Because Romance Is Better When Everything Is Steps Away
Valentine’s Day in our village feels different in the best way. It’s less about one big moment and more about a full day (or weekend) of little ones. Slow mornings. Wandering without a plan. Sharing bites, sips, and stories while the ocean hums in the background. With Valentine’s Day around the corner and cozy February vibes in full swing, here’s how to plan a love-filled escape where everything is just steps away.
Start With A Stay
Where the weekend really begins.
Right on the Esplanade and just steps from the sand, this colorful coastal classic puts you in the heart of it all. Waking up to ocean air, strolling straight onto the beach, and having dinner a few minutes away feels effortlessly romantic. It’s ideal for couples who want to be in the middle of the Village energy with a front-row seat to the sea.
Kendall & Potter Property Management
If your ideal Valentine’s escape includes ocean views, a cozy living room, and mornings that start slow, a short-term rental through Kendall & Potter is the move. Their curated Village and beachfront homes make it easy to settle in, pop a bottle before dinner, and feel like a local for the weekend. It’s romantic without trying too hard and gives you the freedom to enjoy Capitola at your own pace.
Short-Term Rentals in Capitola Village
Staying in a short-term rental means your Valentine’s itinerary can stay flexible. Walk to coffee, come back for a midday break, head out for sunset cocktails, and finish the night without worrying about driving or timing anything just right. Fireplaces, balconies, and beach-level locations make February feel extra cozy, especially when the evenings cool down and the Village lights start to glow.
Mornings: Coffee, Pastries, and Wandering
No alarms. No schedules.
Explore Our Village Breakfast Spots
Start your day with coffee in hand and nowhere to be. Wander the Esplanade, pop into shops as they open, and let our village guide you. February mornings are crisp and quiet, perfect for slow walks and shared pastries before the day fills in.
Shop Local For Valentine’s Finds
Easy Valentine’s finds, no overthinking required.
Whether you’re picking up something small, something meaningful, or letting a gift catch your eye as you wander, these Village shops make Valentine’s gifting feel relaxed, personal, and fun.
A fun, fashion-forward boutique with fresh arrivals every week. Find handbags, jewelry, sunglasses, and stylish pieces at approachable prices, plus a friendly team that makes gifting easy.
Soft, feminine clothing and gifts with a coastal feel. Think flowy dresses, cozy knits, sea-inspired jewelry, and little keepsakes that feel romantic and relaxed.
Locally owned and thoughtfully curated, featuring handmade jewelry, natural soy candles, ceramics, art, and gifts from independent and often local makers.
A Capitola classic filled with shells, coral, ocean-inspired jewelry, and unique coastal gifts that make perfect Valentine’s keepsakes.
Afternoon: Beach Walks & Coastal Pauses
The best part of the day is unplanned.
After shopping, head down to Capitola Beach. Walk the shoreline, sit side by side on a bench, or just watch the waves roll in. February brings dramatic skies and a peaceful calm that feels especially romantic. No rush. No distractions. Just time together.
Explore Activities By Capitola Beach
Dinner In Our Village
Where the lights glow and the pace slows.
As evening settles in, our village takes on a warmer glow. This is the moment for unhurried dinners, shared plates, and conversations that stretch a little longer than planned. Whether you’re timing it with sunset or lingering well past dessert, these spots set the tone for a Valentine’s night done right.
A classic Valentine’s choice with ocean views and cozy ambiance. Perfect for sunset dinners and lingering over dessert.
Casual, coastal, and full of charm. Pete’s is ideal for couples who love great seafood, relaxed vibes, and a dinner that feels easy, fun, and distinctly Capitola.
A short walk or shuttle ride away and always worth it. Candlelit tables, lush gardens, and timeless romance make this a memorable Valentine’s night option.
Extend the Love: Capitola Sip & Stroll
Saturday, February 21 from 11:00am to 5:00pm.
If you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day a little later, or just want another reason to linger, plan your visit around our February 2026 Capitola Sip & Stroll on February 21st. Stroll from shop to shop with a drink in hand, discover new local favorites, and enjoy our village with live energy and a festive feel.
Tickets are required and tend to sell out, so be sure to grab yours in advance. It’s the perfect excuse for a late Valentine’s celebration, a weekend getaway, or a just-because night out together.
Valentine’s Day in our village isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing things together, slowly. From morning coffee to evening strolls and a Sip & Stroll encore, February is the perfect time to fall in love with the Village all over again.
Travel Blog and Photos Courtesy of Opposite of East