I have been a loyal member of Aptos Yoga for over 5 years. This studio is the very best! It is clean, has amazing teachers and lots of classes daily. I feel so lucky to have such a great place to go to and practice yoga weekly. Thank you Nicole Duke for providing our community with a top rated studio for all of us to enjoy. Life is so hectic, but going to Hot Yoga keeps me healthy, happy and at peace. Love to all the lovely teachers who smile as we walk in and for all the wonderful people I have made friends with over the years. LIFE IS GOOD! Love you Nicole:) read more

I love Bikram yoga Aptos! It feels like I'm going to a resort when I go here. The owner has not missed any detail from the clean hypoallergenic flooring, to the private showers, purified water, and spacious studio. Think you for what you are providing for the community! read more

BYA is a great studio to practice at. The staff is welcoming and helpful. I enjoy each and every visit and look forward to the next class I attend eagerly. Thanks BYA - y'all are simply fantastic! read more

This is my favorite studio for several reasons. I travel quite a bit so where ever I go I seek out a studio to maintain my practice. Its great to see a a person doing what they love to do in life and this studio owner Nicole is doing just that. It shows in her staff, the attention to her students and overall feeling and experience this studio delivers. I started my Bikram practice 3 years ago and it has taken me a while to get use to the heat however now that Nicole has upgraded her heating system it is perfectly balanced and consistent. I appreciate this Studio even more when I am out of town and in studios that are not hot enough to get a decent sweat. All the instructors are knowledgeable, friendly, helpful, and just plain happy to be there. read more

Love this Studio, Instructors & Community. Extremely rare to find such an encouraging community of participants that truly extend an encouraging hand to all; no matter what level of fitness you are currently in. You will feel like the Instructor & or the person next to you, actually cares. read more

Totally rockin' with the hotness and the vibe. This is the place to go if you want to connect with your strength and your spirt among like-minded folks in a welcoming and enouraging enviornment. I love the way they mix it up and make it fun. So refreshing! Drop by for inspirtion, liberation and/or to get fit as hell. read more

I will never go to this studio again, and would discourage anyone I care about from ever going here. I have been practicing yoga for roughly 6 years. There was a time when Bikram (at different studios) was a large part of my practice. I went to Bikram Yoga Aptos and signed up for their new student special and was excited about picking up my Bikram practice again. The curt, rather bitchy attitude I got when I walked in and signed up was not appreciated, but that was easily dismissed. Not very welcoming though; I would assume one would want to be welcoming to potential new clients? The part that was inexcusable was about halfway through when I felt that I needed to listen to my body and take it easy. After resting for about 15 minutes and trying to regain my breath, I felt as though I needed to leave. Having practiced Bikram in the past, I knew that leaving the room was a big no-no. I knew that being ridiculously hot, and slightly lightheaded was part of the deal, but what my body was telling me was something different. So, I listened to my body and left. As I was getting up the instructor was YELLING at me to stop, come back, you can't leave. YELLING. Then another woman who I later found out was the owner, Nicole, chased me out of the room, and stood over me, yelling at me and ridiculing me as if I were a child. She was telling me I don't know what I am doing and I am hurting my body and to get back in the room. This was completely inexcusable behavior for a studio owner, let alone a human being. So, embarrassed, dizzy, crying, and defeated, I left. Turns out, a few weeks later I discovered I had a underlying health issue. I am glad I listened to my body and didn't allow the people at Bikram Yoga Aptos to bully and intimidate me into doing something that would have actually been very dangerous to my health. There are so many wonderful, positive, beautiful, encouraging, yet extremely challenging teachers and studios in the Santa Cruz Area. Bikram Yoga Aptos is a disgrace to the practice of yoga. read more

A heavy, foul odor permeates this studio. Practicing on filthy, foul smelling carpet is not conducive to a positive yoga experience.

I must update to say there is a new laminate-type floor (no smell) & the instructors are much more laid back/kind/pleasant now. The hot yoga/pilates are great workouts. So far so good. read more

I have become a loyal HYA attendee and am so appreciative of the supportive, fun, healthy vibe here! It is helpful to me that we are encouraged to modify the moves based on our bodies, needs, and even just feelings that day. Noncompetitive community and beautiful space! Great tunes are the icing on the cake :) read more

Bikram Yoga Aptos is stinking and smelly. I don't ever see them clean the carpet in their yoga room. I have been to other bikram hot yoga studios but this one is by far the dirtiest and smelliest. Also, I bought a package of 10, always have. This time they told me two days they were going to expire. No one ever told me they were gonna expire. Then they have the nerve to send an e-mail giving me a free birthday session. How about you give me back my package of 10 you thieves. There are ways they can make this place cleaner. It's just gross and everyone on the street says so. read more

What more could you ask for, I mean seriously? This amazing Bikram studio, which opened in mid August, is not only the nicest studio on the west coast but radiates with positive energy from the inside out. In the short time it has been open, I have met so many genuine and great people and day after day I have watched the formation of a tight knit community of yogis who support and push one another. You never have to worry about finding motivation to push yourself through a class because there are always so many yogis around brimming with strength and energy to share. The owner, Nicole, who is both an athletic powerhouse and an extremely personable woman, has chosen a wide variety of extremely knowledgeable, caring, and energetic teachers. One major strength of this studio is that the teachers all really take the time to both inform people new to the studio about what to expect for their first time and are constantly trying to help everyone, whether new to Bikram or an experienced practitioner, that practicing proper form takes precedent over depth. Many of the teachers take the time at certain periods during the class to demonstrate postures and inform everyone about the physical, medical, and psychological benefits of the 26 postures and 2 breathing exercises. Another thing I think makes this studio stand out is that the owner is there almost all the time, which really makes you feel like there is someone to go to should there be any question or concern. I have definitely been to other studios where the owner is never there and to get like an extra roll of toilet paper in the bathroom or something is like pulling teeth. But, Nicole definitely stays on top of the cleanliness of the studio and has not cut any corners as far as the architecture and features of the studio. If you haven't come to Bikram Aptos yet and you are a yogi, than what are you waiting for!? And, if you have the inkling to try it but are maybe a little hesitant, consider this your kick to get in their asap. No doubt this hatha yoga is hard work, so be ready to sweat a lot...and probably even more than any other studio because the heat and humidity here is the real deal. It may take a few days to acclimate to the heat here but, the changes and benefits that will take shape in your mind and body as a result are well worth it. My practice has changed in so many ways since I practiced here, not only have I gained a deeper appreciation for this yoga form but my life has been enriched by the friends I have made here. I have watched so many people transform in a myriad of positive ways as they made Bikram a part of their daily lives as well. Definitely give it a try because you won't regret it. This is THE place to practice Bikram in Santa Cruz! The staff and students are all so welcoming and there is a great deal for new yogis: 10 consecutive days for $20. Also, has a great yoga boutique, refreshment cooler, lounge area, and spa-like locker rooms! Namaste read more

I practiced yoga at least 4-5 times a week in San Francisco for about 4 years before we moved to Aptos. I was soooooo excited that there was a Bikam studio within walking distance from our new place that I checked them out immediately. I eventually signed up for 6 months of unlimited yoga for a super decent price of $99/month because I love the practice that much. Although I had just completed the 30 day challenge in SF before moving, I found practicing at BYA difficult from the first day because it was extremely hot, hotter by far than any other studio I've experienced and I've visited a couple. At first, I thought it was just a matter of getting used to it. So, I continued to go regularly, meaning at least 3 times a week or more. But my body just refused to accept the outrageous heat. I was used to feeling a bit nauseous once in while during class, but, in addition to that, I often felt dizzy and physically weak to the point where I couldn't stand up and had to sit down for long periods of time during class. I also felt completely depleted of all energy by the third section of class. No amount of water helped, and I brought a lot more than I ever did before. Neither did the cold blasts offered every once in a while, depending on the instructor. After about four months, I was ready to quit. But I continued on at least 3 times a week in the hopes that it would change for me, but it never did. As far as being nice and helpful, the instructors and Nicole were most of the time. It seemed to depend, however, on their mood that particular day. I never found them to be rude, but rather just indifferent. What I found to be a bit much, however, were the unprofessional comments/critiques I would occasionally receive from the instructors, including Nicole, when I would try and cool myself down by, for instance, leaving the room, placing my cold water bottle on my pulse (a trick I learned when feeling nauseous), and even sitting down. What's more upsetting is the fact that on those days the instructor felt the need to make the comments/critiques, she (and it was always a she) never felt the need to follow up with me after class to see how I was doing, how class was for me that day, whether the comments/critiques were helpful, etc. Class was over and so were they. The only other thing I found disappointing was the fact that in SF the instructors always included a spiritual angle to the practice, but in Aptos I found that was not the case for the most part. The only person I found to be consistently friendly and concerned about my practice was Sarah, the British lady. However, when I expressed my concern to her that I wasn't getting used to the heat, and often felt extremely tired and burnt out for the rest of the day, she explained that the heat was supposed to be the challenge. Funny, because I thought the yoga was the challenge and the heat was supposed to be a helping factor, not THE factor. But maybe I misunderstand the purpose of Bikram. For my part, I know I didn't want to pay $99 a month to sit on my ass for an hour and sweat...I wanted to do yoga and get a workout. So, I guess if this is the way it's supposed to be, it's not for me after all. In any case, I left after my 6 month subscription was up. It bums me out because I really enjoyed the workout and felt great afterwards (both mentally and physically) when I was practicing in SF, but just never found that overall sense of enjoyment practicing in Aptos. Should they ever decide to lower the heat to make it more tolerable to most, then I'd try them out again. But otherwise, I'll leave it to those who are more heat tolerant that I am, and just move on to other opportunities. read more

I love it here!! The classes are awesome. All of the teachers are motivating and allow you to go at your own pace! From the second you walk in, to the time you leave, everyone is super welcoming and positive! The owner, Nicole, is also so sweet!! She definitely makes a huge influence on the positivity that radiates through the room! read more

I have been to many different gyms and yoga studios, and this is by far my favorite. It is clean, chic, and the instructors are amazing. I always feel welcome and supported. The workouts are just the right amount of intense too! Keep doing what you guys are doing, it is great! read more

Wonderful studio. Beautiful space - perfect temp & humidity. Nice showers, myriad of refreshing beverages for before and after practice available for purchase. Friendly and compassionate staff. Made my night being able to practice after a busy work day. read more

I started taking classes here a few months ago after I broke up with my boyfriend; I needed to change my lifestyle. This place and the teachers have contributed to putting me into the best shape of my life - each class is an AMAZING workout. The teachers are all incredibly sweet and welcoming. I feel so safe there! I never feel pressured, breaks are provided during class where everyone is encouraged to drink water, and we can always leave the room if necessary. I crave classes daily - it's 60 to 90 minutes out of my day where I am concentrating solely on my mind and body. It's so therapeutic. I'll be coming to classes for as long as I live in this county. Thank you Hot Yoga Aptos!!! read more

Good teachers, but the owner realy, realy favors known regulars and is not understanding of newbies trying to learn the rules etc....

I was excited to try this place out.... forget about it! Eek... I went to the last class of the evening and it STINKS, STANK, STUNK. My goodness. The class itself was fine; but I was so overwhelmed with the smell, I had a hard time concentrating. Unless they changed the carpeted room to a wood floor to clean up the sweat, etc. after each class, I wouldn't recommend this place. Try DivinTree Yoga in SC instead. read more

My yoga practice is meant to bring peace. I love the Bikram method and can't help wishing BYA would change their attitude...instructors at this studio take away my sense of wellbeing because they speak harshly, most times to beginners, and they do not let students listen to and care for their wellbeing... Specifically, they do not allow rest when needed between postures, and they limit students ability to hydrate. Since I'm a trained Bikram instructor, I know BYA excessive water "limits" are not prescribed by Bikram . I've tried the studio once again, hoping that the yoga "attitude" I experienced would be different because I work in this area and it's a nice studio. But, once again, instructors have been extremely judgmental, raising voices at students in disapproving ways....makes me uncomfortable. read more

aptos hya is great place to practice you. If you do the work here and are steady you will see the results. A super nice, supportive community, great instructors. And, the colors, plants, and locker room amentiies are really soothing too. You will work here, but if you do the work, you will reap the benefits. read more

Hot Yoga Aptos is an wonderful studio. The renovations Nicole did have created a clean, relaxed, and modern space. The teachers are great -- love Nicole, Priscilla, Trisha, and Carina. They are very welcoming and encouraging for all levels. Nicole is really friendly, always remembers your name. So happy to have this studio here. read more

Visiting family in Aptos and needed to keep up with my Bikram practice. Such a great experience! The teacher (I forget her name but she was lovely) was so encouraging and helpful. Definitely a hot room-- more humid than my studio in Philly. However our instructor would turn on the AC once every twenty minutes to alleviate it. I'm also not used to a carpeted floor, though I didn't mind it. Locker room was spacious & clean. I will definitely be back on my frequent trips to Santa Cruz! read more

Ive been a regular bikram yogi for over 6 years. Ive practiced all of this time averaging about 6 days a week. I travel a lot in the bay area and in california and its' been a hobby of mine to try as many yoga studios as possible, so , the count is up around 50. Nicole has created a studio that is cutting edge in every aspect that might be considered when evaluating a bikram facility. The air first, it is filtered w/ co2 sensors that send chilled O2 into the air vents. As a person w/ asthma i appreciate the clean fresh stuff and consider it a major failure of most strip mall style facilties. I have travelled great distances periodically to get the good stuff (fresh , hot air)for many years during times when the air quality was poor in some studios due to poor technical planning to ensure this vital (to me) aspect, so , imagine how great i feel to have this technical guru a.k.a. Nicole Duke 'owner' to land practically in my back yard. The rest of the facility, the fluff , is all first class designed for hard core bikram athletes who want a "great" filtered water shower, chilled filtered water drinking fountains, plenty of room inside the studio and in the locker areas, perfect coloring , mirror placement and expanded vistas w./ a lofted ceiling to give one a sense of space and privacy, and, some technically advanced flooring stuff that has hygienic characteristics, a necessity in this environment . I am adjusting to the humidity in this place, YOWZA, YES, IT IS HARD CORE !!!!!! AND HOT TOO!!!!!! But therein lies the mystical secret of the bikram system,,,,,,,,hydrate like you never dreamed, learn to calm your mind and breathe, and you will be transformed into a serious athlete who can use this as a launching vehicle to reach any possible level in any sport. OR, heal old injuries that have plagued you (like me) for decades........ APTOS BIKRAM YOGA,,,,Much more than a first class facility w/ ; a people oriented staff (who are all hard core practitioners, i like) who i see painstakingly filling in many details for new students, joyfully carry out the bikram dialogue, and, a surprisingly focused and skilled group of practitioners who in a very short period of time are becoming the top bikram facility in California.............ITS SERIOUS !!!!!! read more

This studio has something that is missing from so many other studios... soul. You feel it when you enter and you never leave disappointed. I found the studio back in 2011 and continue to find new things I love about it every day. It's as challenging as you want it to be, and you start to look forward to entering the heated room because you feel so good and stretched the entire time. You really do come to love it. My parents are in their 60's and are now in love with it too. It's ultra clean, modern, comfortable, and welcoming. I'd give it six stars if I could. read more

Never have I felt more at home than at Aptos Hot Yoga. Nicole, the owner, is a wonderful caring person and has a passion for helping all of us lead healthier lifestyles. Yes it's hot and yes it's not easy but I wouldn't return day after day if it was. I feel so cleansed afterwards. Thank you so much, Nicole, for your dedication. You have made a real difference in my life. And we all appreciate the upgrades you have done to the studio so we may all have a better experience. read more

Where to begin? The encouragement from the instructors and like minded souls? The variety of classes? The dynamic and refreshing practice of Hot Yoga with dope musical blends and the traditional 26 poses, where instead of strict militant regimented practice of Bikram, you are encouraged to take care of yourself while pushing your own determined boundaries? Need water, take a sip. Want to try that headstand, there's a wall for you. Need a laugh, it's happening. Need to be rebalanced and grounded, try a class. You'll be tired, you won't know if you can make it, you will feel shaky, you will want to give up, but you will feel amazing and want to come again. Try Hot Pilates. An intense High Intensity interval training class with Pilates principles and for good fun they throw in some tabata with excellent music. Or even yoga sculpt where you get to flow and then add some weights to tone. Fusion is a sweet flow that changes with each instructor so you get a variety but you always feel incredible after. And Yin yoga is back. I love Yin. It's the balance to the yang that is life and all it's craziness. It's a gentle hug letting you know everything will be alright. Slow, meditative, mostly floor based, deep stretching. The studio offers you amazing personal balance. It is gorgeous, inviting, with people of all shapes and sizes, encouraging, smiling, laughing, and sharing in each other's collective warmth. Additionally it is home to special guests and events, teacher trainings, a small boutique and fresh juices. read more

A great studio! I did hot yoga which I do already in my home town. It seemed hotter than I am used to and am not used to a carpet and odour like that but I got used to it quickly and got stuck in. Nicole adds other moves to the standard Bikram moves which is great for students who are very experienced. Not me! I was at my limit with the Bikram moves and the heat. Contrary to previous reviews, I never felt singled out, I just did what I wanted and that was encouraged and very well guided by Nicole. I also noticed a couple of students left before the end, it was not disruptive and reassuring to know that if it got too much for me and I left, nobody would run after me! Obviously hot yoga is not for everyone and not for the faint hearted but if it's your thing you are unlikely to be disappointed with this studio. This was a welcome bonus to my visit to Aptos, thank you! read more

Love it!! It is a CLEAN nice studio with wonderful staff.

Very clean, upscale, and friendly yoga studio. It is a very nice change to our town. You can tell that the owner has put alot of time & effort into this business. Collette one of the instructores totally rocked and was the best teacher I have ever had! Namaste Guys... read more

I can not say enough about this incredible hot yoga and pilates space. Over the past 4 years it has provided a sanctuary for so many of us fortunate enough to walk through it's welcoming doors. I have practiced Bikram yoga all over the world (when traveling or living elsewhere) and this studio not only offers top notch instruction but a community where everyone of every fitness level, age and ability feels welcomed and encouraged. I would highly recommend you try a class...the only classes I've ever regretted here are one that I didn't make it to! read more

Nicole has managed to create a fusion class that feeds the body, mind and soul. Such an incredible balance of honoring her roots while guiding her yogis to embrace a new experience. Each class is unique and clearly created from her place of love and passion for her vision. Treat yourself to the magic. You won't regret it. read more

I feel the need to respond to Dee B.'s review and experience with Nicole at Hot Yoga Aptos. I am dismayed at the experience she describes. I attend 1-2 classes daily at HYA, many with Nicole and many with other instructors. The community and culture at this studio is so inclusive and nurturing. I have seen and heard Nicole offer corrections in class, always sensitive to student's needs and conditions and offering her input as a choice. She definitely tells you what she sees but always in a caring and loving way. Her studio has evolved to be flexible, nurturing, inclusive and professional. I know many of her instructors and I cannot imagine any of them agreeing or saying that Nicole is "rude" as Dee B. seems to perceive her. Too bad she felt the need to write this publicly here instead of actually talking to Nicole face to face and sharing why she felt this way. I am confident Nicole would be responsive to whatever experience Dee B. had that led to her feeling this way. Regardless of Dee B.'s feelings I highly recommend this studio to any one who wants to try hot yoga or pilates from the varied menu of classes offered at HYA. It is truly a safe place to try it out. read more