Almond Blossoms in Northern California: Where to See Them (2026 Guide)
Where to See Almond Blossoms in Northern California
The best place to see almond blossoms in Northern California is Yolo County, in the orchards along Highway 113 between Davis and Woodland, about an hour from San Francisco. Peak bloom runs from late February to early March, when the trees are covered in white blossoms. It is free to visit, with roadside parking along the orchards.
I’ve spent many spring seasons searching for almond blossoms near San Francisco and I think I’ve finally got it down! Seeing the almond blossoms at peak bloom was definitely worth the chase, and I know y’all want to see it too, since one of the most popular questions I get in my Instagram DMs is where to find the almond blossoms. So here’s everything you need to know about seeing these trees in full bloom.
What Almond Blossom Season Looks Like
When almond trees are in full bloom, they’re covered in white blossoms. When the blossoms start falling off the trees, it looks like snow is falling, which makes it a truly magical sight. The blossoms make for great photos, so this is a popular spot for professional photographers. The photographers bring props and everything (there happened to be a photographer who brought a whole nice setup when I was there, so I got to take a photo in it).
When Is the Best Time to See Almond Blossoms in Northern California?
Almond trees in Northern California bloom from mid-February to mid-March. Late February to early March is usually the best window to catch them in full bloom. By mid-March, a lot of the blossoms start falling to the ground, which honestly makes for gorgeous photos too since the ground looks dusted with petals.
One heads-up: this timeframe falls during rainy season, so the dirt can be wet and your shoes and clothes might get a little muddy. Wear shoes you don’t mind getting dirty.
Where Exactly Are the Almond Orchards?
There are tons of almond tree orchards in Yolo County, just an hour outside of San Francisco and 20 minutes outside of Sacramento. The orchards sit right off Highway 113 between Davis and Woodland. You’ll see the trees right from the freeway. Once you spot them, take the next exit and follow your eyes. I don’t remember the exact exit we took, but it’s somewhere halfway between Davis and Woodland (Highway 113 is only a 15-minute drive one way, so if you miss it, it’s quick to loop back around).
There is plenty of roadside parking along the orchards. The orchards are farmers’ land, so please be respectful of the property. You don’t have to wander far into the orchards to get beautiful photos. To rent a car for the drive, you can check out Discover Cars to find the best deal.
Tips for Photographing Almond Blossoms
- Go on a weekday if you can. Weekends draw the photographer crowds with full prop setups.
- Golden hour is everything. Late afternoon light through white blossoms is unreal.
- Stay near the road. You don’t need to walk deep into the orchards. Respect the farmers’ land and stick close to the roadside.
- Bring a change of shoes. Muddy orchard rows are no joke during rainy season.
If you go visit, let me know what you thought of the almond blossoms!
Chasing more spring blooms? Check out my guide to where to find lupine flowers in the South Bay — another unreal wildflower spot about an hour south of San Francisco. And if you’re making a spring weekend of it, my Downtown Napa staycation guide pairs perfectly with blossom season.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When do almond blossoms bloom in Northern California?
Almond blossoms in Northern California typically bloom from mid-February to mid-March. Late February to early March is the peak window for full bloom in Yolo County.
Where is the best place to see almond blossoms near San Francisco?
The orchards along Highway 113 between Davis and Woodland in Yolo County, about an hour from San Francisco. You’ll see the white-blossomed trees right from the freeway.
Is it free to see the almond blossoms?
Yes. The orchards are visible from public roads with free roadside parking. Just remember the orchards are private farmland, so stay near the road and be respectful.
How long do almond blossoms last?
Peak bloom lasts roughly two to three weeks. By mid-March most blossoms have fallen, though the petal-covered ground makes for beautiful photos too.
Can you walk into the almond orchards for photos?
The orchards are working farmland, not public parks. Stick to the roadside and orchard edges for photos rather than wandering deep into the property.
