The Central Coast of California is a paradise for fruit lovers, offering an abundance of U-pick farms where visitors can harvest their own fresh berries, apples, seasonal vegetables, and more. From the fertile fields of Watsonville to the apple orchards of Santa Cruz, this region provides a hands-on farm experience that connects visitors to the land. Whether you’re picking sweet summer strawberries, fresh flowers, or crisp autumn apples, these farms make for a delightful day trip.
Must-Visit U-Pick Farms in the Central Coast
Berry Picking in Watsonville & Santa Cruz
Watsonville is the heart of California’s berry industry, producing some of the nation’s finest strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries. Several farms offer U-pick experiences, allowing visitors to taste sun-ripened berries straight from the vine.
Best Time for Berries:
- Strawberries: April – July
- Raspberries & Blackberries: June – September
- Blueberries: May – July
Gizdich Ranch
Gizdich Ranch is a beloved family-run farm offering U-pick strawberries, olallieberries, and apples. Don’t miss their famous fresh-baked pies and homemade apple juice.
Crystal Bay Farm
Crystal Bay is an organic-certified farm specializing in strawberries, blackberries, and pumpkins. A fantastic spot for a family-friendly picking adventure.
Swanton Berry Farm
As the first certified organic strawberry farm in California, Swanton Berry Farm offers U-pick strawberries and kiwis. Visitors can also enjoy homemade jams and baked goods at their farmstand.
Blue House Farm
This coastal farm offers U-pick strawberries and a variety of organic vegetables in a stunning location near Half Moon Bay.
Jack Creek Farms
A fifth-generation family farm, Jack Creek offers U-pick opportunities for various fruits and vegetables, including beans, cucumbers, tomatoes, and pumpkins. Visitors can also enjoy a picnic area, farm animals, and a country store featuring local honey, jams, and handmade gifts.
Santa Barbara Blueberries at Restoration Oaks Ranch
Santa Barbara Blueberries is a U-pick farm offering naturally grown, spray-free blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries. Located on a picturesque ranch, it’s a perfect spot for families and berry lovers to enjoy fresh fruit in a beautiful setting.
Lane Farms Produce Stand
A family-operated farm since 1939, Lane Farms provides fresh, locally grown produce, including strawberries, pumpkins, and seasonal vegetables. While primarily a produce stand, they occasionally offer U-pick opportunities during select seasons.
Apple Orchards & Cider Tastings in the Central Coast
As summer transitions to fall, the apple orchards of Santa Cruz County burst with color and flavor. Apple picking is a beloved autumn activity, and many farms also offer fresh-pressed cider, homemade apple pies, and family-friendly events. Santa Cruz is particularly known for its heirloom apple varieties, making it a prime destination for both apple lovers and craft cider enthusiasts.
Best Time for Apples:
- Early Season Apples (Gravenstein, Gala): August – September
- Mid-Season Apples (Fuji, Honeycrisp): September – October
- Late Season Apples (Pink Lady, Granny Smith): October – November
Live Earth Farm
A diverse organic farm offering U-pick apples in the fall, Live Earth is an educational farm experience for kids and adults alike.
Swanton Pacific Ranch
Known for its heirloom apple varieties, Swanton Pacific Ranch run by Cal Poly SLO offers U-pick apples and a scenic farm setting near the Pacific Ocean.
Everett Family Farm
A small, family-run farm growing organic apples, pears, and seasonal produce. Their farmstand also offers fresh-pressed apple cider and baked goods.
Santa Cruz Cider Company
While not a U-pick farm, this local cider house uses apples from nearby orchards to craft small-batch, artisanal hard ciders. Perfect for an afternoon tasting after apple picking.
SLO Creek Farms
A certified organic apple orchard, SLO Creek Farms offers U-pick apples, flowers, vegetables, and herbs. They also produce hard cider and apple brandy.
Avila Valley Barn
Avila Valley Barn offers U-pick apples, berries, and pumpkins, along with a farmstand featuring fresh produce, baked goods, and a petting zoo.
Pumpkin Patches & Fall Fun
Fall brings more than apples—pumpkin patches across the Central Coast open up for harvest season with opportunities to pick your own pumpkins straight from the vine. Many farms offer hayrides, corn mazes, and fall festivals to celebrate the season.
Best Time for Pumpkins:
- September – October
Avila Valley Barn
A favorite fall destination, Avila Valley Barn, features U-pick pumpkins alongside apples and berries. Visitors can also enjoy hayrides, a petting zoo, and a farmstand stocked with produce, baked goods, and gifts.
Brookshire Farms
A family-friendly pumpkin patch offering a variety of pumpkins for U-pick, plus classic fall fun like hayrides and a corn maze. It’s a go-to destination during October for festive experiences and photo ops.
Crystal Bay Farm
Crystal Bay is an organic-certified U-pick farm offering pumpkins and heirloom varieties. Their fall events are kid-friendly and educational, perfect for a rustic harvest day near the coast.
Jack Creek Farms
U-pick pumpkins and vegetables are part of the fall charm at this fifth-generation farm. With a pumpkin patch, picnic area, farm animals, and a country store, it’s a quintessential Central Coast experience.
Flower Picking on the Central Coast
U-pick flower farms offer a more tranquil but equally charming experience. Walk through rows of sunflowers, zinnias, and wildflowers, snipping your own bouquet while soaking in scenic views.
Best Time for Flowers:
- Spring through early fall, typically April – September
Earthbound Organics Farm Stand
Offers u-pick flowers throughout the year. They have been growing organic produce since 1984 and have a farmstand with their produce, kitchen staples, and artisan goods in the Carmel Valley. Check their website for farm tours and u-pick dates.
Birdsong Orchards
Featuring more than 500 rose varieties, Birdsong Orchards emphasizes regenerative agriculture and pollinator-friendly practices. Visitors can enjoy peaceful strolls and pick blooms in a gorgeous, eco-conscious setting.
SLO Creek Farms
In addition to apples and veggies, SLO Creek Farms grows seasonal flowers available for U-pick. Their pesticide-free blooms make for a safe and sustainable way to gather your own stems.
Tres Pinos Valley Farm
Located near Pinnacles National Park, this regenerative farm hosts seasonal U-pick flower events featuring a variety of blooms. They also sell pasture-raised eggs, herbal teas, and coffee roasted on-site.
Plan Your U-Pick Adventure
For the best experience, check each farm’s website before visiting to confirm fruit availability and hours. Many farms require reservations, especially during peak season. Wear comfortable shoes, bring sunscreen, and don’t forget your own baskets or containers if required.
Whether you’re indulging in fresh berries during the summer or sipping on warm cider in the fall, U-pick farms on the Central Coast offer an unforgettable farm-to-table experience.
This article was written by Alison Needham, @agirl_defloured, photos by James Collier, Hilary Rance and Alison Needham.