Fall Apple Harvest: Exploring Bay Area's Best Apple Farms

Autumn is the season of apple harvest, and the apple farms near the Bay Area are undoubtedly among the most popular destinations this time of year. Whether you're interested in picking apples by hand or indulging in freshly baked apple pies, these farms offer plenty of delightful options. Located throughout Northern California, these apple farms are full of charm and offer fun fall activities for the entire family.

Apple Hill

Located in El Dorado County, east of Sacramento, Apple Hill is one of Northern California’s most famous apple-growing regions. With over 50 orchards and farms, the variety of apples is vast, featuring types such as Fuji, Golden Delicious, and Honeycrisp. In addition to apple picking, you can enjoy freshly baked apple pies and delicious apple cider. There are plenty of activities like hay mazes and pumpkin patches, making it a perfect spot for a full day of outdoor fun, especially with kids.

Gizdich Ranch

Gizdich Ranch, located in Watsonville south of the Bay Area, is a fantastic place for apple picking. The farm offers over 16 different varieties of apples, and you can pick them from late August to early November. Besides apples, you can also buy fresh jams, apple juice, and the famous homemade apple pies, making this an ideal family destination to enjoy local produce.

Chileno Valley Ranch

Chileno Valley Ranch, located in Marin County, is home to over 400 apple trees. Besides apple picking, visitors can meet friendly farm animals. The farm offers organic apples and pears, letting you enjoy fresh and natural fruit while experiencing the charm of rural life.

Apple-A-Day Ratzlaff Ranch

Situated in Sebastopol, this nearly century-old family-owned farm opens for apple picking every September and October, offering varieties like Gravenstein, Golden Delicious, and Rome Beauty. The farm also provides 100% pure apple juice, which has won gold at the Sonoma County Harvest Fair, making it a must-try.

EarthSeed Farm

EarthSeed Farm, located in Sonoma County, is an emerging organic farm focused on sustainability and environmental responsibility. The farm grows various fruits and offers pick-your-own activities alongside environmental education programs. From July to November, the farm is bursting with fresh produce, giving you the chance to pick while learning about eco-friendly farming.

Clearview Orchards

Clearview Orchards in Watsonville is an organic apple farm that offers a variety of apples like Fuji, Gala, and Honeycrisp for picking. In addition, the farm provides freshly pressed apple juice and handmade apple pies. The orchard's picnic area overlooks the valley, offering a picturesque spot for visitors to enjoy a relaxing lunch.

"Bay Area Wonders" Secret Experience Tour: Spring Pear Garden Adventure

This fall, take your family out for apple picking! If you're more interested in secret getaways, don’t miss the upcoming "Bay Area Wonders" Secret Experience Tour. This exclusive tour, departing in the spring of 2025, will be led by renowned host Jiayu Jeng, taking you to lesser-known destinations such as a pear orchard in Locke. You’ll have the chance to watch a live painting demonstration by world-famous artist Hou Ning, indulge in a sumptuous buffet lunch, and enjoy a unique experience steeped in art and history. The tour will also include guided visits to Locke’s historic Chinese sites, led by local Chinese community leaders. Sign up now to reserve your spot for an unforgettable spring journey!

Early Bird Offer 👉 "Bay Area Wonders" Secret Experience Tour: Locke Pear Garden Spring Stroll

Autumn is the perfect time to explore the apple farms around the Bay Area. Whether you want to savor the fresh sweetness of apples or enjoy the charm of rural farm life, these farms have plenty to offer. From the diverse apple varieties of Apple Hill to the homemade apple pies of Gizdich Ranch, each destination has its unique appeal. If you're looking for something more extraordinary, the "Bay Area Wonders" Secret Experience Tour will take you on a journey to Locke's pear gardens next spring, where you'll revel in the beauty of art and history. Whether it’s the harvest fun of fall or the secret exploration of spring, these activities will add color and memories to your life. Take advantage of the crisp autumn air and plan your harvest trip today!