When it comes to apple orchards, you know I’ll give you the lowdown!
I’m going to start this series with 5 of the best orchards to visit in the Curpertino and Bay Area.
Realistically when we think of apple orchards we think of families gathered to go apple picking. So that’s exactly what I’m going to give you today.
Chileno Valley Ranch
Chileno Valley Ranch is one of the most family-friendly orchards in the area. They offer over a dozen different apple varieties and have monthly themes and activities for kids. They’re a fully functioning farm and also offer beef and lamb deals! Their farm is also used as a wedding and event venue.
Apple-A-Day Ratzlaff Ranch
Apple-A-Day Ratzlaff Ranch is just an hour’s drive north of San Francisco. They’re open five days a week during apple season (they are closed on Thursdays and Saturdays) and you’ll find a nice variety of Gravenstein, Golden Delicious and Rome apples on five acres of orchards along with freshly made apple juice.
Clearview Orchards
This Watsonville orchard is open for apple-picking on weekends from September 15 to October 28. Expect to pick up Fuji, Gala, Honey Crisp and Mutsu apples here! You can also purchase their organic local honey, apple juice or Clearview Orchards‘ famous freshly baked apple turnovers.
Gabriel Farm
Joining Gabriel Farm’s membership program allows you to go pick your own apples. To become a member, you merely buy a case of their juice ($40 will get you 6 half-gallons of shelf-stable juice) and then you’re allowed to go to their orchards and pick away at one of the many varieties of apples they offer.
Swanton Pacific Ranch
Typically listed in many articles, Swanton Pacific Ranch is owned and operated by the California Polytechnic State University and offers certified organic produce. Located just 90 minutes south of San Francisco, you could turn this adventure into a lovely day trip or weekend getaway. With over 16 varieties, there’s plenty to pick.
Stay tuned as we update this page with more orchards and more delicious pickin’s.