California's oldest seaside resort, tucked in a river valley on sparkling Monterey Bay, offers a perfect escape from everyday stress. This 20-page article describes in words and photographs the charm and wonder of one day in historic Capitola Village. From the white sand beach, which is groomed daily, to the Monarch Butterfly Grove, Capitola is both fascinating and intimate. It's a perfect place to slow down and enjoy the surf's relaxing rythm. (4,654 words)

* The Not So Fast travel essays explore fascinating places for readers who enjoy slow and easy travels — who like photographing landscapes, wandering gentle trails, strolling through libraries or along ocean beaches, who like to check out historic buildings as well as out-of-the-way locales.