Visiting Aptos is ideal for my family. Why? Because my husband loves the ocean and I love hiking in the woods. While staying at the Transeth Cabin we are a 5-minute walk from the beach and only an 8-minute drive from being completely encapsulated by the redwoods.
The entrance to The Forrest of Nisene Marks State Park lies North of Aptos Village on Aptos Creek Road. The ranger who greeted us was very helpful with his guidance and recommendations for particularly family-friendly trails. He encouraged us to explore the Advocate Tree; a 1,000-year old tree that fell just this early 2017 winter. The Loma Prieta epicenter is also located in this park.
Our family jumped rocks through Aptos Creek, swung from a swing tied to an old tree and spied 14 bright yellow banana slugs while hiking. The entire hike was magic. https://www.parks.ca.gov/pages/666/files/
(Reported by Gina Woods)
Amazing Giant Redwoods
Hunting banana slugs.