Travel
Aptos, California
Directions
Aptos is a small city near Santa Cruz. It is about a 6 Hour drive from the greater LA area or a 1 hour scenic drive from the San Jose International Airport.
Where to Stay
Hotels, Inns, Campgrounds
We have rooms blocked off for wedding guests at a nearby hotel in the Aptos area. Mention our wedding (Jazzy and Jeff’s Wedding) when you book to get the group discount or follow the link below for ease of online booking.
Shuttles are anticipated to be departing from this location.
If a campground is more your style, this area is filled with some of the best camping California offers! Some of our favorites are below - you can’t go wrong with any!
SANTA CRUZ REDWOODS RV RESORT
4980 Hwy 9
Felton, CA 95018
+1 (831) 335-8312
SEACLIFF STATE BEACH CAMPGROUND
State Park Dr
Aptos, CA
+1 (831) 685-6500
If a you’re looking for a place to stay that is unique to the Santa Cruz area - a bit farther from the venue - here are some places we love.
CHAMINADE RESORT & SPA
1 Chaminade Ln
Santa Cruz, CA 95065
+1(831) 475-5600
CASABLANCA INN - BEACH
101 Main Street
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
+1 831-423-1570
If there are a few of you and you are looking for a group getaway, you can utilize the airbnb’s in the area. In the Santa Cruz mountains there are many unique airbnb homes that can be split between a few couples.
What to Do
Activities in the Aptos Area
Aptos is on the cusp of both the Redwood forest and the California Beaches - you aren’t short of activities that you can do here. Here's a small sampling of the activities in the area.
ROARING CAMP TRAIN RIDE
Hop on a scenic roundtrip train adventure through the redwood forest. In the 1880s, narrow-gauge steam trains played a pivotal role in transporting huge redwood logs from the mountains. Roaring Camp boasts steam engines dating back to 1890, making them among the oldest and most authentically preserved narrow-gauge steam engines that regularly serve passengers in the USA. Dive into tales of Roaring Camp's history and witness vintage steam engines from the 1890s.
CABLECAR DINING
The heart of Shadowbrook is a log cabin from the 1920s, reached by its iconic hillside "Cable Car." A 75-year-old gem that combines "Old World" charm with inventive cuisine, ensuring a timeless experience that evolves with the times while honoring its log cabin origins. It's a beloved landmark in Santa Cruz County! Awards for its fine food and romantic atmosphere abound - the lush grounds, waterfalls, and intimate dining - with the famous cable car offering a unique entrance.
SANTA CRUZ BOARDWALK
The world's best seaside park! Enjoy thrilling rides, rich history, and a stunning beach. Since 1907, they have offered affordable family fun with free admission and budget-friendly ride tickets. Two historic rides, including the 1924 Giant Dipper roller coaster, promise excitement. Explore arcades, a two-story mini golf, and more indoor fun. Indulge in unique treats like corn dogs and deep-fried Twinkies. Plus, spot otters, dolphins, and sea lions along the beautiful beach.
STATE PARK EXPLORATION
Discover Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park in the Santa Cruz Mountains, known for its famous 40-acre grove of ancient redwoods. This global and historical attraction offers hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, swimming, and camping on 4,650 acres of diverse land. Plus, witness the tallest tree at about 277 feet, 16 feet wide, and 1,500 years old. A short distance north, discover the Fall Creek Unit with second-growth redwoods and connecting trails for day use.