Tourist information in Aptos, California

The Entrance Station is a local government office located at 664-784 Aptos Creek Fire Road in Aptos, California, United States. This station serves as the gateway to The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, a beautiful natural retreat in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Visitors can enjoy picnicking near Aptos Creek, hiking, jogging, or biking on 30 miles of trails that wind through the park's redwood forest. The park is a testament to regeneration, as the land has healed itself after being clear-cut during a logging frenzy in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The park is named after Nisene Marks, a nature-loving mother whose family donated the land to the state in the 1960s with the stipulation that it never be developed. Visitors can learn about the park's history, wildlife, and conservation efforts through guided hikes, interpretive talks, and volunteer trail crew opportunities. The park also offers naturalist-led backpacking trips and educational programs for the public. There is an $8 vehicle day-use fee to enter the park, and certain restrictions apply to bicycles, dogs, and horses in specific areas of the park. The Entrance Station provides information on park rules, fees, and upcoming events, making it a valuable resource for visitors looking to explore The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park.

Welcome to Nicholson Vineyards Winery, where tradition meets terroir and friends feel like family. Nestled in the picturesque mountains of Santa Cruz County, our winery is a hidden gem located at 2800 Pleasant Valley Road, Aptos, California. We specialize in crafting small lots of handcrafted wines that capture the essence of California's unique mountain and coastal vineyards. At Nicholson Vineyards, we are committed to uncompromised quality, warm hospitality, and the relaxed charm of the California landscape. With a rich family tradition spanning 11 generations on the Central Coast, the Nicholsons invite you to share in their love of wine and passion for the journey.