If you find yourself wandering the colorful streets of Capitola, it won’t be long before the sound of crashing waves, the smell of sea air, and the hum of local life pull you into its unique rhythm. Amid this charming coastal scene, one boutique quietly stands out—not just for its locally made products or inviting aroma, but for the story behind it. The Homeless Garden Project Store, run entirely by a team of volunteers, is more than a shop—it’s a mission with heart, deeply rooted in the soil of Santa Cruz County.
A BOUTIQUE WITH PURPOSE
Located in the heart of Capitola Village, the Homeless Garden Project Store might first draw you in with its handmade salves, soothing scents, and cozy hoodies perfect for breezy beach evenings. But behind the artisanal products lies a nonprofit effort that’s been changing lives for more than 35 years.
Volunteer Amy Bowman explains that every item on the shelves has a story. Many are crafted by trainees at the Homeless Garden Project’s 3.5-acre organic farm near Natural Bridges, where individuals experiencing homelessness receive transitional employment and learn sustainable agriculture. That lavender salve you picked up? It may have started as a seed planted by someone taking the first steps toward rebuilding their life.
“We love being in the heart of such a vibrant, busy area,” Nancy says. “As a nonprofit, it’s a huge perk to raise awareness about our mission with people visiting from across the state—and the world.”
A Serendipitous Start in Capitola
Their presence in Capitola is made possible by a generous donor who leases the retail space on behalf of the nonprofit—a gift that’s allowed them to amplify their impact. With foot traffic from locals and tourists alike, the store has become a platform for change and conversation. Visitors often leave inspired, curious about how to support similar efforts in their own communities..
CAPITOLA’s COASTAL CHARM
For the Homeless Garden Project team, Capitola is more than just a business location. It’s a place of daily magic. Whether it’s walking a dog along the shoreline at low tide or grabbing fish tacos from Mijo’s and enjoying them on a bench with an ocean view, their favorite moments here reflect the laid-back charm that makes Capitola so memorable.
“Capitola is a magical place,” Amy says. “Even a quick visit feels like a mini vacation.”
From the friendly small business owners to the sounds of the surf echoing through the village, Capitola has that rare quality—both cozy and vibrant, familiar and fresh. Each shop and eatery offers something distinct, often with a personal story behind it.
A SENSORY EXPERIENCE THAT STAYS WITH YOU
Customers often mention the intoxicating aroma when they step into the store, a mix of dried herbs, flowers, and handmade wellness products. The All Natural Salve, crafted in small batches by trainees, has become a community favorite, as has the honey from Rivas Bees in nearby Watsonville.
Whether you’re shopping for a gift or simply browsing, it’s clear this isn’t just retail. It’s a way to directly support someone in transition—to take home something beautiful while contributing to meaningful, local change.
WHY IT’S WORTH THE STOP
If you’re headed to Capitola, carve out time to visit the Homeless Garden Project Store. You’ll walk away with more than a thoughtful gift or cozy sweatshirt—you’ll carry a piece of a bigger story. A reminder that meaningful work, community support, and a bit of coastal magic can grow something powerful.
Photos Courtesy of Opposite of East