Tucked into a corner of Monterey Bay, just east of Santa Cruz, Aptos is a small town bordered by a big ocean and a forest of towering redwoods. Once inhabited by the Ohlone Awaswas people, the area's past reads like a history of California's most adventurous opportunists. It was home to missionaries, then cattle ranchers, then loggers, then partiers looking for a discreet drink during Prohibition. Now, it's a family friendly community with a weekly farmers' market, protected parklands, and 2 beautiful beaches that welcome sunbathers, campers, and nature lovers all year long.
Visitors might expect the ocean views and nature hikes available in this coastal California town, but Aptos is also a source of unexpected intrigue. Take a short drive from your Aptos vacation rental into the redwood forests, and you'll find the Mystery Spot, an attraction based on gravity and visual illusions. You'll experience gravity-defying demonstrations _ balls rolling uphill and people leaning at crazy angles without falling over _ and leave amazed. Vacationers with kids in tow will love the Aptos History Museum, with quaint, lovingly curated exhibits on the history of the area.
Vacationers rave about the weather in Aptos, but so do year-round residents. It's that good. Winter is quieter, as temps dip into the 50s and beach activities grow less popular, but sunny, hike-worthy days are still frequent. In summer, the weather is warm without ever growing oppressively hot. Highs stay near the 70-degree mark. September is the warmest month, and January is the wettest. If you're hoping to avoid the damp but still stick to your budget, try booking an Aptos vacation rental in the fall.
In the cool quiet of the Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, visitors can enjoy more than just exercise. Tall trees shade creeks and canyons, and most of the land is covered in redwood forest, with trees hitting the ripe old age of 120 years and reaching 125 feet tall. The diverse plant life and water sources support many species you'll want to look out for, including cougar, deer, yellow-legged frogs, and the popular and almost neon-yellow banana slug. Birdwatchers can train their binoculars on American dippers, winter wrens, and owls.
The nearest airport is in Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl. Airport (SJC), located 27.2 mi (43.7 km) from the city center. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you might consider flying into Watsonville, CA (WVI-Watsonville Municipal), which is 6.8 mi (11 km) away.
The heart wants what the heart wants, and right now that's a vacation. It's time to pack your suitcase and retreat to one of these top vacation rentals in or near Aptos:
For even more great options, use the search bar at the top of the page to find the perfect Aptos vacation rental for you.
Get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life at one of our weekend getaways in or near Aptos. Whether you'd like to catch up with friends or spend treasured time with your love, there'll be something to suit your style. Here are a few places we think you'll love:
Studio apartments are a simple yet stylish option, perfectly suited for couples or solo adventurers. Spend your days familiarizing yourself with the area and your nights resting up in your cozy hideaway. These getaways in or near Aptos are sure to please:
Whether you're chasing a simple cabin or a house with room enough for the whole family, you'll find the ideal place on Vrbo. Treat yourself to a mini break at one of these favorite picks in or near Aptos:
Forget roses and chocolates. Sometimes all you need is to get away for a weekend, just you and your sweetie. At Vrbo, we've got romantic getaways in and around Aptos that would make even Cupid swoon. Here are some we think you'll be enamored with:
Big groups mean a whole lot of fun. They also mean finding someplace that'll easily fit your whole gang. Check out our large group vacation rentals in or around Aptos and get your loved ones together under one roof:
Nothing says fun times like a pool does. Pull out your inflatable unicorn and check out these rental houses in or near Aptos that come with this added perk: Not sure what the weather is like in Aptos? It has a mediterranean climate, with average temperatures in summer ranging from 55 ºF to 75 ºF. If you're after a little more inspiration on places to stay in this popular destination, use the search bar at the top of the page and adjust the filters to check out our entire range of Aptos vacation rentals.
A family get-together should be a memorable one. Whether you're planning a fun escape with the kids or a long-overdue family reunion, our large family vacation rentals in or near Aptos offer a comfy home away from home with plenty of space for everyone:
If you want to sightsee, there are plenty of family-friendly attractions nearby to add to your to-do list. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Santa Cruz Surfing Museum and Pacific Avenue are great places to start.
Cozy up with your kiddos in a family cabin rental in or near Aptos and get set to make some unforgettable new memories together. Here are some we think you'll love:
For more options, use the search bar at the top of the page and adjust the filters to find the Aptos vacation rental that's perfect for your needs.
Idyllic romantic getaways, business trips or solo adventures — a single-bedroom vacation rental suits a multitude of occasions. One of our options in or near Aptos is sure to fit the bill: