The honor of being the #1 public golf course in the country is definitely nothing to scoff at. When it comes to beautiful golfing destinations in Northern California, it doesn't get much better than Pebble Beach. Wrapping around the coastline, this golf course boasts legendary views of the ocean while you golf. This course is a bucket list item for any golfing enthusiast, so read on to learn all about what makes Pebble Beach unlike any other golf course in the nation.
When it comes to dreamy golfing destinations, Pebble Beach takes the cake. The golf course at Pebble Beach Resort is legendary and should be a bucket list item for any golfing enthusiast.
Once you visit Pebble Beach Golf Links, you'll instantly understand why it's been rated the greatest public golf course in America by Golf Digest since the magazine's rankings came out in 2003. It's no wonder it's been the host to six U.S. Open tournaments, and will stage its first U.S. Women's Open in 2023.
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Wrapping around California's Monterey Peninsula, the 18-hole golf course boasts some of the most memorable scenery in the country. You may just find it hard to keep your eyes off the cliff-swept shoreline, the towering pines, or the scenic sand dunes!
It's really no secret that Pebble Beach is considered one of the most beautiful courses in the world. After all, where else can you enjoy the view of crashing waves at tee time? Although, golfing here does come at a hefty price.
Constructed in 1919, the golf course was built in an attempt to lure investors to the area - and that it did. A century later, Pebble Beach's green fees are among the highest in the game. But many say the opportunity to golf in such a beautiful setting is worth every penny.
There are a couple of ways you can schedule a tee time at this world-famous locale. You can stay as a guest at the resort and reserve your spot on the green up to 18 months in advance. Alternatively, non-resort guests can make a reservation up to 24 hours in advance, but availability is not guaranteed.
It's obvious that there's no other golf course in the world like Pebble Beach. The sheer uniqueness of the golf course in addition to the rich history makes this a bucket list destination for any golfer.
Have you golfed at Pebble Beach? What a beautiful destination for tee time! Share your thoughts with us on Pebble Beach and other NorCal golf courses in the comments below.
If you are on the hunt for the best apple cider donuts in Northern California, then you have to check out Vierra Farms, home to Dave's Pumpkin Patch! This family-run farm in West Sacramento has been a local favorite since David Vierra, following in his grandfather’s footsteps, started growing pumpkins as a teenager. They’re known for their fresh produce stand and have been a community staple for years.
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One of the biggest draws is Dave’s famous apple cider cinnamon donuts. Once you've tasted them, you'll understand the hype. And because they're only available for a limited time during the holidays, it makes them that much more special.
While Dave’s apple cider cinnamon donuts are a crowd favorite, the farm also offers a variety of other delicious and festive foods. At Dave’s Backyard BBQ, you can enjoy juicy burgers and pulled pork sandwiches, along with fun fall snacks like churros, pretzels, and garlic fries.
For those with a sweet tooth, Sugar Boos Bakery serves up everything from waffles topped with fresh fruit to Dave’s signature apple cider donuts, served hot and fresh. Don’t forget to pair your treats with a piping hot apple cider, too!
Dave's Pumpkin Patch is also packed with family-friendly activities. The corn maze is a must-try for those up for a challenge. Bigger kids and adults will love the pig races, pony rides, and hayrides, while the littlest ones will have a blast in the kiddie hay maze or on the giant jumping pillow. After a day of fun, a bag of Dave's warm apple cider donuts is the perfect way to top off the farm experience.
Admission for food and pumpkin picking is free, though certain attractions require a wristband. Please note that only cash or checks are accepted on-site due to the rural location, but online ticket purchases and ATMs are available.
Whether you’re local or just visiting the Sacramento area, it’s easy to see why families return year after year for fall fun and those famous apple cider donuts.
For the latest information about this enjoyable autumn activity, please visit the website of Vierra Farms or the Facebook page of Dave's Pumpkin Patch.
Have you been to Dave's Pumpkin Patch? Do you think they have some of the best apple cider donuts in Northern California? Let me know! I'd love to hear about your favorite local spots. If you're looking for more fall activities in NorCal, check out these unique experiences.
One of the most enjoyable fall activities is visiting a pumpkin patch. The best pumpkin patches in Northern California include rows of pumpkins (of course), plus fun activities such as a corn maze, face painting, pony rides, and games. Many of these pumpkin patches also sell food during big weekend events. If you’ve been searching, “pumpkin patches near me” look no further– there’s likely a pumpkin patch (or three) near you on this list. For those living in one of NorCal’s cities, there are several pumpkin patches near Sacramento and San Jose, plus many others throughout the state. Go with a group of friends, bring your little ones, and have a fun and memorable day at one of these 14 Northern California pumpkin patches.
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1. Nash Ranch Pumpkin Patch– Redding
Open daily beginning September 30, Nash Ranch Pumpkin Patch is a sprawling 20-acre ranch where you can pick your perfect Halloween pumpkins. Weekends come alive with a petting zoo, a 3-mile corn maze, train rides, and more. Don't miss the haunted corn maze and spooky haunted house. Visit the website for more details and updates on the current season as made available.
2. Country Pumpkins– Orland
Country Pumpkins in Orland boasts a five-acre pumpkin patch, a ten-acre corn maze, a friendly petting zoo, and an exciting hay pyramid with a slide. While the kids explore, make sure to wander through the country store where you can buy local food products, nuts, and other treats. You can enjoy the farm's attractions daily from October 1 through October 31.
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3. Cool Patch Pumpkins– Dixon
Enjoy a unique pumpkin-picking experience and navigate the world record corn maze at Cool Pumpkin Patch. The opening date in September is yet to be confirmed, but the fun continues until October 31. This pumpkin patch near Sacramento is one you don't want to miss!
4. Bishop's Pumpkin Farm– Wheatland
Established in 1973, Bishop's Pumpkin Farm is a cherished family-run destination. In addition to the sprawling Bay area pumpkin patch, the farm offers an array of fall farm games for the whole family. Enjoy a merry-go-round, explore the corn maze, and get up close with adorable farm animals at the petting zoo. And when it's time to choose your pumpkin, you'll be in awe of the world's largest U-pick field. Don't forget to visit the beautiful flower garden, a perfect backdrop for memorable photos. Bishop's is open daily from September 7 to November 11.
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5. Loomis Pumpkin Patch– Loomis
Opening sometime in mid-September (check website for updates as available), this pumpkin farm in Placer County promises a bigger and better experience than ever. Alongside its pumpkin patch, the farm offers a corn maze, numerous photo opportunities, and a mini-pumpkin sling shot, making it an ideal spot for fall family outings.
6. Dave's Pumpkin Patch– West Sacramento
If you're seeking pumpkin patches near Sacramento, Dave's Pumpkin Patch on the Vierra Farms property in West Sacramento is a must-visit. The patch features a pumpkin wonderland, corn maze adventures, hayrides, and even entertaining pig races. Starting September 21, it's open daily and offers a delicious assortment of food, including hot sandwiches, hamburgers, waffles, and the famous apple cider cinnamon donuts. Please note that Dave's Pumpkin Patch accepts cash or check payments only.
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7. Fog Willow Farms– Wilton
Starting its fall season on September 28, Fog Willow Farms offers a delightful countryside experience with a pumpkin patch and family-friendly activities. Spanning nine acres, this farm is perfect for little ones, as it skips the scary Halloween decor, focusing instead on fun and "edu-tainment."
8. Petaluma Pumpkin Patch and Amazing Corn Maze– Petaluma
Kick off your fall season at Petaluma Pumpkin Patch, opening its doors on September 20 for its 32nd season. This beloved spot offers homegrown pumpkins that you can pick right from the field. Explore the Amazing Corn Maze, which has earned a top-9 spot in the world according to Readers Digest. From pony rides to face-painting, there's fun for all ages.
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9. Smith Family Farm's Pumpkin Harvest– Brentwood
Located in the East Bay Area suburb of Brentwood, Smith Family Farm's Pumpkin Harvest returns with live entertainment, fall art, barnyard animal encounters, and pumpkin-picking fun. The patch opens daily starting September 28.
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10. ABC Tree Farms & Pick of the Patch Pumpkins–Fremont
Located at the Fremont Hub Shopping Center, this lively pumpkin patch welcomes visitors during the season, when kids will have a blast on all the inflatable structures, while you'll have plenty of time to choose your pumpkins and savor the fall atmosphere. Check the website for updates for this year's dates as available.
11. G&M Farms– Livermore
G&M Farms in Livermore opens its pumpkin patch and corn maze seasonally from Wednesday to Sunday. Weekends bring extra excitement with hayrides, pedal carts, pony rides, and delightful treats like mini donuts and Kettle Corn. Check the website for updates as available on this season's dates.
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12. Pastorino’s Pumpkin Farm– Half Moon Bay
Explore the pumpkin field, enjoy hayrides, train rides, pony rides, and more at Pastorino's Pumpkin Farm. Open during the month of October, all the exciting attractions come to life.
13. Lemos Farm– Half Moon Bay
Beloved Lemos Farm is open during the fall season offering pumpkin picking and fun activities. Check the website for the current season's operating hours and to secure your tickets for an unforgettable day. You may also be able to get tickets at the gate.
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14. Farmer John’s Pumpkin Farm– Half Moon Bay
Right off Highway 1, Farmer John's Pumpkin Farm has a warm, family-friendly vibe. Well-behaved dogs on leashes are also welcome, making it a fantastic outing for the whole family. Check the farm's Facebook page for updates on this season's dates open.
These 14 best pumpkin patches in Northern California not only promise rows of pumpkins but also a fun fall activity. So make a day of it, and visit one of these family-friendly pumpkin patches. We love this fall activity!