The best cycling routes around Capitola

Capitola offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 130 options recorded on komoot. These routes cater to all skill levels, from easy coastal rides to challenging climbs through redwood forests.

The region features diverse terrain. You'll find extensive coastal paths with stunning ocean views, rolling hills, and trails winding through lush redwood forests, particularly within Nisene Marks State Park. Soquel Creek also adds to the scenic charm as it flows through the area.

Yes, Capitola has several easy routes perfect for families. A great option is the Capitola Village loop, an easy 9.1-mile (14.6 km) path that provides a leisurely ride through the charming village and along the coast. Another family-friendly route is the East Cliff Drive, offering coastal charm and views of iconic surf breaks.

For more challenging rides, head towards the redwood forests. The Aptos Creek and Buzzard Lagoon Loop is a difficult 31.4-mile (50.5 km) route that ascends through redwood forests and features significant elevation gain. Nisene Marks State Park also offers various mountain biking trails for advanced riders.

Many routes offer stunning views and pass by notable attractions. You can cycle past Pleasure Point Beach, Natural Bridges State Beach with its natural arches and monarch butterfly colony, and the historic Capitola Village with its colorful Venetian cottages. The Pleasure Point Beach – West Cliff Cycleway loop from Capitola offers continuous ocean views and passes by the Santa Cruz Wharf and Beach Boardwalk.

Yes, Capitola offers several excellent loop routes. Besides the Capitola Village loop, you can also enjoy the Pleasure Point Beach – West Cliff Cycleway loop from Capitola, which is a moderate 21.1-mile (34.0 km) ride. Another option is the West Cliff Cycleway – Natural Bridges State Beach loop, offering a moderate 18.2-mile (29.3 km) ride.

The touring cycling routes in Capitola are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 69 reviews. Cyclists often praise the stunning coastal views, the variety of terrain from beaches to redwood forests, and the charming atmosphere of Capitola Village and nearby attractions.

Capitola generally enjoys mild weather, making it suitable for cycling year-round. However, spring and fall often offer the most pleasant conditions with comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. The coastal routes are particularly enjoyable during these seasons, while the redwood forests provide shade during warmer months.

Yes, the diverse landscapes of Capitola provide opportunities for wildlife spotting. Along the coast, you might see marine life and various seabirds. Inland, especially in areas like Nisene Marks State Park, you could encounter local forest wildlife. Natural Bridges State Beach is also famous for its winter colony of monarch butterflies.

Capitola Village itself is very bike-friendly, with numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops where you can stop for refreshments. Many coastal routes also pass through or near other towns and popular spots like Pleasure Point, offering various options for a break.

Parking is generally available at various points along the coast and near popular trailheads. Capitola Village has public parking, and many state beaches and parks in the area, such as New Brighton State Beach and Seacliff State Beach, offer parking facilities that can serve as starting points for your rides.

Absolutely! Capitola's touring cycling routes are perfectly situated for exploring nearby attractions. You can easily cycle to the Santa Cruz Wharf and Beach Boardwalk, visit Natural Bridges State Beach, or explore the charming shops and restaurants of Capitola Village. The routes are designed to showcase the region's beauty and points of interest.