if you're visiting, don't miss it, whatever the season. you know it's good when it's the year-round choice of the locals. as pricey as many places in town are, the beach is free, free, free, and one of the finest attractions in the area. almost impossible to tell all that's good. sunrises every morning, sunset every evening. moon rise, moon set over the ocean. you've never seen them so magnificant. crashing waves. surfers to watch. great beachcombing shells, fossil rocks, sand dollars, depending on what the sea brought in last night - go early, you won't be the only one out there. In the winter, incredible drift wood. One drawback: It's against the law to take your dog out on the beach; the ticket is pretty steep, so don't risk it; yeah, that means you. No special treatment for visitors, or locals. Many restaurants close by with almost any cuisine you'd like to try. For your morning coffee or tea and yummy treats, go immediately to Mr. Toots on the Embarcadero down toward the bridge. Or any time of day will reward you with fine coffees, teas, italian sodas of many...
Read moreMy family & I love this beach. Typically very clean just depends if a storm has come thru. Lots of seaweed in water, as another said, but that's part of this particular area. No firepits on beach & not allowed. Volleyball net(s) are on the far westside of beach but east if wharf. Parking is tough along the coast line bc of businesses, however there is a big public parking lot up the hill & another sm lot closer to beach that used to be for the movie theater that's no longer there. They hv replaced the per spot coin/person metering to 1 big machine that takes cards or cash w a 3 hr max if you r lucky to get a spot along coast. There's 4-6 motorcycle specific parking spots at coast as well. Plenty of great restraunts to choose from right at the beach w great views even if you're in flip flops & cover up or on a date night. More great eats across the st within village shops & underground sm mall. Every place will do to-go orders as well so you can sit on the beach or park benches. Also outside shower post &...
Read moreI moved to Santa Cruz after I graduated high school in 1977. I discovered Capitola after getting a job at the Edgewater (Paradise Bar and Grill). I immediately fell in love with this lovely, sleepy, colorful, tasty restaurant, great nightlife, sandy beach, wharf attracting,( I must add the sad loss of the Wharf House Restaurant was a serious mistake on the city councils part and needs to be addressed. There was never a place more magical, ocean connecting, locals favorite get together, live music, and delicious food. Let's not forget beautiful Ashley, who graced us with her presents and managed Willy's iconic restaurant with grace and pride. I, myself, work d there and found the love of my life there on a Saturday afternoon listening to live music on the top deck.) and moved here.. I have lived here for 15 years. Love it! If you have a sunny or Rainy day on your plate, both weather conditions bring great results , Capitola is the...
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