It’s the most wonderful time of the year here on the Central Coast, when it’s warming up (or cooling down, this year) and the farm stands are bursting with fresh fruits and veggies. There are many, many farm stands where you can find the freshest produce around throughout the county, and I’m sure all of them are worth a visit. Here are three in the Five Cities area that I love:
Halcyon Farms
Located in the township of Halcyon–on the edge of Arroyo Grande–Halcyon Farms plants only non-GMO seeds and uses organic farming practices to ensure that all of their produce is fresh, healthy, and pesticide-free. They’re open Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, with a large selection of seasonal treats. Make sure to follow their socials for updates on the Harvest Bags, prepacked bags of produce for $20, available on both Tuesdays and Fridays. The contents change week to week based on what’s freshest. These bags started as a contactless way to get fresh veggies in 2020, and have been so popular that they’ve continued these last 6 years.
1075 The Pike, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
halcyonfarmsag.com
Instagram: halcyon_farms
Hayashi Vegetable Stand
Near the intersection of Halcyon and Highway 1, the Hayashi family has been growing incredible produce in SLO county for over 100 years! Their farm stand is open daily, offering seasonally fresh fruits and vegetables along with flowers, snacks, and canned goods such as pickles and olives. You can also find Hayashi Family Farms at farmers’ markets throughout the county, including those in Arroyo Grande, Santa Maria, San Luis Obispo, Morro Bay, Madonna Plaza, and Templeton!
2876 Cienage St, Oceano, CA 93445
hayashifruitstand.com
Instagram: HayashiFruitStand
Okui Strawberry and Fruit Stand
Okui is only open from March to September, but it’s a must stop when they are open! Their strawberries are a local legend, so if you haven’t tried them you really should. They grow the Albion variety of strawberries, which are considered the best available. The Albion’s shorter shelf life means they aren’t sold to grocery stores, so Okui’s other varieties are the ones sent away while the Albions are overflowing from the farm stand, just for us here in SLO! Not a strawberry fan? They also offer a variety of delicious seasonal vegetables and other fruits.
1234 Highland Way, Grover Beach, CA 93433
(805) 481-2456
Facebook: Okui Strawberry and Fruit Stand
Wherever you go, you’re sure to find delicious produce. I know this list doesn’t even begin to get into all of the farm stands in the county, these are just the ones I know and love!