7-Day Nature and Coastal Exploration Itinerary Based in Aptos, California

Day 1: Aptos Coastal Start

Aptos, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at Aptos Coffee Roasting Co.

Begin your trip with quality coffee and fresh breakfast in this popular local café in Aptos.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Relax at Aptos Village Beach

Spend a laid-back morning at this tranquil beach enjoying the surf and sand in a less crowded setting.
USD0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Seacliff State Beach and the Concrete Ship

Walk along Seacliff State Beach and explore the iconic SS Palo Alto concrete ship for unique coastal views.
USD10 parking fee, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Naked Fish in Aptos

Enjoy fresh and creative sushi and seafood dishes in a relaxed setting close to your accommodation.
USD30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Aptos History Museum

Discover the charming local heritage and history with exhibits inside this small but informative museum.
USD0, 1 hour

4:15PM

Evening walk at Rio Del Mar Beach

Unwind with a sunset stroll along this peaceful beach just minutes from Aptos village.
USD0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Café Sparrow

Experience organic and locally inspired dishes for dinner at this charming Aptos eatery.
USD50, 2 hours
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Day 2: Big Basin Redwoods

Big Basin Redwoods State Park, near Boulder Creek

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Bagelry in Aptos

Pick up fresh bagels and coffee for an early start before heading to Big Basin Redwoods State Park.
USD15, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Big Basin Redwoods State Park

Travel about 30 minutes north to Big Basin for a full day of hiking under giant ancient redwoods.
USD0, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Hike to Berry Creek Falls

Enjoy a rewarding 10-mile round trip hike to see spectacular waterfalls framed by majestic redwoods.
USD10 parking fee, 6 hours

3:30PM

Snack at Big Basin Visitor Center

Rest and recharge with light snacks at the visitor center after your hike.
USD10, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Return to Aptos

Drive back to Aptos to relax after the day’s adventure.
USD0, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Aptos Creek Inn

Dine in a casual atmosphere with excellent steaks and seafood featuring local flavors.
USD45, 2 hours
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Day 3: Redwoods and Santa Cruz

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and Santa Cruz, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at Coffee 9 in Aptos

Enjoy flavorful coffee and baked goods to prepare for a nature-packed day.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Morning Hike at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Walk under towering ancient coastal redwoods and explore peaceful forest trails.
USD10 parking fee, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cafe Rio in Santa Cruz

Savor fresh Mexican flavors in a casual, local favorite nearby Santa Cruz.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Santa Cruz Boardwalk and Beach

Experience classic fun at the historic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and relax on the sandy beach.
USD0, 3 hours

5:00PM

Return to Aptos

Drive back for a restful evening after a busy day exploring nearby attractions.
USD0, 20 minutes

6:30PM

Dinner at Café Sparrow

Enjoy another delicious meal highlighting local organic produce in Aptos.
USD50, 2 hours
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Day 4: Wilder Ranch Trails

Wilder Ranch State Park, near Santa Cruz

8:00AM

Breakfast at Aptos Coffee Roasting Co.

Grab a quick but satisfying breakfast and coffee before venturing out to Wilder Ranch.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Hiking and Exploring Wilder Ranch State Park

Hike scenic coastal trails, view historic ranch buildings, and soak in breathtaking ocean views.
USD0, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Picnic Basket in Santa Cruz

Enjoy fresh sandwiches and salads made with local ingredients, perfect after a morning hike.
USD15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Afternoon Bike Ride on Coastal Trails

Rent a bike to cruise the coastal trails with amazing views along the Pacific Ocean.
USD25, 2 hours

4:30PM

Return to Aptos

Head back to your Aptos accommodation to rest and freshen up.
USD0, 20 minutes

6:30PM

Dinner at Seahorse Oceanfront Restaurant

Savor coastal cuisine and romantic sunset views right in Aptos at this oceanfront spot.
USD60, 2 hours
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Day 5: Ocean and Nature Day

Natural Bridges State Beach and Santa Cruz

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Buttery in Aptos

Treat yourself to buttery pastries and gourmet coffee to start your day.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Natural Bridges State Beach Adventure

Explore tide pools, the natural rock bridge, and if in season, the Monarch Butterfly Grove.
USD0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at The Fish Hopper, Santa Cruz

Enjoy fresh seafood with bay views in a relaxing atmosphere near the Santa Cruz Wharf.
USD35, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History Visit

Discover fascinating exhibits that showcase the region’s natural heritage and marine life.
USD10, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Coffee and Surf Watching at Steamer Lane

Relax with a warm drink while observing expert surfers tackle the famous waves at Steamer Lane.
USD5, 30 minutes

3:45PM

Walk at Lighthouse Field State Beach

Enjoy a peaceful late afternoon walk along this scenic beach park just outside Santa Cruz.
USD0, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Riva Fish House, Aptos

Dine on fresh, sustainably sourced seafood just minutes from your Aptos stay.
USD55, 2 hours
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Day 6: Steam Train & Redwood Forest

Roaring Camp Railroads and Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

7:30AM

Breakfast at Aptos Coffee Roasting Co.

Early breakfast with excellent coffee to prepare for your day of adventure.
USD15, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Roaring Camp Railroads

Arrive at Roaring Camp to board the historic steam train departing through coastal redwood forest.
USD40, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Steam Train Ride Through the Redwoods

Enjoy a unique steam train journey surrounded by majestic coastal redwoods, traveling to Bear Mountain.
USD40, 2 hours

11:30AM

Picnic Lunch at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Relax with a packed lunch amid towering redwoods before hiking the trails.
USD0, 1 hour

12:30PM

Hiking in Henry Cowell Redwoods

Follow scenic trails to view some of the tallest trees in the area, enjoying the peaceful forest environment.
USD10 parking fee, 2 hours

3:00PM

Return to Aptos and Rest

Drive back to your accommodation and unwind after an active day.
USD0, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Café Sparrow

Enjoy a final delicious farm-to-table meal featuring local, seasonal dishes near your lodging.
USD50, 2 hours
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Day 7: Aptos Coastal Relaxation

Aptos, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Bagelry

Delight in a relaxed breakfast with fresh bagels and coffee just minutes from your stay.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Morning at Rio Del Mar Beach

Spend a last leisurely morning walking along the beach, enjoying sun, sand, and sea breeze.
USD0, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Aptos Village Shops

Browse quaint local shops and galleries in Aptos Village for souvenirs and unique finds.
USD0, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Kumar's Indian Cuisine

Enjoy flavorful Indian dishes with fresh ingredients for a satisfying lunch in Aptos.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Afternoon at Seacliff State Beach

Relax near the water and take in views of the SS Palo Alto concrete ship one last time.
USD0, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Farewell Coffee at Coastal Meridian Brewing

Complete your trip with locally brewed coffee or drinks in a friendly setting before departure.
USD10, 1 hour

4:30PM

Trip Conclusion

Prepare for departure or continue your travels refreshed by Aptos’ natural beauty and coastal charm.
USD0, n/a
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