Hollister is a historic country town nestled in the heart of the Santa Clara Valley, offering a charming blend of rural tranquility and suburban convenience. Surrounded by open space, rolling hills, farmland and vineyards, Hollister provides a peaceful atmosphere where residents can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, touring and wine tasting.
The town's historic downtown district features quaint shops, local eateries, artisan coffee & gift shops and fun community events throughout the year, fostering a sense of small-town camaraderie. Hollister's proximity to larger cities like Silicon Valley, Carmel by the Sea, Aptos and Monterey Bay offers easy access to cultural attractions, job opportunities, and recreational amenities, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a balanced and idyllic lifestyle.
Living at Twin Oaks means more than just enjoying luxurious amenities and a close-knit community. It also means having access to Hollister’s wide variety of enjoyable activities. From scenic hikes and historic tours to wine tastings and lively farmers markets, there’s always something to do that’s perfect for those aged 55 and better. Explore our curated list of 15 local (update) attractions and envision your life at Twin Oaks.
Pinnacles National Park, located 25 minutes from Twin Oaks is a unique and lesser-known gem in California, is renowned for its dramatic rock formations that have been sculpted by wind, water, and time. Located near the southern end of the Gabilan Range, the park offers a diverse landscape that includes towering spires, hidden caves, and lush meadows. Visitors can explore the park's hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging climbs, and encounter a variety of wildlife, including condors, deer, and mountain lions. Camping is also an option at this spectacular destination. Pinnacles National Park is a captivating destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful and unforgettable experience.
Gilroy Premium Outlets is a popular shopping destination located in the heart of Silicon Valley. Featuring a wide variety of designer and brand-name stores, the outlet mall offers shoppers the opportunity to find discounted merchandise on everything from clothing and accessories to home goods and electronics. With its convenient location and ample parking, Gilroy Premium Outlets is a must-visit for bargain hunters and those seeking a unique shopping experience.
Eden Rift Vineyards is a boutique winery nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains, known for producing award-winning Pinot Noir. The estate's vineyards are situated on a steep hillside, overlooking the Pacific Ocean, providing a unique microclimate that contributes to the exceptional quality of their wines. Eden Rift offers a tasting room where visitors can sample their varietals and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. With a focus on sustainable farming practices and handcrafted winemaking, Eden Rift Vineyards is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts seeking a truly memorable experience.
Bolado Park Event Center is a versatile venue located in Hollister, California, offering a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces for events of all sizes. The center features a spacious event space, an outdoor amphitheater, and beautiful landscaped grounds, making it an ideal location for festivals like the annual County Fair, rodeos, and other large scale community events here.
Mission Juan Bautista, California. Founded in 1797, the mission is one of the most well-preserved examples of Spanish colonial architecture in the state. Visitors can explore the mission's courtyards, gardens, and museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the mission's history and the lives of the Native Indigenous people who's culture still lives on in this quaint village of a town. The mission also hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, providing visitors with a glimpse into the areas rich heritage. Visit this active historic mission and explore its beautiful grounds and museum.
Leal Vineyards is located 5 minutes from Twin Oaks, it’s a pleasant and easy walk or bike ride that will lead you to this secret spot, known for producing high-quality estate Red Wines and Chardonnay. The estate's vineyards are situated on a steep hillside providing a unique microclimate that contributes to the exceptional quality of their wines. Leal Vineyards offers a tasting room where visitors can sample their varietals and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. With a focus on sustainable farming practices and handcrafted winemaking, Leal Vineyards is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts seeking a truly memorable experience. Enjoy wine tastings, live music, and beautiful vineyard views.
Hollister Farmers Market is a vibrant weekly event that brings together local farmers, artisans, and food vendors to showcase their fresh produce, handcrafted goods, food trucks and delicious culinary creations. The market offers a delightful atmosphere where shoppers can explore a variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables, artisanal cheeses, gourmet foods, and unique gifts. With live music, cooking demonstrations, and a friendly community vibe, Hollister Farmers Market is a must-visit destination for those seeking fresh, locally sourced products and a memorable shopping experience.
Step back in time with museums, historic buildings, and cultural events at San Juan Bautista State Park. This historic park is located in the heart of San Juan Bautista, California, known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, rich Mexican Culture and natural beauty. The park features the iconic Mission San Juan Bautista, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as a variety of hiking trails, picnic areas, and a museum showcasing the region's rich history. Visitors can explore the mission's courtyards, gardens, and museum, learn about the lives of the Native Indigenous people and enjoy the peaceful and scenic atmosphere of the park.
Experience seasonal attractions like the Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch, plus get fresh produce at Swank Farms. Swank Farms is a family-owned and operated farm located in Hollister, California. Known for their delicious strawberries, Swank Farms offers visitors the opportunity to pick sunflowers and enjoy the farm-fresh experience. In addition to strawberries, the farm also grows a variety of other fruits and vegetables, and often hosts seasonal events and activities for families and children. Swank Farms features one of the largest annual corn mazes and harvest festivals in the country. With its picturesque setting and commitment to sustainable farming practices, Swank Farms is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
Play a round of golf or enjoy dining with a view at Ridgemark Golf & Country Club. Conveniently located 5 minutes from Twin Oaks in Hollister, California. Nestled amidst rolling hills and vineyards, the club offers a challenging 18-hole championship golf course designed by renowned architect Robert Trent Jones Jr.
Taste award-winning wines and tour this historic winery that dates back to the 1850s. DeRose Vineyards is a family-owned winery located in the Santa Cruz Mountains, known for producing high-quality Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The estate's vineyards are situated on a steep hillside overlooking the Pacific Ocean, providing a unique microclimate that contributes to the exceptional quality of their wines. DeRose Vineyards offers a tasting room where visitors can sample their varietals and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. With a focus on sustainable farming practices and handcrafted winemaking, DeRose Vineyards is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts seeking a truly memorable experience.
Discover local history with restored buildings, artifacts, and guided tours at San Benito Historical Park. This captivating destination is located in San Juan Bautista, California, and offers a glimpse into the region's rich history. The park features a variety of historic buildings, including the Peralta Adobe, the Boronda Adobe, and the Branciforte Adobe, which showcase the architectural styles and lifestyles of early settlers. Visitors can explore the park's exhibits, learn about the area's Native American heritage, and enjoy the peaceful and scenic atmosphere. With its well-preserved historic sites and educational opportunities, San Benito Historical Park is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and those seeking a deeper understanding of the region's past.
Enjoy shopping, wine tasting, dining, and a mini train ride at this charming attraction. Casa de Fruta is a beloved roadside attraction located in Gilroy, California, known for its vast selection of fresh fruits, vegetables, and other gourmet foods. The market offers a delightful shopping experience with its colorful displays, friendly staff, and a variety of delicious treats. Visitors can sample fresh fruits, indulge in homemade jams and jellies, and enjoy a meal at one of the many dining options on the premises. Casa de Fruta is a popular destination for families, foodies, and anyone seeking a unique and enjoyable shopping experience. Great for families and grandkids!
The Farm Market presents a broad array of fresh produce, gourmet foods, and handcrafted items. Renowned for its dedication to supporting local farmers and artisans, the market offers a rich assortment of seasonal fruits and vegetables, artisanal cheeses, fresh ranch milk, farm eggs, locally produced gourmet olive oils, meats, and distinctive gift items with wrapping options. Boasting a welcoming atmosphere and a focus on quality, The Farm Bertuccio's Market is a must-visit for those in search of fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a memorable shopping experience. Its convenient location across from Twin Oaks makes visiting the market easier than ever.