Moving to Capitola
Learn about Capitola real estate, community, and lifestyle so you can live like a local in no time.
If you're considering a move to Capitola and would like expert guidance on finding the best neighborhood to buy a home for your lifestyle, I am here to help! As a second generation top Santa Cruz real estate agent that has lived in almost every part of the County, I know this area from stem to stern. Santa Cruz County is equally as good a place to retire as it is to raise a family, with a multitude of amenities and activities for every stage of life that allow for a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
Please peruse my neighborhood guides and BLOG and don’t hesitate to reach out for more insights into each of our wonderful neighborhoods, including tips only a born-and-raised local would know! From microclimates to commute times, childcare resources, outdoor activities, and community events, consider me your personal concierge when it comes to moving to Santa Cruz and living the good life.
About Capitola Real Estate
Capitola is a darling coastal community and vacation destination located just a few miles south of Santa Cruz and just north of Aptos. It is where I learned to take my first steps on the sand in front of its iconic multi-colored Venetian cottages! It is reminiscent of the quaint coastal villages of the French Riviera and Italian Coast. This charming resort town is known for its colorful Mediterranean-style architecture, sandy beaches, and friendly small-town atmosphere. The heart of Capitola is the historic "Village," which has a beautiful oceanfront esplanade with restaurants located along the beach and many great artisan shops and boutiques.
Capitola is a small town but the areas ares: Jewel Box, The Village, Depot Hill, Cliffwood Heights, and 41st Corridor. Capitola real estate offers a diverse selection of properties, including oceanfront estates, historic vacation bungalows, cozy beach cottages, and more affordable condos. Capitola has a very small dedicated vacation rental zone, and you can read about Capitola's vacation rental ordinance here. In 2022, 91 homes were sold in Capitola, with an average price of $1.97 million for a single-family home and $800k for a townhome or condo.
Capitola real estate boasts a diverse selection of properties and price points. With its strong sense of community and picturesque surroundings, Capitola is an ideal place to call home. Explore Capitola homes for sale and other properties with our expert team today!
*Data from MLSListings
Demographics for Capitola, CA
Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau and MLSListings.
$1.97m
Average Home Price
22.1 minutes
Avg. Commute
9,846
Population
46.9%
Owner Occupied
What to Love
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Sandy beaches
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Friendly small-town atmosphere
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Mediterranean-style architecture
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Numerous dining and shopping options
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Outdoor recreational opportunities
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Capitola Village is the heart of this charming community and is home to a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. With its quaint and cozy streets, visitors can stroll and discover the many unique shops, cafes, and restaurants that line the streets.
Where to Eat:
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Tressles - Hip, upscale gastropub with delicious fare
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Paradise Bar & Grill - A waterfront eatery on the Soquel Creek offering a delicious seafood menu with stunning ocean views.
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Capitola Bar & Grill - A stylish bar and grill with a menu featuring California cuisine and craft cocktails.
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Shadowbrook Restaurant - Upscale and swanky restaurant with iconic tram entrance, beatifyl gardens, and excellent menu. Perfect date spot!
Where to Drink:
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Capitola Wine Bar & Merchants - excellent selection of fine wines
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Cork and Fork - great spot for live music or a glass of wine by the fire pit
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Capitola Tap House - new tap house located under the tressle
Where to Work While Sipping Coffee:
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Mr. Toots Coffeehouse - A cozy coffeehouse with a laid-back atmosphere and delicious coffee and baked goods.
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Gayle's Bakery & Rosticceria - A local favorite bakery and delicatessen with a wide selection of baked goods, including bread, pastries, and sandwiches.
Things to Do
Capitola's beautiful beaches are the town's main attraction, offering plenty of opportunities for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. Other outdoor recreational activities include hiking and biking in the nearby Soquel Demonstration State Forest, camping at New Brighton Beach, fishing off of the Capitola Wharf, or kayaking in the calm waters of Capitola. During the summer do not miss the many festivals and activities in the Village including: Sandcastle Contest, Floating Boat Parade, Art & Wine Festival, and live music concert series!
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Capitola Beach - One of the most popular beaches in the area, with a wide expanse of sand and clear waters for swimming and surfing (great beginner spot)! It's iconic Venetians are a popular Instagram spot.
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Walk the Esplanade - A scenic walking area along the water's edge, with views of the coastline and colorful buildings.
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Visit the Wharf - fish directly off the wharf or rent a boat by the hour
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Capitola Art & Wine Festival - A popular annual event held in September, featuring wine tasting, live music, and over 160 artists showcasing their work.
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Capitola Museum - A small museum that showcases the history of the town and the surrounding area, with exhibits on the local Native American tribes, the lumber industry, and the town's early days as a vacation destination.
Neighborhood Guides
Get to know the beauty of Santa Cruz County and the Monterey Bay. Browse our neighborhood guides to learn about the best part of Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties for your lifestyle.