Rio del Mar is a laid-back coastal village in Santa Cruz County, California. With a population of around 9,100 people, it's part of the larger community of Aptos. The name "Rio del Mar" means "River of the Sea" in Spanish, chosen back in the 1920s to attract folks to the area. Nestled along the Monterey Bay, Rio del Mar offers a mix of beach vibes, small-town charm, and a relaxed lifestyle that residents and visitors alike can't get enough of.