German immigrant Frederick Hihn purchased the area where Capitola now sits and commissioned construction of a local wharf in 1857. While the wharf became an important development for the local lumber industry, Hihn took his time deciding how best to use the rest of his land. In 1869 he started working with Samuel Alonzo Hall, who helped Hihn build the nearby town of Soquel. They created a campground, giving passing travelers a place to stay as they made their way up and down the California coast. More tourist facilities followed, including cabins and a dance hall. Hihn also landscaped Capitola, adding trees, paths, and gardens to the growing tourist area.
While today the beach remains Capitola's biggest draw, one should not ignore this village's other outstanding features. Its streets are perfect for exploring, with quirky boutique stores, art galleries, and wine tasting rooms. Restaurants along the waterfront offer superb meals with a view. After your belly is full, it's comforting to know your accommodation is probably just a short walk away. Consider the choices below to find the right Capitola hotel for your needs.
When is the best time to visit the Capitola, CA area?
Capitola's Mediterranean climate delivers pleasant weather all year round, so there's never a bad time to go. Summer temperatures rarely exceed 75 degrees, while winter averages around 50 degrees. Summer is the busiest season, which results in a spike in accommodation rates. However, Capitola never gets as crowded as more popular California tourist spots, so you won't find yourself battling for space on the sand if your heart's set on a summer getaway. Rates are lowest in winter, although persistent rain can put a damper on travel plans.
Spring and fall may be the best time to visit Capitola for many travelers, as these seasons strike the right balance between favorable conditions and accommodation prices. Expect average temperatures in the 50s and low 60s when traveling over these months.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Capitola, CA:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below we've posted 3 graphs displaying average price patterns by star rating class in Capitola, CA. Analyze these illustrations to calculate the most cost effective time period to book in Capitola throughout the year.
What are the luxury hotels around Capitola, CA?
4 Star Average Prices: $260.32
Capitola and its neighboring cities also have several options for travelers who enjoy the finer things in life. Treat yourself to true luxury in these hotels.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Cruz – Capitola is one of the village's most recent additions. All guests stay in spacious suites, with separate living rooms and sleeping quarters. The most luxurious suites feature fireplaces, in-room hot tubs, and dual-head showers. Start your day right with continental breakfast on the rooftop patio, then enjoy the heated pool, spa, or bocce court. There's also a full-service business center for guests who can't totally escape the office.
Chaminade Resort & Spa, in nearby Santa Cruz, is a lavish accommodation option with recently renovated rooms and villas, and it includes two meditation rooms for total relaxation. Each room features little indulgences like microfiber robes, granite bathrooms, flat-screen LCD TVs, and resort or forest views. Dine in one of two onsite eateries: Sunset Restaurant, famous for its Sunday Champagne Brunch, and the modern Linwood's Bar & Grill. You can be as busy or as chilled as you like here, with premium facilities such as a full-service spa, hiking trails, volleyball and tennis courts, hot tubs, a Himalayan salt sauna, and fitness classes.
What are the options in Capitola, CA for affordable hotels?
3 Star Average Prices: $220.95
For a coastal getaway that leaves more money in your pocket, consider some of the Capitola area's most affordable hotels. Independent hotels like these offer low rates to compete with the well-known accommodation chains.
Located a couple of blocks from the coast in nearby Aptos, Rio Sands Hotel is a modest, modern, budget-friendly hotel. Colorful king rooms will suit couples and solo travelers, while suites offer more space for families and other larger traveling groups. You probably won't spend a lot of time in your room, though, as the hotel boasts a heated pool for year-round swimming, a hot tub, and BBQ and garden areas. A generous continental breakfast with Belgian waffles each morning and bottomless coffee day and night are both provided free or charge. You also won't pay extra for onsite parking or Wi-Fi access.
Ocean Gate Inn, in nearby Santa Cruz, has 25 air-conditioned standard and king rooms. Each features an LCD TV with premium satellite channels, a combination shower-bath, and a private balcony for watching the world go by. Parking and wireless internet are both free.
