Though recognized for its beautiful oceanfront cities and communities, Santa Cruz County is also known for its abundant natural areas and farmland—including ranches, family-owned local farms, and vineyards.
From the spring to fall seasons, fruit and berry picking is a popular pastime for those of all ages—both a fun experience for families and individuals alike, but also an excellent way to support local farms. Additionally, for those who are selective, fruit and berry picking allows better longevity and the opportunity to select exactly what you want!
Seasons for specific berries and fruit in Santa Cruz County sometimes vary due to weather conditions that year. This could mean earlier or later times for U-Pick farms, depending on a number of factors. Be sure to check with the farm/ranch before planning an excursion… and most of all have fun!
Early Spring and Summer (May to June)
Right at the start of the summer months! This is the best time of the year to go strawberry picking around Santa Cruz County and some farms hold special events to celebrate—although the Watsonville Strawberry Festival is held in early August!
Swanton Berry Farm
25 Swanton Road, Davenport
This U-Pick farm is found northwest of the city of Santa Cruz, past Davenport Beach. Possibly the most popular choice for picking organic strawberries in the county, Swanton Berry Farm is also known for their jams and home made pies/baked goods, both of which use (almost exclusively) their own fruit.
Visit their website here.
The Height of Summer (June to August)
Considered the height of berry-picking season, this is the optimal time for raspberries, olallieberries (which are typically only ripe in the months of June and July), blueberries, and blackberries (ripening further along into the summer). Plus, vegetables and other produce are also in season, such as tomatoes and beans.
Gizdich Ranch
55 Peckham Road, Watsonville
Offering a range of fruit throughout the summertime (strawberries, boysenberries, olallieberries), Gizdich Ranch is another popular U-Pick farm in Santa Cruz County. Beyond summer fruits, they also have apple picking in the fall, as well as home made pies, ice cream, and jams, an antique shop, and small gifts on the premises.
Visit their website here.
Summer to Fall (August to October)
While the berries are now out of season, September is, in particular, the best time to pick apples in the region. As the weather starts to get (a little bit!) colder, many farms in Santa Cruz County grow pumpkins, which also can be picked by visitors.
Crystal Bay Farm
40 Zils Road, Watsonville
Perhaps one of the lesser-known destinations, Crystal Bay Farm offers strawberry picking on a smaller scale during the summer months, as well as a stand and a chance to see some animals. This farm also has pumpkins for sale in the autumn (with Halloween decorations throughout the property!) which makes for a fun family excursion when the seasons turn. Be aware that there is an entrance fee as well as limited parking.
Visit their website here.
Things To Know Before You Go
Before you plan your trip to the nearest U-Pick berry farm, consider the following:
- Double-check the weather and dress appropriately. This could mean rain gear on a cloudy day or a hat/sunscreen during sunny afternoons
- Some farms offer containers for your berries for a fee—but it’s suggested you bring your own if possible
- Some farms advise that you only pick in certain areas and/or that you only pick above a certain height so that unripe fruit can mature
- Cards are often accepted, but consider bringing cash just in case
Looking to become part of the Santa Cruz community? Get in touch with Lauren Spencer online or call 1.800.226.4717 today to begin your home search today!
Posted by Lauren Spencer on
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