Nestled in the quiet backroads of Arroyo Grande, just a few miles from the Pacific, Halcyon Farms is more than a working agricultural operation—it’s a hands-on classroom where Central Coast residents and visitors alike come to rediscover one of the oldest agricultural truths: everything has its season.

At the heart of Halcyon Farms is farmer Ariela Gottschalk, who has made it her mission to grow produce with integrity and to connect people directly with the rhythms of the land. 

“We have about 30 acres where we grow vegetables, flowers, berries. We grow a lot of strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, broccoli, asparagus, and lots of herbs. We have a farm stand that’s open year round, where we sell all of our products,” she informs.

Grounded in Seasonality

For many visitors, the idea that foods have a natural growing season can come as a surprise. In an era of global supply chains and year-round supermarket produce, Ariela sees firsthand how detached many people have become from where and when their food is grown.

“There’s a season for a lot of these crops that we really take for granted,” she says. “Because we can get them from South America and Australia and all kinds of far away places.”

That’s why Halcyon Farms leans into seasonal u-pick experiences as a teaching tool. The farm’s strawberry u-pick in spring is one of the most anticipated events in the area—drawing families, food lovers, and curious kids into the fields for a taste of real-time agriculture.

Springtime Joy: Strawberry Season

Of all the moments in the farm calendar, strawberry season holds a special place in Ariela’s heart. “My favorite season on the farm is probably when the u-pick strawberry season starts,” she shares. “People are so excited, and they bring their kids, and the little kids running through the fields eating strawberries is just super fun.”

It’s not just about the fruit—it’s about the mood it ushers in. “Everybody’s having such a great time. That’s probably my favorite season to see, especially because we’re usually coming out of winter when it’s been a little slow. And strawberries are that first exciting crop in the spring.”

Planning Around the Land’s Rhythm

While strawberries kick off the season, the farm has plenty more to offer throughout the year. But each crop comes in its own time. “The raspberry u-pick is not gonna be until September,” Ariela explains. “Because it’s a different season.”

“We also do a pumpkin etching,” she shares. “In the summer, when the pumpkins are still green and have soft skin, people come out and write their name or draw a picture. Then they come back in October to find their pumpkin—it’s hardened up, it’s orange, and they can take it home to put on their porch for the season.”

This intentional approach is part of what sets Halcyon Farms apart. Rather than pushing production with artificial inputs or off-season growing methods, Ariela lets the land dictate the pace. It’s a reminder that real food takes real time—and that eating locally means embracing patience and variety.

Halcyon Farms and the Arroyo Grande Agricultural Landscape

Halcyon Farms is part of the broader agricultural patchwork of San Luis Obispo County, where the cool marine air and long growing season make it a haven for small farms. The Arroyo Grande Valley, in particular, is known for its berries, leafy greens, avocados, and citrus, all supported by the region’s fertile soil and mild climate.

Farms like Halcyon reflect the core values of sustainability, seasonality, and stewardship. But they also offer something intangible: the joy of reconnecting with the land.

“Eating local is the most delicious way to eat, and eating seasonally is the healthiest. When you support local agriculture, you’re not only nourishing yourself—you’re also helping preserve the green spaces in our communities.”

A Taste of the Real Central Coast

As more people seek authentic food experiences, Halcyon Farms stands out as a place where agriculture isn’t just observed—it’s experienced. Whether it’s kids dashing through strawberry rows, or adults marveling at the changing crops, Ariela’s farm serves up more than produce. It offers perspective.

“We all appreciate the beauty of farms. As a farmer, I’m especially drawn to them, but I think everyone enjoys seeing open, thriving farmland. Supporting local growers helps keep those landscapes alive and green. That’s something we all benefit from,” she says.

And that may be its most valuable harvest of all.

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This article was written by Alison Needham, @agirl_defloured, photos by James Collier for California Grown.