<p>For the UCs, especially since there’s a “cap” on the number of APs that are weighted, and since there’s an emphasis on GPA to a certain extent, I’d say take APES unless you’re sure you can get more than a B in AP Physics (would it be Physics 1, Physics 2, or Physics C?)
^Marysidney’s advice is excellent re: an ES club/activity (possibly assearly as now) to show you didn’t take the class to take the easy way out but because it’s a genuine interest of yours.
APES is also more relevant if you want to go into business, I think. (Physics is very important if you intend on going into STEM fields though).</p>