Summer in California is more than sunshine and surf—it's stone fruit season. And this year’s rising micro-trend is making waves among foodies and road trippers alike: visiting local farm stands and crafting spontaneous sunset picnics with peaches, plums, and nectarines straight from the source.

From Fillmore to Paso Robles, travelers are skipping the restaurant scene and heading straight to the orchards. It's a seasonal, sensory, and social media-friendly experience—and it’s the perfect blend of California slow travel and culinary indulgence.

The Juicy California Travel Trend You Need This Summer: Stone Fruit Farm Stands + Sunset Picnics

Why Stone Fruit Season Is a Must-Do California Experience

Between late June and early September, California stone fruit—peaches, nectarines, plums, and apricots—hit peak ripeness. Many of the best heirloom varieties are only available at local farm stands and U-pick farms, making this a seasonal treasure hunt for flavor seekers.

Want to make a weekend of it? Pair your farm stand finds with a DIY golden hour picnic for a summer moment that’s tasty, photogenic, and deeply local.

Best Stone Fruit Farm Stands & Picnic Spots in California

1. Bennett’s Honey Farm + Roadside Stands, Fillmore

Located on Highway 126, this is a great pit stop between LA and Ojai. Pick up raw honey, fresh white peaches, and seasonal fruit from nearby stands. Then head to Meditation Mount in Ojai for a tranquil picnic with valley views.

Related post: Things to Do in Ojai with Kids (and Without!)

2. Masumoto Family Farm, Del Rey (Near Fresno)

This organic farm is a favorite of chefs and food writers, famous for its heritage stone fruit varieties. Join their limited U-pick events for Flavor Crest peaches or Sun Crest nectarines.

Sign up early! These weekends book out quickly.

3. Avila Valley Barn, San Luis Obispo

A must-visit on the Central Coast, Avila Valley Barn has U-pick peaches, sweet corn, baked pies, and even a petting zoo. Head to nearby Avila Beach for a breezy sunset picnic with your haul.

Related post: Kid-Friendly Central Coast Road Trip Ideas

4. Reimer’s Candies & Ice Cream, Three Rivers

Heading into Sequoia National Park? Don’t miss this charming shop for handmade peach-pecan ice cream and locally made preserves. It’s a great reward after a summer hike.

How to Plan the Perfect California Stone Fruit Picnic

You don’t need much to make this moment magic. Here's how to pack your golden hour feast:

What to Pack:

• Variety of stone fruits: Heirloom peaches, plums, nectarines
• Cheese: Goat cheese, burrata, or brie
• Charcuterie: Prosciutto or salami
• Local bread: Sourdough or focaccia
• Sparkling wine or fruit-forward mocktail
• Picnic blanket + cutting board + cooler

Tip: Visit a local market on your route to pick up artisan extras like jam, olives, or lavender lemonade.

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Local Travel Tips From a California Food & Travel Writer

I’m Stacy Molter, the creator behind California Unpublished, and I’ve spent over a decade uncovering the Golden State’s most authentic and flavorful destinations.

From slow food events to rustic wine country getaways, my goal is always to spotlight the places that taste like California feels. And this trend? It’s one of the most rewarding I’ve experienced.

My personal tips:

• Go early in the day for best selection (and to beat the heat).
• Bring a cooler if you plan to travel for hours post-purchase.
• Talk to the farmers—they’ll often offer tastings and storage tips.
• Pair your picnic with a local hike or beach walk.
• Take photos—but don’t forget to pause and just enjoy.

Related post: 15 Scenic California Picnic Spots for Families

3-Day “Stone Fruit + Picnic” California Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Ventura to Ojai

• Morning: Start in Ventura with a quick stop at the harbor for coffee.
• Late morning: Visit Bennett’s Honey Farm + roadside stands on Highway 126.
• Lunch: Pack a picnic from Ojai Certified Farmers Market.
• Afternoon: Picnic at Meditation Mount or Soule Park.
• Optional: Stay overnight in Ojai or camp nearby.

Day 2: Central Coast Drive

• Morning: Drive to San Luis Obispo via Highway 101.
• Stop at roadside fruit stands along the way (Santa Maria area).
• Midday: Visit Avila Valley Barn – U-pick + lunch at their deli.
• Sunset: Picnic at Avila Beach with your finds.
• Overnight: Stay in Pismo Beach or SLO.

Day 3: Return via Paso Robles or Sequoia Loop

• Option A: Paso Robles
  • Visit local vineyards (peach wine or rosé tastings)
  • Stop at Templeton’s Saturday Farmers Market (if weekend)
• Option B: Inland route to Three Rivers
  • Stop at Reimer’s for stone fruit ice cream + preserves
  • Afternoon picnic near Lake Kaweah or gateway to Sequoia
  • Head home with your haul of California-grown goodness!

Download and print our Stone Fruit Farm Stands + Sunset Picnics 3-Day Itinerary here!

FAQs: California Stone Fruit + Travel Trend

When is stone fruit season in California?
Late June through August, with some early cherry and apricot seasons in May and early June.

Are dogs allowed at farm stands or picnic spots?
Many roadside stands allow dogs on leash, but U-pick farms often restrict dogs in orchard areas. Always check ahead.

What drinks pair best with stone fruit?
Sparkling rosé, peach cider, or non-alcoholic options like hibiscus iced tea or peach shrub soda are great pairings.

Can I turn this into a weekend trip?
Absolutely! Consider building a 2-day itinerary: Day 1 = farm stand tour, Day 2 = beach or hike + picnic. Check out our California Road Trip Guides for ideas.

Do I need to bring utensils?
A cutting board, picnic knife, napkins, and reusable cups are usually all you need for this casual, hands-on meal.

Let’s Chat!

Have you tried this trend? What’s your favorite California farm stand or picnic spot?

Comment below and share your favorite finds, photo ops, or local vendors—I’d love to hear from you and maybe even feature your tips in a future post!