Shore Bets in and Around Capitola
There's a movie theater in town, but we prefer the nearby Skyview Drive-in (831-475-3405).
Gizdich Ranch in Watsonville, with its bakery, picnic area, and gift shop, turns berry picking into an all-day affair (831-722-1056).
The Beach House takes friendly dining to new heights with free coloring pages, kids' menus, and homemade everything (831-475-5846).
Carpo's in neighboring Soquel is a family favorite featuring roomy booths, a big menu, and a fresh salad bar (831-476-6260; www.carposrestaurant.com).
The Capitola Village Farmer's Market has friendly farmers, local produce, and eat-on-the-spot fare (Thursdays in summer; 831-454-0566; www.santacruzfarmersmarket.org).
The Harbor Lights Motel boasts spectacular bay views and suites with fully equipped kitchens (nightly room rates start at $175; 831-476-0505).
The beachside Capitola Venetian Motel (a 1924 landmark) offers suites with kitchens, quirky charm, and fabulous views from its second-story oceanfront rooms (nightly rates for a 2-bedroom suite start at $280; 800-332-2780; www.capitolavenetian.com).
If you don't mind driving to the beach, the Best Western Capitola-by-the-Sea Inn & Suites has a pool and rooms starting at $169 nightly (800-621-8115; www.bestwestern.com/capitola).
