The quaint town of Aptos is in an unincorporated area of Santa Cruz County that includes Rio Del Mar, Seacliff, and Seascape.  It is also the home of historic Aptos Village, and the Forest of Nisene Marks State Park. Hikers, runners and mountain bikers enjoy the 30 miles of trails where remnants of mill sites and trestles still exist.

 

Nearby, Seacliff State Beach is the perfect spot for a cookout or picnic, with barbecue grills and shaded picnic tables. A mile-long seaside paved path runs parallel to the ocean, a perfect place for an invigorating walk. “The Cement Ship,” a local landmark, is docked at the end of the fishing pier.

 

On the south side of the pier, Rio Del Mar State Beach is a great spot for dog lovers and beach fires.  A vibrant new town center graces the heart of Aptos Village, a pedestrian-friendly spot where artisan ice cream, local retailers, small-batch coffee, destination eateries, and a small sweet park combine to add local flair to this mid-county destination.