23 Amazing Things To Do When Visiting Capitola

Capitola's story begins in the late 19th century, when it emerged as California’s first seaside resort. In 1869, developer Frederick Hihn transformed what had been a quiet stretch of Monterey Bay into “Camp Capitola,” a summer retreat for city dwellers arriving by train. Visitors pitched canvas tents on the beach, fished in the bay, and gathered for concerts under the stars. The arrival of the Southern Pacific Railroad in the 1880s made Capitola more accessible, and the small resort began to grow into a village with hotels, shops, and a wooden wharf. By the 1920s, its colorful beachfront cottages, inspired by Mediterranean and Venetian styles, had become an enduring symbol of the town’s charm.

Over the decades, Capitola weathered storms, changing fashions, and the decline of many coastal resorts, yet it retained its appeal by blending tradition with recreation. Today, its historic character lives on in restored buildings, annual festivals, and a shoreline that has welcomed visitors for more than a century. From its early days as a tent city to its current role as a vibrant beach community, Capitola remains a place where history is never far from the sound of the surf.

Let's get started on the things to do in Capitola.

1. Capitola Mall

• 📍 Address (Google Maps): 1855 41st Avenue, Capitola, CA 95010

Capitola Mall has been part of the community since the mid-1970s, when it first opened as Santa Cruz County’s only enclosed shopping center. Over the decades, it’s evolved from a traditional retail hub into a mixed-use destination with major stores, independent boutiques, and entertainment spots. Visitors today can browse a variety of apparel shops, tech outlets, and specialty stores, then step into CineLux Capitola Café & Lounge for a modern moviegoing experience complete with reserved seating and a menu that goes far beyond popcorn.

The mall’s layout makes it easy to pair shopping with a meal—whether at casual spots or sit-down restaurants—and seasonal events, from holiday craft fairs to back-to-school celebrations, keep it active year-round. For travelers, it offers a convenient stop just minutes from Capitola Village, combining practical shopping with a touch of local flavor.

2. CineLux Capitola Café & Lounge

This isn’t the sort of movie theater where you rush in at the last minute with a bucket of popcorn. CineLux Capitola Café & Lounge blends cinema with the comfort of a full-service café, offering craft beers, wines, and chef-driven small plates alongside the latest blockbusters and indie releases. The theater’s history ties into the broader transformation of Capitola Mall, having been part of its redevelopment phase aimed at keeping local entertainment vibrant as traditional malls across the country struggled.

Its design focuses on a relaxed, social atmosphere: guests can arrive early to enjoy drinks at the bar, take their time with appetizers, and then settle into recliner seating for the film. The programming often includes special screenings—think classic film nights or family matinees—that appeal to locals as much as vacationers. It’s a modern take on moviegoing that still honors the community-gathering spirit theaters have offered for over a century.

3. Shadowbrook Restaurant

When Shadowbrook first opened in 1947, it wasn’t just a restaurant—it was a statement about dining as an experience. Built into a steep hillside along Soquel Creek, it became famous for its winding garden paths, red cable car entrance, and storybook architecture. Over the years, the building has expanded while retaining its rustic charm, blending wood-beamed ceilings, brick fireplaces, and riverside views.

The menu leans toward classic American fare with a focus on seafood and steaks, but the real magic is in the atmosphere: twinkling lights reflecting off the water, the sound of the creek just beyond the windows, and a sense that every table could be the setting for a celebration. Locals mark anniversaries here; travelers treat it as a bucket-list meal. For more than seven decades, Shadowbrook has been one of Capitola’s most distinctive dining landmarks, where history and hospitality share the same table.

4. New Brighton State Beach

The history of New Brighton State Beach stretches far beyond its 20th-century designation as a state park. In the mid-1800s, Chinese fishermen established a thriving settlement along these shores, harvesting the rich marine life of Monterey Bay. Later, the area became a draw for travelers arriving by rail to camp under the eucalyptus trees.

Today, its wide sandy expanse and calm surf attract beachgoers year-round, while the bluffs above offer panoramic views and shaded picnic spots. The park’s campground is a favorite for those who want to wake up to ocean breezes, and interpretive signs share the layered history of the site—from Indigenous use to early fishing communities. It’s more than just a place to swim or sunbathe; it’s a living link to the region’s coastal heritage, with a view that has drawn people here for centuries.

5. Sante Adairius Rustic Ales

Founded in 2012, Sante Adairius Rustic Ales quickly earned national attention for its farmhouse-style beers and commitment to small-batch craftsmanship. The brewery’s Capitola tasting room offers an intimate setting where visitors can sample saisons, IPAs, and mixed-fermentation ales that often incorporate locally sourced ingredients. The name itself nods to a blend of artistry and patience—qualities that define their brewing process.

Every pour comes with the brewery’s hallmark balance of creativity and tradition, from bright, citrus-forward ales to complex barrel-aged blends. Locals treat it as a gathering spot to discuss flavors with knowledgeable staff, while beer enthusiasts travel specifically to experience its rotating tap list. The minimalist décor keeps the focus on the beer, and occasional events, like collaboration releases with other craft breweries, keep the menu fresh. It’s a place where Capitola’s laid-back coastal vibe meets the precision of world-class brewing.

6. Capitola Historical Museum

Capitola Historical Museum may be small in size, but it offers a deep dive into the evolution of California’s oldest seaside resort town. Housed in a cottage-style building near Capitola Village, the museum preserves photographs, artifacts, and documents that trace the community’s story from its late 19th-century origins as “Camp Capitola” to the vibrant beach destination it is today. Exhibits change annually, often highlighting themes like local fishing traditions, the rise of surf culture, or the architecture of the village’s colorful beachfront homes.

Volunteers and local historians keep the collection engaging, offering personal anecdotes that bring the past to life. Visitors can explore original maps, vintage swimsuits, and even souvenirs from Capitola’s early boardwalk days. For anyone curious about how a small coastal settlement transformed into a beloved vacation spot, this museum provides both context and charm—making history feel personal and immediate.

7. Capitola Wharf

Stretching into the waters of Monterey Bay, Capitola Wharf has served as both a working pier and a leisure spot since its construction in the mid-19th century. Originally built for shipping goods and supporting the local fishing industry, it evolved into a gathering place for anglers, sightseers, and beachgoers. Today, visitors stroll its wooden planks for views of the colorful Capitola Village, watch pelicans skim the water, or drop a line to catch halibut and perch.

Seasonal whale sightings add an element of surprise, while the nearby boat rental service offers easy access to the bay. Though it has been rebuilt and reinforced over the decades, the wharf retains a timeless charm, linking Capitola’s working waterfront past to its tourism-driven present. Sunrise and sunset are especially photogenic here, with the pier’s silhouette framed against the shifting colors of the sky and sea.

8. Capitola Venetian Hotel

Standing along the edge of Capitola Beach, the Capitola Venetian Hotel is instantly recognizable for its row of vibrantly painted stucco buildings that evoke a touch of the Mediterranean on California’s coast. Built in the 1920s, it’s one of the earliest seaside condominium-style resorts in the region, designed to appeal to vacationers seeking both the charm of a private cottage and the convenience of a hotel.

Over the years, the Venetian has weathered storms, coastal redevelopment, and the ebb and flow of tourism, yet it remains a favorite for its direct beach access and postcard-worthy views. Each unit is individually owned and decorated, adding personality to the historic complex. For many guests, staying here isn’t just about proximity to the ocean—it’s about being part of a living piece of Capitola’s architectural and hospitality history, where the sound of the surf is as constant as the colorful façade.

9. The Santa Cruz Children’s Museum of Discovery

Located inside Capitola Mall, the Santa Cruz Children’s Museum of Discovery blends play with hands-on education, offering an interactive space for children to explore science, art, and community life. Opened in 2014, it quickly became a resource for local families and visiting parents looking to keep young minds engaged. The exhibits encourage experimentation—children can build structures, investigate water flow, or role-play in miniature versions of real-world environments.

Seasonal workshops and rotating activities ensure that no two visits are quite the same. Beyond entertainment, the museum reflects a community-driven mission, partnering with schools and nonprofits to make science and creativity accessible to all. For travelers with children, it’s a chance to balance beach time with an indoor experience that sparks curiosity. For locals, it’s a place where the next generation can learn, imagine, and connect through hands-on discovery.

10. Paradise Beach Grille

Overlooking Soquel Creek where it meets the ocean, Paradise Beach Grille offers more than just waterfront dining—it’s part of Capitola’s tradition of turning a meal into an occasion. Since opening in the late 1990s, the restaurant has built a reputation for combining coastal California flavors with a fine dining atmosphere, serving everything from fresh seafood and prime steaks to vibrant salads and pastas.

Large windows and a creekside patio frame views that shift with the tides, making it as popular for sunset dinners as it is for weekend brunch. The wine list leans heavily on regional vintages, pairing perfectly with the menu’s emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. For visitors, it’s a chance to enjoy Capitola’s scenery without leaving the table; for locals, it’s a familiar place to celebrate milestones or simply savor an unhurried evening.

11. Gayle’s Bakery & Rosticceria

Since 1978, Gayle’s Bakery & Rosticceria has been a cornerstone of Capitola’s food scene, drawing customers with the aroma of fresh bread and the sight of elaborate pastry displays. What began as a small bakery has grown into a bustling café and deli, serving breakfast, lunch, and an impressive array of take-home meals. Cakes and pastries are crafted with precision—seasonal fruit tarts, chocolate éclairs, and elaborately decorated celebration cakes often fill the glass cases.

On the savory side, the rotisserie turns out tender chickens, and the sandwich counter offers generous, flavor-packed combinations. The interior hums with activity, but there’s also patio seating for those who want to linger. Gayle’s has become as much a community ritual as a bakery, with many families marking holidays and special occasions with its signature baked goods.

12. Capitola Beach

At the heart of Capitola Village, Capitola Beach has been the community’s gathering spot for over a century. In the late 1800s, it was the focal point of “Camp Capitola,” California’s first seaside resort, drawing vacationers from San Francisco and beyond. Today, the sheltered cove remains ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball, with gentle waves that are friendly to novice surfers and paddleboarders.

Colorful houses along the Esplanade form a vivid backdrop, and the Capitola Wharf offers an easy vantage point for watching the activity below. Summer months bring events like art festivals and sandcastle competitions, turning the beach into a lively stage. Yet even on quieter days, the setting retains a timeless appeal—warm sand underfoot, gulls overhead, and the steady rhythm of Monterey Bay.

13. Capitola Beach Company

Capitola Beach Company isn’t just a surf shop—it’s part of the village’s active coastal culture. Along with selling boards, apparel, and accessories, it runs lessons for surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and even kayaking. The shop caters to all skill levels, from first-timers looking for a safe introduction to the sport to seasoned riders seeking local knowledge about the best breaks. Staff members often double as instructors, sharing both technical tips and insights into Capitola’s surfing history.

Equipment rentals make it easy for visitors to spend a day on the water without hauling their own gear, and seasonal camps offer younger learners a chance to build confidence in the ocean. It’s the kind of business that blends retail with community connection, keeping the town’s long-standing relationship with the sea very much alive.

14. Armida Winery Tasting Room

Armida Winery’s Capitola tasting room brings the flavors of Sonoma County’s Dry Creek Valley to the edge of Monterey Bay. Known for its small-lot, estate-grown wines, Armida opened this outpost to give visitors a chance to sample varietals without leaving the coast. Inside, the setting is warm and relaxed, with knowledgeable staff guiding guests through flights that might include their acclaimed Zinfandels, crisp Sauvignon Blancs, or complex Pinot Noirs.

The location also serves as a showcase for the winery’s experimental blends and limited releases, often available only in small quantities. For many, the experience goes beyond tasting—it’s about connecting the vineyard traditions of Northern California with Capitola’s easygoing pace. Whether paired with a light snack or enjoyed as a pre-dinner stop, it’s a reminder that wine country extends far beyond the hills of Napa and Sonoma.

15. Margaritaville

Bright colors, tropical décor, and the sound of the waves just outside set the tone at Margaritaville, a long-standing Capitola Village favorite. This beachside Mexican restaurant offers more than just its namesake cocktails—it’s a full menu of coastal comfort, from fish tacos and ceviche to hearty enchiladas and fajitas. Large windows and patio seating open directly onto the sand, making it a prime spot for people-watching or catching the sunset.

Over the years, it has become a go-to for both vacationers and locals celebrating special occasions, thanks to its lively atmosphere and generous portions. Live music on select nights keeps the energy high, and the margarita list runs from classic lime to inventive seasonal flavors. For those who want a meal wrapped in the sounds and sights of Capitola Beach, it’s hard to imagine a more fitting setting.

16. Capitola Wine Bar & Merchants

Capitola Wine Bar & Merchants offers a relaxed yet curated wine experience just steps from the beach. The space serves a dual role as both a tasting bar and a boutique shop, with a rotating selection of wines from California’s coast, the Pacific Northwest, and well-regarded international regions. Guests can sample by the glass, order a flight, or take home a bottle chosen with guidance from the knowledgeable staff.

Small plates—cheese boards, charcuterie, and seasonal bites—encourage lingering over conversation. The bar also doubles as a community gathering place, hosting live music nights and themed tastings that spotlight particular varietals or regions. Its intimate size makes it feel personal, but the range of offerings ensures there’s always something new to discover. For visitors, it’s an easy way to weave a little wine country sophistication into a Capitola seaside day.

17. Giggles-N-Wiggles

Designed for young children and their caregivers, Giggles-N-Wiggles is an indoor play space that mixes fun with skill development. Brightly colored play structures, soft mats, and themed activity areas give kids plenty of room to climb, slide, and explore safely. Beyond free play, the center offers storytimes, craft sessions, and occasional themed events, creating variety for repeat visitors. It’s a welcome option on rainy days or for families looking to break up beach time with something indoors.

Parents appreciate the secure, clean environment and the opportunity to socialize with other local families. For visitors with children under eight, it’s an easy way to keep energy levels high without the unpredictability of outdoor weather, while also giving little ones a chance to make a few vacation friends.

18. Zelda’s on the Beach

For decades, Zelda’s on the Beach has been a mainstay of Capitola’s waterfront dining scene, combining a lively atmosphere with direct access to the sand. The restaurant is known for its seafood-forward menu—think clam chowder, crab cakes, and fresh local fish—served alongside steaks, pastas, and hearty salads.

Floor-to-ceiling windows and a spacious patio provide uninterrupted ocean views, making it a favorite for both daytime beachgoers and evening diners catching the sunset. Live music and special events often add to the energy, while its beachfront location makes it an easy stop after a stroll through Capitola Village. Many regulars return for signature dishes that have been on the menu for years, reflecting Zelda’s role as both a tourist draw and a local tradition.

19. Sage Float Spa

Sage Float Spa offers a very different kind of Capitola experience—one built around relaxation and sensory stillness. The spa specializes in float therapy, where guests rest in a private pod filled with warm, highly salted water that allows the body to float effortlessly. Advocates say the practice reduces stress, eases muscle tension, and improves mental clarity.

Sage pairs this with other wellness services such as massage, infrared sauna sessions, and guided meditation. The atmosphere is calm and minimalist, designed to help visitors shift out of the pace of daily life. For travelers, it’s an opportunity to balance an active coastal itinerary with restorative downtime. For locals, it’s a dedicated escape just minutes from home.

20. Capitola Boat and Bait

Capitola Boat and Bait has been outfitting anglers and ocean explorers for decades, serving as the go-to spot for fishing gear, tackle, and boat rentals right on the Capitola Wharf. From here, visitors can head into Monterey Bay to fish for halibut, rockfish, or salmon, or simply enjoy a day on the water in one of the shop’s skiffs. The staff is known for offering friendly, practical advice—whether it’s about the best bait for the season or where the fish are biting that morning.

Beyond rentals, they sell licenses, refreshments, and everything needed for a spontaneous day at sea. It’s not just a supply shop; it’s part of the wharf’s working history, linking Capitola’s modern-day recreational fishing scene to the commercial roots that helped shape the town’s connection to the bay.

21. Cork and Fork Capitola

Cork and Fork Capitola combines a wine bar’s cozy atmosphere with a seasonal menu that leans toward locally sourced ingredients. Guests can choose from an eclectic wine list featuring California standouts and international favorites, paired with shareable plates like artisan flatbreads, gourmet sliders, and inventive salads. The interior’s warm lighting and casual elegance make it equally inviting for a romantic evening or a night out with friends.

Regular themed events—such as wine pairing dinners and live acoustic music—add variety and keep the experience fresh for returning patrons. Situated within walking distance of the beach, it’s a convenient stop for those who want to unwind after a day by the water. For many, it’s the mix of quality, comfort, and community feel that makes Cork and Fork a Capitola favorite.

22. Tony Pagliaro Gallery

The Tony Pagliaro Gallery showcases the work of a photographer whose career spans decades and continents, yet remains deeply rooted in the California coast. Pagliaro’s images often capture the interplay between land, sea, and light, presenting familiar scenes in ways that feel both intimate and expansive. Inside the gallery, visitors can browse limited-edition prints ranging from sweeping coastal vistas to finely detailed studies of nature.

The space also serves as a studio, where conversations with the artist provide insight into his process and the stories behind each image. For art lovers, it’s a chance to take home a piece of Capitola’s visual identity; for casual visitors, it’s an inspiring stop that reframes the beauty just outside the door.

23. IronHorse Home

IronHorse Home offers a curated mix of furniture, décor, and design pieces that blend contemporary style with coastal sensibility. The showroom feels more like an artfully arranged living space than a traditional store, featuring everything from handcrafted tables and upholstered chairs to distinctive lighting and wall art. Many items are sourced from regional artisans, giving the collection a local connection alongside its global influences.

Staff members are known for offering thoughtful design advice, whether customers are furnishing a whole home or searching for a standout accent piece. For visitors, browsing IronHorse Home can be as much about inspiration as shopping—an opportunity to envision how Capitola’s relaxed yet polished aesthetic might translate into their own living spaces.

Conclusion

Capitola’s appeal lies in the way it holds on to its past while continuing to evolve. The same shoreline that drew vacationers in the 1870s still frames the heart of the village, yet the streets now host a blend of modern eateries, galleries, and gathering places that reflect the community’s creative spirit. Landmarks like the Venetian cottages and the Capitola Wharf connect today’s visitors with the town’s earliest chapters, while new spaces for dining, wine tasting, and wellness show how the village has adapted to changing tastes.

The rhythm of life here is set by the tides, the festivals that fill the calendar, and the steady hum of conversation drifting from patios and boardwalks. Whether a trip is spent exploring its history, relaxing on the sand, or sampling local flavors, Capitola offers a setting where simple pleasures feel richer for the stories behind them. It is not only a destination for recreation but also a living link to more than a century of coastal tradition. For those who arrive with curiosity and leave with memories, Capitola proves that a small seaside town can hold a place in both history and the heart.

Don't waste your time and book your Capitola vacation rental with special deals on Karta!

Interactive Map

Where to Eat in Capitola

How to Get to Capitola, California

Capitola is a small coastal town in Santa Cruz County, California, known for its colorful beachside village, waterfront dining, and ocean views. It sits just south of Santa Cruz along Monterey Bay and is easily accessible from major cities in Northern California.

By Car

Driving is the easiest and most flexible way to reach Capitola.

• From San Francisco, CA: Around 1.5 hours via US-101 S and CA-17 S (approx. 75 miles).
• From San Jose, CA: About 50 minutes via CA-17 S (approx. 35 miles).
• From Sacramento, CA: Roughly 2.5 hours via I-80 W and CA-17 S (approx. 150 miles).
• From Monterey, CA: Around 50 minutes via CA-1 N (approx. 45 miles).
• From Los Angeles, CA: About 5.5–6 hours via I-5 N and CA-152 W (approx. 340 miles).

By Air

The closest airports are:

• San Jose Mineta International Airport (SJC): 37 miles away, about a 45–50 minute drive.
• San Francisco International Airport (SFO): 60 miles away, about 1 hour 15 minutes by car.
• Monterey Regional Airport (MRY): 40 miles away, about 50 minutes by car.

By Bus

The Santa Cruz Metro Transit District provides bus routes linking Capitola to Santa Cruz and surrounding areas. From San Jose, Greyhound and Amtrak Thruway buses connect to Santa Cruz, where local buses continue to Capitola.

Local Transportation

Capitola is a walkable beach town. Once you’re there, you can explore the Capitola Village, wharf, and beaches on foot. Rideshares (Uber/Lyft) and rental cars are also available, but parking can be limited during summer weekends and festivals.

FAQ

1. What is the historical significance of the location of Capitola?

Capitola is built on the site of an ancient Indian village that existed for over a thousand years. The native inhabitants were relocated to Mission Santa Cruz upon its establishment in 1791. This area, rich in history, later became part of the Soquel Rancho during the Mexican Era and subsequently developed into the modern city of Capitola.

2. How did Capitola develop into a popular seaside resort?

Capitola's transformation into a seaside resort began with Frederick Hihn, a German immigrant who developed the area in the mid-19th century. By leasing the beach flat to Samuel A. Hall in 1869, a vacation spot was created which became known as "Camp Capitola" by 1874, renowned for being the oldest seaside resort on the Pacific Coast.

3. What were some key developments in Capitola's history?

After its establishment as a resort, Capitola went through several significant phases of development including the subdivision of land by Hihn in 1882, the construction of a large hotel and the introduction of streetcar service. In the early 20th century, Henry Allen Rispin bought Capitola intending to develop it into a fashionable retreat, adding the Venetian Courts and a golf course.

4. Who were some important figures in the history of Capitola?

Important historical figures include Frederick Hihn, who played a crucial role in the early development of Capitola, Samuel A. Hall, who first commercialized the area as a summer resort, and Henry Allen Rispin, who envisioned a grand future for Capitola in the early 20th century.

5. What cultural transformations has Capitola undergone throughout its history?

Capitola has seen transformations from a native village to a part of a Mexican rancho, a busy shipping point, a seaside resort, and finally to a modern city. These changes reflect a rich cultural tapestry influenced by various people and their visions for this beautiful coastal area.