In the heart of Capitola Village, where the ocean breeze meets the hum of friendly conversation, you’ll find Vanity By The Sea—a boutique known for its stylish sunglasses and its warm, personal service. Owner Serina Hughes has been greeting locals and visitors here since 2016, creating a shopping experience that feels more like catching up with a friend than simply making a purchase.
A Village That Feels Like Home
For Serina, the best part of doing business in Capitola is the community itself. “It’s really special,” she says, “where locals and visitors stroll through the village and stop and chat. I know many of them by name.” That personal connection is part of what makes Capitola unique—and of course, the stunning ocean views don’t hurt either.
From Vision to Reality
Serina and her family purchased Vanity By The Sea in January 2016 from the couple who had started the business five years earlier. Since then, she has embraced the role of shopkeeper with joy, building relationships and making her boutique a place people want to return to again and again.
Capitola’s Charm
When Serina describes Capitola, she calls it “a little pocket of joy.” From the colorful buildings to the ocean breeze and the easy smiles exchanged between strangers, the village has a way of making everyone feel welcome. It’s a place where the pace slows, the salt air lingers, and every visit feels like a mini-vacation.
Enjoying the Town Like a Local
Even as a business owner, Serina takes time to enjoy Capitola just like her customers do. One of her favorite routines? Grabbing a coffee, walking along the beach with her two dogs, and popping into neighboring shops. It’s this simple, connected lifestyle that fuels her love for the town and the people in it.
More Than Sunglasses
While Vanity By The Sea is best known for its curated collection of sunglasses, Serina says it’s the personal attention that keeps people coming back. “We love helping people find the perfect pair that makes them feel good,” she says. It’s this blend of style, service, and seaside charm that makes a visit to her shop a quintessential Capitola experience.
Whether you’re a local strolling the village or a visitor soaking in the scenery, a stop at Vanity By The Sea offers more than a great accessory—it’s a chance to connect with someone who truly loves where she is and what she does.
Photos Courtesy of Vanity By The Sea Facebook