You can’t get more California than picking strawberries on a coastal farm off Highway 1, with the Pacific Ocean stretching out behind you.
This past Sunday, we woke up in San Francisco to a blanket of fog. Craving sunshine and an adventure, my husband and I jumped in the car and drove south down the coast, a drive we do often.
Sometimes it’s for pie at Pie Ranch, a hike to Shark Fin Cove, a pit stop at Pigeon Point Lighthouse, or just clam chowder at Sam’s in Half Moon Bay. But this time, we had a very specific mission: picking strawberries at Swanton Berry Farm.
U-Pick Strawberries Next to the Ocean
Swanton Berry Farm is one of the few places in the Bay Area where you can do U-pick strawberries with a front-row ocean view. It’s open on weekends only, and the strawberry season typically runs from May through early July, so this experience is super easy to miss if you don’t plan ahead.
I’ve lived in San Francisco for 10 years, and every single spring I say, “I want to go strawberry picking this year!” Then I blink, and it’s August. But not this time.
We rolled up to Swanton around 10:45 AM. A few other groups were scattered through the parking lot, but it wasn’t overly busy—perfect timing. We grabbed some cardboard boxes and headed into the fields.
Both my husband and I grew up in Wisconsin, where summer strawberry picking was a tradition. Being out there in the salty ocean air, surrounded by rows of sun-drenched berries, was oddly nostalgic.
Between a few sweet samples straight from the vines (don’t judge), we filled two small boxes at this famous strawberry farm by the ocean, roughly 4 pounds of perfectly ripe berries. Swanton charges $8 per pound, so for $36, we left with a huge bag of strawberries and matching berry-stained smiles.
(P.S. I wore my favorite Darling Society dress with a Sézane cardigan, obviously.)
Bonus Stops Along Highway 1
Of course, we didn’t drive all the way down the coast just for strawberries. There are a few other Highway 1 gems you absolutely need to hit if you’re in the area.
Pie Ranch
Just a few minutes up the road from Swanton is Pie Ranch, a charming barn-turned-farmstand that makes the best pies in the Bay Area. Our go-to is their lemon blueberry pie, but this time we also grabbed rhubarb to make a strawberry rhubarb pie with our haul, and a frozen pie to stash at home. Their little shop is also filled with goodies—local shrubs, hot sauce, salsas, canned tomatoes, and produce.
Pigeon Point Lighthouse (Optional Detour)
Normally I love swinging by Pigeon Point Lighthouse, one of my favorite photo spots along the coast. I swear I was a lighthouse keeper in a past life. It’s under construction right now, so we skipped it this time—but I included some photos from past visits because it’s that stunning.
Harley Farms Goat Dairy
On our way back toward San Francisco, we made one last stop in Pescadero at Harley Farms, a local goat dairy that’s always worth the detour. They had baby goats out for petting, plus a sassy miniature horse and other animals wandering around. Inside their farm shop, we grabbed a log of their incredible dill goat cheese, plus honey and jam to go with it.
I don’t know what it is about petting goats and buying cheese from the source, but it hits in a deeply satisfying way.
So… What to Do With 4 Pounds of Strawberries?
Now I’m staring at our pile of freshly picked, sun-warmed strawberries wondering what to make first. Crumble? Pie? Shortcake? Popsicles? Honestly, my favorite thing to make with our strawberries is strawberry infused Aperol (you gotta try it!)
If you haven’t done a U-pick strawberry farm in the Bay Area, consider this your sign. It’s fleeting, it’s sweet, and it’s a little slice of California magic that tastes just as good as it looks.
Quick Tips for Visiting Swanton Berry Farm
- Location: Just off Highway 1, about 15 minutes north of Santa Cruz
- Season: Late May through early July (weekends only)
- Hours: Typically 10am–5pm, but check their Instagram for updates
- What to bring: Sunscreen, water, a hat, and cash/card
- Pro tip: Hit Pie Ranch or Harley Farms while you’re in the area! Bay Area U-pick strawberries always pair better with goat cheese, I promise.
FAQ: Strawberry Picking in the Bay Area
When is the best time to go strawberry picking in the Bay Area?
The strawberry picking season in the Bay Area usually runs from late May through early July. Farms like Swanton Berry Farm operate on weekends during this peak window, so plan your visit accordingly.
Time it on a sunny day! Half Moon Bay and the Slow Coast get foggy.
What are the best strawberry farms near San Francisco?
Some of the best Bay Area strawberry farms include:
- Swanton Berry Farm (near Davenport): Known for oceanfront U-pick fields with a farm stand and a longer u-pick season and pumpkins in the fall.
- Coastways Ranch (by Swanton): Also ocean-adjacent, often opens mid-season
- Blue House Farm (Half Moon Bay): Certified organic and family-friendly
- Webb Ranch (Portola Valley): Offers reservations and more flexible weekday options
- Three Nunns Farm (Brentwood): Great East Bay family farm!
Do I need a reservation to pick strawberries at Swanton Berry Farm?
As of now, Swanton Berry Farm does not require reservations for U-pick strawberry visits, but it’s always smart to check their website or Instagram for the latest updates, especially during peak weekends or holidays. It’s the most popular strawberry picking San Francisco Bay Area has and can get crowded.
How much does strawberry picking cost in the Bay Area?
Most U-pick farms charge by the pound. Swanton Berry Farm charges $8 per pound, and you’ll typically end up picking between 2–5 pounds depending on your group size and enthusiasm level.
What should I bring for strawberry picking?
Pack sunscreen, a hat, closed-toe shoes, a water bottle, and a cooler bag if you plan to store your berries for longer periods. Many farms provide containers, but you can bring your own if preferred.
Can I bring kids to Bay Area strawberry farms?
Absolutely! U-pick farms like Swanton are family-friendly and a fun way to teach kids about where their food comes from. Just be sure to keep little ones on paths and supervise in the fields.
