From the Central Coast to the computer screen
When Microsoft typeface designer Steve Matteson was tasked with creating a "diverse and accessible" font for the new default in all Microsoft software, his mind drifted to Aptos, California. His nostalgic feeling for the Central Coast town's understated beauty would inspire a crisp, minimal design (in fact, it was that same font used to type the first draft of this article.) Many visitors flock to Aptos in the summer but its beauty is a year-round spectacle, thanks to its lovely weather, quaint local restaurants, beautiful parks and unique events.
Parks for everyone
Residents have plenty of places to visit for a hike or take the bikes out for a spin. At Aptos Village County Park, picnickers can spread blankets on the lawn area or grill hot dogs and hamburgers at any of the park's several barbecues. Dogwalkers, soccer players and thrill-seeking bike jumpers are all welcome at Polo Grounds County Park. As folks walk along the 30 miles’ worth of trails at Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, they can take in the towering redwood trees and waterfalls adorning the area.
Sips and shops in Aptos
At The Farm Bakery Café & Gifts, patrons can sample their signature fruit tarts or enjoy a cup of joe at the elegant wooden tables at Loft Coffee. Diners can also enjoy cocktails in a cozy 1930s cottage at The Hideout or craft wines and wood-fired pizza at neighborhood hangout Churchill & Beers. When shoppers need to restock their kitchens, they can pick up grocery staples at Safeway and New Leaf Community Markets. For a wide range of dining and shopping needs, the nearby Rancho Del Mar Shopping Center is home to 30 local and national businesses.
Local history and small parades
There are several opportunities for residents to learn more about their neighborhood and their fellow community members. They can explore exhibits and attend events at the Aptos History Museum to learn more about Aptos's background. Every Fourth of July, they can join in or spectate at the World’s Shortest Parade. Traveling for about half a mile from Rancho Del Mar Shopping Center to the Bayview Hotel, the parade concludes with a big party in Aptos Village County Park.
Condos and contemporary homes
Neutral-toned condos and two-story contemporary homes can be found all over the residential areas of Aptos. Many of these single-family homes also boast interiors brightened by natural light, multi-car garages and some even have beach views. Homes can range between $700,000 for a one-bedroom condo and can go as high as $1.6 million for . Properties tend to remain on the market for about 44 days.
Aptos-adjacent schools
Students may begin public education at Mar Vista Elementary School, which earned a B-minus rating from Niche. They can move on to Aptos Junior High School, which teaches grades 7-8 and holds a B-rating. Aptos High School maintains an A-minus and offers clubs in interests like theater production and robotics.
Traveling around Aptos
There are several ways to get around in Aptos. Public bus routes wind throughout the neighborhood, and commuters can take California State Route 1, which runs along most of the Pacific coastline. Downtown Santa Cruz is only nine miles east of Aptos, while San Jose is 65 miles north. Air travelers should know Monterey Regional Airport is 35 miles to the south.
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Written By
Julia Concepcion
