The best cycling routes around Aptos
4.4
(73)
1,605
riders
99
rides
Best touring cycling routes around Aptos offer a diverse landscape for riders. The region features coastal paths along the Pacific Ocean, winding creek-side trails, and routes through local parks. Terrain varies from flat, accessible sections to more challenging climbs into the surrounding hills and forests.
Best touring cycling routes around Aptos
- The most popular touring cycling route is Aptos Creek and Buzzard Lagoon Loop, a 31.4 miles (50.5 km) difficult trail that takes 4 hours 31 minutes to complete.โฆ
Last updated: June 24, 2026
29
riders
50.5km
04:32
1,070m
1,070m
Challenge yourself on the 31.4-mile Aptos Creek and Buzzard Lagoon Loop, a difficult touring cycling route through redwoods and orchards.
4.7
(3)
46
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
11
riders
10.6km
00:40
70m
70m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
Embark on a touring cycling journey that connects distinct local highlights, offering a moderate challenge over 19.4 miles (31.2 km) with 1308 feet (399 metres) of elevation gain, estimated atโฆ
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Tips from the Community
While there are more formal memorials to the sport of surfing a little ways south at the Lighthouse and north at the official Surfer Memorial Sculpture, this spot is more personal. Here along West Cliff Drive is the famous surfing spot known as Steamer Lane. For all its fame and pleasure, surf conditions, accidents and bad luck exact a fatal toll. An informal memorial up on the cliff remembers surfers who have died.-It's next to a staircase leading down to the beach. The wooden plaques are all custom, hand-routed tributes by friends or family. The carved messages, lacking biographical details (because they are well-known locals?) are sometimes adorned with flower arrangements and small keepsakes along the fence. While these memorials of surfer deaths are also sad, there is a somewhat relaxed atmosphere at this spot. The surfers were doing what they loved, and knew the risks.
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Stunning Natural Bridge Beach is known for its natural arches made of fine clay or mud rock, carved by time, water, and wind. The beach is also known for being home to a colony of monarch butterflies, with over 150,000 coming to live here for the winter. If you're lucky, you might even spot whales!
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A small but cozy beach along East Cliff Drive, featuring a lake and a park. Thereโs bike parking nearby and benches overlooking the water, making it a great spot to pause during your ride, enjoy the ocean views, or even take a refreshing dip. The beach is especially nice during low tide.
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Bamboo Giant Nursery is a peaceful nursery garden with 60 different varieties of non-native bamboo and other species of plants, with some bamboos 50 feet tall. The nursery offers picnic areas, benches and gazebos surrounded by a beautiful garden and small ponds.
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For cyclists exploring Santa Cruz, Pleasure Point Beach on 38th Avenue beckons with its beauty and recreational opportunities. Ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing, the beach offers a picturesque setting. It is accessible via a brief walk from the road.
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Pleasure Point Beach is a popular surf spot and is part of Pleasure Point Park. The park also features restrooms, picnic tables, and offers great views.
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Moran Lake Beach is part of the 9.2-acre Moran Lake Park. The beach stretches about a mile long and is a popular surf spot. The park offers restrooms, picnic tables, and outdoor showers.
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Schwan Lake is part of Twin Lakes State Park and was originally known as Schwan Lagoon when it connected to the ocean. Harbor construction restricted the flow of water from the ocean, transforming it into a freshwater lake.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Aptos?
Aptos offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 90 options available. These range from easy coastal rides to more challenging inland explorations.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Aptos?
Yes, Aptos has several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. One popular option is the Pleasure Point Beach โ Capitola Village loop from Capitola, which is 6.5 miles (10.5 km) long and offers a gentle ride through coastal areas.
What are some challenging touring cycling routes in the Aptos area?
For those seeking a challenge, the Aptos Creek and Buzzard Lagoon Loop is a difficult 31.4 miles (50.5 km) route. It features significant elevation changes as it explores forested areas and creek valleys inland from the coast.
Are there any touring cycling routes that offer scenic coastal views?
Absolutely. Many routes in Aptos hug the coastline, providing stunning ocean vistas. The Pleasure Point Beach โ West Cliff Cycleway loop from Capitola is a moderate 21.1 miles (34.0 km) path renowned for its scenic coastal views along the West Cliff Cycleway.
Can I find loop routes for touring cycling in Aptos?
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Aptos are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Besides the coastal loops, you can explore inland options like the Freedom Lake County Park loop from San Andreas Creek - King Property, a moderate 19.3 miles (31.0 km) ride.
What kind of attractions or landmarks can I see along the touring cycling routes in Aptos?
Aptos routes offer a mix of natural beauty and charming local spots. You can pass by beautiful beaches like Pleasure Point Beach and Moran Lake Beach and Park. Many routes also lead through or near the picturesque Capitola Village, known for its unique shops and dining.
What is the best season for touring cycling in Aptos?
Aptos generally enjoys a mild climate, making touring cycling pleasant year-round. However, late spring through early fall typically offers the most consistent sunny weather and warmer temperatures, ideal for coastal rides and exploring the region's diverse landscapes.
Are there touring cycling routes that connect Aptos to Capitola?
Yes, several routes connect Aptos with the charming Capitola Village. The Pleasure Point Beach โ Capitola Village loop from Dolphin/Sumner Beach is a popular 15.7 miles (25.3 km) route that takes you through coastal areas and directly into Capitola.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Aptos?
The Aptos area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 55 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from stunning coastal paths to peaceful inland trails, and the variety of options suitable for all skill levels.
Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes in Aptos?
Parking availability varies by route. For coastal routes, parking can often be found near beaches or public parks in Aptos and Capitola. For routes venturing inland, such as those near Nisene Marks State Park, designated parking areas are usually available at trailheads or park entrances. Always check specific route details for recommended parking spots.
Are there any touring cycling routes with coffee stops or places to refuel?
Many routes, especially those passing through Aptos or Capitola Village, offer opportunities for coffee stops and refreshments. Coastal routes often have cafes and eateries conveniently located along the path. For inland routes, it's advisable to carry your own provisions, though some smaller towns or park facilities might offer options.
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