Santa Cruz County, California - An iconic point of interest connecting the Monterey Bay to Capitola Village has been upgraded and renovated after being partially destroyed by waves during a heavy winter storm in January 2022. Two feet longer than San Francisco's Transamerica Pyramid laid on its side and pre-dating the American Civil War, the 855-foot Capitola Wharf has reopened to visitors.   

The $10.6 million construction project to rebuild and strengthen the historic wharf began in September 2023. Renovations include new pressure-treated Douglas fir planks, an ornate entrance gate, interpretive panels, a new boat launch area, new restrooms, free mounted binocular stations, and interpretive signage about Monterey Bay, its wildlife and history. Nearly all of the wharf's decking and railings have been replaced and the structure has been widened from 20 feet to 36 feet wide.  

For more information on Capitola and other destinations within Santa Cruz County, visit SantaCruz.org. 

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Getting There:   

Located along the Central Coast, Santa Cruz County, California, is approximately 70 miles/113 km south of San Francisco and 349 miles/562 km from Los Angeles. Many visitors choose to take scenic Highway 1 along the California coastline to Santa Cruz or Highway 17 through the Santa Cruz Mountains. Visitors can also choose to fly into San Francisco International Airport or San Jose Mineta International Airport.   

Press Contact:  

Christina Glynn, Director of Communications  

Visit Santa Cruz County   

Phone:  +1.831.425.1234 ext. 111

Email:  cglynn@santacruz.org.  

Mail:  303 Water Street, #100, Santa Cruz, CA  95060  

About VSCC: A private, non-profit corporation, Visit Santa Cruz County (VSCC) exists to enhance tourism and the economy by positioning Santa Cruz County as a visitor, conference, and film destination. For more information, contact VSCC at +1.831.425.1234 or visit VSCC's website at SantaCruz.org.