Tanuki Cider
Where Tanuki Cider is located
Tanuki Cider sits in Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz County, one of the classic apple-growing pockets of California. The farm's street address is 334 Ingalls Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060.
Most visitors reach Tanuki Cider by car; the drive winds past rolling farmland that's especially pretty during peak fall color. From the nearest highway exit, follow signs toward Santa Cruz and continue on local county roads to 334 Ingalls Street. GPS is reliable to the farm entrance, and there is on-site parking once you arrive.
Landmarks in the area include downtown Santa Cruz, nearby farm stands, and small-town diners that make a great pre or post-picking stop. Cell service can get spotty on back roads, so it's smart to download the map to your phone before you leave the highway.
Looking for the best apple picking near Santa Cruz, California? Tanuki Cider is a working apple orchard located in Santa Cruz, California (Santa Cruz County), welcoming families, couples, and photographers each fall for a classic American harvest experience.
Tanuki Cider sits inside one of California's most beloved apple-growing regions. Between the smell of fresh cider, warm apple donuts, and rows of Honeycrisp and McIntosh trees heavy with fruit, it's the kind of place that turns a simple Saturday into a memory your kids will still talk about years later.
Pick-Your-Own Apples at Tanuki Cider
Pick-your-own apples at Tanuki Cider is exactly what it sounds like, you walk the orchard, pick apples directly off the tree, and pay by the bag or pound when you're done. Staff will point you toward the rows that are ripe that week, hand you a picking bag or bucket, and give you a quick tip on how to twist (not pull) the apple.
On-Farm Activities
Best Time to Visit
Apple season at Tanuki Cider runs from late August through late October, like most orchards in California. The sweet spot for a first-time visit is the last two weeks of September through the first two weeks of October.
Weekends between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. are the friendliest time to arrive. Weekdays are the most peaceful, a Tuesday or Wednesday morning may have entire rows to yourself.
What to Bring
- • Cash (backup for the farm stand)
- • Closed-toe walking shoes
- • A light jacket or flannel
- • Sunscreen and a hat
- • Water bottles for the walk
- • Reusable bags for the ride home
- • A camera or phone charged for photos
- • Small bills for cider and donuts
Where Tanuki Cider is located
Tanuki Cider sits in Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz County, one of the classic apple-growing pockets of California. The farm's street address is 334 Ingalls Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060.
Most visitors reach Tanuki Cider by car; the drive winds past rolling farmland that's especially pretty during peak fall color. From the nearest highway exit, follow signs toward Santa Cruz and continue on local county roads to 334 Ingalls Street. GPS is reliable to the farm entrance, and there is on-site parking once you arrive.
Landmarks in the area include downtown Santa Cruz, nearby farm stands, and small-town diners that make a great pre or post-picking stop. Cell service can get spotty on back roads, so it's smart to download the map to your phone before you leave the highway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Tanuki Cider offer pick-your-own apples?+
Yes, Tanuki Cider offers pick-your-own apples during the harvest season. Guests walk the rows, pick apples straight from the tree, and pay by the bag, bucket, or pound at the farm stand.
When is apple picking season at Tanuki Cider?+
Apple season at most U.S. orchards runs from late August through late October. Call ahead or check Tanuki Cider's website before your visit to confirm which varieties are ripe.
What are Tanuki Cider's hours?+
Hours at Tanuki Cider vary by season. We recommend calling ahead or checking their website the morning of your visit.
How much does apple picking cost at Tanuki Cider?+
Pick-your-own apple prices in the U.S. typically run $1.50–$3.00 per pound, or $20–$40 for a half-bushel bag. Tanuki Cider sets prices at the entrance each season based on the current crop.
What apple varieties can I pick at Tanuki Cider?+
Tanuki Cider grows several classic apple varieties. Popular picks include Honeycrisp for eating, Cortland for baking, and Granny Smith for pies and cider.
Is Tanuki Cider good for kids and families?+
Absolutely, Tanuki Cider welcomes families and offers pick-your-own.
Can I bring my dog to Tanuki Cider?+
Most working orchards ask that pets stay home for food-safety reasons. Call Tanuki Cider to confirm their current pet policy before bringing your dog.
Is there parking at Tanuki Cider?+
Tanuki Cider has on-site parking that's free for guests. Fall weekends are the busiest, mornings are the calmest time to visit.
What should I bring to Tanuki Cider?+
Bring cash, comfortable closed-toe shoes, a light jacket, sunscreen, water, and a camera. Tanuki Cider usually provides picking bags or buckets.
Data source: Google Places · Confidence: Medium
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