Welcome to Capitola
A Charming and Vibrant Gem of California
Capitola, California, is a charming coastal town known for its vibrant beachside community, colorful architecture, and welcoming atmosphere. Located just east of Santa Cruz, it offers a mix of local shops, scenic spots, and community events, making it an ideal destination for both visitors and residents. Capitola has a rich history that dates back to the 1860s when it was a popular vacation spot for tourists from San Francisco. Originally known as "Camp Capitola," it became California's first seaside resort. The town's colorful Venetian-style buildings along the beach are a nod to this historical legacy.
Capitola, a vibrant coastal town along the Monterey Bay, offers an appealing real estate market for those drawn to beachside living with a mix of charm and modern convenience. Housing options in Capitola range from colorful cottages and beach bungalows near the iconic Capitola Village to more spacious, contemporary homes with ocean views or hillside settings.
Real estate in Capitola is highly sought after, especially for buyers looking for properties within walking distance to the beach, boutique shops, and restaurants. Homes in Capitola Village, known for their unique architectural style, are especially popular with those looking for a home with character and easy access to all the amenities the town offers.
For families, Capitola provides proximity to excellent schools and parks, while retirees and professionals are drawn to the town’s laid-back atmosphere, vibrant arts scene, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Best Activities in Capitola
Capitola offers a wealth of activities for residents and visitors. The centerpiece is Capitola Beach, where people enjoy sunbathing, swimming, surfing, and paddleboarding. The iconic Capitola Wharf is perfect for a stroll and provides beautiful views of Monterey Bay.
A unique Capitola experience is the Begonia Festival, an annual celebration held over Labor Day weekend. This festival features a nautical parade with flower-covered floats, sand sculpture contests, and fishing derbies. Though the festival was officially retired in 2017, it remains a cherished part of the town's history.
In addition to the Begonia Festival, Capitola hosts the Capitola Art & Wine Festival, where local wineries and artists come together to showcase their products. Residents and tourists alike can explore art exhibits, sample regional wines, and enjoy live music.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Capitola is home to New Brighton State Beach, located just north of the town. This peaceful beach offers campgrounds, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks, making it a great spot for a weekend adventure.
Festivals, Yearly Celebrations, and Farmers’ Markets
Capitola has a lively community calendar filled with events throughout the year. Aside from the Art & Wine Festival and the now-retired Begonia Festival, the Capitola Twilight Concert Series takes place during the summer months, featuring live music performances at the beach. Residents bring blankets and snacks to enjoy the music against the backdrop of the setting sun.
Another popular event is the Capitola Rod and Custom Classic Car Show, where car enthusiasts gather to admire vintage and custom-built cars on display throughout the village.
For fresh produce and local goods, Capitola has a Farmer’s Market every Sunday at the nearby Cabrillo College in Aptos. This market offers a wide variety of local fruits, vegetables, flowers, and artisanal products.
Parks and Natural Attractions
Capitola is surrounded by natural beauty, from its beaches to nearby parks. In addition to Capitola Beach and New Brighton State Beach, you can visit Jade Street Park, a community park with sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas. The park hosts various community events and is a popular spot for families.
Another nearby natural attraction is Nisene Marks State Park in Aptos, just a short drive from Capitola. This redwood forest offers miles of hiking and biking trails, perfect for nature lovers.
Schools in the Capitola Area
Capitola is part of the Soquel Union Elementary School District and the Santa Cruz City Schools district.
- Main Street Elementary School
Serving students in grades K-5, Main Street Elementary is known for its dedicated teachers and focus on building a strong academic foundation for students.
- Soquel Elementary School
Another local elementary school offering a well-rounded curriculum, Soquel Elementary, emphasizes the importance of community and collaboration.
- New Brighton Middle School
Serving students in grades 6-8, New Brighton Middle School focuses on academic excellence and personal growth, preparing students for the transition to high school.
- Soquel High School
This high school offers a wide range of academic programs, including honors and Advanced Placement (AP) courses, as well as extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and theater.
Communities in Capitola
Capitola offers a variety of residential communities, ranging from beachside cottages to more modern developments. The Capitola Village area is highly sought after due to its proximity to the beach and shops. Other neighborhoods include Cliffwood Heights, known for its ocean views, and Riverview Terrace, a quiet area along the river.
Capitola offers a unique blend of coastal beauty, vibrant local culture, and a strong sense of community. Whether you’re drawn to the beach, the local shops, or the many festivals and events, Capitola has something for everyone. Its picturesque scenery and lively atmosphere make it a wonderful place to live or visit.
Included below are homes for sale and real estate in Capitola.
If you would like more information on any of these Capitola real estate listings, just click on a property to access the full details. From there, you can request more information or schedule a tour. And we'd be happy to provide you with disclosures, past sales history, dates, and prices of properties which have recently sold nearby, and more, so just let us know how we can help!
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