San Benito
Santa Clara
From the Gabilan Mountains to the west to the Diablo range in the east, San Benito County includes an amazing supply of California’s geography. Sandwiched between the layer of fog found along the coast and San Joaquin Valley’s considerable heat, the county has a pleasant and moderate climate that boasts 333 sunny days annually! This unique weather, along with the fertile soil and adequate water supply, provides a perfect setting for San Benito County’s largest industry: agriculture. The great majority of farms and ranches in the county are family-operated; 80% of farmers reside on their farms. Leaf lettuce, tomatoes, spinach and bell peppers, garlic, onions, broccoli, celery and cauliflower thrive especially well in this region. Also look for local grass-fed beef, olive oil, and renowned, delicious dried apricots.
Santa Clara County is bordered to the west by the Santa Cruz Mountains and to the east by the Diablo Mountain Range. The county’s plain extends from the base of the San Francisco estuary to the Salinas Valley, and has defined the region’s agriculture, allowing for the development of larger farms. More Santa Clara farmers sell through wholesale channels than in other regions, although the curious traveler can find U-Picks and farm stands featuring local produce. In the heart of Silicon Valley, urban San Jose was once blanketed in fruit orchards and serves as the largest canning and dried-fruit packing center in the world. Santa Clara County remains one of the Bay Area’s largest, most productive agricultural regions, with a remarkable array of fruit, vegetable, nut, and mushroom crops.
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