Capitola, CA

38 Apartments for Rent

F. Scott Fitzgerald once said that "the world, as a rule, does not live on beaches... " Well, in Capitola you may not literally live on the beach, but you certainly live at the beach.

The Santa Cruz area can lay claim to a lot of great things. Like surfing and condos. Really! The National Register of Historic Places recognizes Capitola's Venetian Court as the first seaside condo development in the U.S. Frequently photographed, this breezy set of candy-colored units sets the mood for everything you'll find in the tiny, beachy city of Capitola. Spend an afternoon here and you'll understand why it's a sought-after community. You'll be angling for a rental home in Capitola before you know it.

Surf's Up

It's itty-bitty, but while it is literally small and exudes a definite small-town charm, you won't feel isolated here. Capitola fits right into its surrounding cityscape with Santa Cruz just up the coast, Soquel inland, Aptos next door, and Monterrey. The weather is temperate with cool, rainy winters and warm dry summers. You'll probably need to get used to dressing in layers, because the mornings start chilly before revealing the sunshine later in the day.

Moving to Capitola

Capitola features all of the diverse housing options you'd expect in a populated, California beach town. It will be easy to find 1 or 2 bedroom apartments for rent near retail and dining options. Of course, beachfront rental homes in Capitola exist, but expect a premium on that sort of lifestyle (can you blame landlords? They have to beat renters off with a stick!).

Because competition can be fierce, start your search early -- two months is a good cushion -- and make sure you are ready to snag that townhome or Capitola condominium dream spot by having your proof of income, credit history, references, and deposit money in order.

Living in Capitola

Capitola is the sort of place that might make you want to sing odes to the sea. The best evidence of this? The city parks and recreation department offers ukulele classes so you can pair some Hawaiian relaxation with your mainlander version of island life.

All of that sea air works up an appetite. Not to worry. Whatever you're hungry for, you'll find it in Capitola. From the stereotypically coastal Wharf House Restaurant to Miyako Japanese Restaurant, and, of course, given the area's free-spirit feeling, Dharma's vegetarian fare. Capitolans -- and Santa Cruz County residents generally -- are dedicated to supporting local restaurants and businesses, so expect to spend a lot of time sampling the best in home-grown food, goods and services. Of course, if you have big box needs, Capitola is also home to the area's biggest traditional mall as well.

Embrace outdoor living here. It's easy to stroll from neighborhood to neighborhood taking in the scenic views, historic architecture, and the Wharf Road route down to those sprawling beaches. There's not a bad day to be had in Capitola. Happy beach combing!