Top 7 Things to Do in Capitola

Top 7 Things to Do in Capitola

  • Liz Kroft
  • 11/12/22

Whether you’re in the area to visit or looking for houses for sale in Capitola, it’s hard not to love this city once you’ve explored all it has to offer. To get you started, here are the top seven things to do in Capitola that you shouldn’t miss out on.

1. Spend A Day at the Beach


Named after the city, those who are looking for things to do in Capitola should check out Capitola City Beach. This is a popular destination that’s located next to a number of shops and restaurants for visitors to enjoy. The beach itself is great for taking a dip, surfing, and fishing at the Capitola Wharf. There’s also a lagoon behind the beach called Soquel Cove, which is a popular bird-watching area when the season is right. This is a pillar of the community, and there are many events in the summer held on its sandy shore.

Another great beach to visit when in Capitola is the New Brighton State Beach. Its forested shoreline offers a breathtaking view of the Pacific and the surrounding Monterey Bay. This is also a great spot to take a swim in the summer or to fish and beach comb. Also at this beach are hiking trails for people to explore, campfire centers, and a range of campsites for RVs and families.

2. Take a Surfing Lesson

If you want to join the people in the water catching waves, then you should sign up for a lesson at Capitola Surf and Paddle. If you’re with a group of friends or family, a group surf lesson is the perfect way to get into the water. Or, if you prefer more one-on-one time, there are semi-private and private lessons available. You don’t have to be a beginner surfer to be interested in a lesson, as they offer intermediate and advanced options as well.

If surfing seems a little too daunting, then those interested in houses for sale in Capitola can sign up for a stand-up paddle board lesson. Once again, these lessons are available in a range of group sizes and skill levels. Guests are provided with all the equipment they need to have a good time.

3. Visit the Capitola Historical Museum

Capitola has a rich history, and to learn about it, people can visit the Capitola Historical Museum. This museum’s goal is to foster appreciation and understanding of the ancestral homeland of the Aptos, Uypi, and Casjataca peoples. To do this, they have an annual exhibition of the city’s history available for people to view, composed of photographs and artifacts.

Those who visit this museum can choose from a variety of tour options, such as the walking tour and the self-guided tour of public art and historic sites. Also available are group walking tours of Capitola Village and Environs for those interested in a broader understanding of the area.

4. Shop at the Capitola Mall


Visitors searching for things to do in Capitola should definitely stroll through the indoor Capitola Mall. This mall’s goal is to reflect the city’s personality by providing local residents with a variety of options covering retail, residential, entertainment, and dining needs. To bring the community together, they also have a calendar of events.

Whether you’re looking for a mainstream brand or something niche, this mall has you covered. For some eclectic art to spice up houses for sale in Capitola, Tim Ward Artwork showcases local pieces in a variety of mediums. Or for standout woodwork items like coasters, trays, cutting boards, and more, Knotty and Grain have a range of high-quality, well-designed options.

5. Relax at Violet Blossom Massage


If you’re looking for a place to lay down and relax, then Violet Blossom Massage is the place to go. This company is dedicated to providing high-end service and a stress-relieving experience to all its customers. That’s why they use organic and therapeutic grade essential oils when working the knots out of your shoulders and feet. And the variety of massage technicians ensures you find the perfect match for your needs.

There are plenty of services for customers to choose from, whether that be a classic chair massage or foot massage or something more specialized like cupping and Gua Sha. There are also deep tissue sessions to eliminate all the tension in your body, as well as a couples massage to enjoy the experience with a friend or significant other. Whether you’re looking for a quick respite or something more intensive, this company is equipped to provide it.

6. Reserve a tasting at Armida Wines


After enjoying a relaxing massage, those looking for houses for sale in Capitola can stop by Armida Wines to sample the reds and whites. These artisan winemakers know their stuff, as they’ve been around for over 25 years. They source their grapes from coveted vineyards in places like Gap’s Crown Vineyard and the Sonoma Coast, and their Capitola location is surrounded by the Santa Cruz mountains and the redwood forests.

Wine tastings at Armida Wines are open all days of the week from 11 am to 6 pm, and they have a wide variety of reds, whites, chardonnays, pinot noirs, and more to pick and sample. Notable in their selection is a zinfandel called PoiZin, which is unforgettable.

7. Enjoy a pitcher at Sante Adairius Rustic Ales


For those who prefer a foamy pitcher of beer over a bottle of wine, then Sante Adairius Rustic Ales is the brewery to visit. This brewery creates high-quality and authentic beers that people are sure to love. Those who want to sip in person can visit their brewery or tasting room, and members can get an exclusive selection in SARA’s cellar.

Ready to have fun in Capitola?

These are only seven of the many fun things to do in Capitola. When you’re ready to live a little closer to these great spots, contact trusted local agent Liz Kroft to help you find a home you’ll love.



Work With Me

With over nine years of full-time experience and more than $114 million in sales across the greater Bay Area, I work tirelessly to be a well-regarded agent, industry innovator, and ambassador for my clients.

Follow On Instagram