Santa Cruz County - 2008 Official Traveler's Guide - (Page 52) capitola and Soquel history. Timeless gems of the Central Coast From the seaside vistas of Capitola to the small-town appeal of nearby Capitola was founded 134 years ago, and is the Pacific coast’s oldest Soquel, this cozy region south of Santa Cruz is reminiscent of another time in seaside resort town. Radiating the charisma of a vintage beach community, galleries and boutiques decorate the quaint streets of Capitola Village. The esplanade curves alongside a row of beachside restaurants and then bursts open into a magnificent view of the sea. A Mediterranean essence flavors the air, from breezy cafes to the relaxed atmosphere of this treasured town. Wednesday evenings during summer, twilight concerts at Esplanade Park’s outdoor bandstand are an enjoyable way to end the day. Bring a picnic dinner and a beach blanket or shake your groove on the plaza dance floor. Or take a stroll on the Capitola Wharf and watch the sunset. Housed inside a charming schoolhouse in the village, the Capitola Historical Museum features changing historical exhibits and self-guided walking tours. Beyond the village, Capitola boasts a day spa, tea room and endless shopping. The annual Begonia Festival has been a Labor Day weekend tradition for over half a century; in fact, the “Pacific Begonia” was first hybridized in Capitola. The highlight of the festival is the parade of begonia-covered barges that float down Soquel Creek to the beach. The festival also features a sand sculpture 52 24 galleries and boutiques decorate the quaint streets contest, a fishing derby and other events celebrating this lovely blossom. Other crowd pleasers throughout the year include fall’s Capitola Art & Wine Festival, Surfin’ Santa kicking off the holidays, and the Capitola Rod and Custom Classic Car Show. The 161-year-old town of Soquel lies just inland from Capitola. Within just a few blocks of this tranquil village, you’ll find over a dozen antique dealers specializing in everything from heirloom jewelry to early American furniture and one-of-a-kind finds. The hills up above the town are draped with vineyards, and Soquel serves as an ideal starting point for self-guided wine tasting tours. Bargetto Winery is located a few blocks from the heart of town. Scenic two-lane roads wind up through the mountains to many more wineries north of Soquel. The engaging appeal of Capitola and Soquel will coax you into a timeless world of relaxation. “ This intimate seaside town has sandy beaches, friendly locals, and historic charm.” San FranciSco Magazine, aPriL 2007 Photo: CVC 2 0 0 8 O f f i c i a l S a n ta c r u z c O u n t y t r av e l e r ’ S G u i d e
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