26 Best Bars near Aptos

Palapas Restaurant & Cantina Mexican • $$
21 Seascape Village, Aptos

Customers` Favorites

Fresh Chile Relleno
Gulf Prawn Parilla
Steak Ranchero
Ceviche Tostada
Chips and Salsa
Fish Tacos
Chile Verde
Enchilada
Guacamole
Taqueria

“When my family comes in from out of town, they almost always choose Palapas. Why? They accommodate large parties with a smile, the food is always good and hot, and I never feel rushed. Everyone tries different things, but I can't get past the combo enchilada platter. There's also a great view from almost every table.“

4.1 Good71 Reviews
Sevy's Bar + Kitchen Bar & Grill • $$
7500 Old Dominion Ct, Aptos

Customers` Favorites

Durham Ranch Double Burger
Breakfast Burrito
Eggs Benedict
Fried Calamari
French Fries
Caesar Salad
Fish & Chips
Fish Tacos
Clam

“Great restaurant and conveniently located at our hotel. They had a live band that was amazing! Food came out quickly and it was good. Except the rice my husband had, it was mushy... my clam chowder was good and I loved the bread. My daughter's fettuccine wasn't as flavorful as she likes it she had to ask for extra sauce and salt. Our server was so kind. She made sure we had our drinks refilled without asking and came and checked on us a couple of times. I felt bad for having to repeat our orders though because the music was loud. But overall great time. We would definitely come back to try another menu item or even just to hear the band.“

3.6 Good156 Reviews
Shadowbrook Restaurant American • $$$
1750 Wharf Rd, Capitola - 3.12 miles

Customers` Favorites

Black Truffle Gnocchi with Filet Mignon Brochettes
Filet and Lobster Tail with Whipped Potatoes
Slow-Roasted Angus Prime Rib
Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée
New England Sea Scallops
Jack Daniels Mud Pie
Jalapeño Baked Brie
Artichoke Soup Bowl
Bacon-Wrapped Prawns
Chocolate Meltdown

“We decided to celebrate our 3 year anniversary here at Shadowbrook and we weren’t disappointed. They have a small train car looking transportation to and from the parking lot that was awesome. Also available classic looking taxis that can take you to and from your vehicle. Amazing style and ambiance.Emily was our server for the evening, and she was fairly helpful. It did seem as if she was upselling a bit as all recommendations were the more expensive items however that’s understandable as server income is dependent on how much we spend.Bread and butter for table 5/5Dirty martini 4/5 (first martini we’ve tried)Ahi Poke 5/5Clam Chowder 5/5Butcher’s Filet 4/5 (steak was low on flavor - subbed out the Pomme Purée for potato gratin)Chocolate meltdown 4/5Complementary chocolate ganache for anniversary 5/5Presentation on all items was incredible. Some items feel like they need just slightly more of something or to be modified, but overall very high quality.Forewarning there is a 4% up charge on all items and the menu cites employee healthcare as the reason. There is also an option available when splitting a meal to get equal side amounts for an additional $6.$119.49 after tax and the 4% surcharge for 1 drink, 1 soup, 1 appetizer, 1 meal split w/ $6 for extra sides, and 1 dessert.Will be back and excited to see more of this place!For local reviews or travel content you can find us on Instagram @sunsetourist“

4.6 Superb333 Reviews
Moe's Alley Bars • $$
1535 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz - 4.67 miles

“Great location with free parking across the street. The are some spots in the venue with blocked sight lines, but the sound is good throughout. Check out the taco truck in the back patio area and the outdoor video monitor of the band, if you get too hot indoors.“

4.9 Superb51 Reviews
After Hours Cocktail Bar Bar •
1001 Center St #1, Santa Cruz - 7.14 miles

“After Hours is the bar attached to 11th Hour Coffee, the primary coffee shop that also hosts pop-up kitchens and events throughout the week (including trivia).I grabbed a drink from the bar to go with my dumplings from Full Steam. I got myself a Lavender Lemonade Cider ($8) which was a great deal and a fun drink to visually see being poured on tap. Service here was quick and painless, and I was able to get my drink and pay with no issues.For a bar inside a coffee shop, they got it going on and I'd recommend this spot to anyone looking for a more low-key experience.“

4.8 Superb25 Reviews
Callahan's Sports Bar • $$
507 Water St, Santa Cruz - 6.66 miles

“Every time I’ve been here (four times) there have been four different bartenders…I wish I could remember their names because they’ve all been awesome. One brought leftover thanksgiving sweet treats and shared with me. She didn’t know me from any jackass on the street. Totally recommend.“

4.9 Superb20 Reviews
JJ’s Saloon and Social Club Bar • $
4714 Soquel Dr, Soquel - 3.26 miles

“They have 2 pool tables that are $1.00 per game. Not bad tables for bar boxes. They have shuffleboard, lots of large tvs, an outdoor patio for smoking with a drink and a full bar. Prices seem standard for the area for a dive bar. Many restaurants in the area, but all close early. I will be back.“

4.8 Superb20 Reviews
The Point Kitchen and Bar American • $$
3326 Portola Dr, Santa Cruz - 4.09 miles

Customers` Favorites

Pulled Pork Sandwich with Garlic Fries
Pleasure Burger and Fries
Filet Mignon and Shrimp
Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Grilled Pork Chops
Chicken Schnitzel
Molten Lava Cake
Polenta
Salad

“Weekend brunch was delicious and not crowded at all. Friendly service and easy parking will make this a place we come back to. We had the chicken and waffles and the carnitas benedict with polenta instead of the English muffin. Highly recommend.“

4.4 Superb71 Reviews
The Fish House Bar & Grill Bar & Grill • $$
972 Main St, Watsonville - 8.45 miles

Customers` Favorites

Oak Wood Grilled Oysters on the Half Shell
Honey Pecan Crusted Halibut
Bouillabaisse
Crab Ravioli
Clam Chowder
Salmon Pasta
Clam Pasta
Snapper
Clams

“Seafood restaurant in Watsonville open relatively late with great serviceRaw oysters ⭐️⭐️: personally not a big fan of the huge oysters because the fishy taste is extra strong. Also these oysters had a lot of grit in them.Clam chowder ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️: pretty solid clam chowder. Had a good clam taste while being rich but not too heavy.Clam pasta ⭐️⭐️⭐️: felt like even though there were a lot of clams in the pasta the flavor didn't really come out. Pasta texture was good.Mango mousse cake ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️: the best thing here and one of the better mango mousses I've had. Surprised at how good it was considering this is a seafood restaurant.“

4.4 Superb68 Reviews
Capitola Wine Bar & Merchants Wine Bar • $$
115 San Jose Ave, Capitola - 2.9 miles

Customers` Favorites

Cheese and Meat Board
Sea Salt Carmel Bites
Adult Mac & Cheese
Pesto Flatbread
Wine Flight

“Second time here. I love the wine choices and the menu. I had cheese and charcuterie platter. Can't go wrong with that option. I definitely enjoy the live music in the evening. Went on a Saturday. If you don't reserve or get there early though the place is small so it gets full fast and without seats they don't serve you. Cute and nice ambiance“

4.5 Superb35 Reviews
Fast Eddy's Billiards Bars • $$
4300 Capitola Rd, Capitola - 3.45 miles

“Love fast Eddys. Affordable rates and food. Lots of tables. Employees are great and accommodating. Tables currently getting refelted with about half done already. Two excellent diamond tables. Lots of other games and darts here as well. Great place“

4.4 Superb27 Reviews
Rush Inn Bar • $
113 Knight St, Santa Cruz - 7.02 miles

“Solid low key divey drinky spot. As far as parking goes, there are maybe ten spots in the back accessed from bulkhead...look, just circle the block to the back okay? It's quiet, reasonably secure and perfect for a quick smoke, cuddle, or moment of sickness depending on how the night is going. If none of that seems like your thing, there's the downtown park and walk choices a block or so away. Inside there's a couple of tables that are more or less clean, and maybe a dozen 1970's style bar stools. Plenty of leave me alone spots, but also some I need company spots as well to chose from. It's not fancy yet more then comfy enough for casual drinking. Service is decent. The barkeep has been around awhile, knows how to read your thirst, won't keep you waiting any too long and -this is important-has a fine feel for when to cut you off. Usually an easy let down, but really that's up to you. Selection is decent but not comprehensive. Heavy on the low to mid grade quality. Not a lot of top tier items-but there's more then enough selection to keep you going and best of all this is a wallet friendly choice. Pretty much everything will be half of what you'll find anywhere else on the strip. No food except bar snacks (chips etc), no kitchen but there is a taco joint more or less next door. All in all it's a solid choice for low key, no shame, affordable drinking.“

4.7 Superb10 Reviews
Castaways Sports Bar • $
3623 Portola Dr, Santa Cruz - 3.94 miles

“Why did it take me this years old to realize what amazing tiki drinks Castaways has?!?! I strongly feel this is the most underrated bar in town. $12 gets me a Mai Tai that is hands-down the best (arguably over the ones in Hawaii) and is made with high-quality rums and fresh lime juice - no crappy fillers where I'm hung over the next day. Easy going vibe, rad bartenders, pool tables, music & won't break the bank. Great hidden secret and has been my spot since I had my first drink there 8 months ago. Also recommended: piranha for 2 (or one :))“

4.5 Superb16 Reviews
The Daily Grind Coffee & Bottle Shop Coffee Shops • $
115 San Jose Ave STE N, Capitola - 2.91 miles

Customers` Favorites

Croissants

“This spot is a local gem and a must try! Their organic, fair trade coffee has great flavor and is noticeably very strong. The owner super friendly, offers quick service and also owns Left Coast Sausages next door. Definitely worth checking out.“

4.8 Superb8 Reviews
Wooden Nickel Bar & Grill Bar & Grill • $
1819 Freedom Blvd, Freedom - 7.56 miles

Customers` Favorites

Choice of Soup or Salad and Half Sandwich
Mushroom and Grilled Onions Burger
Ribeye Steak with Baked Potato
Wooden Nickel Burger
Roast Beef Sandwich
Fish & Chips
Onion Rings
French Dip
Tuna Melt

“Excellent local place. Food is good and they have gigantic portions. The only thing is that during peak lunch and dinner time the service can be a bit slow so just plan to go there on a night that you have plenty of time. Well worth it if you have time to stay and take in the atmosphere! Love the calamari steak sandwich!“

4.2 Good78 Reviews
Over the Hill Gang Saloon Bar • $$
3530 Portola Dr, Santa Cruz - 4.01 miles

“One of the kind, and kind to all. A great local's spot, with good traveling music from time to time. It's reasonable pricing for Capitola, and you won't have to deal with the worst things to exist on this side of town: tourists. Happy they're around and still doing the honest bar tending of days past.The only negative thing is they stopped smoking in doors some years back. But times change, I guess.“

4.3 Superb19 Reviews
Oak & Ale Bar • $
3102 Portola Dr, Santa Cruz - 4.17 miles

“This is a neighborhood bar. The bartenders are friendly. It’s a nice place for a quick night cap. If you’re from the neighborhood and go out often then you may enjoy socializing, but I’ve never had a desire to connect with the crowd here.“

4.2 Good9 Reviews
Oswald Restaurant American • $$
121 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz - 6.93 miles

Customers` Favorites

Market Fish Plate
Chocolate Souffle
Burger and Fries
French Fries
Steak Medium

“The appetizer pictured was really good. It was a bit much for an appetizer so I couldn't finish my dinner. It was like eating breakfast right before dinner. But it was tasty. I'd go back just for that. I had the brisket for dinner, which was also very good. The place was nearly empty, yet they squeezed us next to another table right by the kitchen. So now I hate them. There a parking garage close by but it gets a lot of traffic. Beware the homeless sleeping in the stairwell. They're harmless. Just don't trip stepping over them.“

4.1 Good149 Reviews
Jalisco Restaurant Mexican • $$
618 Main St, Watsonville - 8.88 miles

Customers` Favorites

Cinco Enchilada Queso Rice & Beans
Camarones Al Mojo de
Camarones A la Diabla
Chicken Enchiladas
Camarones Asados
Seafood Fajitas
Chips and Salsa
Chicken Fajitas
Fresh Guacamole
Chile Relleno

“Went to lunch here with three friends and all of our meals were excellent. I had the chicken enchilada a la carte with red sauce and it was delicious.One of my friends had the chili colorado and it was absolutely outstanding.The interior of this restaurant is really cute and I saw a very nice outdoor patio as well.The prices are a little higher than most restaurants in watsonville but that's because the quality of the food is so good.Parking: There is a parking lot right next to the restaurant but be careful! That is for the grocery store.“

4.1 Good145 Reviews
The Crêpe Place American • $
1134 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz - 6.16 miles

Customers` Favorites

Fresh Baked Loaf of Honey Wheat Bread
Homemade Boston Clam Chowder
Smoked Salmon Crepe
California Benedict
Zorba the Greek
Breakfast Crepe
Fruit Crepé
Pollo Verde
Crêpes

“We had a great birthday celebration at the Crepe Place last weekend. It was a group of ten, and we started outside, but when it started sprinkling, they quickly whisked our group inside. Sarah, our server, was so friendly and attentive, and all if the staff were great. I was so excited to see not just gluten-free crepes, but gluten--free English muffins for the bennies. The GF crepe was delicious. Hadn't been there in a while, but I plan to go back soon.“

4.1 Good99 Reviews
Brady's Yacht Club Bar • $
413 Seabright Ave, Santa Cruz - 6.04 miles

Customers` Favorites

Shot of Jameson Irish Whiskey

“Drove down from SF and wandered into the bar to have a couple of drinks while waiting for friends to arrive from out of town. Super friendly staff and customers. Drinks were very well priced and the music was great. Was very happy and look forward to dropping by the next time I pass through Santa Cruz.“

4.1 Good39 Reviews
One Double Oh Seven Club Bar • $$
1007 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz - 6.26 miles

“SoDa (sp?) made this day for me. I’ll never forget her or my guy Kev for being the humans that I needed to see today. If you’re looking for a real dive bar with all the feels of your hometown then you’ve found your place. I have fallen in love. And I’m not upset ab it!“

4.1 Good20 Reviews

23
Süda

Süda American • $$
3910 Portola Dr, Santa Cruz - 3.82 miles

Customers` Favorites

Burrata Salad and Steak on the Side
Crème Brûlée French Toast
Creme Brulee French Toast
Sweet Potato Fries
Baja Snapper Tacos
Cauliflower Wings
Crispy Fish Tacos
Grass Fed Burger
Eggs Benedict
Bavette Steak

“Suda is located near 41st Ave off of Portola Drive. I often forget it is here until someone invites me to lunch and this is where we end up. I have been here for a baby shower as well; they have a private party room in the back if you want to have a more private space with your friends. They have great brunch and lunch. I have only been here once for dinner and it is just as good. I usually end up getting the burger or fish tacos which are both really good. The atmosphere is really cute; they have lots of plants which makes the space feel inviting and cozy. I love coming here. They also have plenty of parking in the parking lot. If you haven't been here yet, you should definitely give them a try.“

4 Good142 Reviews
The Jury Room Bar • $
712 Ocean St, Santa Cruz - 6.69 miles

“My friend had a 6am Bloody Mary that was like dinner and a show all in one. The bartender.. Melanie(? Pardon if memory failed me) was a gem and somehow personable at that horrid hour. There were regulars who told tales as charming as the classic movie playing on the TV's. I don't drink (but try a sprite/orange juice yum) and I would definitely frequent the Jury Room for my morning coffee and company.“

3.8 Good28 Reviews
Paradise Beach Grille Fine Dining • $$
215 Esplanade, Capitola - 2.94 miles

Customers` Favorites

Hawaiian Baby Back Ribs
Sugar and Spice Salmon
Crispy Fried Calamari
Chicken Tenders
Chicken Wings
Seafood Pasta
Fish & Chips
Fish Tacos

“Not your average beach grill. This place is a culinary adventure. I went for the fish and chips (which were superb) but everything we had (coconut prawns, clam chowder, breadalon) was outstanding in flavor and presentation! I saw a lot of people clean their plates, which is always a good sign lol pricy, yes but what waterfront isn't? Worth it in my opinion if you don't mind a splurge on great quality food.“

3.9 Good93 Reviews

26
Asti

Asti Bar • $
715 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz - 6.96 miles

Customers` Favorites

Modelo

“It says Cafe, but no snacks so far, just chips and $1 pool tables. Maybe they're just short staffed, idk. But you'd love their enthusiasm and competency. Although it's just a local dive bar they're definitely knowledgeable and professional...in multiple levels. Would definitely recommend for drinks, just hanging out, and/or playing pool. Especially because of their assertiveness and service. I definitely feel safe and comfortable playing pool and drinking here. Their music booth is nice and loud too. Also, they're not overpriced like most bars around the area. Check it out and give it a review yourself. With the right intentions I'll bet you'll have fun here.Wheelchair accessibility: I haven't measured the chair space myself (or with company on a wheelchair), but based on my limited experience it's possible with limited access. Probably not comfortable for a person with fully restricted accessibility needs...but once again this is based on my limited inexperience & knowledge. Then again, it should be clear it's a small crowded dive bar. I just haven't seen anyone in a wheelchair in there yet.“

3.6 Good27 Reviews
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