I think that more is better....
It allows you to have a larger colony size to start, with the hopes that later in the season, you can divide them, and then have twice as many. Of course if you decide to divide you will have to order another queen unless you are going to raise your own. Oh, and Don't be scared, beekeeping is EASY and life is all about the learning experince.
I love Aptos, by the way and miss it much. I used to live on Trout Gulch Road, and right near the redwood village for a few years. Lived on the Central Coast for many years.....ahh the beauty of California...You are so very fortunate!! Say Hello to Rio Del Mar for me!!!
Enjoy this Time of year, I remember it to be Bee Utiful!!!!
Cheers,
JT