Capitola’s Natural Riches

Capitola’s Natural Riches. The Capitola Wharf. The riches of river and sea have attracted people to this area for hundreds of years. The Soquel Ohlone Indians once hunted and gathered in nearby valleys and along the shore, Later Chinese and Italian fishermen harvested the bay’s fish and shellfish. In the late 1800s, visitors seeking relief from the valley heat were attracted to cooler weather and scenic coastal beauty. These days Capitola’s charm is enhanced by its intimate relationship with the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. The Sanctuary’s heath is linked to human activity on land and waterways leading to the bay., Keeping it Beautiful, Throughout Capitola’s history people have worked to keep the beach beautiful and open to the public. In the late 1800s Samuel Hall and Fredrick Hihn developed campgrounds and a resort where vacationers could stay in the stylish Capitola Hotel, or pitch a tent for free. Now, as part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, the beach is protected for all to enjoy., The Capitola Wharf, The wharf, built in 1857, has always been a favorite spot for fishing and enjoying the bay. Originally it was an important point for shipping lumber, leather, and other goods. Today the wharf offers intimate views of the Marine Sanctuary where fishing, boating and diving are allowed. Oil drilling, ocean dumping, and other activities that harm the Sanctuary’s health are prohibited.