California Road Trip: Testarossa Winery

California Road Trip: Testarossa Winery

by | May 2, 2026 | Road Trips

From Santa Cruz to a Family Celebration at Testarossa Winery

After spending the morning exploring California’s beautiful coastline, we returned to the Residence Inn San Jose Campbell to get ready for one of the main reasons for our cross-country journey—our nephew’s wedding. Once dressed for the occasion, we made the short drive to Testarossa Winery in the charming town of Los Gatos. Nestled in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains, the winery provided a beautiful and elegant setting for such a special family celebration.

Testarossa Winery combines award-winning wines with a fascinating history that dates back more than a century. Although the Testarossa label was founded in 1993 by Rob Jensen and Diana Jensen—who began making wine as a hobby in their Silicon Valley garage—the winery is housed in the historic Novitiate Winery in Los Gatos. The original stone winery was built in 1888 by Jesuit Fathers and Brothers from Santa Clara College (now Santa Clara University) to produce altar and fortified wines for the seminary. Wine has been continuously produced at this location for well over a century, making it one of California’s oldest continuously operating wineries.

Testarossa Winery

Us at Testarossa Winery

Testarossa Winery

Testarossa Winery

Us at Testarossa Winery

Testarossa Winery

Testarossa Winery

Testarossa Winery

Testarossa Winery

Testarossa Winery

Testarossa Winery

Testarossa Winery

Walking through the beautiful stone buildings and landscaped grounds, it was easy to appreciate the blend of California history and modern winemaking. The original cellars, historic architecture, and peaceful courtyards created an unforgettable atmosphere for the wedding ceremony and reception. Whether you are visiting for a wine tasting, a private event, or simply to explore its rich history, Testarossa Winery offers a unique experience that reflects both California’s winemaking heritage and the innovation of Silicon Valley.

Watching our nephew begin this new chapter of his life in such a beautiful setting made the day even more meaningful. Surrounded by family, friends, and the timeless charm of Testarossa Winery, it became one of the most memorable moments of our entire Florida-to-California road trip. Even if you are not attending a special event, Testarossa Winery is well worth a visit for its outstanding wines, remarkable history, and one of the most picturesque settings in the San Jose and Los Gatos area.

California Road Trip: Lighthouse Field State Beach and Santa Cruz

California Road Trip: Lighthouse Field State Beach and Santa Cruz

by | May 2, 2026 | Road Trips

From Shark Fin Cove to Lighthouse Field State Beach: Surfing and Coastal Views in Santa Cruz

Leaving Shark Fin Cove, we continued south along California’s spectacular Highway 1 toward Lighthouse Field State Beach. The drive itself was part of the adventure, with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged coastal cliffs, and waves crashing against the shoreline around nearly every bend. Before long, the scenery transitioned from the quiet coastline near Davenport to the vibrant beach atmosphere that makes Santa Cruz one of California’s most popular seaside destinations.

Lighthouse Field State Beach is well known for its historic lighthouse, scenic walking trails, and incredible ocean overlooks. From the bluffs, we watched surfers patiently waiting for the perfect wave before paddling into the rolling Pacific swells. It was fascinating to watch surfers of all skill levels riding the waves while others floated beyond the breakers waiting for their next opportunity. The relaxed beach atmosphere, ocean breeze, and panoramic coastal views made it easy to spend time simply enjoying the scenery.

Lighthouse Field State Beach

Lighthouse Field State Beach

Lighthouse Field State Beach

Lighthouse Field State Beach

Lighthouse Field State Beach

Lighthouse Field State Beach

Lighthouse Field State Beach

Lighthouse Field State Beach

Lighthouse Field State Beach

Looking farther down the coastline, we could see the iconic Santa Cruz Wharf stretching out into Monterey Bay. The historic wharf is lined with restaurants, shops, and attractions, making it one of Santa Cruz’s most recognizable landmarks. From Lighthouse Field State Beach, the combination of surfers in the foreground, the wharf in the distance, and the endless Pacific Ocean created one of the most memorable coastal views of our California trip.

The short drive from Shark Fin Cove to Lighthouse Field State Beach offered a perfect combination of dramatic coastal scenery and classic California beach culture. Watching surfers carve through the waves while overlooking the Santa Cruz Wharf captured everything we had hoped to experience along the Northern California coast. For anyone visiting the San Jose or Santa Cruz area, this scenic route is well worth adding to your travel itinerary.

California Road Trip: Shark Fin Cove

California Road Trip: Shark Fin Cove

by | May 2, 2026 | Road Trips

Shark Fin Cove: A Scenic Coastal Escape Near Campbell and San Jose

A short drive from Campbell and the San Jose area brings you to one of California’s most picturesque coastal viewpoints—Shark Fin Cove. Located along the breathtaking Pacific Coast Highway near the small town of Davenport, Shark Fin Cove is named for the dramatic sea stack that rises from the ocean and resembles the dorsal fin of a shark. The rugged cliffs, crashing Pacific waves, sea caves, and sandy beach create an unforgettable setting that showcases the natural beauty of California’s coastline.

The overlook provides spectacular panoramic views and is one of the most photographed locations along Highway 1. Visitors can enjoy watching waves crash against the cliffs, photographing the unique rock formations, and taking in the fresh ocean air. A trail leads down to the beach for those who want to explore the cove more closely, although the descent can be steep and should be approached carefully. Whether you’re a photographer, nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful stop along the coast, Shark Fin Cove offers a relaxing break from city life.

Shark Fin Cove

Shark Fin Cove

Shark Fin Cove

Shark Fin Cove

Shark Fin Cove

Shark Fin Cove

Shark Fin Cove

Shark Fin Cove

Shark Fin Cove

Shark Fin Cove

Shark Fin Cove

Shark Fin Cove

Shark Fin Cove

Shark Fin Cove

Shark Fin Cove

Shark Fin Cove

For anyone staying in Campbell or San Jose, Shark Fin Cove makes an excellent half-day excursion. The drive itself is part of the experience as it winds through the Santa Cruz Mountains before reaching the stunning Pacific coastline. We found it well worth the short trip, offering some of the most beautiful ocean scenery of our California adventure. If you’re exploring Northern California, Shark Fin Cove is a destination that should definitely be added to your itinerary.