The best road cycling routes around Capitola
4.3
(60)
3,853
riders
137
rides
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…
Last updated: April 26, 2026
4.5
(4)
116
riders
34.7km
01:53
200m
200m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
46
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
38
riders
32.5km
01:37
370m
370m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
26
riders
61.6km
03:12
1,000m
1,000m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
2.5
(2)
57
riders
26.3km
01:46
180m
180m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Nice little lookout point well off the beaten parh.
0
0
What's special about this path is that it takes you from Santa Cruz to the Wilder Ranch Park without using Route 1. Once there, you have multiple dirt path choices to ride around up into the park.
0
0
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.
1
0
A small but cozy beach along East Cliff Drive, featuring a lake and a park. There’s bike parking nearby and benches overlooking the water, making it a great spot to pause during your ride, enjoy the ocean views, or even take a refreshing dip. The beach is especially nice during low tide.
0
0
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.
0
0
This memorial commemorates the former Villa de Branciforte, established in the late 18th century. This place never prospered and was eventually annexed into the city of Santa Cruz in the early 20th century. Of the buildings in this villa, only the Branciforte Adobe remains.
0
0
Isbel Grove is a forest beside Branciforte Dog Park in Delaveaga Park with wonderful views.
0
0
Pringle Grove is a small-forested area that has Soquel San Jose Road passing through. Although the route follows a busy road, you'll also pass through a lush green area, which happens to be the cemetery. For a more enjoyable ride, it's recommended to avoid rush hour, as the road can get quite busy with cars.
0
0
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.
Most popular attractions around Capitola
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
