Widely regarded as the oldest resort settlement on the Pacific Coast, the city of Capitola was named thus by local Lulu Hall in 1874. Lulu was inspired by the main character in E.D.E.N. Southworth's novel, The Hidden Hand. Capitola is a true heroine—captivating, wise, feisty, adventuring, and a tomboy. The name is apt for the place itself.
Antiques, boutiques, and art galleries galore await, in a quaint village layout with its iconic rainbow of cottages, the Venetian Court built in 1924. The wharf itself dates back to the 1850s. Neighborhoods with names such as Jewel Box and Opal Cliff form this precious place.
But Capitola is not simply its shiny surface. Grab a picnic, hop on a bike, and get to the beach for boogie boarding, body surfing, and volleyball. Get sunburnt and sandy! Our heroine would approve.
