Capitola
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Capitola's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Start your day with a refreshing walk along Capitola Beach, feeling the soft sand beneath your feet and breathing in the fresh ocean air. Grab a delicious breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh pastries and coffee with a view of the waves. Take some time to relax and soak up the sun before embarking on your day's adventures.
Spend the afternoon exploring the charming Capitola Village, filled with unique shops and art galleries. Indulge in a leisurely lunch at a seaside restaurant, savoring the local seafood while taking in stunning ocean views. After lunch, consider renting a kayak or paddleboard for a fun experience on the water.
As the sun begins to set, find a cozy spot on the beach to watch the spectacular display of colors in the sky. Head to a beachfront restaurant for dinner, enjoying fresh, locally-sourced dishes paired with fine wine. Wrap up your day with a stroll along the shore, listening to the calming sound of waves and the distant laughter of fellow beach-goers.
Begin your day with a hike in the nearby redwood forests, immersing yourself in the beauty and tranquility of nature. Breathe in the fresh, pine-scented air and take photos of the towering trees that surround you. After your hike, enjoy a hearty brunch at a local eatery, refueling for the day's activities.
Visit the nearby Natural Bridges State Beach to explore the tide pools and learn about the diverse marine life. Spend some time at the beach, sunbathing or playing volleyball with friends. As the afternoon light softens, capture beautiful photos of the iconic natural bridge formations.
Dine at a welcoming bistro, indulging in delicious farm-to-table cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the beach to watch the stars appear in the clear night sky, with the sound of the ocean as your backdrop. Consider attending a local live music event to enjoy the vibrant local culture.
Dedicate your morning to exploring Capitola’s local art scene, starting with a visit to the Capitola Historical Museum. Learn about the town's rich history and view exhibits featuring local artists. Afterward, enjoy a light brunch at a café adorned with local artwork.
Join a guided art walk to discover galleries showcasing stunning coastal art, paintings, and crafts. Engage with local artists and perhaps even take part in a workshop to create your own masterpiece. Enjoy a casual lunch in the village, sampling a variety of delicious dishes from local vendors.
As night falls, enjoy a theatrical performance at a nearby venue, immersing yourself in the local performing arts scene. Dine at a trendy restaurant known for its innovative dishes, allowing the flavors and atmosphere to lead your evening. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a cozy bar, reflecting on the artistic experiences you've enjoyed.
Fuel up with breakfast at a local diner known for its hearty portions before embarking on an adventure-filled day. Opt for a morning surf lesson, catching waves and feeling the thrill of the ocean. Alternatively, take a guided bike tour of the scenic coastal routes to see stunning views.
After riding the waves or biking, grab lunch at a beachside café, savoring a fresh fish taco bowl. Spend the afternoon exploring the quaint Capitola Village, visiting unique shops and artisanal boutiques. Don't miss the opportunity to relax at the beach, perhaps indulging in a refreshing swim.
Enjoy a sunset beachfront picnic, bringing along local cheeses and wine to enhance the experience. As darkness falls, attend a local film screening or open mic night to partake in community entertainment. Wind down with a stroll along the shore, relishing the end of an adventurous day.
Start your culinary journey with a leisurely breakfast at a café known for its artistic coffee creations and organic ingredients. Take a morning walk along the beach, gathering your thoughts while enjoying the ocean breeze. Prepare for a day filled with gastronomical delights.
Head out to explore local wineries, participating in tastings that highlight the unique flavors of the region's wines. Enjoy a charming picnic lunch at one of the vineyards, surrounded by picturesque landscapes and the sweet scent of grapes. Relish the afternoon relaxing in an outdoor vineyard lounge area, sampling wine and local cheeses.
For dinner, treat yourself to a gourmet meal at a highly-rated restaurant, where the chef creates dishes inspired by local ingredients. Pair your meal with exquisite wines recommended by the knowledgeable staff. Conclude your evening with a dessert café, enjoying artisanal treats under the stars.
Kick off the day with a family-friendly breakfast at a local pancake house, where you can indulge in creative breakfast options. Once fueled up, head to the beach for fun games like frisbee or building sandcastles with the kids. Enjoy quality family time soaking in the sun and surf.
Explore the Capitola Wharf, where the family can watch sea lions, go fishing, or even take a boat tour for dolphin watching. Stop for lunch at a family-style restaurant with a menu that caters to everyone’s tastes. Continue the fun at a nearby park, where kids can play and families can picnic.
As the sun sets, take the family for a fun ice cream outing at a popular ice cream shop in the village. After treating yourselves, enjoy a family-friendly movie night back at your accommodation or catch a local outdoor film screening if available. End the day with a relaxing stroll around the quaint village as the lights twinkle on the water.
Treat yourself to a leisurely morning at a local spa, indulging in a tranquil massage or rejuvenating facial. After your treatments, enjoy a healthy breakfast at a calming café surrounded by lush greenery. Spend time journaling or reading by the beach to embrace the relaxing vibe.
Spend your afternoon at a local yoga class by the beach, connecting with nature and focusing on rejuvenation. Follow this peaceful practice with lunch at a nearby health-focused restaurant, opting for organic and locally-sourced dishes. After lunch, explore the coastal paths for a serene beach walk.
As the evening approaches, treat yourself to a quiet dinner at a gourmet restaurant overlooking the water. Take your time savoring each dish, appreciating the flavors and the ambiance. Wind down your day with a candlelit walk along the shore, reflecting on the rejuvenating experiences of the day.
If your visit overlaps with any local festivals, kick off your day enjoying festivities with a hearty breakfast at a village café. Join in the celebrations, mingling with locals and experiencing the spirit of the community. Take strolls through local markets to discover crafts and products unique to the area.
Partake in various activities and live music provided during the festivities, feeling the energy and excitement around you. Break for lunch at food stalls featuring diverse cuisines, ensuring to try local specialties. Continue enjoying performances and workshops set up throughout the day.
Cap your festive day with a special dining experience at a restaurant host to evening events, weaving culinary delights with entertainment. Immerse yourself in the local traditions showcased through dance or cultural presentations. Wind down by sharing stories and making new friends from the festival experience.
Start your morning connecting with nature as you take a guided bird-watching tour in the nearby wetlands. Enjoy a breakfast packed from a local café while enjoying the serene surroundings and the variety of bird species. This tranquil start will prepare you for a day of appreciating the area's distinct ecosystems.
Spend the afternoon visiting the nearby Monterey Bay Aquarium, learning about marine life and ocean conservation. Their engaging exhibits provide a fun and educational experience for all ages, ensuring everyone leaves inspired. Have lunch in the aquarium’s café, enjoying views of the bay while discussing your favorite exhibits.
Return to Capitola for a farewell dinner at a waterfront restaurant, enjoying the sound of waves crashing as you dine on fresh seafood dishes. After dinner, wander along the Capitola Beach Boardwalk for desserts from local vendors and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. End your day watching the moonlight dance on the water, reflecting on your coastal adventures.