How Much Do You Know About Capitola-Soquel?

Capitola-Soquel is a place like no other. And whether you grew up here, recently moved to the area or you’re just an occasional visitor, you know that Capitola-Soquel has its own special traditions and history that make it so unique.

A few things to know:

• The city of Capitola was founded in 1874 by a man named Frederick Hihn. He named the city after a novel by Jules Verne called "The Child of the Cavern," which featured a fictional village called Capitola. Hihn's goal was to create a seaside resort destination and he was successful in attracting many visitors to the area.
• Capitola-Soquel is known for its delicious local seafood and farmers markets. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood from local fishermen, as well as a variety of fruits and vegetables grown by local farmers. There are also many restaurants and cafes in the area that serve delicious meals made from locally sourced ingredients.
• The city of Capitola is home to a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, surfing and kayaking. Visitors can explore the many parks and natural areas in the area, such as the Soquel Demonstration State Forest and the Capitola-Soquel Lagoon. There are also many opportunities for water sports, such as stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking, along the coast.
• The Capitola Wharf is a famous landmark in the city. The wharf was built in the early 1900s and is home to a variety of shops, restaurants and cafes. Visitors can take a stroll along the wharf and enjoy the beautiful views of the ocean, as well as take in the local culture and atmosphere of the area.
• The Mystery Spot is a popular tourist attraction located just outside of Capitola-Soquel. The Mystery Spot is a gravity hill, where the laws of physics seem to be defied. Visitors can experience a variety of optical illusions and strange phenomena at the site, making it a fun and unique destination for visitors.
• The Santa Cruz County Fair is an annual event that takes place in the city of Watsonville, which is located just a short drive from Capitola-Soquel. The fair features a variety of attractions, including live entertainment, carnival rides and exhibits showcasing the local agriculture and industry of the area.
• The Capitola-Soquel area is home to several beautiful beaches, including New Brighton State Beach and Seacliff State Beach. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities on these beaches, such as swimming, sunbathing and beachcombing. These beaches are perfect places to take a stroll, relax and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery.
• The Santa Cruz Surfing Museum is located in nearby Santa Cruz and is a must-see for surf enthusiasts visiting the area. The museum features a collection of vintage surfboards and memorabilia, as well as interactive exhibits and a film about the history of surfing in Santa Cruz.
• The Capitola-Soquel area is home to several hiking trails that offer beautiful views of the coast and the redwood forests. Visitors can explore the many parks and natural areas in the area, such as the Soquel Redwoods Preserve and the Aptos Rancho Trail.
• The Capitola-Soquel area is known for its vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs and music venues. Visitors can enjoy live music, dancing and drinks at places like the Catalyst Club and the Crepe Place.
• The Capitola-Soquel area is home to several historical sites, including the Aptos Village Park, which was the site of a historic logging town. The Park features a historical marker and exhibits about the history of the town, as well as picnic areas and playgrounds for visitors to enjoy.
• The Capitola-Soquel area is a great place for shopping, with a variety of boutiques, galleries and specialty shops. Visitors can find everything from handcrafted jewelry to vintage clothing and souvenirs. Some of the famous shopping areas include Capitola Village, Soquel Village and the Capitola Mall.

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.