Aptos, CA

A chill little beach town tucked next to Santa Cruz, where you can hit scenic hikes like Nisene Marks for redwood vibes or Seacliff for ocean views, then roll straight into good eats and craft brews. You’ll find cozy spots for tacos, fresh seafood, and brunchy cafés, plus local brew pubs pouring small-batch beers that pair perfectly with the laid-back coastal energy. It’s basically the kind of place where you hike in the morning, grab a pint in the afternoon, and catch the sunset without overthinking it.