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Historic Sand Rock Farm

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Why We Like This Place

Tucked into a rural valley in the pretty seaside community of Aptos, a former stagecoach route leads to a forested haven—Historic Sand Rock Farm. Established in 1885, the estate flourished as a working ranch, farm, and one of the original family wineries in the Monterey Bay Area through the early 1900s. But by 1999, the farm had fallen into disuse. Enter veteran innkeeper Kris Sheehan, who transformed the historic estate into a vintage boutique inn and celebration venue.

Though just minutes from the beach, Sand Rock Farm rests within 10 acres of sun-dappled woodlands. The focal point of the estate is a wonderful shingled mansion surrounded by meadows, trails, twisting oaks and towering redwoods. Thoughtfully restored, the elegant inn retains an authentic Arts and Crafts aesthetic. Rich redwood details and period light fixtures enhance the interiors, while rocking chairs, garden benches and trickling fountains inspire outdoor relaxation. Zen-like tranquility can be found in any of Sand Rock Farm’s lovely gardens, where tiered stone fountains delight hummingbirds and visitors alike. Enjoy a fragrant ramble in Eva’s Garden among heirloom roses, or stroll the Spiral Garden, where vintage lilacs adorn hidden nooks inviting romantic interludes. Equally romantic are the five beautifully appointed guest rooms, which convey a warm, nostalgic ambiance. Amenities include two-person Jacuzzi tubs, hand-printed wallpaper and flower-filled views. Luxurious furnishings like a French hand-carved armoire and an antique half-poster bed make you feel like the Lady of the Manor!

This exclusive country estate also offers an array of wonderful event sites. Elaborate ceremonies unfold in the spacious Redwood Grove, where couples pledge their love among mature redwoods, accompanied by the melodious splashing of a wine-barrel fountain. Across the Grove is the rustic Carriage Barn, boasting high whitewashed ceilings and exposed beams. Down a tree-shaded path beyond the barn lies the versatile Winery Meadow, 5,000 square feet of level field ringed with soaring trees. The meadow includes the Heart Redwood Pavilion with a wisteria-covered trellis and the Wine Terrace Workshop, which has rough-hewn stone walls and a garden setting. These spaces can be dressed up with linens and elaborate floral centerpieces, or styled California-casual. And then there’s the Barrel Aging Cellar, Sand Rock Farm’s signature site. An arched, ivy-clad doorway reveals an open-air dining or dancing space sheltered by the farm’s original sand rock walls. At night, this sultry enclave is aglow with moonlight and white silk lanterns.

Intimate gatherings often feature the reception rooms of the inn itself. The central redwood staircase affords the bride a graceful entrance into the parlor for an old-fashioned wedding ceremony. Afterwards, French doors swing open onto the expansive dining decks where guests enjoy champagne and delicious appetizers overlooking a lush shade garden.

Sand Rock Farm, officially a “Green Hotel,” works closely with caterers who partner with neighboring organic farmers and winemakers to create tantalizing cuisine.

Considering avoiding the wedding hoopla altogether? Sand Rock Farm’s Elopement Package makes it easy. So whether you’re planning a lavish gala, a spontaneous getaway or a honeymoon to remember, let Historic Sand Rock Farm treat you to its legendary hospitality.

Capacity

Ceremony	Reception/Special Events	Meetings
Max. Seated Indoors: 150 Max. Seated Outdoors: 250	Max. Seated Indoors: 150 Max. Seated Outdoors: 250 Max. Standing Indoors: 200 Max. Standing Outdoors: 250	Max. Seated: 150
CEREMONY, EVENT/RECEPTION & MEETING CAPACITY: Indoors, Sand Rock Farm holds up to 150 seated guests; outdoors, up to 250 seated. Five exclusive sites on the property to choose from; please contact for details.

Fees & Deposits

A $750–2,500 nonrefundable deposit is required to reserve your date. 50% of the balance is due 60 days prior to your event and the balance is due 15 days prior to your event. Wedding packages range $100–150/person. Tax, beverage package and service charge are additional.

Availability

Year-round, daily, 9am–9pm. Weddings take place in 5 hour blocks.

Catering Choose From List Alcohol Provided BYO w/ Corkage Fee Location Uses Ceremonies Wedding Receptions Special Events, Parties Business Functions/Meetings Rehearsal Dinners On-Site Accommodations Services/Amenities Catering: select from list Kitchen Facilities: moderate Tables & Chairs: included in package Linens, Silver, etc.: included in package Restrooms: wheelchair accessible Dance Floor: CBA Bride’s & Groom’s Dressing Areas: CBA Meeting Equipment: CBA, extra charge Parking: limited, more CBA off site Accommodations: 5 guest rooms Telephone: emergency use only Outdoor Night Lighting: CBA Outdoor Cooking Facilities: no Cleanup: included in package View: garden, grounds, fountains, hills, forest Other: event coordination required

Amplified Music Indoors Outdoors w/ Restrictions Wheelchair Access Wheelchair Accessible Site Views Forest/Wooded Area Fountain/Water Feature Garden Garden Patio/Courtyard Hills Landscaped Grounds Meadow/Fields Mountains Venue Type Banquet Hall/Events Facility Bed and Breakfast Garden Historic/Landmark Building Hotel Inn/Lodge Mansion Private Estate Private Home Retreat Restrictions Alcohol: beverage package available, or BYO with corkage fee Smoking: outdoors only with restrictions Music: amplified OK with restrictions Wheelchair Access: yes Insurance: liability required

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