Esplanade Park: Capitola's Seaside Heart
Experience the heart of Capitola at Esplanade Park: ocean views, community events, and seaside charm converge in this vibrant village gathering place.
Esplanade Park is the vibrant heart of Capitola Village, offering stunning ocean views and a hub for community events. With a rich history dating back to the late 19th century, it's a must-visit destination for relaxation, recreation, and cultural enrichment.
A brief summary to Esplanade Park
- 120 Monterey Ave, Capitola, California, 95010, US
- +1831-475-7300
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Attend the free Twilight Concerts on Wednesday evenings during the summer for live music and a lively atmosphere.
- Bring a picnic blanket or low-back chairs for comfortable seating during events.
- Visit local restaurants to grab dinner to enjoy a picnic on the beach during concerts.
- Be aware that no alcohol or dogs are allowed in the park or on the beach during events.
Getting There
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Walking
From anywhere in Capitola Village, Esplanade Park is easily accessible by foot. Simply head towards the Monterey Bay coastline and follow the Esplanade. The park is located at 120 Monterey Ave, adjacent to Capitola Beach.
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Public Transport
If arriving from outside Capitola Village, the Santa Cruz Metro bus line 2 stops at Capitola Mall. From there, transfer to the line 73 bus towards Soquel/Freedom/Cabrillo, and get off at the Park Ave & Monterey Ave stop. Esplanade Park is a short walk away. A single ride on Santa Cruz Metro costs $2-$7.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in the Capitola area. A taxi ride from Santa Cruz to Capitola will cost approximately $21-$31. From the Capitola Mall, a short taxi ride to Esplanade Park will cost around $16.
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Parking
If driving, parking is available in the Beach and Village Parking Lots located behind City Hall at 420 Capitola Avenue. Parking costs $0.50-$2.00 per hour, with a maximum of 3-12 hours depending on the lot. Be aware that parking in the Village area is limited to three-hour stays. Longer-term parking is available on Cliff Drive. During the summer, a free shuttle runs from the Beach and Village Parking Lot 2 (Lower) to the Village on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
Discover more about Esplanade Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Visitor Center | Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
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Redwood Grove Loop Trail
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Castro Adobe State Historic Park
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Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
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Felton Covered Bridge County Park
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Fall Creek Unit | Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
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San Lorenzo Valley Museum, Grace Episcopal Gallery
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Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve
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Casa Grande
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Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge
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Site of 21 Mile House
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Jack Fischer Park
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Carlyle Hotel Campbell
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Unmissable attractions to see
Capitola State Beach
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Capitola Historical Museum
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Capitola Wharf
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Santa Cruz Harbor
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Rio Del Mar Beach
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Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
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Neptune's Kingdom
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Boardwalk's Cocoanut Grove
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Boardwalk Bowl
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San Lorenzo Park
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Santa Cruz Wharf
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Cowell Beach
6.5 km
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Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center
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Adventure Out
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The Mystery Spot
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Essential places to dine
Nonno's Italian
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Effie's Restaurant & Bar
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Sorelle Italian Bistro
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Kirk's Steakburgers
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El Greco Grill
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Thaibodia Bistro
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Yiassoo
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Capers Eat & Drink
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A Bellagio Italian Restaurant
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Mo's Campbell
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Wild Rose Eatery and Bar
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Locanda Sorrento
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Opa! Campbell
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Trattoria 360
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FLIGHTS Restaurant By Alex Hult
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Redwood Store
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LOOP Home Goods & Gifts
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420lifestyles
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DOTTIES ROLLER SKATE SHOP
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Marvel Cake
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Kirkwood Plaza
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Steepers
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Geoffrey's Diamonds & Goldsmith
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Florra
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Celtic Shoppe
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Heroes
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Momstera Lounge
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Hook Sports Bar & Grill
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Segovia's Cocktail Bar & Lounge
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Aces Icehouse
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Bulldog Sports Pub
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The Wine Experience
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