- The list below includes 216 free or cheap things to do in or near Aptos, California, including 100 different types of inexpensive activities like Beaches, History Museums, Parks and Bike Paths.
- From Forest of Nisene Marks State Park to Manresa State Beach, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Aptos and in nearby cities within 25 miles like Santa Cruz, Pacific Grove, San Jose and Cupertino.
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671
7.8 Miles
93%
60 votes
Shell Road, 16mi South of Santa Cruz Via Highway 1 and San Andreas Road, Watsonville, CA
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The Sunset State Beach is open throughout the year for many activities like swimming, camping, fishing, hiking, and picnicking. In addition to large sand dunes, the beach has on-site parking, restrooms, showers, and drinking water.
8.4 Miles
Located inside the UCSC campus, the Arboretum is a great place to explore a variety of plants and trees of many different countries. Bird watching is a popular activity here with a good population of hummingbirds and other resident and visiting species.
8.4 Miles
93%
361 votes
1156 High St., Santa Cruz, CA 95064
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The University of California at Santa Cruz is a major research institution with ten component colleges. It is most respected for its programs in medicine, biology, biological engineering and chemistry.
8.7 Miles
The City of Watsonville's Flodberg Park is a city park that features wide open areas, shade trees, and playground areas with a variety of equipment including jungle gyms and slides.
8.8 Miles
Cowell's Beach is good for surfers and windsurfers. It may not be the cleanest beach in the area.
8.8 Miles
87%
2454 votes
2531 West Cliff Drive near Swanton Blvd., Santa Cruz, CA
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True to its name, Natural Bridges State Park contains natural rock bridges created by eons of water and wind erosion. The modern park is managed by the state and is a wonderful destination for adults and families.
8.9 Miles
An entertainment center for young children, Pump'd - Inflatable Fun Center features bounce houses, slides and a separate toddler area. The facility also offers party hosting which includes a private room, drinks and a party host.
9.0 Miles
With Central Coast YMCA, visitors can participate in a wide range of activities, from dance classes to swimming. In the fitness center, visitors can take advantage of amenities like handball courts, treadmills, and a sauna room.
9.1 Miles
Adults and children with an interest in marine ecosystems must not miss the opportunity to visit the Seymour Marine Discovery Center. It is an active research institution and a public outreach facility dedicated to helping the community understand the importance of preserving marine environments.
9.2 Miles
Dating back to 1885, Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds in Watsonville, California is home to a spectacle of family-friendly events. Visitors can enjoy the State Fair in September, as well as year round horse races and car shows.