The best road cycling routes around Capitola
4.5
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3,049
riders
146
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Road cycling around Capitola features a diverse landscape, combining scenic coastal routes with inland roads that traverse rolling hills and agricultural areas. The region is characterized by its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, offering routes along beaches and cliffs, while also providing access to more challenging climbs into the Santa Cruz Mountains foothills. Road cyclists can expect a mix of flat, fast sections and undulating terrain, with some routes following riverwalks and passing through state beaches.
Best road cycling routes around Capitola
- The most popular road cycling route is Pleasure Point Beach – West Cliff Cycleway loop from Capitola, a 21.6 miles (34.7 km) trail that takes 1 hour 53 minutes to complete. This easy route offers coastal views and a relatively flat profile suitable for many riders.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Pleasure Point Beach – North Rodeo Gulch Road loop from Capitola, a moderate 34.6 miles (55.7 km) path. It features a mix of coastal sections and inland roads with significant elevation gain into the Santa Cruz Mountains.
- Local road cyclists also love the North Rodeo Gulch Road – Pleasure Point Beach loop from New Brighton State Beach, a 22.0 miles (35.4 km) trail leading through coastal paths and inland roads, often completed in about 1 hour 41 minutes.
- Road cycling around Capitola is defined by coastal paths, rolling hills, and riverwalks. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy family-friendly rides to more challenging routes with climbs.
- The routes in Capitola are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 50 reviews. More than 3000 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Capitola's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
4.5
(4)
119
riders
35.1km
02:02
200m
200m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.7
(3)
52
riders
43.4km
02:03
570m
570m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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5.0
(1)
42
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
47
riders
60.6km
02:49
710m
710m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
28
riders
47.3km
02:09
470m
470m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
Nice little lookout point well off the beaten parh.
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Northern entrance to the coastal park from Delaware Ave. The trailhead is pedestrian and biker only, The former road goes straight to the beach, while smaller trails turn east into the Monarch Butterfly Natural Preserve, and West into the upper portions of the State Beach Park.
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Jade Street Park is a community park that offers children's play area, tennis courts, and sports fields for soccer and baseball.
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The Santa Cruz Riverwalk runs along the San Lorenzo River levee from the Highway 1 Bridge to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, providing easy access to downtown Santa Cruz.
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For cyclists exploring Santa Cruz, Pleasure Point Beach on 38th Avenue beckons with its beauty and recreational opportunities. Ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing, the beach offers a picturesque setting. It is accessible via a brief walk from the road.
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Twin Lakes State Beach features a mile of sandy shoreline for swimming and picnicking, situated near the Santa Cruz Harbor. Adjacent Schwan Lake Park offers picturesque walking trails through oak preserves and coastal grasslands, ideal for dog-walking and bird watching. The day-use area operates from sunrise to sunset.
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In the summer of 1885, three young Hawaiian princes ignited the California coast's surfing phenomenon by introducing their boards and the ancient Hawaiian sport to the American mainland. A commemorative plaque near the former lighthouse, now home to a quaint surfing museum, immortalizes this significant moment in history.
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The surfer statue along West Cliff Drive is a landmark of Santa Cruz. The statue stands at 18 feet tall and was inspired by members of the 1936 Santa Cruz Surfing Club.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Capitola?
Capitola offers a wide variety of road cycling experiences, with over 120 routes available. These range from easy coastal rides to more challenging inland climbs.
Are there easy or family-friendly road cycling routes in Capitola?
Yes, Capitola has many easy and family-friendly options. For a relaxed ride with coastal views, consider the Pleasure Point Beach – West Cliff Cycleway loop from Capitola, which is an easy 21.6-mile route.
What are some challenging road cycling routes with climbs near Capitola?
For cyclists seeking more challenging terrain and significant elevation gain, the Pleasure Point Beach – North Rodeo Gulch Road loop from Capitola is a moderate 34.6-mile path that includes inland roads with substantial climbs into the Santa Cruz Mountains foothills.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Capitola?
Capitola generally offers pleasant road cycling conditions year-round due to its mild coastal climate. Spring and fall often provide ideal temperatures and less crowded routes. While winters are mild, be prepared for potential rain, and summers can be busy, especially along the coast.
Are there any longer road cycling routes, around 50 miles, in the Capitola area?
Yes, for longer rides, the Manresa State Beach – Sunset State Beach loop from Soquel is a moderate 37.8-mile (60.9 km) route that offers a substantial distance with varied coastal scenery.
What kind of scenery can I expect on road cycling routes around Capitola?
Road cycling routes around Capitola offer diverse scenery, including stunning coastal paths with ocean views, stretches along riverwalks, and inland roads that wind through rolling hills and agricultural areas. You'll experience a mix of natural beauty and charming urban sections.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Capitola?
The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Capitola, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 60 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from scenic coastal paths to challenging inland climbs, and the well-maintained routes that cater to various skill levels.
Are there any specific landmarks or attractions to see along the road cycling routes?
Many routes offer views or pass near notable attractions. You might cycle past Pleasure Point Beach, Moran Lake Beach and Park, or even the iconic Santa Cruz Lighthouse on some coastal loops.
Are there road cycling routes that follow riverwalks in Capitola?
Yes, some routes incorporate riverwalks. The Santa Cruz Riverwalk – Granite Creek Road loop from Capitola is a moderate 20.3-mile route that includes sections along the river, offering a different scenic experience.
Are there loop trails available for road cycling in Capitola?
Many road cycling routes in Capitola are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Pleasure Point Beach – West Cliff Cycleway loop from Capitola and the Santa Cruz Boardwalk – Pleasure Point Beach loop from Swift Halt.
What is the typical difficulty level of road cycling routes in Capitola?
Capitola's road cycling network caters to all levels. Approximately 33 routes are easy, 54 are moderate, and 39 are considered difficult, ensuring options for beginners, intermediate riders, and experienced cyclists looking for a challenge.
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