• Where is Aptos located?
    • Aptos, located in Monterey Bay, is just a few miles south of Santa Cruz in the county of the same name.
  • What outdoor attractions can visitors enjoy in Aptos?
    • With the tall redwoods that make California famous around the world in the Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, as well as sandy seaside beaches with great sunset views of the Pacific Ocean, Aptos has outdoor attractions aplenty.
  • How far is Aptos from Monterey?

Things to Do:

1. Go hiking in Forest of Nisene Marks State Park

Go hiking in Forest of Nisene Marks State Park
© Courtesy of Azahara - Fotolia.com

2. Relax with a view in Seacliff State Beach

Relax with a view in Seacliff State Beach
© Courtesy of Yuval Helfman - Fotolia.com

3. Take the kids to Rio Del Mar State Beach

Take the kids to Rio Del Mar State Beach
© Courtesy of Viacheslav Sidorov - Fotolia.com

4. Soak up the sunshine at Manresa State Beach

Soak up the sunshine at Manresa State Beach
© Courtesy of Melastmohican - Fotolia.com

5. See the Exhibits at the Aptos History Museum

See the Exhibits at the Aptos History Museum
© Aptos History Museum

6. Watch a show at the Cabrillo College Theatre

Watch a show at the Cabrillo College Theatre
© Courtesy of eugenesergeev - Fotolia.com

7. Satisfy your sweet tooth at Marianne's Ice Cream

Satisfy your sweet tooth at Marianne's Ice Cream
© Marianne's Ice Cream

8. Get a massage at Santa Cruz Massage Harbor

Get a massage at Santa Cruz Massage Harbor
© Courtesy of Yuval Helfman - Fotolia.com

9. Have dinner at Aptos Street BBQ

Have dinner at Aptos Street BBQ
© Aptos Street BBQ

10. Order tacos at Manuel's Mexican Restaurant

Order tacos at Manuel's Mexican Restaurant
© Manuel's Mexican Restaurant

11. Go on a guided tour with Santa Cruz Bike Tour

Go on a guided tour with Santa Cruz Bike Tour
© Courtesy of dolomites-image - Fotolia.com

12. Play a round of golf at Seascape Golf Course

Play a round of golf at Seascape Golf Course
© somchai /stock.adobe.com

13. Take a tour of Nicholson Vineyards

Take a tour of Nicholson Vineyards
© Nicholson Vineyards


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and wildflowers in bloom. Seacliff Inn, Tapestry Collection by Hilton – A charming stay near the coast. Visit Nisene Marks State Park – Enjoy hiking and exploring redwood forests.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and perfect for beach activities. Rio Sands Hotel – A budget-friendly stay just steps from the beach. Relax at Seacliff State Beach – Enjoy sandy shores and the famous SS Palo Alto shipwreck.
Fall (September-November) – Pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Best Western Seacliff Inn – A comfortable hotel with a great location. Explore the Aptos Farmers Market – Enjoy fresh local produce and artisan goods.
Winter (December-February) – Cool and quiet, great for a peaceful retreat. Seascape Beach Resort – A luxurious oceanfront stay with stunning views. Watch winter waves at Sunset State Beach – A perfect spot for a relaxing coastal walk.

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