Aptos California

Aptos California Information

Attractions and Activities in Aptos

Strolling along the wooden walkways in front of 19th century building facades, quaint little Aptos is an attraction in and of itself.  Of course, as the gateway between Santa Cruz County’s beaches and redwood forests, Aptos attractions are much more far-reaching.  Hike or bike along the Nisene Marks State Park’s 30 miles of trails and visit The Advocate – a redwood tree with a 45-foot circumference.  Spend the day relaxing and picnicking at Seacliff State Beach and take a gander at the curious SS Palo Alto, a concrete ship with its own festival in June.

Dining in Aptos

Like all of the Santa Cruz County towns, dining in Aptos is primarily characterized by the locally-grown produce and freshly-caught seafood from Monterey Bay.  Though the restaurants in Aptos provide visitors with a variety of cuisines from all over the world, the town’s specialties are French, Italian and Mediterranean.  Local and tourist favorites include Aptos Pizza, Au Midi, Bittersweet Bistro, Café Sparrow Restaurant, Ma Maison Restaurant, Severino’s Bar and Grill and Zameen.

Shopping in Aptos

The place to go for shopping in Aptos is Rancho del Mar - an outdoor mall that the town claims to be one of Santa Cruz County’s best outdoor shopping centers.  In addition to some chain stores, Rancho del Mar is home to locally-owned gems that include Aptos Jewelers, Bike Station Aptos, Bookworks and Mad Molecule.  Stop by Deluxe Foods of Aptos or the Aptos Farmers Market to sample some of the area’s renowned local produce.  Shoppers will also find a selection of flowers and locally-produced art at the farmers market.