Overview

Rio Del Mar is a sparse suburban coastal neighborhood in Aptos, California. Rio Del Mar means "River of the Sea" in Spanish. It is one of the small unincorporated villages in Santa Cruz County. The population is 9,216 and has a population density of about 2000 people per square mile based on the 2010 census.

The place of Rio Del Mar has been a peaceful community that has a unique character itself. Many can notice the charm in the building designs and shops.

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Real Estate Insights

According to Redfin, the Rio Del Mar housing is very competitive. Average homes sell about 11% above the listing price, while the above-average homes can sell more at about 20% above the listing price. As a result, it is more expensive than 88.3% of the neighborhoods in California.

The home prices in Rio Del Mar have gone up by 58% compared to the previous year, with a median sale price of $1,975,000 on all types of homes.

Most homes range from medium-sized family homes with three-to-four-bedroom features to tiny family homes and townhouses with a studio to two-bedroom. The real estate dwellings mainly were built between the 1940s and 1960s, with a few numbers constructed between the 1970s to 1990s. Most residents own their homes at 77% compared to the tenants with 23%.

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Activities

Shopping

Shop at Calicoastal Boutique, a hidden gem found in the lobby of Seascape Beach Resort. The gorgeous coast of California inspires it. It is where you can find cute apparel, gifts, home decors, and artisan treasures. They have handmade necklaces, bracelets, and other pieces, which are carefully sourced from the local community. For women's apparel and accessories, Cinnamon Bay Clothing has so much to offer.

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Pottery

Visit JW Art Pottery Studio at Florence Drive in Aptos. It is where you can find unique and exciting pieces made by hand on a potter's wheel. The intricate designs showcase the skills and creativity of the potters. You can find vases and bowls that have techniques employed in the 1900s.

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Restaurants

Pixie Deli & Good Eats

Pixie Deli & Good Eats opened in the early 1960s as a little market where anyone could grab snacks before enjoying the Rio Del Mar Beach. It has become a local favorite for hearty sandwiches and cold beverages. Many beach goers love their Pixie specialties which they can pick up and bring with them on a picnic on the beach. But if you want to enjoy the view, their refurbished patio is the perfect spot to enjoy your meal.

Address: 111 Venetian Rd, Aptos, CA 95003

Phone: 831-688-1115

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Bittersweet Bistro

One of the top local restaurants is the Bittersweet Bistro. The Bistro Chef and proprietor, Thomas Vinolus, was raised in the mid-west. He leads the kitchen, and his passion for food is apparent in his innovative menu using bright, fresh, and high-quality ingredients. They have been serving American Bistro Cuisines with Mediterranean influences for 25 years. Diners look forward to tasting their award-winning desserts, such as Chocolate Trio and Dessert Fantasy. Many love Lemon Napoleon, Bittersweet Chocolate Mousse, cheesecakes, ice creams, and much more. Their happy hour special features draft beers, selected wines, miracle margaritas, cocktails, etc.

Address: 787 Rio Del Mar Blvd. Aptos, CA 95003

Phone: 831-662-9799

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Red Apple Café

Red Apple Café offers an extensive menu and lunch entrees using fresh and high-quality ingredients on Central Coast. It is a popular place with locals and has been part of Aptos tradition since 1988. Red Apple Café strives to provide diners with a comfortable, relaxing, and safe ambiance. You can find an excellent combination of delicious food, great service, and accommodating staff at this place. You definitely won't leave hungry with their outstanding generous portions.

Address: 783 Rio Del Mar Blvd #15 Aptos, CA 95003

Phone: 831-685-1224

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Schools

Elementary Schools

· Rio Del Mar Elementary School

· Valencia Elementary School

· Mar Vista Elementary School

Middle Schools

· Lincoln Charter School

· Alianza Charter School

· Pacific Coast Charter School

· Twin Lakes Christian School

· Santa Cruz Montessori School

High Schools

· Aptos High School

· St. Francis High School

· Monte Vista Christian School

Parks and Beaches

Rio Del Mar State Beach

Rio Del Mar Beach is the main beach in the community, with public parking at both ends. It is a beautiful beach nestled in the neighborhood of Aptos, where lots of cafés, bars, and restaurants surround it. You can do many activities such as kayaking, biking, swimming, and paddle boarding. Enjoy the sunset views with your family or friends. You can actually continue in either direction and pass by many beaches on Monterey Bay.

Address: Rio Del Mar Blvd Aptos, CA 95003

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Seascape Park Beach

Seascape Park Beach is an excellent and clean local beach with a sandy secluded seafront. It is a six-acre city park with grassy areas and a kids' playground, and it is a wonderful place to enjoy the view while walking on the beach or strolling the pathways that follow the bluff. There are benches, picnic tables, and restrooms. Moreover, it is a dog-friendly beach where dogs on leashes are allowed. It might be tricky going down the route from the park to the beach, but it's going to be worth it!

Address: Seascape Blvd and Sumner Ave. Aptos, CA 95003

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Hidden Beach

Hidden Beach is a Pacific front sandy beach with gorgeous views. It is not too crowded, and it is clean. It has limited parking space, so it is ideal to be early. It is a great beach for families because it has a nice little playground for kids, and dogs are welcome here. Stay at Hidden Beach until sunset because it is such a fantastic experience.

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Address: Cliff Drive, Aptos, CA 95003

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Overview

According to Niche, Rio Del Mar is in the Top 10 Best Places to Raise a Family in Santa Cruz County and one of California's Best Places to Retire.

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