Location: Aptos
Top Things to do in Aptos
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Top 5 Budget-friendly Things to do in Aptos, California (CA)
Combining the redwoods and the sea into one idyllic setting, Aptos is a quaint town that serves as home to the forested Nisene Marks State Park, perfect for mountain biking and hiking. Historic Aptos Village features antique shops, restaurants and boutiques. For the perfect spot to picnic, barbecue, or take a seaside stroll, head to Seacliff State beach and walk to the end of the pier to see the S.S. Palo Alto, an experimental concrete vessel known as “the cement ship”.
Restaurants in Aptos
1. Forest of Nisene Marks State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 167 reviews
The location of 1989's devastating earthquake.
Reviewed By CDBCDB - Lodi, United States
I can't believe this was out first trip to Nisene Marks Park...We hiked over 7 miles that day on two different trails. Our friends led us to the Loma Prieta earthquake epicenter, which as a California native, is a must-see. We will definitely return, and I plan on trying a mountain bike next time.
2. Manresa State Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 75 reviews
Reviewed By mini - Fremont, United States
We went to Manresa State Beach on a gorgeous day. The ocean was very pretty. One walks down the stairs from the parking area to the beach. Its nice to walk there. There are places for picnics, beach play and more.
3. Seacliff State Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 164 reviews
Reviewed By jenniferkG7820YY
First time visiting the area. Stayed within walking distance of this state park. It was in September so it was pretty quiet. Beautiful beach that you could walk for miles. RV camping available at beach front if you are so inclined. Lots of sea birds and the cement ship SS Palo Alto was facinating. The little gift shop had the history of the SS Palo Alto, a tank with some sealife and a wide assortment of things to purchase.
4. Rio Del Mar State Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 73 reviews
Reviewed By sonofdragon - San Jose, United States
Rio del Mar (RdM) State Beach is a cozy neighborhood beach in Santa Cruz County. Lies along the coastline between SeaCliff State Beach and the vast expansive La Selva/Manresa beaches, RdM beach is an active recreational beach where you’ll see people surfing, fishing, sun-worshiping, picnicking, playing volleyball, walking dogs, jogging, hiking, or family gathering. Parallel to the beach is the free parking area at the Esplanade. Restroom is right next to the beach. We came here for the 10K step challenge on Dec. 26, where the sun was up and shining, a much-needed spirit-booster after the heavily rained down Christmas day. We walked toward Manresa Beach and surprisingly, we were treated with an enchanting view along the coast. The reflection of the sky made a marvelous landscape for the day, completed with pillowy clouds like cotton candies, happy people engaging, busy birds foraging, prancing waves calling, cool air breezy and relaxing … A natural wonder in its own right, only likely could be seen/experienced during rainy season, esp right after the rain when the glorifying sun is coming out from hiding. ‘though it may not compete with the austere grandeur of Salar de Uyuni, the majestic scenery of a miniature mirror of the world that day is equally rewarding in ecstatic experience for those who were first-hand witness of that special moment. One can easily get lost/confused to distinguish where the sky ends and land begins. Check weather outlook prior to visit. Catch this tiny magical corner of the world right in your neighborhood at a fraction of the cost.
5. S.S. Palo Alto Concrete Ship
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 48 reviews
Reviewed By 908davel - Aptos, United States
The Palo Alto was sunk off the Rio Del Mar beach years ago. A pier was built connecting it to the shore. There once was a dancing venue, several places to get a bite to eat and, of course, there was fishing. Over the years many violent storms have battered the ship and pier causing much damage. Within the last two (2) years a major storm has undermined the structural integrity of the pier...consequently, access to the pier has been denied in the interest of public safety.
