Tourism
is a major industry in this county generating over $6 million
in Lodging Taxes (TOT). County Government's share is $2.7 million,
$1.3 million or 48% of which is generated directly through Aptos
visitors (1996/97).
Aptos is tourism, with 25% of all the county's visitor rental
units, including rooms and campsites, in the Aptos area. Aptos
lodging directly brings in more than $13 million to the local
economy. A number of local businesses are involved directly
or indirectly in serving visitors. Aptos has three hotels with
475 rooms, four bed & breakfast inns with 24 rooms, and
five rental agencies for vacation homes with 275.
Aptos area tourists are typically high-yield, overnight or week-long
visitors. A substantial number stay in vacation rentals, with
an average of 6 people per house, for 6 nights. Aptos is literally
the home of the invisible tourist, with an average of 275,000
visitor days per year.
Originally an Indian village, the village of Aptos was established
in 1833. The Chamber of Commerce being officially established
as an association in 1929, was incorporated in 1960. Membership
has grown from 90 members in 1985 to more than 600 today.
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Aptos
has grown
dramatically since
1960 after the
establishment of
Cabrillo College and the first major
shopping center.
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