"Capitola" Top 5 Page for this destination Capitola by trvlrtom

Capitola is an interesting and fun little town on the coast. I worked here for two years and still visit it frequently. Two big draws are the beaches and the surf scene. The village of Capitola has a great location on the coast, facing a fine beach that has relatively calm waters and a mild climate for the central California coast. Just a little north of the village at Pleasure Point you will find one of the most popular surfing locations. Here novice and expert surfers spend endless hours watching and waiting for the ultimate wave. Just as many or more people watch the scene from the cliffs above.

Shop near Portola and 41st Avenue

Capitola has three primary locations for shopping, each very different from the other.
First there is the village, which faces the beach. Here you will find a variety of shops, restaurants and bars that are fairly unique and give the place a good character. The chain stores are not here, rather local shops selling clothes, gifts, artwork and things like that.
Next is Pleasure Point, the center of the surf scene. The scene is very casual here, with less expensive places to eat, surf shops and second hand clothing stores. It's quite ecclectic.
Lastly is Capitola mall. This is similar to malls throughout the US, with familiar clothes, stores and places to eat. Personally I see no reason to go here unless you live in the area and just need to get basic things.

restaurant & bar at Capitola Beach

For a town of its size, Capitola has a great variety of places to eat. There are inexpensive taquerias, good Asian food, and some very fine restaurants too. Look around the village, 41st near Portola and all along 41st.

• Pros:Variety and good energy
• Cons:Rather busy on the weekends.
• In a nutshell:Check it out!