Aptos, Northern California Rustic & Barn Wedding Venues

Where can I get married in Aptos, California?

Aptos is a beautiful location for a wedding, with its stunning ocean views, redwood forests, and rolling hills. Here are some of the best areas to get married in Aptos:

• Beaches: Aptos has several beautiful beaches, including Rio Del Mar Beach, Seacliff Beach, and New Brighton State Beach. These beaches offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and can be a great choice for a beach wedding.
• Redwood Forests: Aptos is home to several redwood forests, including Nisene Marks State Park and Forest of Nisene Marks State Park. These forests offer a picturesque backdrop for a rustic or woodland-themed wedding.
• Vineyards: Aptos is part of the Santa Cruz Mountains wine region, and there are several vineyards and wineries in the area that can be a great choice for a wedding. These vineyards offer beautiful views of the mountains and can be a great choice for a romantic and intimate wedding.
• Golf Courses: Aptos has several golf courses that offer beautiful views of the ocean and can be a great choice for a wedding with a classic and elegant feel.
• Private Estates: Aptos has many private estates and ranches that can be rented for weddings. These estates offer privacy and seclusion, along with stunning views of the mountains and ocean.

Ultimately, the best area for your wedding will depend on your personal preferences and the style of wedding you're looking to have. These areas are a great place to start your search for the perfect wedding location.

How much do wedding venues cost in Aptos, California?

The cost of wedding venues in Aptos can vary widely depending on a number of factors, including the size of the venue, the time of year, and the amenities offered. Here are some ballpark figures for wedding venues in Aptos:

• Beaches: Many beaches in Aptos offer free or low-cost access, making them a budget-friendly option for a beach wedding. However, if you want to rent a beach pavilion or other facilities, the cost can range from $500 to $5,000 or more.
• Redwood Forests: State parks and other public lands in Aptos offer beautiful redwood forests for wedding ceremonies. The cost to rent a designated wedding site in a state park can range from $150 to $500, depending on the location and amenities.
• Vineyards: Vineyards and wineries in Aptos can be a great choice for a romantic and intimate wedding. The cost to rent a vineyard or winery can range from $2,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the location and amenities.
• Golf Courses: Golf courses in Aptos offer beautiful views of the ocean and can be a great choice for a classic and elegant wedding. The cost to rent a golf course for a wedding can range from $2,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the location and amenities.
• Private Estates: Private estates and ranches in Aptos can offer privacy and seclusion, along with stunning views of the mountains and ocean. The cost to rent a private estate for a wedding can range from $5,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the location and amenities.

The sales tax rate in Aptos is 9.25%. This includes state and local taxes. The Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) rate in Aptos is 11%. This tax is charged to guests who stay in hotels, motels, vacation rentals, and other types of short-term lodging. There may be additional taxes and fees depending on the venue and the services provided. It's important to clarify all fees and charges with the venue coordinator before booking.

Where can my wedding guests stay in Aptos, California?

Looking for a no-fuss experience for your guests? Here are a few suggestions:

• Seascape Beach Resort: This beachfront resort offers stunning views of the ocean and is a popular choice for weddings. The resort features spacious suites and villas with full kitchens, as well as amenities such as a spa, restaurant, and pool.
• Best Western Seacliff Inn: This hotel is located just a mile from the beach and offers comfortable rooms and suites with balconies or patios. The hotel also features a restaurant, fitness center, and outdoor pool.
• Rio Sands Hotel: This family-owned hotel is located just a block from Rio Del Mar Beach and offers cozy rooms and suites with kitchenettes. The hotel also features a heated pool, hot tub, and barbecue area.
• Aptos Village Vacation Rentals: These vacation rentals offer a range of options, from cozy cabins in the redwoods to spacious homes with ocean views. The rentals are located in the heart of Aptos Village and offer easy access to local shops and restaurants.
• KOA Santa Cruz/Aptos: This campground offers a range of camping options, from tent sites to cabins and RV sites. The campground features amenities such as a pool, hot tub, and game room.

Wedding Spot can also help you find hotels and set up room blocks for you and your guests near your desired venue. When choosing accommodations for your guest, consider proximity to the wedding venues, amenities offered, price, and transportation options.

When is the best time of year to get married in Aptos, California?

Aptos has a mild Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a wedding date in Aptos:

• Weather: If you're planning an outdoor wedding, you may want to consider a summer or early fall wedding, when the weather is typically sunny and warm. However, keep in mind that summer is also peak wedding season in Aptos, so you may need to book venues and vendors well in advance.
• Crowds: Aptos is a popular tourist destination, especially during the summer months. If you're planning a wedding during peak tourist season, you may encounter larger crowds and higher prices for lodging and other services. On the other hand, if you're looking for a quieter, more intimate wedding, you may want to consider a winter or early spring wedding, when there are fewer tourists in the area.
• Budget: The cost of wedding venues and vendors in Aptos can vary depending on the time of year. If you're on a tight budget, you may want to consider a winter or early spring wedding, when prices are typically lower. Additionally, some venues and vendors may offer discounts for off-season weddings.
• Seasonal Events: Aptos is home to several seasonal events throughout the year, such as the Santa Cruz County Fair in September and the Capitola Art & Wine Festival in May. If you're planning a wedding during one of these events, you may want to consider the impact on traffic and crowds.

What other information do I need to know about getting married in Aptos, California?

Getting married in Aptos can be a wonderful experience but to make sure everything goes smoothly, keep in mind the following:

• Marriage License: Couples will need to obtain a marriage license from the County Clerk's Office. In Santa Cruz County, the Clerk-Recorder's Office is located in downtown Santa Cruz. You can apply for a marriage license online or in person, and the fee is currently $86.
• Officiant: You will need to have an officiant to perform your wedding ceremony. The officiant can be a religious leader, a judge, or a person authorized by the state to perform weddings.
• Permits: Depending on the location of your wedding, you may need to obtain permits from the local government. For example, if you're planning a beach wedding, you may need to obtain a permit from the California State Parks Department.
• Accommodations: Aptos offers a range of lodging options for wedding guests, from beachfront hotels to rustic cabins in the redwoods. Be sure to research lodging options carefully and reserve rooms well in advance, especially during peak wedding season.
• Transportation: If you're planning a destination wedding in Aptos, you may need to arrange transportation for your guests. Options include rental cars, taxis, and shuttle buses.

Don't hesitate to reach out to local officials or wedding professionals if you have any questions or concerns along the way.