consider taking a wine tasting tour and visit some of the local vineyards. You'll have the opportunity to sample a variety of wines and learn about the winemaking process.
6. Go Fishing: Capitola is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. You can join a fishing charter or simply cast your line off the Capitola Wharf. Common catches include halibut, salmon, and rockfish. It's a great way to enjoy the outdoors and potentially catch your own dinner.
7. Attend a Festival: Capitola hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Capitola Art & Wine Festival and the Capitola Begonia Festival. These events feature live music, art exhibits, food vendors, and more.
Tours And Activities In Capitola
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Best Time To Visit Capitola
The best time to visit Capitola is during the summer months of June, July, and August. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, making it perfect for beach activities and outdoor exploration. Additionally, Capitola hosts several festivals and events during the summer, such as the Capitola Art & Wine Festival and the Capitola Begonia Festival, which showcase the town's vibrant culture and community spirit. However, it's important to note that summer is also the peak tourist season, so the town can get quite crowded. If you prefer a quieter and more peaceful experience, consider visiting Capitola during the spring or fall months, when the weather is still pleasant but the crowds are smaller. Overall, Capitola offers something for everyone throughout the year, but the summer months are particularly popular for enjoying all that this charming coastal town has to offer.
Flight Calendar For Capitola
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Best Areas To Stay In Capitola
Capitola is a charming coastal town located in Santa Cruz County, California. It offers a variety of great areas for accommodation, each with its own unique features and attractions.
Capitola Village is the heart of the town and is known for its colorful beachfront houses and vibrant atmosphere. It is a popular choice for tourists due to its proximity to the beach, boutique shops, and delicious seafood restaurants. Staying in Capitola Village allows visitors to enjoy the lively beach scene and easily explore the town's attractions on foot.
Capitola Beach is another fantastic area for accommodation, especially for those who want to be just steps away from the sand and surf. This area offers a range of accommodations, from cozy beachfront cottages to upscale hotels. Staying in Capitola Beach provides easy access to the beach, as well as stunning ocean views and the opportunity to enjoy water activities such as swimming, surfing, and paddleboarding.
Capitola Mall is a convenient area for accommodation, particularly for those who enjoy shopping and dining. Located near Highway 1, this area offers a variety of hotels and motels that cater to different budgets. Staying in Capitola Mall allows visitors to take advantage of the numerous shopping options available, including major retail stores, specialty shops, and a food court.
Soquel is a neighboring area that provides a quieter and more residential atmosphere for accommodation. It is located just a short drive from Capitola and offers a range of lodging options, including vacation rentals and bed and breakfasts. Staying in Soquel allows visitors to enjoy a peaceful retreat while still being close to Capitola's attractions and the beautiful California coastline.
In conclusion, Capitola offers several excellent areas for accommodation, each with its own distinct advantages. Whether you prefer the lively atmosphere of Capitola Village, the beachfront convenience of Capitola Beach, the shopping opportunities near Capitola Mall, or the tranquility of Soquel, you are sure to find the perfect place to stay in this charming coastal town.
Hotels Map Of Capitola
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Transportation To Capitola
There are several transportation options to get to Capitola:
1. Car: Capitola is easily accessible by car via Highway 1. There are several parking options available in the area.
2. Bus: Santa Cruz Metro operates bus services to Capitola. You can check their website for schedules and routes.
3. Shuttle: Some hotels and resorts in the area offer shuttle services to and from Capitola. Check with your accommodation for availability.
4. Taxi or rideshare: Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area and can provide transportation to Capitola.
5. Bike: Capitola is bike-friendly, and there are bike lanes and paths that connect to nearby areas. You can rent a bike or bring your own to explore the town.
6. Walking: If you are staying nearby, you can also walk to Capitola, especially if you are staying in the Capitola Village area.
Please note that availability and schedules may vary, so it's always a good idea to check with the respective transportation providers for the most up-to-date information.
Nearby Destination From Capitola
1. Santa Cruz: A vibrant coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and lively boardwalk.
2. Soquel: A charming town with a rich history and a thriving arts scene.
3. Aptos: A picturesque community nestled between the redwoods and the ocean, offering stunning natural beauty.
4. Watsonville: A diverse agricultural city known for its vibrant cultural festivals and delicious produce.
5. Scotts Valley: A peaceful mountain town surrounded by lush forests, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
6. Felton: A small village located in the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains, offering a tranquil escape from city life.
7. Ben Lomond: A quaint mountain community known for its scenic hiking trails and charming downtown area.
8. Boulder Creek: A rustic town situated along the San Lorenzo River, offering a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
9. Davenport: A coastal village with stunning cliffs and breathtaking ocean views, popular among surfers and beachgoers.
10. Los Gatos: A picturesque town with a vibrant downtown area, known for its upscale shops and restaurants.