Capitola

Capitola

Coastal Living at its Finest.

Welcome to Capitola

Coastal Living at its Finest.

Capitola offers the perfect blend of coastal charm and modern convenience. With its vibrant downtown, scenic beaches, and lively community, Capitola provides residents and visitors with everything they need right at their fingertips. From shopping and dining to beachfront relaxation, this picturesque seaside town captures the essence of coastal living in Santa Cruz County.

What to Love

  • Convenient access to shops, restaurants, and amenities along 41st Avenue.
  • Quaint seaside charm of Capitola Village with its boutique shops and oceanfront dining.
  • Annual events like the Capitola Art and Wine Festival showcasing local art, wine, and music.
  • Culinary delights ranging from fine dining establishments to cozy cafes and bakeries.
  • Pristine beaches, including Capitola Beach and New Brighton State Beach, perfect for sunbathing and water activities.

Local Lifestyle

Capitola embodies a laid-back coastal lifestyle, where residents cherish the slower pace of life amidst breathtaking natural beauty. Capitola's seaside setting, beautiful beach, and iconic Venetian Hotel, with its colorful, Mediterranean-inspired architecture, offer a unique and picturesque ambiance that many love. The community fosters a sense of camaraderie, with neighbors coming together to celebrate local traditions and events like the Capitola Art and Wine Festival, a beloved annual gathering for over 35 years.

Dining and Shopping

In Capitola, dining and shopping experiences are as diverse as they are delightful. Indulge in freshly baked goods and homey meals at Gayle’s Bakery, a local institution for over 40 years. For a romantic dining experience, venture to the iconic Shadowbrook Restaurant, nestled amidst lush gardens and cascading waterfalls, offering exquisite cuisine and unparalleled ambiance.
 
Craving the flavors of the South? Head to Roux Dat Cajun Creole for authentic Cajun dishes bursting with spice and flavor. Or savor the cozy atmosphere and delectable fare at Avenue Cafe, where locally sourced ingredients shine in every dish.
 
The heart of the town, Capitola Village, is filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants, just steps away from the sandy shores of Capitola Beach and the bustling atmosphere of the Wharf House Restaurant on Capitola Wharf. Whether you're seeking gourmet cuisine, casual dining, or artisanal treasures, Capitola promises to satisfy every craving and indulge every whim.
 
Here are a few more cafes and restaurants to try in Capitola:
 
Sweet Pea's Cafe is a cozy breakfast and brunch spot known for its hearty comfort food and friendly atmosphere. The cafe's menu features a variety of breakfast classics, including fluffy pancakes, savory omelets, and indulgent French toast.
 
Castagnola Deli & Cafe is a family-owned establishment specializing in Italian-inspired sandwiches, salads, and deli favorites. From classic Italian subs to homemade lasagna and fresh salads, the deli offers a taste of Italy in the heart of Capitola.
 
Dharma's Restaurant is a cozy and charming eatery known for its wholesome vegetarian and vegan cuisine. The menu features a variety of plant-based dishes made with organic and locally sourced ingredients, including hearty soups, flavorful salads, and creative entrees.
 

Entertainment & Things to Do

Capitola offers an array of entertainment options to suit every taste and interest. Spend a day on the shores of Capitola Beach, where you can relax, swim, or fish off the iconic wharf. Explore the expansive stretch of beach at New Brighton State Beach, which is perfect for morning runs or leisurely walks along the shore. Attend local festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Capitola Art and Wine Festival, where art, wine, food, and music come together in the cozy confines of Capitola Village.

With its well-preserved history and the Capitola Historical Museum, the town provides a window into California's past, from its development as a seaside resort to its growth into a modern community.
 
The town offers a variety of outdoor activities, including surfing, paddleboarding, and beach volleyball, which are perfect for those who love an active lifestyle by the sea. With so much to see and do, Capitola promises endless adventures and unforgettable memories for residents and visitors alike.

Overview for Capitola, CA

10,041 people live in Capitola, where the median age is 47.3 and the average individual income is $54,673. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

10,041

Total Population

47.3 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$54,673

Average individual Income

Around Capitola, CA

There's plenty to do around Capitola, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

92
Walker's Paradise
Walking Score
62
Bikeable
Bike Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Chicken Foot, Ser Winery Tasting Room, and The Daily Grind Coffee & Bottle Shop.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Dining 4.02 miles 6 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 2.93 miles 9 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 0.33 miles 9 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 3.97 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars
Shopping 0.26 miles 6 reviews 5/5 stars
Shopping 3.3 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars

Demographics and Employment Data for Capitola, CA

Capitola has 4,656 households, with an average household size of 2.12. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Capitola do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 10,041 people call Capitola home. The population density is 6,297.52 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

10,041

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

47.3

Median Age

45.91 / 54.09%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
4,656

Total Households

2.12

Average Household Size

$54,673

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in Capitola, CA

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby Capitola. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating
PUBLIC
6th - 8th
4/5
PUBLIC
K - 8th
No rating available

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