Capitola, California – The Charming, Lively City by the Sea

When people think of California, they think of sun, sand and sea, culture and diversity. Although many look to popular cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego as places to be seen and settle in, there are also people who are drawn to other gems that offer the best of what California represents. One such area is Capitola, a city that has long been admired for its beauty and unique quality. So just what is so charming about Capitola, California?

Capitola dreamin’
Capitola, California is known for its picturesque views. Sitting on the northeastern area of Monterey Bay, the city is an interesting study in varying textures — rocky shorelines, steep cliffs, sloping roads and panoramic views of the stunning Santa Cruz Mountains and Monterey Bay.

This coastal town is the home of New Brighton Beach, a popular spot for summer tourists and vacationers. The wide beaches and scenic grounds offer plenty of opportunities for play and recreation, including surfing, beach volleyball, fishing, hiking, rock climbing and golf. Surf lessons are also offered by numerous shops and amateur surfers along the beach from June to September.

For shoppers, there’s Capitola Mercantile, located at the center of the city. Styled as a European-inspired bazaar, the Mercantile is filled with specialty shops selling locally handcrafted items.

Culture, culture
Capitola was named after the lead female character in ‘The Hidden Land’, written by E.D.E.N. southworth. The novel, incidentally, was a favorite of the daughter of Samuel Hall who founded the city in 1874. As the oldest of the beach resorts in the United States, Capitola has successfully maintained a lively cultural program that promotes the arts through sponsorship, special programs and various activities.

Due to its location, weather and general environment, Capitola has become a favorite destination among tourists. Each year, the city’s population swells as visitors come to play and spend their summers here, soaking in the life in a beach town clasped within a valley surrounded by two cliffs. The river that flows through this charming city is Soquel Creek, also the main attraction for the yearly Begonia Festival. This is a festival of the flowers, where locals and visitors alike deck floats with blooms and show them off in a fluvial parade.

Capitola also hosts an annual arts and wine festival, showcasing local talents and the best of the year’s harvest. It continues to attract the interest of enthusiasts year after year.

For homeowners and new home buyers who want one of the finest natural attractions in the state of California, Capitola is a natural choice. With its weather and beautiful environment, Capitola has always tempted people to come and enticed even more to stay.

Author: Gerald Connor
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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