Few things are better than the smell of the ocean and feel of the sea spray on your skin. Located at the end of the wharf, these sensations are part of the fishing experience as well as the Capitola Boat & Bait experience. The building has been in this spot for more than 50 years and the current owners have been providing boating and baiting needs for the last 14 years.
A small convenience store has walls plastered with photos of those who have caught something using Capitola's boats. Over the past 14 years, the wall has been covered and they still continue to add peoples' memories to the business. Capitola provides rental services you can get your hands on: boats, kayaks, boogie boards, fishing poles, crab nets, hydrobikes, wetsuits and, during the summer, choose from a selection of sailboats and motorboats. Capitola Boat & Bait is a friendly store that always has service with a smile and a conversation.
Stan Wong of the California Parks Company manages Lake Chabot's marina concession under contract with the East Bay Regional Parks system. Along with snacks, lunches, beverages (no alcohol) and anything else you might need for a day in the park, this is where to buy a fishing license (required for those 16 and older) and to learn what fish have been stocked in the lake. Rowboats, pedal boats and kayaks can be rented for $20 to $60 an hour, with discounts for three hours or more. Fishing gear and life jackets for rental or sale. (Swimming and wading is not allowed, because the lake is a drinking-water source.) The cafe is next to the lake, behind the picnic area; from Lake Chabot Road, follow the signs to the marina. The website is updated weekly with info about fish, lake conditions, etc.
The Marina Sailing offices are located on Marina Way and Harbor Drive. Marina Sailing, based in King Harbor, rents several types of boats, including yachts and racing boats, and offers different training and certification programs. All different skill and experience levels are welcome and the company offers different products and services according to customers' backgrounds. Prices for chartering range from hourly to daily rates. Marina Sailing also offers sailing club membership, which greatly reduces the costs of its programs.
Marina Boat Rentals rents more than just boats. It also has kayaks, hydrobikes, stand-up paddleboards, pedal boats, wave-runners, sailboats and powerboats. It is conveniently located on the dock right in front of El Torito restaurant. Its gate and sign are directly in-between El Torito and The Angler's Choice and shared with Catalina-Marina Del Rey Flyer. The office is in a small, yellow structure located right on the dock and beside the ramp. It has a large sign with "U-Drive" written more visibly than its company name.
