Fall on the Peninsula means clear skies along the coast and fields full of orange in Half Moon Bay, the "Pumpkin Capital of the World." Best of all, you don't have to leave your dog at home. Several local farms welcome well-behaved, leashed dogs, so the whole family can pick the perfect pumpkin together.

Here are four dog-friendly pumpkin patches worth the trip this fall.

Pumpkin Farm dog

Arata's Pumpkin Farm, Half Moon Bay

If you want the full fall festival experience, Arata's is the place. This family farm is one of the coast's biggest pumpkin destinations, with a hay maze, a corn field, the Pumpkin River and a haunted barn, plus pumpkins in every shape and size. Dogs are welcome "as long as they're well-behaved and on a leash."

Pup tip: Arata's gets busy on October weekends. Plan a weekday visit for fewer crowds and a calmer outing for your dog.

Farmer John's Pumpkin Farm, Half Moon Bay

Just north of Highway 92 on the ocean side of Highway 1, Farmer John's proudly calls itself pet friendly. Admission and parking are free, and no reservations are needed. It's an easy stop for a relaxed afternoon of pumpkin picking with your dog.

Mark your calendar: Farmer John's hosts Bernese Mountain Dog Day on the first Sunday in October. More than 100 Berners showed up in past years, so it's a sight to see whether or not you bring your own.

Bob's Vegetable Stand & Pumpkin Farm, Half Moon Bay

For a simple, no-fuss visit, head to Bob's. This spacious patch along Highway 1 offers free admission and parking, fairly priced pumpkins, free wheelbarrows and ocean views. Leashed dogs are welcome, and the open layout gives everyone room to roam.

Pup tip: Bob's has a small petting zoo, so keep your dog close around the farm animals.

Rancho Siempre Verde, Pescadero

Looking for a full day on the farm? Rancho Siempre Verde, a family farm in Pescadero, hosts its Fall Festival on weekends from September 26 to October 25, 2026, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., rain or shine. It's a dog-friendly farm, and admission is $150 per car for up to six guests. That includes five pumpkins, a flower bouquet you pick yourself, a bag of organic apples and about 3.5 hours of farm fun, with tractor rides, wreath making and open fields with ocean views.

 

Tips for Visiting a Pumpkin Patch with Your Dog

  • Keep your dog leashed at all times, and check whether any attractions, like mazes, rides or animal areas, are off-limits to dogs.
  • Go on a weekday if your dog isn't used to crowds.
  • Bring water and a bowl. Sunny fall afternoons on the coast can get warm.
  • Pack towels or booties. Farm paths can get muddy after rain.
  • Watch for farm animals and give them plenty of space.
  • Clean up after your dog so the farms stay welcoming to four-legged visitors.