Strawberry farms in California open their fields to visitors every spring and summer, and this is one of the most popular U-Pick experiences in the state. California produces more strawberries than any other region in the country, and the warm climate, along with long, sunny days, creates ideal conditions for fresh, bright, and sweet berries. This makes strawberry picking a seasonal tradition for families, travelers, and anyone who enjoys spending time outdoors.
Across California, you will find many different styles of farms. Some are large family operations with wagon rides, small markets, and photo spots. Others are quiet fields where visitors can walk through long rows of plants and pick berries at their own pace. From coastal farms in Southern California to small berry patches in the Bay Area and Central Coast, each location offers its own charm and experience.
If you are planning a weekend outing, a family day trip, or simply want the taste of freshly picked strawberries, California has plenty of beautiful places to enjoy the season. In this guide, you will find the top strawberry farms across the state known for good crop quality, clean fields, and easy access for visitors. These farms provide a reliable and enjoyable way to experience one of the freshest treats of the year.
Best Time to Pick Strawberries in California
California has one of the longest and most reliable strawberry seasons in the country. Most farms open for picking between March and July, with slight variations depending on the region.
General Picking Season
- Southern California: Early March to late June
- Central Coast: Late March to early July
- Bay Area: April to early July
- Northern California: Mid-April to early July
These ranges change with the weather, but most farms stay open for several months.
Best Months to Visit
- March: Early berries, smaller crowds
- April: Peak freshness and large harvest
- May: Consistent quality and full fields
- June: Still good, but it depends on heat and farm conditions
- July: Limited fields open, varies by location
Best Days and Times
- Morning: Cooler weather and firmer berries
- Weekdays: Light crowds and easier parking
- After a sunny week: More berries are ripe at once
When Not To Go
- Hot afternoons, especially late season
- Right after the rain
- Midday on peak weekends, if you prefer quiet visits
Before You Visit
Always check:
- Farm Instagram or Facebook
- Daily crop updates
- Open hours and field availability
- Cash or card payment options
California’s mild climate gives visitors a long window to plan a strawberry trip, and early-season visits often offer the most vibrant fields.
The Best Strawberry Farms in California | Pick Your Own Berries in CA
1. Tanaka Farms, Irvine
Things to Do
- U-Pick strawberries
- Wagon ride farm tour
- Photo spots around the fields
- Farm market with fresh produce
- Seasonal events and workshops
Amenities
- Restrooms
- Parking area
- Farm market
- Shade tents in some sections
- Drinking water stations
Tanaka Farms is one of the most popular strawberry-picking destinations in Southern California. Known for its large fields, guided wagon rides, and clean, family-friendly environment, the farm offers a welcoming experience for visitors of all ages. The strawberries here are grown using responsible farming practices, and visitors can walk through long rows of bright red berries that are easy to pick. The farm also offers seasonal activities, small food stands, and a market where you can buy fresh vegetables, jams, and local produce.
2. Carlsbad Strawberry Company, Carlsbad
Things to Do
- U-Pick strawberries
- Walking paths for photos
- Small seasonal activities
- Farm stand with fresh produce
Amenities
- Large parking area
- Portable restrooms
- Farm stand
- Open seating areas
Carlsbad Strawberry Company is one of the most visited strawberry farms in Southern California. Located close to the coast, this farm offers a relaxed picking experience with rows of bright berries surrounded by open fields and fresh ocean air. Visitors enjoy easy access, large parking areas, and open spaces that make it a great choice for families with kids. The farm is known for its sweet strawberries, simple layout, and wide walking paths that allow guests to explore comfortably. Seasonal attractions such as flower fields and small activity zones sometimes open depending on the time of year.
3. Swanton Berry Farm, Davenport
Things to Do
- U-Pick organic strawberries
- Scenic views along Highway 1
- Farm stand with homemade treats
- Photo-friendly walking areas
Amenities
- Parking area
- Farm stand
- Clean walking paths
- Picnic-friendly spots
Swanton Berry Farm is one of the most charming U-Pick strawberry spots on the Central Coast. Located along the scenic Highway 1, the farm offers cool coastal breezes, organic strawberries, and peaceful fields that overlook the water. The environment is calm and laid-back, making it perfect for slow walks through the rows and relaxed family outings. Swanton is known for its commitment to organic farming and its small farm stand that sells homemade treats such as strawberry lemonade, jams, and baked goods. The combination of fresh berries, ocean views, and simple farm charm makes it a special place to visit.
4. Underwood Family Farms, Moorpark
Things to Do
- U-Pick strawberries
- Tractor rides
- Animal center visits
- Seasonal festivals and events
- Farm market shopping
Amenities
- Restrooms
- Ample parking
- Shaded seating areas
- Farm market with snacks
- Handwashing stations
Underwood Family Farms is a well-known destination in Ventura County with a wide range of seasonal activities and a beautiful strawberry-picking experience. The fields are well-maintained, and visitors enjoy walking along long, open rows filled with bright red berries. The farm is very family-friendly, offering attractions such as animal encounters, tractor rides, and a large farm market. Because the farm grows many crops throughout the year, strawberry picking often feels like part of a larger day trip that includes exploring the grounds, taking photos, and enjoying fresh produce.
5. Strawberry Peak, San Luis Obispo
Things to Do
- U-Pick strawberries
- Walk through open fields
- Casual photo spots
- Small farm stand
Amenities
- Parking area
- Farm stand
- Restroom access (seasonal)
- Open seating areas
Strawberry Peak is a popular U-Pick spot located in the scenic hills of San Luis Obispo. Visitors enjoy wide, open fields with rows of sweet berries and a peaceful farm atmosphere that feels relaxed and natural. The farm is known for its friendly staff, simple layout, and well-maintained strawberry patches. Many families stop here during road trips along the Central Coast because the fields are easy to walk through and the picking process is straightforward. The berries are often praised for their sweetness, and the farm offers a pleasant, crowd-free experience compared to larger tourist-heavy locations.
6. The Berry Lady Farm, Kingsburg
Things to Do
- U-Pick strawberries
- Visit the farm stand for jam and local produce
- Open areas for family photos
- Walk through wide, clean field rows
Amenities
- Parking area
- Shade structure near the entry
- Small farm stand
- Clean pathways
The Berry Lady Farm is a popular U-Pick destination in the Central Valley, known for its sweet, vibrant strawberries and well-maintained fields. This family-run farm has become a favorite among local residents and travelers looking for fresh berries between Fresno and Visalia. The fields are spacious and easy to walk through, with clear rows that make strawberry picking simple even for young children. Visitors appreciate the friendly staff, clean environment, and consistent berry quality throughout the season. The Berry Lady also offers jars of homemade strawberry jam, fresh produce, and seasonal goods at the farm stand, giving visitors a complete and enjoyable farm experience.
7. Berry Island Farms, Gilroy
Things to Do
- U-Pick strawberries
- Seasonal U-Pick for other berries
- Calm, open field walks
- Photo-friendly areas
Amenities
- Parking area
- Small farm stand
- Shade near the entrance
- Simple field layout
Berry Island Farms is a small, peaceful U-Pick location in Gilroy that focuses on offering fresh, naturally grown strawberries with a simple and comfortable experience. The farm uses eco-friendly growing methods, and visitors appreciate the clean fields, easy-to-walk rows, and calm environment. It feels more personal compared to larger commercial farms, making it ideal for families who prefer a relaxed outing. The farm also grows multiple crops throughout the season, giving visitors a chance to explore other fruits when available. Berry Island Farms is especially popular among locals for its sweet, flavorful strawberries and welcoming staff.
8. Rancho Siempre Verde, Pescadero
Things to Do
- U-Pick strawberries
- Walk through scenic fields
- Enjoy shaded picnic areas
- Explore natural photo spots
Amenities
- Parking area
- Picnic tables
- Shade from tall trees
- Open field layout
Rancho Siempre Verde is a beautiful family-run farm located near the coast in Pescadero. While it is widely known for its Christmas trees in winter, the farm also opens its fields for seasonal strawberry picking, which feels natural, peaceful, and close to nature. Visitors enjoy walking through quiet berry rows surrounded by tall trees and cool coastal air. The farm has a rustic charm, with open spaces for children to explore and simple, relaxed picking conditions. It is not a commercial-style farm, which makes the experience feel authentic and slow-paced, perfect for families and couples seeking a calm weekend outing.
9. Kenny’s Strawberry Farm, Fallbrook
Things to Do
- U-Pick strawberries
- Photo spots in the fields
- Small farm store with local products
- Open space for kids to explore
Amenities
- Parking area
- Restrooms
- Shade tents near the entrance
- Seating areas
Kenny’s Strawberry Farm is a popular U-Pick destination in North San Diego County, known for its sweet berries and friendly, family-focused environment. The farm sits in the quiet hills of Fallbrook and offers wide fields with easy-to-walk rows, making it comfortable for both kids and adults. Visitors appreciate the relaxed pace, clean fields, and the freshness of the strawberries, which are often picked the same morning. The farm also has a small store where guests can buy jam, drinks, and locally made treats. Because of its scenic setting and steady crop quality, it is one of the favorite strawberry spots in Southern California.
10. Blue House Farm, Pescadero
Things to Do
- U-Pick organic strawberries
- Visit the farm stand
- Explore open fields
- Enjoy scenic coastal views
Amenities
- Parking area
- Farm stand
- Shade structures (seasonal)
- Clean pathways
Blue House Farm is a certified organic farm located near the coast in Pescadero. The cool weather and coastal breeze help the strawberries grow slowly, which gives them a strong, sweet flavor. Visitors enjoy picking berries in peaceful fields surrounded by views of rolling hills and farmland. The farm is known for its commitment to sustainability and its large variety of seasonal produce. Many families stop here on weekend drives along Highway 1 because the fields are easy to explore and the farm stand offers fresh vegetables, flowers, and organic goods. The overall experience feels relaxed, natural, and perfect for a quiet day outdoors.
Gears and Accessories
Bringing the right gear can help you enjoy your strawberry picking trip and keep your berries fresh on the way home. These simple items make the visit easier, especially on warm days or when fields are busy.
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes (Best Farm Shoes)
- A hat or cap for sun protection (Best Farm Hats)
- Sunscreen (Best Sunscreens)
- A small towel or hand wipes (Best Hand Wipes)
- Reusable water bottles (Best Reusable Bottles)
- A small backpack or tote for personal items (Best Totes)
- Extra cash in case some farms do not accept cards
For Better Picking
- Light garden gloves if you prefer not to touch the plants directly
- A shallow container or tray to prevent berries from getting crushed (Best Farm Baskets)
- A cooler bag or insulated box for keeping berries fresh on the drive back (Best Cooler Box for Farms)
Optional Items
- A portable fan for children during hot weather
- A soft blanket for a short picnic if the farm allows
- A phone power bank for photos and navigation
- A reusable cloth bag, if the farm allows you to use your own containers
These simple accessories make your visit comfortable and help ensure your strawberries stay firm, sweet, and in perfect condition until you reach home.
Tips for Picking Strawberries in California
Picking strawberries can be a fun and relaxing experience when you know a few simple tricks. These tips help you choose the sweetest berries, avoid common mistakes, and enjoy your visit to the fullest.
How to Pick the Best Berries
- Look for deep red berries with no white or green spots
- Choose berries that are firm but not hard
- Lift the leaves gently and check the inner clusters for ripe fruit
- Twist the stem slowly instead of pulling to avoid damaging the plant
- Pick medium-sized berries for the best flavor
Storing Strawberries Safely
- Do not wash the berries until you are ready to eat them
- Keep them in a shallow container to avoid bruising
- Store them in the refrigerator as soon as you reach home
- Eat them within two to three days for the freshest taste
How to Avoid Crowds
- Arrive early in the morning
- Choose weekdays if possible
- Visit early in the season for the fullest fields
Comfort and Safety Tips
- Wear light clothing and comfortable shoes
- Bring water to stay hydrated
- Follow farm rules and stay within marked rows
- Keep children close, especially near busy paths
- Check the farm’s website or social media before visiting for updates
Extra Tips for a Better Experience
- Bring a cooler bag to keep berries fresh on long drives
- Take short breaks in shaded areas if the weather is warm
- Bring a small towel or wipes for sticky hands
- Carry a backup bag or container in case you pick more than expected
These simple guidelines help you enjoy the best strawberry picking experience and take home fresh, firm, and flavorful berries.
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
The season usually runs from March to July, depending on the region and weather. Southern California often starts earlier, while the Bay Area and Central regions peak a little later.
Some farms do, especially on weekends or during peak season. Others accept walk-ins. It is best to check the farm’s website or social media before you go.
Prices vary by farm, but most charge a small entry fee plus a per-pound rate for the berries. Some places offer baskets with fixed pricing.
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, water, and a cooler bag for the berries. Many farms provide picking containers, but bringing a backup bag is helpful.
Many strawberry farms in California do not allow pets in the picking fields for safety and hygiene reasons. Check the farm rules before visiting.
Most farms provide basic containers or baskets. Some allow you to bring your own. A shallow container helps keep the berries from getting crushed.
Fresh strawberries last two to three days in the refrigerator. For the best taste, do not wash them until you are ready to eat them.
Wrapping up: The Best Strawberry Picking in California | U-Pick Farm Activity for Kids and Adults
Strawberry picking in California is more than a seasonal activity. It is a chance to enjoy warm weather, spend time outdoors, and taste berries at their freshest. The state offers a wide range of farms, from small family fields to large seasonal destinations, giving visitors plenty of choices no matter where they live or travel. Each farm listed in this guide offers a clean environment, good berry quality, and a comfortable experience for families, couples, and solo visitors.
Whether you want a calm coastal field, a fun day with kids, or a sweet treat straight from the plant, California has a place that fits your plan. Use this guide to explore new farms, try different regions, and enjoy the simple joy of picking your own strawberries. Fresh air, open fields, and bright red berries make the trip worth it every time.
