Fall Fun in the Monterey Peninsula: The Best Pumpkin Patches
Autumn in the Monterey Bay area means crisp mornings, cozy sweaters, and pumpkin patches that beckon families, photographers, and holiday lovers alike. Whether you're in Monterey, Pebble Beach, Carmel, or nearby, here’s your guide to some of the best pumpkin patches and fall festivities you won’t want to miss.
Cardinale & Wright Pumpkin Patch (Monterey County Fairgrounds)
Location: 2004 Fairground Road, Monterey, CA
Open: October 1 – October 31 (hours ~9 am to 5 pm, with a midday break)
What’s special: This is a classic, easy‑to‑reach patch right in Monterey. You’ll find a wide selection of pumpkins, gourds, and harvest décor.
Kids & family friendly: Great for strolling, picking pumpkins, and taking photos. It’s not necessarily a mega farm experience with huge rides, but it’s reliable and local.
Why you might like it: Because it’s central—if you’re staying near Monterey, Pebble Beach, or the peninsula, this is one of the most convenient pumpkin destinations.
Earthbound Farm Stand / EBFS Pumpkin Patch (Carmel Valley)
Location: 7250 Carmel Valley Rd, Carmel, CA
What’s special: This is one of the more “organic farm” style patches. The pumpkin patch is part of the working farm, so you get to enjoy garden tours, lawn games, and meandering paths.
Kids & family friendly: Yes—great for slower, relaxed visits. The Harvest Festival includes pumpkin games, stacking contests, live music, etc.
Why you might like it: Scenic, relaxing, and less “commercial” — perfect for blending a pumpkin visit with a drive through Carmel Valley.
Borchard Farms (Salinas area)
Location: 142 Rodgers Road, Salinas (a short drive from Monterey)
Open: Through October 31, daily 11 am to 8 pm
What’s special: This patch often features “Giant Pumpkin” weigh‑offs, a 5‑acre corn maze, and many fall decor options.
Kids & family friendly: Very much so. The maze is a highlight, and there are farm animals and fun photo ops.
Why you might like it: If you don’t mind a short drive from Monterey or Pebble Beach, this offers more “farm feel” and variety than many city‑area patches.
Crystal Bay Farm (Watsonville area)
Location: 40 Zils Rd, Watsonville, CA
What’s special: A smaller, more laid‑back farm. Pumpkin patch + farm tours + a self‑serve farm stand (honor system)
Kids & family friendly: Yes — low pressure, nice for casual visits, learning about farming.
Why you might like it: If you want to get away from crowds and enjoy a quieter, local farm feel. It’s farther than some but worth it for more peaceful pumpkin time.
Swank Farms (Hollister / Inland drive)
Location: Hollister area (a bit farther but often recommended)
What’s special: Their pumpkin patch is just one piece of a fall festival scene: corn mazes, event days, decorations, etc.
Kids & family friendly: Very much so — one user on a local forum specifically named Swank as “probably our best local one” for the variety of activities.
Why you might like it: If you’re up for a drive, you’ll get more “festival-level” fun. Good for families wanting a full fall outing.
Hacienda Hay & Feed (Carmel Valley)
Location: 7180 Carmel Valley Rd, Carmel, CA
What’s special: Smaller pumpkin stand and photo ops; pumpkins grown on the property so you can sometimes pick from the vine.
Kids & family friendly: Yes — cozy, quiet. Nice for a short pumpkin‑stop on a Carmel Valley drive.
Why you might like it: If you're staying in Carmel or Pebble Beach and want something close and charming without crowds.
Photo by ediblemontereybay.com
Tips & Fun Facts for Your Pumpkin Patch Outing
Bring layers: Monterey Peninsula weather can shift—sunny mornings, foggy afternoons. Dress in layers so you're comfortable.
Check dog policy ahead: Many pumpkin patches don’t explicitly state whether pets are allowed; a quick phone call or checking their social media can save you a surprise.
Go earlier in the season or midweek: To avoid crowds, head out late September or early October, or visit on weekdays.
Bring cash or check for small farms: Some farms (like Crystal Bay) run on “honor system” stands.
Pumpkin roll in Carmel!: Don’t miss Carmel’s quirky, fun tradition — the Annual Pumpkin Roll down Ocean Avenue (between Santa Rita & Junipero) in late October.
Combine with scenic drives: If you’re on the Monterey → Carmel drive, stopping by Carmel Valley or patches nearby adds charm.
Photo ops are everywhere: Many patches set up festive displays, hay bales, and props—perfect for social media shots.
Why These Patches Stand Out for Monterey, Carmel & Pebble Beach Visitors
Proximity: Some patches (like Cardinale & Wright) are right in or near Monterey, making them easy to access for local residents or visitors staying in Pebble Beach or Carmel.
Variety of experiences: From laid‑back farm tours (Earthbound) to bigger corn mazes (Borchard) to seasonal festivals (Swank), there’s something for every pace.
Scenic backdrops: The Peninsula’s rolling hills, valley farms, and mild climate make pumpkin outings more comfortable and picturesque than hotter inland patches.
Family appeal: Many of these places cater to kids with mazes, photo stations, games, and gentle farm animals. That helps make your autumn listing content or local guides richer for families.
Cross‑marketing potential: If you list a home in Carmel Valley or near Pebble Beach, you can mention close access to charming fall experiences as added lifestyle value.
Get Ready for Some Fun
Whether you're after a quick pumpkin pick with the kids, a scenic farm stroll, or a full-blown fall festival adventure, the Monterey Bay area offers a patch (or several) to match your autumn vibe. From the convenience of Cardinale & Wright in town, to the rustic charm of Crystal Bay Farm and the festival flair of Swank Farms, there’s a fall experience for every pace and personality. With crisp coastal air, stunning backdrops, and family-friendly fun around every bend, exploring these local gems adds just the right touch of seasonal magic to life in—and around—Monterey, Carmel, and Pebble Beach.
