Northern California Fall Bucket-list
This list was inspired by our yearly fall traditions with loved ones, combined with some new and fun ideas to try this year!
IG: California_Coasties
Host or Attend Friendsgiving / Cookie Decorating Party
This year, I kicked off fall by hosting friends for Labor Day with a cozy-inspired menu. We usually gather for Friendsgiving and a cookie decorating party before the holiday season. Stay tuned—I’ll be posting the menu from this year and last year soon!
Hot Chocolate from HMB Bakery
Who doesn’t crave hot chocolate in the fall? A visit to HMB Bakery is a must for their warm, rich, and comforting hot chocolate. They also have holiday and seasonal sugar cookies. I love their churros and conchas too!
Visit a Pumpkin Patch
My top Coastside pumpkin patches:
- Lemos Farm – Tickets are required, but this is most families’ go-to pumpkin patch for a full fall experience. Visit their website for details.
- Farmer John’s – No reservation required, and it’s pet-friendly. A classic spot for the perfect pumpkin!
- HV Produce – No reservation needed. Stop by this stand for fresh produce and honey, in addition to pumpkins.
Apple Picking in Sebastopol
Check appleadayranch.com for details on the 2024 U-Pick season.
U-Pick Sunflowers at Andreotti’s
U-Pick Sunflower Season is from September 1 to November 30. Make your reservations online at Andreotti Family Farms.
Visit the Corn Maze in Petaluma
Get lost in the fun at Petaluma Pumpkin Patch’s corn maze.
Grab Fresh Produce & Tamales at a Fall Farmers Market
The Coastside Farmers Market in Pacifica and Half Moon Bay is open until December. My favorite vendors are:
- Coastside Farms – Seasonal flower bundles for $7
- Tamales from La Cuscatleca Comida
- Simms Organics
- Roli Roti
Alcatraz Tour
Visit the historic island, once a military prison and one of the most infamous federal penitentiaries. Buy your tour tickets. Adults: $53.25, Seniors: $50.65, Children: $35.55.
Winchester Mystery House
Don’t miss their immersive Halloween event, “The Winchester Mystery House Unhinged Hotel,” on select nights from September 13 – November 2. Purchase tickets; prices vary.
Lake Tahoe Ski Getaway
Snowfall in the Sierra Mountains varies each year. I’ll be sharing my personal fall and winter favorites soon. My top two ski resorts are:
- Diamond Peak – Perfect for a quieter, low-key experience, ideal for beginners.
- Heavenly – A more commercial, busy atmosphere with something for everyone.
Fresh Crab from the Harbor
Pillar Point Harbor in Half Moon Bay is my go-to spot for fresh seafood. Check wildlife.ca.gov for official updates on when Dungeness crab season will start. Use the Fishline App for real-time updates on fresh seafood availability. I’ll share a crab season menu soon—last year, my favorites were crab pozole and crab tacos!
Dinner or Lunch at Haunted Moss Beach Distillery
You won’t be disappointed with anything on their menu! Some of my personal favorites include:
- Garlic Fries
- Crispy Buttermilk Calamari
- Dos Fish Tacos
- Distillery Burger
- Devil’s Sliders
- Fernando’s Linguini Alfredo
Cut Down a Christmas Tree at Santa’s Tree Farm
Choose and cut your own tree on the Coastside at Santa’s Tree Farm in Half Moon Bay. Last year, the season ran from November 18 to December 23. Check santastreefarm.com for updates.
Whale Watching at Pacifica Pier
Pacifica Pier is a free spot to watch whales, located just 20-25 minutes from San Francisco. Due to the abundance of anchovies, whales have been closer to shore this year.
Chocolate from Ghirardelli
Visit the historic chocolate factory at Ghirardelli Square, San Francisco to pick and mix custom chocolate gifts for the holidays.
