Patch Picks: Capitola and Soquel's Best Parks

Some of the best news about living in Capitola or Soquel is the year-round park weather. And there's no shortage of outdoor areas in which to enjoy it. 

1. Esplanade Park
This one is a no-brainer. With and throughout the summer, Esplanade Park is in the perfect location near food options and the beach. And you get to check out the ocean and beach without actually getting wet or sandy.

2. Capitola Beach
Capitola Beach goes hand-in-hand with Esplanade Park, but it does offer something slightly different: sand. The beach is packed these days, but a sunset picnic is hard to beat, even if there's plenty of company.  

3. Jade Street Park
If you want the standard picnic experience, go to Jade Street Park. There are huge fields close enough to the beach to feel the breeze, basketball and tennis courts, and a baseball field if you want to make it a daylong outing. 

One of the most popular multi-use parks in the county, Anna Jean Cummings Park has athletic facilities, walking trails, a playground and a picnic area. It's your one-stop shop.

If you want the beach experience without as much commotion as Capitola Village, check out New Brighton State Beach. For a nice staycation, visit the campground, too. The parking isn't free, but it's worth it for a day trip.