Capitola Beach
Rather than the long expanses of sand that you find at many other beaches, Capitola's intimate beach is shielded on either end by cliffs. In the winter Soquel Creek empties into the ocean through the middle of the beach, but in the summer the creek becomes an inland lagoon, its diminished flow seeping into the sand rather than crossing it.
Capitola Village merges so smoothly into the beach that one cannot really be separated from the other. Visitors meander back and forth between village and beach, often taking a break for refreshments in a nearby restaurant before returning to the sand. The 855-foot wharf attracts anglers and sightseers. Out in the bay small boats rest peacefully on their moorings.
Capitola Wharf and Waterfront Storm Damage
Storm Damage: The 166-year-old Capitola Wharf was severely damaged by the January 5, 2023 storm. Thanks to the many who came to the wharf's rescue, it has been reconstructed and has opened once again.
Along with the wharf, 10 oceanfront restaurants on the Esplanade were damaged. Most have made repairs and are now open.
Parking in Capitola
Parking can be difficult on busy summer days in Capitola. Knowing where to park can save you a lot of time and aggravation. Bring lots of quarters for street parking or $1 bills or credit/debit card for the Beach and Village parking lots. Parking meters operate from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Residential areas close to Capitola Village are restricted to permit parking only.
- Downtown Capitola: Metered, $1.50 per hour, limited to 3 hours maximum. Adding more money to the meter after the 3 hour limit will not extend your stay. This zone includes Stockton, Capitola and Monterey avenues well beyond the immediate downtown area.
- Beach and Village Parking Lots 1 and 2: Access is on Capitola Avenue, Bay Avenue and Monterey Avenue. A free summer shuttle runs from the Beach and Village Parking Lot 2 (Lower) down to a stop in the village, 2 blocks from the beach. The shuttle is available Saturdays, Sundays and holidays from 10 AM to 8 PM from Memorial Day weekend through mid-September. Parking is 50 cents per hour up to 12 hours, cash ($1 and $2 bills only) or credit or debit cards. 8 AM to 8 PM.
- Cliff Drive: Street-side parking, $1.00 per hour, up to 4 or 12 hours
Food and Supplies
The village of Capitola is adjacent to the beach, making it very convenient to stroll into town for anything you might need or want. Restaurants along Riverview Ave. and elsewhere in town cater to beach visitors. Out on the pier the Wharf House Restaurant is a favorite stop for hungry visitors.
