2026 Bay Area Apple Picking Guide: Best U-Pick Orchards for Families
Fall is here, which means it’s officially apple-picking season! If you’re looking for a fun fall day trip with the kids, there are plenty of orchards around the Bay Area where you can pick your own apples, grab fresh cider, stock up on baked treats, and enjoy a day on the farm.
We put together our 2026 Bay Area Apple Picking Guide, including farms in the North Bay, South Bay, East Bay, and some of our favorite worth-the-drive destinations in Apple Hill.
Apple availability can change quickly throughout the season, so always check directly with the farm before making the drive.
North Bay Apple Picking
Chileno Valley Ranch
Chileno Valley Ranch is a favorite North Bay destination for families looking for a classic apple-picking experience. For the 2026 season, U-pick is available Sundays only beginning September 13, and reservations are required.
This is one you’ll want to plan ahead for rather than showing up at the last minute.
2026 season: Sundays beginning September 13 Reservations: Required Website:Chileno Valley Ranch
Apple-A-Day Ratzlaff Ranch
Apple-A-Day Ratzlaff Ranch is another great option for a fall outing. Their apple season generally runs September through November, although individual U-pick dates and apple availability can vary throughout the season.
Check with the farm before visiting to see what’s currently available for picking.
If you’ve lived in the Bay Area for a while, you’ve probably heard of Gizdich Ranch. Located in Watsonville, it’s one of the area’s most popular spots for U-pick fruit.
Apple U-pick begins September 12 for the 2026 season, with picking available on weekends from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Because availability can change as varieties ripen or fields are picked out, it’s a good idea to check before making the drive. And don’t leave without checking out the pies!
2026 apple U-pick: Beginning September 12 Hours: Weekends, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Website:Gizdich Ranch
Clearview Orchards
Clearview Orchards in Watsonville offers a beautiful setting for a family apple-picking day.
The 2026 season runs on weekends from September 13 through October 31. Check ahead for current availability and any reservation requirements before visiting.
2026 season: Weekends, September 13–October 31 Website:Clearview Orchards
Luz Del Valle
Luz Del Valle offers U-pick apples on weekends throughout September and October.
Reservations are required, so make sure you have yours before heading to the orchard.
Season: Weekends in September and October Reservations: Required Website:Luz Del Valle
Swanton Pacific Ranch
Swanton Pacific Ranch is another Central Coast option to add to your fall list. For 2026, apple U-pick opens September 18 and is generally available Friday through Sunday while supplies last.
Since apples can sell out as the season progresses, check the ranch for current availability before making the drive.
Cloverfield Organic Farm is a convenient option for East Bay families. U-pick availability changes with what’s in season, so check what is currently available before visiting.
The farm is generally open Friday through Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. during daylight-saving time.
If you’re willing to make a longer day trip, Apple Hill in the Placerville and Camino area is one of our favorite fall destinations. You can easily turn apple picking into an entire day of cider, donuts, pies, pumpkins, farm stands, and other fall activities.
Pine-O-Mine Ranch
Pine-O-Mine Ranch is a fun Apple Hill stop for families and offers apple picking during the fall season. For 2026, apple picking begins August 29.
O’Halloran’s is a fun option if you want to pick more than just apples. Depending on when you visit, you’ll find U-pick apples, pumpkins, flowers, and more.
The season generally runs from late August through mid-December, but hours and what’s available to pick change throughout the fall.
Bring reusable bags or baskets if the farm allows them, wear shoes you don’t mind getting dusty, and bring layers since Bay Area fall temperatures can change throughout the day. For younger kids, snacks and water are always worth packing, even if you’re planning to buy food at the farm.
Most importantly, check the orchard’s website the morning of your visit. U-pick hours, reservations, apple varieties, and availability can change quickly based on weather, crowds, and how much fruit was picked the previous day.
Save This Bay Area Fall Activity
Apple picking is one of our favorite ways to kick off fall with the kids. Whether you stay close to home or make a full day of it in Apple Hill, there are plenty of options for a fun family outing this season.
Save this 2026 Bay Area Apple Picking Guide for your next fall adventure, and tag Bay Area Moms in your apple-picking photos!
