Capitola Wharf Storm Damage
Storm Damage: The 166-year-old Capitola Wharf was severely damaged by the January 5, 2023 storm. The wharf has been reconstructed and is now open.
Fishing from the Capitola Wharf
The 855-foot long pier at Capitola has been a popular gathering place for anglers, but it never gets overcrowded. Some fishermen rent boats or launch their own, while others line the railing.
Closer to the shore in the surf zone anglers are generally after barred and calico surfperch, while out toward the end of the pier they have a good variety of fish ready to strike their bait: sole, flounder, sand dabs, jacksmelt, perch, and California halibut. Occasionally you will see someone land a shark or striped bass.
Wharf Facilities
On the wharf you will find the Wharf House Restaurant and the Capitola Boat and Bait Shop, along with fish cleaning stations and restrooms.
- Rents ocean skiffs with 8 HP outboards. The boats hold up to four people.
- They sell and rent rods and reels.
- Their tackle shop has everything you need from sinkers and hooks to frozen and live bait.
- They also rent kayaks and water bikes.
Into the Capitola Surf
Swimming and Surfing at Capitola Beach
Known for is usually light surf, Capital Beach is a favorite place for families to enjoy a relaxed day at the beach. As with virtually everywhere along the California coast, rip currents are always a danger. The gentle surf makes Capitola a good place for launching paddle boards and kayaks. Boogie boarders do well in the area between the small jetty and the large jetty.
Caution: Check with lifeguards that conditions are safe for your planned activities. Avoid swimming in Soquel Creek and close to where it empties into the ocean at Capitola Beach. Water quality in the creek is poor.
Santa Cruz County Water Quality Reports
Surfers find good waves at the far end of the beach near the jetty. The area is popular with beginning surfers, although at low tide rocks can be a danger. Often
the water is flat, but at times it can produce 3 to 5 foot waves.
Capitola Beach Cameras
Capitola Beach Company
Rentals for Stand-up Paddle Boards, Surf Boards, Body Boards, Wetsuits, Beach Chairs, and Beach Umbrellas. Look for their rental trailer at Esplanade Park next to the beach.
Surf and Stand-up Paddle Board Lessons
131 Monterey Ave., Capitola, CA
(831) 462-5222
Capitola Beach Company
Capitola Surf and Paddle
Personalized instruction for private or group standup paddle board lessons.
318 Riverview Ave., Capitola, CA
(831) 435-6503
Capitola Surf and Paddle
Art & Wine Festival
September 14-15, 2024
In Capitola Village, two days of fine art, wine, gourmet food, entertainment, children's art. 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (5:00 PM on Sunday)
Capitola-Soquel Chamber of Commerce: Art & Wine Festival
Mermaid Triathlon and Duathlon
October 5, 2024
At Capitola Beach, a women and girls' triathlon and duathlon event beginning at 7:20 AM. (Confirm starting time on Mermaid website.}
Mermaid Series
Capitola Junior Lifeguards - 2024
The Capitola Junior Lifeguard program for ages 9-15 provides instruction in the basic fundamentals of ocean water safety, first aid, lifesaving, fitness and good sportsmanship. Little Guards is offered for ages 6-8.
Junior Lifeguards must be able to swim and be comfortable in the ocean before enrolling in the program. Activities include open water swimming, paddle boarding, body surfing, mock rescues, beach & water games, calisthenics, and work-outs.
Registration Online Only
Returning Resident Guards registration opens in March. Check the website for dates and times: Junior Lifeguards Registration - 2024.
Morning Sessions are from 9:00 AM to Noon, Afternoon from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
2024 Program Schedule
- Session 1 - June 10 - July 5, 2024 (excluding July 4)
- Session 2 - July 8 - August 2, 2024
