Sandy beach
Yes
Hike-in Required
No
Surfing
Yes
Snorkeling / SCUBA
No
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

This charming beach is the main highlight of the Capitola area. Just minutes from Santa Cruz, Capitola Beach is definitely one of the local favorites. The adjacent town is full of nearby food, bars, beach shops, and live entertainment. Suffice it to say a dull moment is hard to come by here. 

From the wharf you can drop your line in the water and catch some fish, or catch a meal at the restaurant located at the end. Another great feature about this beach is the Capitola Venetian Hotel. These multi-colored Venetian-style buildings add to the allure and charm of Capitola Beach. 

Low tide reveals small tide pools on the south portion of the beach. Surfing and stand-up paddleboarding are popular activities here as well. Forget your board? No worries, there is a rental kiosk located near the clean and well maintained restrooms, and you can also inquire about lessons.

Logistics + Planning

Congestion

High

Parking Pass

Not Required

Pros

Nice beach. Great sunrise views. Food and shopping.

Cons

Parking can be difficult.

Features

ADA accessible
Fishing
Surfing
Whale watching
Wildlife
Bird watching

Location

Nearby Adventures

San Francisco Peninsula + Santa Cruz, California
San Francisco Peninsula + Santa Cruz, California

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