Hooper Beach(Hooper's Beach)

Near Hooper Beach, there are several excellent dining options. Zelda's on the Beach offers a lively atmosphere with American food and live music, featuring a beachfront deck perfect for enjoying seafood dishes. Another popular spot is Shadowbrook Restaurant, known for its old-world charm and California cuisine with a focus on seafood and steak. For a more casual experience, Paradise Beach Grille provides American eats with patio dining and occasional live music. Additionally, Margaritaville offers a lively setting for casual Californian cuisine and cocktails. Lastly, The Sand Bar Capitola is a relaxed haunt featuring bar grub and live music nights.

For accommodations near Hooper Beach, the Capitola Venetian Hotel is a standout choice, offering Mediterranean-style suites with many having ocean views. Another option is the Capitola Beach Suites, which provides a relaxed atmosphere with complimentary WiFi and an ocean-view rooftop terrace. The Best Western Plus Capitola By-the-Sea Inn & Suites offers warm rooms and suites with a heated outdoor pool. For a more boutique experience, the Capitola Hotel features Caribbean-inspired rooms with bay views and free breakfast.

Hooper Beach itself does not have extensive amenities like restrooms or showers, but visitors can access these facilities at nearby Capitola Beach. Capitola Beach offers restrooms, showers, and picnic areas, making it a convenient option for those visiting Hooper Beach. Additionally, rental equipment for activities like surfing or kayaking can be found near Capitola Beach.

The Capitola Wharf, located nearby, provides additional amenities such as fishing opportunities and scenic views. Local shops and restaurants also offer a range of services and supplies for beachgoers.

Hooper Beach is ideal for dog walking and birdwatching due to its tranquil atmosphere. Fishing is also a popular activity, especially from the nearby Capitola Wharf. For those interested in water sports, nearby Capitola Beach offers surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding opportunities. The calm waters on the western side of Capitola Beach are particularly suitable for beginners learning to surf.

The area around Hooper Beach is also great for nature lovers, with opportunities to observe local wildlife and enjoy scenic views.

While Hooper Beach itself may not have specific disability access features, nearby Capitola Beach offers amenities that are more accessible. Capitola Beach provides disabled access through its facilities like restrooms and showers. Additionally, some of the nearby restaurants and hotels offer wheelchair-accessible entrances and restrooms, ensuring that visitors with disabilities can enjoy the area.

Parking near Hooper Beach is primarily metered and can be found along Cliff Drive and Wharf Road. The proximity to the beach varies, with some spots requiring a short walk down stairs from the bluff. Parking spaces are limited, so visitors should be prepared to pay for parking and potentially search for a spot during peak times.

For those planning to spend the day at nearby Capitola Beach, additional parking options are available near Capitola City Hall, which offer a short walk to the beach.

Hooper Beach is named after Harry Hooper, a Hall of Fame baseball player who was a prominent figure in Capitola. Despite being part of Capitola Beach, where dogs are technically not allowed, Hooper Beach has become a popular spot for dog owners due to its relaxed enforcement of pet policies.

The beach is also part of the larger Capitola Beach area, which hosts various community events throughout the year, including concerts and art shows.

One of the main attractions near Hooper Beach is the Capitola Wharf, which offers stunning ocean views and fishing opportunities. Visitors can also explore the Capitola Museum, located nearby, to learn more about the local history and culture. For nature enthusiasts, the nearby Soquel Creek provides a picturesque setting with birdwatching opportunities.

Additionally, the colorful and vibrant Capitola Village is just a short stroll away, featuring unique shops, art galleries, and restaurants.