Summer in Vancouver means sunny weekends, road trips, and getting your hands dirty picking berries at a local farm. One of the best things about living here is being able to enjoy fresh strawberries right off the plant, and luckily, there are plenty of amazing farms to visit just a short drive from the city. If you’re wondering where the best strawberry picking in Vancouver is, I’ve got a few options for you throughout the Lower Mainland, including my top recommendation: Krause Berry Farms in Langley.
Krause Berry Farms (Langley)
6179 248 St, Langley Twp, BC V4W 1C3
What to Expect?
Let’s kick things off with one of the most popular spots: Krause Berry Farms. It’s about a 45-minute drive from downtown Vancouver and has become the go-to place for berry picking for many U-pick fans. The farm is huge, well-organized, and even though it fills up quickly, it still feels like stepping into a postcard.
The fields are sprawling and lush, especially during strawberry season, which usually runs from mid-June to mid-July. When you arrive, head to the field entrance kiosk to the right of the main building. Staff will greet you and hand out containers or baskets. Everyone over 3 years old must buy one. You’ve got three options: small (0.7 L or 1.5 lbs), medium (4 L or 6.5 lbs), or large (8 L or 11.5 lbs). You can also bring your own or reuse one you previously purchased. Then you’ll be directed to the right field to pick your berries. There’s even a shuttle that goes back and forth all day to bring you to the blueberry fields. Very easy.
The Full Experience
What I like most about Krause is that it’s not just berry picking. There’s a full farm experience waiting for you. After picking strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, head over to their market. You’ll find homemade pies, baked goods, ice cream tubs, and local preserves. This year, we went late into the season and picked raspberries and blueberries. We also bought their strawberry pie and the custard pie in a jar and you can definitely taste the quality.
There’s also a farm café that serves waffles with fresh berries. Easily one of the highlights after a few hours in the fields. On hot days, their ice cream or burgers are a must. For families, Krause is ideal. Kids can roam freely in a safe and relaxed setting. The fields are well laid out, clean, and make for a pleasant overall experience.
Emma Lea Farms (Ladner)
2727 Westham Island Rd, Delta, BC V4K 0A4
A close runner-up and another fantastic option is Emma Lea Farms in Ladner. A bit closer to Richmond, Emma Lea Farms is smaller than Krause but equally charming. The strawberries here are always fresh and delicious, and they have a great selection of other berries like raspberries and blueberries later in the season.
One thing Emma Lea Farms does incredibly well is creating a calm, relaxed atmosphere. The fields overlook peaceful farmland and marshes, giving you a real countryside experience not far from the city. They also offer tasty treats like homemade jams and smoothies, making it worth the drive even if you only pick berries for a short time.
Maan Farms (Abbotsford)
790 McKenzie Rd, Abbotsford, BC V2S 7N4
While some of the best strawberry picking in Vancouver happens close to the city, there are also great spots just outside the city limits. If you’re willing to drive just a bit further east, Maan Farms in Abbotsford is a must-visit. This farm is a family favorite, especially because there’s plenty for kids to do. Besides strawberry picking, they offer play areas, a petting zoo, and seasonal activities.
Maan Farms is well-known locally for their incredible farm-to-table cuisine, and their strawberry treats like fresh-baked pies and ice cream sandwiches are excellent. This farm is bustling with activity, perfect for a full day of family fun.
Bumbleberry Farms (Abbotsford)
31580 Huntingdon Rd, Abbotsford, BC V2T 6B8
If you’re looking for another great place to pick strawberries, Bumbleberry Farms in Abbotsford is definitely worth checking out. This family-run farm is smaller but still offers an excellent picking experience with consistently sweet and plentiful strawberries.
Bumbleberry Farms maintains a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, perfect for families or anyone wanting a quieter picking experience. They also offer a variety of other berries throughout the summer, making it a good spot to visit more than once during the season.
When Is Strawberry Season in BC?
Timing is everything with strawberry picking. Around Vancouver, strawberry season usually kicks off in early to mid-June and can stretch into mid-July, depending on the weather. I recommend calling the farm ahead or checking their social media to confirm picking dates—berries get snapped up quickly during peak weekends!
Tips Before You Go
If you’re heading out berry picking, here are a few quick tips to make your day even better:
- Always check their website or social media first. They will tell you how it works, if some fields are closed, etc.
- Go early in the morning. You’ll avoid the crowds, and the berries will be fresher.
- Wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting dirty, and definitely bring sunscreen and a hat. Here’s a quick guide on backpacking essentials that works great for day trips too.
- Plan extra time to enjoy the farm’s amenities. These places aren’t just fields; they’re full experiences.
Whether you head to Krause Berry Farms, Emma Lea, Bumbleberry, or Maan Farms, each spot offers fresh berries, open fields, and an easy way to enjoy a summer day outside. If you have another spot for the best strawberry picking in Vancouver, leave it in the comments below. There’s something satisfying about picking your own food. Worth doing at least once every summer!
