Great Escape: Charming Capitola

The charming community of Capitola is on theMonterey Bay. This beach town is the perfect resort getaway for couples who want to stroll and shop or for a family wanting to sail and swim. 

Capitola Village, with a wide beach along Highway 1, has many merchants and modern seaside amenities. Take a leisurely spin along East Cliffs Drive and head for the village, its shops and romantic stay-overs. It’s easy to go from store to store and there’s something for everyone.

Couples might like the Historical Walking Tour. It starts at the Capitola Historical Museum, 410 Capitola Ave., and is full of information about the character of this town founded in 1896 by lumber baron Frederick Hihn. Walk to the end of the wharf on one of the oldest wooden piers in California. Check out Venetian Court, purportedly home to the first condominium complex in the nation. Call 831-464-0322 or e-mail Museum Director Carolyn Swift for more information,cswift@ci.capitola.ca.

Tour the museum and see the collection of photographs and artifacts relating to Capitola’s history. The museum grounds include a reconstructed cottage, circa early 20th century. Then dine at theWharf House Restaurant, 1400 Wharf Road, which offers a full breakfast menu, brunch with champagne, and a selection of burgers and sandwiches for lunch, while setting your sights on the sweeping views of Monterey Bay. Call the restaurant at 831-476-3534 for more information.

Check in at The Inn at Depot Hill, 250 Monterey Avenue, Capitola, and stay in one of its 12 unique rooms and suites. This bed and breakfast boasts a gourmet breakfast served in the cafe or in your room, afternoon wine and hors d’oeuvres, and evening desert. Call 831-462-3376 or emaildepothill@innsbythesea.com to make a reservation.

Visit Capitola again over Labor Day and enjoy the town’s 59th annual Begonia Festival, 716 Capitola Ave., Sept. 2-5, with flower-studded floats and renowned sand castle contest.  Emailbegoniafestival@gmail.com to learn more about the festival.