Welcome to Aptos
Historic and charming villages with stunning views.
Aptos, which is Ohlone for "The People," is an unincorporated town in Santa Cruz County, California. Several small villages, including Seacliff, Aptos Hills-Larkin Valley, Aptos Village, Seascape, Cabrillo, and Rio del Mar, make up this community, with a combined population of over 24,000.
A burgeoning timber industry helped Aptos become a boomtown in the early 1900s, and the early 1960s in Aptos saw rapid development, including the Rancho del Mar Shopping Center, Cabrillo College, the Seascape Resort, and many residential developments. Today, Aptos is a seaside locale with a vibrant atmosphere.
What to Love
- Beautiful towering redwoods
- Dazzling sunset views and outdoor attractions
- The pier and cement ship
- Historic and charming villages
- The Forest of Nisene Marks State park
Local Lifestyle
Aptos, California, is surrounded by awe-inspiring landscapes. It offers a delicate mix of new construction and historic areas with homes ranging from rural mountain cabins to sprawling beachfront properties. Hillsides offer plenty of private spaces, while Monterey Bay features wide open water and beaches.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Recently redeveloped, Aptos has become a true destination spot with brand new dining, including celebrity chef David Kinch's Mentone restaurant, Cat & Cloud Coffee, and flagship grocery store New Leaf Market.
Mentone Restuarant is serving up a fun, inventive take on Riviera cuisine, pulling inspiration from French and Italian fares. It features fine wine and pasta inspired by Michelin star chef David Kinch. Top tasting experiences in Aptos include Sante Arcangeli Family Wines, Armitage Wines, and Ser Winery Tasting Room.
Things to Do
Aptos Village is considered the hot spot of activity in Aptos. It hosts the Annual Santa Cruz Blues Festival and the Fourth of July World's Shortest Parade.
There are also lots of shops and cafes perfect for strolling or enjoying a Sunday brunch. The Aptos History Museum and year-round farmer's market are located in Aptos Village Park.
Aptos residents have the luxury of staying active by enjoying the 30 miles of trails in The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park or gathering along some of Aptos' neverending beaches.
You'll also want to take a look at the SS Palo Alto, one of only three ships to be built of concrete before World War I.
Schools
The public school district serving Aptos is the Pajaro Valley Unified Shcool District which caters to over 20,000 students across 34 schools, grades K-12. Aptos is also home to Cabrillo College, a highly sought-after Community College with over 11,000 enrolled annually.
-
Mar Vista, Elementary, K-6
-
Valencia Elementary, K-6
-
Aptos, Junior High, 7-8
-
Aptos High School, 9-12
-
Cabrillo College, University