Capitola

About Capitola

Capitola is one of the most recognizable beach towns on the California coast. Founded in 1874 as a summer resort, it is the oldest continuously operating seaside resort in the state. Located in Santa Cruz County between Santa Cruz and Soquel, the iconic Venetian-style buildings along the Esplanade, painted in warm pastels, have been a magnet for visitors and residents alike for over 150 years. Capitola real estate is highly sought after, with homes ranging from vintage beach cottages to hillside estates with panoramic ocean views.

The village sits at the mouth of Soquel Creek, where it meets Monterey Bay. The beach is wide, the water is swimmable, and the dining scene punches well above its weight for a town of this size. Capitola is genuinely walkable, with most daily needs available on foot from the village center.

Neighborhoods Within Capitola

• The Village / Esplanade \u2014 The iconic waterfront. Condos and apartments with direct beach access and village dining at your doorstep.
• Capitola Village (Upper) \u2014 Hillside homes above the village with ocean views and easy walkability to the beach.
• Stockwell Avenue \u2014 Quieter residential streets just blocks from the beach. Popular with families.
• Soquel Drive Corridor \u2014 A mix of condos and single-family homes with convenient access to both Capitola and Soquel.

Lifestyle

Living in Capitola feels like being on permanent vacation. Morning walks on the Esplanade, afternoon kayaking in the bay, evening cocktails at a waterfront restaurant. The Capitola Art & Wine Festival, Begonia Festival, and regular live music events give the village a lively social calendar. excellent restaurants include hidden gems and well-known spots along the waterfront.

Real Estate

Capitola real estate is highly sought after and competitively priced. The village area commands premium prices for beach proximity. Homes range from vintage beach cottages to modern condos and hillside estates with panoramic ocean views. If you are buying in Capitola or selling your Capitola property, Kieron Bery's expertise with coastal Santa Cruz County real estate is a significant asset.

Last reviewed: July 2026 by Kieron Bery, REALTOR® with Century 21 Masters.