August has a way of reminding us to slow down.
The days are still long, the sun lingers a little later over Monterey Bay, and Capitola Village is filled with the kind of energy that only summer brings. Families gather on the beach, friends linger over patio dinners, live music fills the evening air, and colorful storefronts welcome visitors looking for something they won’t find anywhere else.
If you’ve been thinking about planning a Capitola Village getaway, there is no better time than August. Whether you’re visiting for the day or staying for the weekend, you’ll find everything you need within a few walkable blocks: beautiful beaches, locally owned boutiques, waterfront restaurants, live entertainment, and unforgettable coastal views.
Here’s how to make the most of your August visit.
Start Your Morning Along Monterey Bay
One of the best things about Capitola Village is that there is no right way to experience it.
Wake up early and watch the Village come to life with a cup of coffee in hand. Stroll along the Esplanade while surfers catch the morning waves, paddleboarders glide across the calm water, and fishing boats head out into Monterey Bay.
Take your time wandering the colorful streets before the afternoon crowds arrive. The slower pace is part of what makes Capitola Village such a favorite destination along the California coast.
Whether you’re staying overnight or visiting for the day, mornings here feel refreshingly unhurried.
Spend the Day Shopping Local
Shopping in Capitola Village is about discovering businesses you won’t find anywhere else.
The Village is home to locally owned boutiques, art galleries, surf shops, specialty gift stores, home décor shops, jewelry boutiques, children’s stores, beachwear retailers, and handmade goods created by local artists.
Instead of rushing through a shopping center, every storefront invites you to slow down, browse, and discover something unexpected.
Looking for the perfect beach outfit? Need a thoughtful gift? Searching for artwork to remember your trip? You’ll find it here.
Explore all of our local boutiques and businesses before your visit:
Shop Capitola Village → Shop Local
Relax on Capitola Beach
No visit to Capitola Village is complete without spending time on Capitola Beach.
Spread out a towel, jump in the water, rent a paddleboard, watch the surfers, build sandcastles with the kids, or simply sit back and enjoy the view.
Capitola Beach has been welcoming visitors for generations because it offers something for everyone. Families love the gentle shoreline, couples enjoy waterfront walks, and anyone looking to unplug can spend hours listening to the waves.
If you’re looking for one of the best California beach towns to relax and recharge, this is it.
Enjoy Waterfront Dining
After a morning in the sun, it’s time to eat.
One of the biggest draws of Capitola Village is its incredible variety of restaurants, all within easy walking distance of the beach. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, handmade pizza, tacos, burgers, casual cafés, or a memorable dinner overlooking Monterey Bay, you’ll find something for every taste.
Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, making it easy to enjoy ocean views while you dine.
Don’t forget dessert. Ice cream, fresh baked treats, coffee, and sweet shops are all part of the Capitola experience.
Browse restaurants before your visit:
Where to Eat → Restaurants & Cafés
Stay for the Weekend
Here’s the secret most visitors discover after their first trip:
One day in Capitola Village simply isn’t enough.
Instead of squeezing everything into a single afternoon, turn your visit into a weekend escape. Stay at one of the Village’s boutique hotels, charming inns, beachfront accommodations, or vacation rentals, and experience what it’s like to wake up just steps from the beach.
Everything is walkable, which means you can spend less time driving and more time enjoying the restaurants, shops, beach, and waterfront.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a spontaneous coastal escape, staying overnight lets you experience Capitola Village at a slower pace.
Find your perfect place to stay:
Plan Your Stay → Hotels & Vacation Rentals
Experience August Events
Summer continues all month long in Capitola Village.
August is filled with opportunities to experience the community that makes this seaside destination so special. From the popular Twilight Concert Series to seasonal events, local gatherings, and family-friendly activities, there’s always something happening around the Village.
Planning your visit around an event is a great way to experience Capitola like a local while enjoying live music, community celebrations, and beautiful evenings by the water.
See everything happening this month:
August Events Calendar → Events Calendar
Why August Is One of the Best Times to Visit Capitola Village
There is something different about August.
The excitement of early summer has settled into an easy rhythm. The water is warm, the evenings are comfortable, businesses are full of life, and every sunset seems to encourage you to stay just a little longer.
Whether you’re visiting from across California or exploring your own backyard, Capitola Village offers the perfect combination of beach relaxation, local shopping, waterfront dining, and community events. It’s a place where mornings begin with ocean views, afternoons are spent discovering local businesses, and evenings end with dinner, live music, and sunsets over Monterey Bay.
Summer isn’t over yet.
There’s still time for one more beach day. One more weekend getaway. One more unforgettable visit to Capitola Village.
We can’t wait to welcome you.
Follow @capitolavillage on Instagram and tag #ExperienceCapitola to share your August in the Village.
Travel Blog and Photos Courtesy of Opposite of East