About Capitola Boat & Bait
Capitola Boat & Bait has been a fixture on the Capitola Wharf for decades, providing boat rentals, fishing equipment, and bait to anglers and recreational boaters on the northern shore of Monterey Bay. Located at 1400 Wharf Road in the charming seaside village of Capitola — just a few miles south of downtown Santa Cruz — the shop sits right at the end of the wharf with direct water access, making it one of the most convenient places in the area to launch a day on the bay. The setting alone is worth the visit, with panoramic views of the Capitola coastline and the colorful Venetian-style buildings lining the beach below.
The rental fleet centers on motorized skiffs that are perfect for fishing the waters around Capitola, from the kelp beds just offshore to the deeper reefs and sand flats where halibut, lingcod, rockfish, and perch are common catches. In addition to motorized boats, the shop rents kayaks and stand-up paddleboards for those who prefer a quieter, human-powered experience on the water. Bait, tackle, fishing licenses, and basic supplies are all available on-site, so anglers can show up empty-handed and leave fully equipped. Boats are available by the day, and the staff provides a safety briefing and local tips before every rental.
What makes Capitola Boat & Bait a standout is the old-school, no-frills character that feels increasingly rare on the California coast. There are no flashy booking apps or upsell packages — just solid boats, reliable gear, and staff who know the local waters inside out. For families, couples, or solo anglers looking for an authentic small-town fishing experience on Monterey Bay, this wharf-side operation delivers exactly what it promises.
