Capitola Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Ideal Surf Conditions
Swell Direction
S, SSW, W
Wind
NW, N, Glassy
Surf Height
Small to well overhead.
Tide
Medium.
Capitola Surf Guide
A soft, gentle, right-hand reef/point that is popular with beginners and longboarders, Capitola is a staple of the Santa Cruz surf scene, and has the crowds to prove it (especially in summer). There is also a shorter, slightly more powerful left off the back of the right.
Ability Level
All Abilities
Great option for beginners, but still fun for proficient longboarders.
Local Vibe
Welcoming
This is essentially a crowded beginner spot, so localism would be pointless.
Crowd Factor
Heavy
Super crowded in summer; moderately crowded in autumn.
Spot Rating
Poor
Far from the best wave in Santa Cruz, unless you are a beginner (in which case this is where you should surf).
Shoulder Burn
Light
Easy spot to surf, which is why so many beginners are here.
Water Quality
Fair
As clean as anywhere in Santa Cruz (which is to say the water quality ranges from tolerable to good).
Hazards
Rocks, beginners, errant longboards.
Bring Your
Funboard, Longboard
Access
Parking is available throughout Santa Cruz, although it tends to fill up fast, especially in summer.
Bottom
Rocky reef and sand.
Best Season
Gets swell year round, but summer and Autumn tend to be best.
Do you have local knowledge about Capitola?
If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at [email protected]