Rio Del Mar Beach: A Coastal Haven
Discover coastal bliss at Rio Del Mar Beach in Aptos, CA: sun, sand, surf, and stunning sunsets await in this Monterey Bay gem, perfect for families and nature lovers.
Rio Del Mar Beach, nestled in Aptos, California, is a captivating coastal destination offering a blend of relaxation and recreation. As part of Seacliff State Beach, it boasts a wide sandy expanse perfect for leisurely strolls, sunbathing, and various water activities. The beach is known for its scenic beauty, with opportunities for wildlife viewing, including whales, dolphins, and sea lions. Visitors can enjoy bonfires in designated fire pits, explore the nearby Seacliff Promenade Trail, and indulge in the culinary delights of the charming Rio Del Mar village. With its easy access and family-friendly atmosphere, Rio Del Mar Beach provides an unforgettable seaside experience, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking coastal bliss and natural beauty. The beach's allure extends beyond its sandy shores, offering a glimpse into the area's rich history and vibrant community spirit.
A brief summary to Rio Del Mar Beach
- Rio Del Mar, California, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends and during the summer, to secure parking in the main lot or find free street parking in the town center.
- Bring layers of clothing, as the coastal breeze can be cool, even on sunny days. A light jacket or sweater will keep you comfortable.
- Pack a picnic or grab takeout from one of the local eateries to enjoy a meal on the beach while watching the sunset.
- Check the tide charts before you go to plan for optimal beach walking and tide pool exploration.
- Bring your dog! Rio Del Mar Beach is dog-friendly, but be sure to keep your furry friend on a leash and clean up after them.
Getting There
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Driving
From Highway 1, take the Rio Del Mar exit. Follow Rio Del Mar Blvd, which winds past the Deer Park Shopping Center, down to the beach. Parking is available in the main lot near the 'Platforms' area for $10. Free parking can be found in the Rio Del Mar town center, a short walk from the beach. Be mindful of parking restrictions in residential areas.
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Public Transport
Santa Cruz METRO offers several routes to Rio Del Mar Beach. Routes 91x, 71, and 55 stop near the beach. From the bus stop on Soquel Drive near the intersection with State Park Drive, it's a short walk down to the beach via Rio Del Mar Blvd. A single ride fare on Santa Cruz METRO is typically $2-$3.
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Walking
If you are coming from Seacliff State Beach, you can walk south along the beach to Rio Del Mar Beach. Alternatively, follow the paved Seacliff Promenade Trail, which connects the two beaches. The walk is approximately 1 mile and offers scenic views of the Monterey Bay.
Discover more about Rio Del Mar Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
SS Palo Alto
1.5 km
Explore the haunting history of SS Palo Alto, a submerged historical landmark offering a unique glimpse into the maritime past of California's coastline.
Castro Adobe State Historic Park
7.8 km
Explore the authentic heritage of California at Castro Adobe State Historic Park, where history and stunning architecture await every visitor.
Garden of Eden - Henry Cowell Redwood State Park
15.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Garden of Eden in Henry Cowell Redwood State Park—California's hidden gem of towering redwoods and tranquil swimming holes.
Visitor Center | Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
16.9 km
Discover the enchanting redwoods and rich natural history at the Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Visitor Center in California.
Redwood Grove Loop Trail
16.9 km
Experience the majestic beauty of the Redwood Grove Loop Trail in Felton, CA, where towering redwoods and serene pathways await your exploration.
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
17.0 km
Explore the serene beauty of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, where ancient redwoods and diverse wildlife create unforgettable experiences in nature.
Felton Covered Bridge County Park
18.2 km
Discover the historic charm of Felton Covered Bridge County Park, featuring the tallest covered bridge in the USA, recreational activities, and access to the scenic San Lorenzo River.
Fall Creek Unit | Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
19.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fall Creek Unit in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, a must-visit hiking destination in California's majestic redwood forests.
Casa Grande
24.9 km
Step back in time at Casa Grande, home to the Almaden Quicksilver Mining Museum, and discover the captivating history of California's mercury mining era in the heart of the New Almaden Historic District.
Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve
25.6 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve, a must-visit nature haven in Los Gatos, California, rich with towering redwoods and scenic trails.
San Lorenzo Valley Museum, Grace Episcopal Gallery
26.1 km
Discover the captivating history of the San Lorenzo Valley at this charming museum, showcasing artifacts and stories of the region's past within a historic redwood church, offering free admission and engaging exhibits.
Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge
26.5 km
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge, a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Site of 21 Mile House
28.1 km
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IBM's First West Coast Site (1943) – Critical Historic Place for Silicon Valley
33.3 km
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Jack Fischer Park
34.3 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Esplanade Park
4.7 km
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Capitola State Beach
4.9 km
Experience the serene beauty of Capitola State Beach, a perfect blend of relaxation, recreation, and local charm along California's stunning coastline.
Capitola Wharf
4.9 km
Experience the charm of Capitola Wharf, a vibrant fishing pier offering stunning ocean views and fresh seafood in California's coastal paradise.
Capitola Historical Museum
5.0 km
Explore the captivating history of Capitola, California at the charming Capitola Historical Museum, showcasing local heritage and culture.
The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park
7.7 km
Discover the natural beauty of the Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, a haven for hiking, wildlife watching, and immersing yourself in California's stunning redwood forests.
Santa Cruz Harbor
9.1 km
Discover the charm of Santa Cruz Harbor, a stunning marina offering breathtaking views, exciting activities, and delightful dining experiences.
Sunset State Beach
10.4 km
Explore stunning sunsets and diverse outdoor activities at Sunset State Beach in Watsonville, a top destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
10.5 km
Experience thrilling rides, delicious snacks, and stunning views at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a historic coastal amusement park in California.
Neptune's Kingdom
10.8 km
Experience family-friendly fun at Neptune's Kingdom in Santa Cruz, where miniature golf, arcade games, and laughter await every visitor.
Boardwalk's Cocoanut Grove
10.9 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at Cocoanut Grove, a historic event venue nestled on the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
Boardwalk Bowl
10.9 km
Experience the thrill of bowling and the joy of karaoke at Boardwalk Bowl, a top entertainment spot in Santa Cruz, California.
The Mystery Spot
11.0 km
Experience gravitational oddities and mind-bending illusions at Santa Cruz's famous Mystery Spot, a roadside attraction since 1940.
Santa Cruz Wharf
11.0 km
Explore the Santa Cruz Wharf: A vibrant fishing pier with stunning views, delicious seafood, and endless activities for a perfect coastal getaway.
San Lorenzo Park
11.1 km
A vibrant downtown Santa Cruz park offering recreation, events, and a scenic riverfront setting for locals and tourists alike.
Cowell Beach
11.1 km
Discover Cowell Beach in Santa Cruz, California - a scenic haven for sunbathing, surfing, and family fun on the stunning Pacific coast.
Essential places to dine
Nonno's Italian
23.0 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Nonno's Italian in Los Gatos - from pizza perfection to exquisite wines in a charming setting.
Effie's Restaurant & Bar
34.4 km
Discover Effie's Restaurant & Bar: A delightful blend of traditional American flavors, vibrant nightlife with karaoke, and an inviting atmosphere in Campbell.
Kirk's Steakburgers
35.0 km
Discover Kirk's Steakburgers: A family-friendly spot in Campbell serving mouthwatering burgers and classic American dishes.
Sorelle Italian Bistro
35.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Sorelle Italian Bistro in Campbell - where every dish tells a story.
El Greco Grill
35.6 km
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Thaibodia Bistro
35.7 km
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Yiassoo
35.7 km
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Thai Orchid
36.1 km
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A Bellagio Italian Restaurant
36.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at A Bellagio Italian Restaurant in downtown Campbell—where every meal tells a story of tradition and flavor.
BE.STEAK.A
36.1 km
Experience culinary excellence at BE.STEAK.A in Campbell, CA – where every steak is crafted to perfection.
FLIGHTS Restaurant By Alex Hult
36.2 km
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Mo's Campbell
36.2 km
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Trattoria 360
36.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Trattoria 360 in downtown Campbell—a culinary journey filled with flavor and warmth.
Opa! Campbell
36.2 km
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Desi Contemporary Indian Casual & Gabru Bar
36.2 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
LOOP Home Goods & Gifts
22.3 km
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Redwood Store
23.0 km
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420lifestyles
35.5 km
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DOTTIES ROLLER SKATE SHOP
35.6 km
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Momstera Lounge
36.1 km
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The Retro Fix II TURBO
36.2 km
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Steepers
36.2 km
Discover the exquisite world of tea at Steepers, Campbell's premier tea store with a vast selection and expert guidance.
Celtic Shoppe
36.2 km
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Florra
36.2 km
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Geoffrey's Diamonds & Goldsmith
36.2 km
Discover exquisite craftsmanship and timeless elegance at Geoffrey's Diamonds & Goldsmith in downtown Campbell, California.
Petite Petal
36.2 km
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Besties Boutique
36.2 km
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Therapy Stores
36.2 km
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Bombshell Boutique
36.2 km
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Recycle Bookstore West
36.2 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Court's Lounge
35.1 km
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The Hook Sports Bar & Grill
35.4 km
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Coach's Sports Bar & Grill
35.7 km
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Khartoum Lounge
36.0 km
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Cardiff & Cocktails
36.2 km
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Bargetto Winery Tasting Room
38.6 km
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The Salty Seal Brewpub and Sports Bar
38.7 km
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Segovia's Cocktail Bar & Lounge
38.9 km
Experience Monterey's nightlife at Segovia's Cocktail Bar & Lounge, where exquisite cocktails and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable evenings.
Bulldog Sports Pub
38.9 km
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The Wine Experience
39.1 km
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Pearl Hour
39.3 km
Experience the eclectic charm and unique cocktails at Pearl Hour, Monterey's hidden gem for nightlife enthusiasts.
Bar Cart Cocktail Co.
39.3 km
Experience the best of mixology at Bar Cart Cocktail Co. in Monterey, where every cocktail tells a story and the atmosphere is always vibrant.
Abalonetti Bar and Grill
39.9 km
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Domenico's on the Wharf
40.0 km
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Old Fishermen's Grotto
40.0 km
Experience the best of Monterey dining at Old Fisherman's Grotto, where exquisite seafood and steak meet stunning waterfront views.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Paper Wing Theatre & Supper Club
38.7 km
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Red Stag Lounge
40.1 km
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Indian summer
40.2 km
Discover the essence of Monterey nightlife at Indian Summer, a cocktail bar offering exquisite drinks and delightful dining in a vibrant atmosphere.
JJ's Lounge
40.4 km
Unleash your night at JJ's Lounge, San Jose's premier night club, cocktail bar, and live music venue for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Miami Beach Club
40.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Miami Beach Club, a premier nightclub in San Jose, California, featuring electrifying music and an exciting atmosphere.
Monterey Civic Club
40.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Monterey at the Civic Club, where music, dancing, and community come together for an unforgettable experience.
Old Capital Club
40.7 km
Discover the Old Capital Club, a historic social hub in Monterey, offering a cozy atmosphere and a taste of local culture.
Pacheco Club
40.9 km
Pacheco Club in Monterey: A premier nightlife haven offering dynamic entertainment, vibrant music, and an unforgettable clubbing experience.
Y&T
41.0 km
Discover the pulse of Santa Clara's nightlife at Y&T, where music, dance, and unforgettable memories come together in a vibrant disco atmosphere.
NOVA Nightclub
41.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of San Jose at NOVA Nightclub, where music and dancing unite for an unforgettable experience.
ENSO Bar & Nightclub
41.5 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at ENSO Bar & Nightclub in San Jose, where live music and dance collide for an unforgettable evening.
EMA Karaoke & Bar
43.6 km
Experience the ultimate karaoke adventure at EMA Karaoke & Bar in Santa Clara, where every song brings joy and every night is a celebration.
Maria's Night Club
43.6 km
Experience the pulsating nightlife at Maria's Night Club in San Jose, where music, dance, and fun come together for an unforgettable evening.
Lily's Bar & Night Club
43.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Lily's Bar & Night Club in San Jose, where music, dancing, and fun come together for an unforgettable evening.
Camino Karaoke
43.9 km
Experience the joy of singing at Camino Karaoke in Santa Clara, where unforgettable nights are filled with music, laughter, and camaraderie.
