Coastways Ranch

Coastways Ranch goes down in my childhood memories as one of the most hysterical, gluttonous and delicious places of my lifetime. What hungry kid doesn't dream of eat as much of their favorite food as possible and not being scolded for it, but encouraged? Every summer, between late May and early to mid July, a unique and rather tart berry matures of the brambly vines of the coastal highway. Make it into a Ollalieberry pie, a local Santa Cruz favorite, or eating as you're picking it off the vine (or shoving it in your little ister's face!), the berry is different than any other berry. Longer than a blackberry, and characteristically more tart, the Ollalieberry does best when served simply, over vanilla ice cream or eaten alone when ripe. Don't pick this berry too early, or you will be met with a tartness that dries out your mouth. When picked in season, this dark fruit is just plain yummy. Simple as that.



Do yourself a favor and head out to pick Ollalieberries at Coastways. I didn't even talk about the Ranch's experience. That is a whole other chapter. Coming soon to a review near you!