Best Fruit Picking in Bay Area and Northern California: Your Guide to the Juiciest Spots

If you’re looking for a fun and fresh adventure, fruit picking in Marin County might be just what you need. The area offers a range of beautiful spots where you can pick your favorite fruits and enjoy the great outdoors.

Imagine spending a day in the sunshine, filling your basket with the freshest produce around.

Where can you find the best fruit picking spots in Marin County?

The region is known for its picturesque farms and orchards, making it easy to find a place that fits your mood.

Whether you’re searching for apples, berries, or something else, there’s a farm ready to welcome you.

So, grab your friends or family, and head out for a delightful day among the fruit-laden trees.

Swanton Berry Farm

Swanton Berry Farm is a delightful spot in Davenport, CA, where you can enjoy the experience of picking your own fresh fruit. Known for its delicious strawberries and other crops, it offers a taste of rural life not far from urban areas.

It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the farm atmosphere with your friends and family.

The farm stand is a key attraction. It offers a wide variety of organic produce, homemade jams, and other treats.

You’ll also find fun merchandise to take home.

The farm puts effort into sustainability and supporting local agriculture, so you can enjoy your day knowing you’re part of something good for the community.

U-Pick events are popular here.

You grab a basket and head out to the fields to pick ripe, juicy berries. This hands-on activity is perfect for all ages.

It’s not just about picking berries; it’s about making memories and connecting with the land.

Rating: 4.7 (696 reviews)
Location: 25 Swanton Rd, Davenport, CA
Contact: (831) 889-0850
Website: Visit Website

Cloverfield Organic Farm

At Cloverfield Organic Farm, you can enjoy a variety of activities. The farm is a relaxing spot where you can spend time with friends or family.

You have the chance to hold a picnic, join a tour, or go picking fruits.

You can book private tours or group events.

For those who love picking fruit, the farm offers U-pick sessions.

You can explore and pick fruit in a calm setting. It’s a nice way to enjoy nature and fresh produce.

For a different experience, try the healing horse sessions.

Spend time with Magic Ben, a gentle horse that provides a soothing presence.

It’s a unique experience that allows for a peaceful connection with nature.

Rating: 4.6 (65 reviews)
Location: 501 La Paloma Rd, El Sobrante, CA 94803
Contact: (510) 253-8859
Website: Visit Website

Blue House Farm Upick and Farmstand

Blue House Farm Upick and Farmstand is a great spot if you’re looking for a day outdoors in San Gregorio, California.

You can head there to enjoy picking your own fruits and vegetables.

It’s a fun activity for families or anyone who loves fresh produce.

The farm creates a welcoming atmosphere where you can experience the joy of harvesting your own food.

Being there offers an opportunity to connect with nature and see how everything grows.

Remember to wear comfy shoes and bring a hat on sunny days!

Don’t forget to check their website for details about the types of produce available each season.

It’s a good way to plan your visit to get exactly what you’re hoping for.

Enjoy your time at Blue House Farm!

Rating: 4.6 (107 reviews)
Location: 950 La Honda Rd, San Gregorio, CA 94074
Website: Visit Website

Alemany Farm

Alemany Farm is a special place in San Francisco where you can learn about growing food. It is the largest farm of its kind in the city.

Here, you can see where your food comes from and even help out. You can also take home fresh produce for free.

If you want to be more involved, join a community workday.

It’s a great way to meet people, learn new skills, and make a difference. You don’t need any experience to participate.

There are workshops too.

These cover different topics and work on a donation basis. If you can’t donate, you’re still welcome to join.

It’s a fun way to learn more about farming and gardening.

Rating: 4.7 (73 reviews)
Location: 700 Alemany Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94110
Contact: (415) 494-9368
Website: Visit Website

Ananda Valley Farm

Explore a hidden gem nestled in Half Moon Bay where soulful experiences await. Ananda Valley Farm is more than just a farm; it’s a peaceful retreat focused on meditation and yoga.

You’re invited to participate in group meditations to find a sense of inner peace and happiness.

Get your hands dirty on Community Project Days, perfect for connecting with nature and friends.

These hands-on experiences let you contribute to the farm’s goals while enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings.

It’s a day of friendship and transformation, all about creating a joyful future for both you and the farm.

Take a guided farm tour to see how your food is grown and learn about sustainable practices.

Their tours offer insight into how Ananda Valley Farm nurtures vibrant fruits and vegetables.

It’s a great opportunity to appreciate where your food comes from and understand the harmony between land and community.

Catch Ananda Valley Farm at local Farmers’ Markets, offering fresh produce and handmade products.

Supporting this farm means supporting conscious farming and local communities.

Discover delicious fruits and veggies grown with care, and maybe bring some unique handmade items home with you.

Rating: 4.9 (12 reviews)
Location: 1050 Frenchmans Creek Rd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
Contact: (413) 687-1504
Website: Visit Website

Potrero Nuevo Farm

Imagine spending a sunny afternoon at Potrero Nuevo Farm with its inviting atmosphere. Nestled in Half Moon Bay, it’s a charming spot for you to explore.

This farm is known for its U-Pick Club, where you can pick your own fresh fruits.

It’s a unique way to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors.

The farm often hosts events, making it a gathering place for the community.

You might find a mix of activities and fun things to do here.

Whether you’re visiting with family or friends, there’s always something interesting happening at the farm.

Take part in the volunteering opportunities available if you wish to give back to the community.

For cyclists, The Bike Hut is a special feature.

Enthusiasts can hop on their bikes and explore beautiful trails around the area.

This farm offers more than just a typical fruit-picking experience, combining outdoor adventure with relaxation.

Rating: 5 (14 reviews)
Location: 1045 Tunitas Creek Rd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
Contact: (650) 726-5702
Website: Visit Website

Berry Best Family Farm

Nestled in a scenic spot, Berry Best Family Farm is a delightful place for fruit picking enthusiasts. It’s known for offering a selection of fresh, juicy strawberries.

Though the strawberry picking season is closed now, the vibrant fruit stand is open and continues to offer its delicious produce.

In addition to strawberries, the farm has a wonderful variety of other fruits and vegetables. You can find peaches, nectarines, apricots, and more.

The farm’s blackberries and boysenberries are particularly noted for their sweetness.

The farm also grows fresh vegetables like cabbage, broccoli, and beets.

It’s worth a visit to experience the farm’s charm and to enjoy the fresh produce.

Rating: 4.5 (101 reviews)
Location: Berry Best Family Farm
Contact: (209) 712-7872
Website: Visit Website

G&S Farms-Denali

If you’re looking for a fun activity in Northern California, check out G&S Farms-Denali. This spot lets you pick your own fruit, making it a great outing for families.

In the fall, you can enjoy the pumpkin patch, corn maze, and even get your hands on a pumpkin to carve.

G&S Farms has been around for three generations, and their passion for agriculture shows. They offer a range of delicious produce like sweet corn, tomatoes, cherries, and beans.

Their Brentwood Diamond Corn is a favorite, and you can find it in local farmers markets and stores.

While cherry picking is seasonal, you’ll find that it draws a lot of visitors every year.

The farm’s orchards are a perfect spot to enjoy fresh cherries right off the tree. Don’t miss their U-Pick experience, which is popular among locals and visitors alike from the Bay Area.

Rating: 4.7 (67 reviews)
Location: 23601-23647 Marsh Creek Rd, Brentwood, CA 94513
Website: Visit Website

The Best Seasons for Fruit Picking

In Marin County, different fruits ripen throughout the year. From spring strawberries to summer berries and fall apples, you’ll find fresh options almost every season.

Spring Harvests

Spring is an exciting time for fruit picking in Marin County. As winter turns to spring, strawberries become ready to harvest.

Strawberries reach their peak around April and May, offering a juicy treat for those who venture out. These farms often allow you to wander through fields and pick strawberries by hand.

Besides strawberries, you can also find fresh cherries.

Cherries usually ripen by late spring. Marin County’s mild climate supports these fruits beautifully, making them a favorite among pickers.

Grab your baskets and get ready to enjoy!

Summer Fruits

Summer brings a burst of flavor in the form of berries. During this season, Marin County offers a variety of berries, including blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries.

These typically ripen from June through August. Berries thrive in the warm summer weather, ensuring juicy, sweet fruit.

You might also find stone fruits like peaches and pluots in some areas.

The sunny days and cool nights in Marin County create ideal conditions for these fruits. Many farms welcome you to pick berries right from the vines, ensuring a fresh and delicious experience.

Fall Favorites

As summer fades, apple picking becomes the star of fall in Marin County.

Apples are usually available from September through November. The crisp autumn air and beautiful scenery make apple picking a delightful activity. Varieties like Gravensteins are particularly popular.

Pumpkins also come into season, perfect for crafting fall decorations.

Some farms host festivals, offering activities beyond picking, like hayrides and corn mazes. Fall is a great time to enjoy the bounty of Marin County’s harvests while soaking in vibrant fall colors.

Tips for a Successful Fruit Picking Experience

Getting ready for a fruit picking adventure involves more than just showing up at the orchard. Think about what to wear and how to select the best fruit. These steps ensure a fun and fruitful day.

What to Wear and Bring

Before heading out, it’s important to dress for the occasion.

Wear comfortable, lightweight clothes that are easy to move around in.

Close-toed shoes are a must to protect your feet while walking through fields and orchards.

Consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for protection from the sun.

Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Carry a small backpack to hold your personal items and any fruit picking tools you might need.

Some farms only accept cash, so having some on hand can be useful.

How to Pick the Ripest Fruits

When you get to the farm, knowing how to identify ripe fruits can make all the difference.

For strawberries, look for ones that are bright red all over with no white or green spots.

If you’re picking apples in Marin County, they should be firm and have a rich, deep color.

Gently twist the fruit off the branch or vine to avoid bruising.

Pay close attention to any signs nearby that provide additional tips or guidelines for picking the specific type of fruit available at the farm.

This will ensure that you get the best quality produce to take home.