easy
1–3 hours
Moderate fitness recommended; ability to paddle and balance required but lessons accommodate all levels.
Capitola Surf and Paddle delivers personalized surf lessons and stand-up paddle tours along California’s scenic coast. Discover how this local favorite combines ocean adventure with environmental insight.
Located along California’s vibrant Monterey Bay coast, Capitola offers a dynamic playground for water enthusiasts looking to get on the waves and gliding across open water. Capitola Surf and Paddle provides a range of hands-on, personalized experiences from stand-up paddle eco tours to surf lessons of all skill levels. This makes them a standout option for visitors seeking both adventure and education in the California surf scene. Capitola itself is a colorful seaside town with a rich surf history and a welcoming vibe, surrounded by distinctive coastal formations like the rocky cliffs of Soquel Cove and the sandy stretches of Capitola Beach—ideal backdrops for learning water sports.
Capitola Surf and Paddle’s offerings tap deeply into the local marine environment. Their stand-up paddle eco tours highlight the ecological diversity of Monterey Bay, including encounters with sea otters, harbor seals, and sometimes even migrating gray whales offshore. Whether on a semi-private or private surf lesson, their experienced instructors tailor coaching to your level, focusing on technique and ocean safety amid gentle, beginner-friendly waves.
The Ladies Surf Clinic creates a supportive, skill-focused setting encouraging women to build confidence in the water. For those who want to rent gear or refine their paddling and surfing abilities, the company’s surf coaching and rental options cover all the bases. Capitola’s unique charm lies in how the natural landscape—combining calm bay waters and consistently rideable surf—allows for varied water experiences within a compact area.
Beyond the waves, Capitola Surf and Paddle’s commitment to environmental stewardship through their eco touring fosters a greater appreciation for the coastal ecosystem. This makes them an excellent choice for travelers wanting authentic interaction with California’s ocean environment coupled with professional guidance. If you’re headed to Capitola, this business offers a gateway to both skillful water sports adventure and memorable, responsible marine encounters.
Tide levels affect wave quality and water conditions; mid to high tides usually provide gentler surf for lessons.
Coastal mornings can be cool and foggy, so bring a wetsuit and a windbreaker for comfort.
Maintain distance from sea otters and seals during eco tours to minimize disturbance.
Summer brings peak tourist season and demand, so reserve your spot ahead of time.
Capitola was one of the earliest California coastal villages to embrace surf culture in the 1960s, shaping its welcoming water sports community.
The company promotes leave-no-trace principles and partners with local groups to protect fragile marine habitats and minimize human impact.
Provides warmth and protection in the typically cool Monterey Bay waters.
all specific
Important to prevent sunburn during extended time on the water.
summer specific
Help protect feet when launching from rocky or slippery shorelines.
spring|fall|winter specific
Staying hydrated is critical when active outdoors, especially in sunny coastal climates.
all specific