The city of Capitola is a small seaside town on Monterey Bay’s northern coast. Located just two hours from San Francisco, Capitola is a popular site for weekend beach getaways.
The exact origins of the city are often up for debate among historians, making Capitola an interesting spot for those who love delving into local historical mysteries. Historians do agree that a seaside resort called “Camp Capitola” opened sometime between 1860-1870 on Monterey Bay. However, what they disagree on is what year the resort was founded, the origin of the name Capitola, and exactly who named it and when.
Santa Cruz County encompasses the towns of Capitola, Santa Cruz, Watsonville, and Scotts Valley. The county, although fairly small, brings in over a billion dollars in tourism annually.
With over 14 state parks and beaches, and a national maritime sanctuary, it’s no wonder the county is such a popular tourist destination. The breathtaking ocean views at Capitola Beach are just part of the town’s overall ambiance. There’s so much more to see and do.
Although it’s known as a beach town, Capitola is also a great place to discover local artists, listen to live music, and indulge in a wide variety of boutiques and restaurants. On Wednesday evenings during the summer, Capitola hosts its Twilight Concerts series, and on Fridays, it hosts Movies at the Beach. Both events are free.
In July, the city also hosts the Wharf to Wharf race, a 6-mile footrace from the Santa Cruz Wharf to the Capitola Wharf. In 2022, the event celebrated its 50th annual running. And in September, the city hosts the Capitola Art & Wine Festival, featuring local artisans, wines, live music, and street performers all in the city’s village overlooking Monterey Bay.
One of the most recognizable sights of Capitola, the historic and colorful Venetian Court, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as “The first Condominium Beach Community in the United States, built in 1924.”
One of the most memorable Capitola experiences is a stroll on the Capitola Wharf, where you can drop a line, relax on a bench, or rent a boat.
Table of Contents
- TLDR
- Fun & Best Things to Do in Capitola, California
- 1. Capitola Beach
- 2. Santa Cruz Harbor
- 3. Capitola Historical Museum
- 4. Shadowbrook Restaurant
- 5. New Brighton State Beach
- 6. Paradise Beach Grille
- 7. CineLux Capitola Cafe & Lounge
- 8. The Santa Cruz Children’s Museum of Discovery
- 9. Sage Float Spa
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