Blueberry Picking Around the Bay Area, California in 2025: Best Farms, Tips & Seasonal Guide

A Fresh Take on Blueberry Picking in California 

With California’s mild spring and early summer climate, blueberry picking season is one of the most enjoyable travel and lifestyle activities for families, couples, and solo explorers alike. The Bay Area, known for its eco-conscious communities and agriculture-friendly microclimates, offers a range of accessible and picturesque blueberry farms that turn harvesting into a leisure event. 

In 2025, blueberry picking is more than just a seasonal tradition—it’s a moment to reconnect with nature, support local farms, and enjoy one of the healthiest superfoods fresh off the bush. 

In this comprehensive guide, we cover: 

• The best blueberry farms in the Bay Area open in 2025 

• What you need to know before you go 

• Tips and tricks to make the most of your picking experience 

• Travel-friendly activities to pair with your farm visits 

Top Blueberry Picking Farms in the Bay Area (2025 Edition) 

We’ve curated the top locations for blueberry picking around the Bay Area based on user reviews, farm updates, and 2025 operating schedules. 

1. Webb Ranch – Portola Valley, CA 

An organic farm known for its diverse berry selection and proximity to Palo Alto. Ideal for families and first-time pickers. 

Blueberry Farm Highlights: 

• Season: July–August (varies annually) 

• Organic Certifications: Yes 

• Variety of Berries: Blueberries, olallieberries, raspberries, blackberries, and more 

• Extras: U-pick events, family group activities, picnic areas 

• Tips: Arrive early for best pickings; call ahead for ripe day updates 

2. Duckworth Family Farm – Sebastopol, CA 

This family-owned blueberry farm provides an intimate, charming picking experience. Their non-dairy sorbetto and ice cream are a must-try. 

Blueberry Farm Highlights: 

• Season: Typically late May through June 

• Organic Certifications: USDA Organic 

• Blueberry Varieties: Heirloom and hybrid bushes 

• On-site Offerings: Blueberry ice cream, sorbetto, picnic spots, walking trails 

• Booking: Check email list for 2025 opening dates 

3. Victoria Island Farms – Holt, CA 

Located just beyond the East Bay, this estate offers a hybrid experience of fruit picking and craft beverage tasting. 

Blueberry Farm Highlights: 

• Season: Fridays to Sundays (June–July) 

• Farm Stand: Estate honey, pistachios, blueberry lemonade 

• Unique Feature: Complimentary tastings of blueberry-infused spirits 

• Required: Online appointments only 

• Kid-Friendly: Yes, with adult supervision 

4. Blue House Farm – San Gregorio, CA 

Located along the San Mateo coast, Blue House Farm grows over 50 crops organically, including berries and flowers. 

Blueberry Farm Highlights: 

• Season: June to early August (depends on crop conditions) 

• Operating Hours: Weekends, 12 PM–5 PM 

• Pick-Your-Own: Blueberries, strawberries, and organic flowers 

• Pet Policy: Dogs allowed on leash 

• Nearby Attractions: Coastal trails, Half Moon Bay 

5. Berry Island Farms – Fremont, CA 

Conveniently located in the East Bay, this spot is perfect for urban families looking for a weekend blueberry adventure. 

Blueberry Farm Highlights: 

• Season: April through October (availability varies) 

• Hours: Saturdays 9 AM–1 PM 

• Payment: Cash only 

• Access: No reservation required 

• What to Bring: Containers, water, sun hat 

6. R&R Fresh Farms – Pescadero, CA 

A scenic destination farm that provides several berry varieties, making it ideal for a full-day outing. 

Blueberry Farm Highlights: 

• Season: May through July 

• U-Pick Options: Strawberries, blueberries, olallieberries 

• Access: First come, first served; open daily 

• Travel Pairing: Pescadero State Beach, Pigeon Point Lighthouse 

• Notes: Bring gloves and closed-toe shoes 

Best Times to Go Blueberry Picking in the Bay Area 

While the specific blueberry picking season may vary slightly year-to-year based on rainfall and temperature, here’s a general 2025 forecast: 

Month	Availability	Region
April	Early-season (limited)	East Bay, Central Valley edges
May	Peak starts	North Bay & coastal zones
June	Prime time	All regions
July	Late season	Cooler microclimates
August	Last call	Foggy coastlines only

Always check a farm’s website or social media for exact dates. 

How to Pick Blueberries Like a Pro 

Maximize your picking experience by mastering the art of selecting the best berries: 

Look for the Dusty Blue Hue 

• That grayish coating is called the "bloom"—it protects the berry and indicates freshness. 

Use the Thumb Roll Technique 

• Gently roll berries off with your thumb; ripe berries will fall easily into your palm. 

Scan Under Leaves 

• Often, the best clusters hide under foliage where others overlook them. 

Avoid the Green and Red Ones 

• Only fully blue berries are ripe. Unlike other fruits, blueberries don’t ripen once picked. 

 Travel Tips for a Fun Blueberry Day Trip 

Planning your trip right can turn a picking session into a mini vacation. 

What to Pack: 

• Wide-brim hat and sunscreen 

• Comfortable, closed-toe shoes 

• Reusable containers or baskets 

• Ice packs or coolers if you’ll store berries for hours 

Best Day-of-Week to Go: 

• Midweek visits are calmer and offer the most fruit; weekends may require reservations and bring larger crowds. 

Add-On Adventures: 

• Many blueberry farms are located near coastal trails, hiking areas, and local bakeries. 

• In San Gregorio or Pescadero, plan lunch at a beachside café or visit a lighthouse. 

Blueberry Picking with Kids: Family-Friendly Guidelines 

• Educate before you go: Show them how to tell ripe berries from unripe ones. 

• Create a challenge: “Who can find the biggest blueberry?” 

• Bring snacks and water: Blueberry picking is fun—but also tiring in the sun. 

• Stay hydrated and take breaks in shaded areas. 

• Assign them mini baskets so they feel involved and accomplished. 

What to Do with Your Fresh Blueberries 

After a successful harvest, here’s how to make the most of your berries: 

Fresh Ideas: 

• Yogurt parfaits 

• Blueberry compote over pancakes 

• Smoothies with almond milk and banana 

• Salads with goat cheese, nuts, and blueberries 

Preservation Tips: 

• Freeze berries in a single layer, then store in Ziplocs 

• Make homemade jam or syrup 

• Dehydrate berries for snacks or trail mix 

A Journey That Nourishes 

Whether you’re a long-time Bay Area resident or visiting California for the first time, blueberry picking is a travel-worthy experience that nourishes body, soul, and community. 

2025 promises a bountiful harvest and, with a little planning, your next weekend could turn into a farm-to-table adventure. 

Get outside, get your hands blue, and remember: the best berries are the ones you pick yourself.