U-Pick – Tangerine and Lemon Picking at Sunmist Tangerine Farm

Imagine wandering through rows of bright orange tangerines and gleaming yellow lemons, your hands reaching for ripe, sweet fruit, with the warm California sun overhead. This U-Pick citrus tour in Temecula offers just that—an authentic, laid-back orchard experience for about $10 per person, lasting around an hour and a half. Led by friendly guides, you’ll have the chance to pick as much citrus as you like, paying only by the pound. It’s a refreshing alternative to the area’s more common wine-tasting scene, and a great way to connect with nature and enjoy some quality photo ops.

We love how this experience offers flexibility and personalization—you’re not part of a large group or rushed through a tour. Instead, you get to stroll at your own pace, choosing your favorite fruits, and learning about the farm firsthand. Plus, the cost of just $10 provides a good value, especially for families or small groups looking for a relaxed outdoor activity. One thing to consider: since it’s weather-dependent, a clear day makes all the difference for a comfortable, enjoyable visit. This tour suits those who love authentic farm experiences and want to add a touch of citrus to their trip.

Key Points

• Personalized orchard experience with just your group
• Unlimited picking with pay-by-the-pound pricing
• Great for families and friends seeking outdoor fun
• Learn about citrus farming from knowledgeable guides
• An ideal alternative to vineyard-hopping in Temecula
• Weather-dependent activity, best on clear days

Exploring Sunmist Tangerine Farm: A Hands-On Citrus Experience

What makes this tour special?

This U-Pick tour is more than just a walk through orchards—it’s a chance to touch, smell, and taste citrus fruits fresh from the trees. Located in the sun-drenched Temecula Valley, the farm benefits from a microclimate that ensures year-round harvests of Meyer lemons and Tango tangerines. With more than 20,000 Meyer lemon trees and an annual yield of almost 5 million pounds, Sunmist is a serious citrus operation, but one that welcomes visitors eager to participate.

What truly sets this experience apart is its personalized nature. Unlike larger agritourism stops, your group will have exclusive access, allowing you to pick at your own pace without feeling rushed. You can fill your basket with as many lemons and tangerines as you like, paying only $2.5 per pound for Tango tangerines or $1.50 per pound for Meyer lemons. This straightforward, pay-as-you-go system makes it easy to control your spending and enjoy a casual day out in the orchards.

What to expect during your visit

The meeting point is conveniently located at 26700 Avenida Del Oro, and your experience begins promptly at 10:00 am. The tour lasts roughly 90 minutes, enough time to wander through the lush trees, take photos, and gather plenty of fresh fruit. The farm is entirely private for your group, which means less crowding and more room to explore freely.

Your guides—who are typically knowledgeable about the farm’s operations—will provide insights into the growth and care of citrus trees, making this not just an activity but an educational experience. You’ll love the opportunity to learn from local growers about the microclimate’s impact on fruit quality and harvest times.

The appeal for families and photographers

This activity is especially popular among families, couples, and groups of friends. It’s great for kids who enjoy being outdoors and collecting fruit, and the photo opportunities are plentiful—imagine holding a freshly picked tangerine or lemon with the rolling vineyards in the background. Since there’s no limit to how much you can pick, it’s perfect for those who want a hands-on, interactive experience.

The value of this citrus tour

At just $10 per person, this experience offers excellent value—particularly when compared to other local activities. You’re paying for quality time in the orchards, the chance to pick fresh, organic fruit, and the personalized service that makes this trip memorable. Remember, parking fees are included, so no hidden costs there, and optional fruit purchase is straightforward.

The potential drawbacks

The main consideration is weather dependence—a rainy or windy day might cause cancelation or make orchard walking less enjoyable. The tour is best suited for dry, sunny days when the orchard is at its picturesque best. Also, since it’s a shorter activity, those seeking a full-day adventure might want to combine it with other local attractions, like wine tours or a hot air balloon ride.

Who should consider this tour?

This citrus-picking tour is ideal for families with children, couples seeking a relaxed outdoor activity, or anyone interested in experiencing local agriculture firsthand. It’s also perfect for those looking for a memorable photo session or a different way to enjoy the Temecula Valley beyond its famed wineries.

Why We Recommend It

We found this tour to be a refreshing change of pace from Temecula’s wine-centric reputation. The guides’ friendly approach makes the experience genuinely welcoming, and the opportunity to pick your own fruit is both fun and satisfying. It’s a simple, authentic activity that connects you directly with the land—and the farm-to-table freshness is genuinely rewarding.

The cost-effectiveness is notable, especially since you can pick as much citrus as you like without feeling pressured. Plus, the flexibility of the experience means you can tailor your visit to your interests—whether that’s snapping photos, learning about citrus farming, or just relaxing in the orchard.

While weather can be a factor, planning for a sunny day ensures smooth sailing. If you’re visiting Temecula and want a family-friendly outdoor activity that’s different and engaging, this citrus-picking tour is well worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the tour cost?
It costs $10 per person, with optional fruit purchases priced at $2.5/lb for Tango tangerines or $1.50/lb for Meyer lemons.

How long is the experience?
The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes, giving you plenty of time to explore, pick fruit, and take photos.

Is parking included?
Yes, parking fees are included in the price, making it straightforward to plan your visit.

Can I pick as much fruit as I want?
Yes, there is no limit to what you can pick, and you pay only for what you take home based on weight.

Is it suitable for children?
Absolutely. It’s a great outdoor activity for families, offering kids a chance to get hands-on with nature.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for walking in the orchard—closed-toe shoes are recommended, and bring sunscreen and a hat for sun protection.

What if the weather is bad?
Since the activity is weather-dependent, if conditions are poor, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, with options for a full refund or alternative date.

Is this a guided tour?
Yes, you’ll have guides available to answer questions and provide insights about the orchards and fruits during your visit.

Final Thoughts

Adding a citrus-picking adventure to your Temecula trip offers a wonderfully authentic and relaxing experience. It’s perfect if you enjoy outdoor activities, want to learn about local agriculture, or simply love the idea of gathering fresh fruit straight from the tree. With personalized service, flexible pacing, and the chance to enjoy beautiful orchard scenery, this tour offers a genuine slice of California farm life.

It’s best suited for those seeking a casual, family-friendly outing that’s light on formality but heavy on fun and flavor. Whether you’re visiting with kids, hiking with friends, or capturing stunning photos, this citrus tour provides a memorable, tasty experience that complements Temecula’s renowned wine scene without the wine.

If you’re after a unique, hands-on activity in Temecula, don’t miss the opportunity to walk among the trees and pick your own bounty at Sunmist Tangerine Farm. It’s a charming, affordable way to connect with the land and enjoy the simple pleasures of fresh fruit.