Capitola Beach
A vibrant coastal gem with iconic rainbow-colored cottages, charming shops, and a relaxed seaside atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Capitola Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant coastal gem with iconic rainbow-colored cottages, charming shops, and a relaxed seaside atmosphere.
"The town is quite charming. While traffic and parking can present some challenges, the experience is ultimately worthwhile."
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Street parking is limited and paid. Aim for before 9 AM on weekends or use the ParkMobile app for public lots.
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the village and beach. Consider Crocs for kids!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Colorful Cottages
Along the beachfront
Iconic rainbow-colored cottages create a vibrant, picturesque backdrop for your beach day.
Capitola Village
Adjacent to the beach
Wander through charming shops, cafes, and restaurants lining the Esplanade with ocean views.
The Beachfront
Main beach area
Enjoy the sandy shores, watch surfers, or simply relax and soak in the seaside ambiance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Parking Pains
Rebuilding & What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Street parking is limited and paid. Aim for before 9 AM on weekends or use the ParkMobile app for public lots. +1
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the village and beach. Consider Crocs for kids!
📸 Capture the Colors
The vibrant cottages are a photographer's dream. Don't forget your camera or phone!
🍦 Treat Yourself
Stop by The Penny Ice Creamery or The Polar Bear for a sweet treat.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Street parking is limited and paid. Aim for before 9 AM on weekends or use the ParkMobile app for public lots. +1
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking around the village and beach. Consider Crocs for kids!
📸 Capture the Colors
The vibrant cottages are a photographer's dream. Don't forget your camera or phone!
🍦 Treat Yourself
Stop by The Penny Ice Creamery or The Polar Bear for a sweet treat.
🍽️ Dine with a View
Enjoy fresh seafood or pizza with ocean views from the beachfront restaurants.
🌊 Check for Storm Damage
The pier may be closed due to storm repairs. Check local updates before your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Capitola Beach is celebrated for its charming, colorful village and picturesque beachfront. While parking and traffic can be challenging, visitors find the experience worthwhile for the exceptional food and stunning views. The town's resilience in rebuilding after storms is also noted.
"The town is quite charming. While traffic and parking can present some challenges, the experience is ultimately worthwhile. The food and views are truly exceptional."
Alexandra Hirku
"It’s a tourist beach known for its bright colored buildings. Last year it was struck by a terrible storm so they’re in a rebuilding stage.
We went in a Wednesday in June. Drove through the winding mountains to get there. Hot. Crowded. Street parking (using ParkMobile app) was available but the trek to the beach from the lot was a bit of a trek. There are some pleasant photo ops.
Note don’t leave during rush hour. Traffic is brutal."
Patrick P.
"Capitola is a nice and small city. The beach line is really short, but it’s very lovely. There are a lot of surfers, cute restaurants on the beach, and a spot to relax and watch the ocean. I recommend parking the car at the public parking and taking a walk to the beach - it will take 5 min. If you are with a kid - wear Crocs and take diggers;)) We tried the ice cream at the Polar Bear - it was very good;)"
Kateryna Novodvorska
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Capitola Beach is located in Capitola, California, near Santa Cruz. You can drive there, often taking scenic routes through winding mountains. Parking can be challenging, especially on weekends, so arriving early is recommended. Public parking lots are available and can be paid for using the ParkMobile app. +1
The most convenient parking is often the paid spots directly in front of the beach, but these fill up quickly. Residential streets typically require permits. Consider public lots and be prepared for a short walk to the beach.
While specific public transport routes can vary, Capitola is accessible from Santa Cruz, which has bus services. It's advisable to check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Capitola Beach is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from San Francisco, depending on traffic conditions. It's a popular day trip destination for Bay Area residents. +1
The drive can involve scenic routes, sometimes through mountains. Be aware of potential traffic, especially during peak hours or weekends.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Capitola Beach itself is generally free to access. However, parking in the immediate vicinity often incurs fees.
Capitola Beach is a public beach and is typically accessible from sunrise to sunset. The shops and restaurants in Capitola Village have their own operating hours.
No, tickets are not required for general access to Capitola Beach. It's a public space.
The Capitola Pier has experienced damage from storms and may be closed for repairs. It's best to check local advisories for the most current status.
Yes, Capitola hosts events like the Capitola Beach Festival, which includes activities like a sand sculpture contest and fun runs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can relax on the sand, watch surfers, explore the colorful village shops and restaurants, and enjoy the scenic views. It's a great spot for photos. 
Yes, Capitola Beach is known to be a beginner-friendly surf spot with good waves, especially for longboarding.
Capitola State Beach generally allows dogs, but they may need to be on a leash. Always check local regulations for the most current rules.
The rainbow-colored cottages are the most iconic photo spots. The Esplanade and views from the beach also offer great opportunities.
Capitola Village features a variety of boutiques, souvenir shops, art galleries, and cafes, offering a charming shopping experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Capitola offers a range of dining options, from casual beachfront cafes to more upscale restaurants. Shadowbrook Restaurant is a unique experience accessible by cable car. +1
Yes, the Esplanade in Capitola Village is lined with restaurants and cafes offering ocean views and diverse cuisines, including pizza and seafood.
The Penny Ice Creamery and The Polar Bear are popular spots for ice cream in Capitola. +1
Picnicking is generally allowed on Capitola Beach. There are also garbage cans available for disposing of food waste.
Capitola Village has several bars and cafes where you can enjoy drinks with a view of the ocean or the charming town.
📸 📸 Photography
The vibrant, rainbow-colored beach houses are the star attraction for photographers. The Capitola Village Esplanade and views of the ocean also make for great shots.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for capturing the colorful cottages and beach scenes.
The Shadowbrook Restaurant offers a unique experience with its cable car descent through the trees, providing a distinctive photo backdrop.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check local ordinances and FAA guidelines before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the colorful architecture and beach scenes. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting marine life or distant views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The beach itself is relatively short, making it easier to keep an eye on little ones. While parking can be a challenge, arriving early or utilizing public lots and walking a short distance can make the trip smoother.
The village also offers a variety of shops that might appeal to younger visitors looking for souvenirs. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
These vibrant structures offer endless opportunities for creative shots, especially during the golden hour when the light is soft and warm, enhancing the colors. The Capitola Village Esplanade also provides charming street photography opportunities with its unique shops and ocean views. For a truly unique photographic experience, consider a reservation at the Shadowbrook Restaurant, where the cable car descent through the trees offers a distinctive and memorable backdrop.
The beach itself, with surfers and the ocean, provides classic coastal photography subjects. 🏄♀️ Surfers and Water Sports Enthusiasts
While surfing is the primary water activity, the beach also offers opportunities for simply enjoying the ocean. The vibrant atmosphere of the beach and the nearby village adds to the overall appeal for water sports enthusiasts looking for a picturesque and enjoyable coastal experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Capitola Village
Strolling along the Esplanade offers a delightful experience, with a curated selection of boutiques, art galleries, cafes, and restaurants beckoning visitors. Whether you're looking for unique souvenirs, a delicious meal with an ocean view, or simply a picturesque spot to people-watch, the village provides a charming and relaxed setting. Beyond the shops, the village is a hub for local life and events. During the Capitola Beach Festival, the area buzzes with activities like sand sculpture contests and fun runs, showcasing the community's vibrant spirit.
Even outside of festivals, the ambiance is one of laid-back seaside living, making it an ideal destination for a leisurely day trip or a relaxing getaway. For a truly unique dining experience, the Shadowbrook Restaurant is a must-visit. Accessible via a charming red cable car that descends through redwood trees, the restaurant offers a magical setting with a river running alongside its outdoor seating.
Navigating Parking and Access
For those who don't secure prime parking, public parking lots are available, and payment can often be managed through the ParkMobile app.
Beyond parking, general traffic congestion can be an issue, particularly when leaving the area during peak times.
Capitola's Resilience and Rebuilding
+1 The community has been actively engaged in rebuilding efforts, working to restore the beach and its iconic pier. Visitors may notice ongoing construction and refreshing of the colorful architecture, which is a positive sign of the town's commitment to maintaining its unique charm.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit