Grown in Mineral-Rich Soil, Harvested at Its Peak.
Sand n’ Straw Community Farm is a family-owned farm located on six acres in the heart of Vista, California. We grow seasonal fruits and vegetables for families throughout North County San Diego who are seeking fresh, naturally grown local produce they can trust. We believe this land is a blessing from God, and we see ourselves as stewards of the soil entrusted to our care. Every planting, harvest, and improvement we make is guided by the desire to honor that responsibility and share health with our community.
Our farming methods are rooted in regenerative agriculture, permaculture design, and organic growing practices. After studying and apprenticing under successful local farms, we committed to building living soil, encouraging biodiversity, and creating a thriving ecosystem where fruit trees, grapevines, vegetables, pollinators, and wildlife all support one another.
Throughout the farm — especially near our seasonal creek — we intentionally preserve wild spaces to protect natural habitats and restore balance to the land. By avoiding synthetic chemicals and heavy mechanization, we focus on practices that nourish the soil, strengthen plants naturally, and produce nutrient-dense food for your table.
about our family
We are the Viles family — the heart behind Sand n’ Straw Community Farm. The name reflects our story: rooted in our Southern California beach beginnings (“Sand”) and our calling into country life and agriculture (“Straw”). What began as a desire to grow healthier food for our own family has grown into a mission to serve the wider Vista community.
Sand n’ Straw Community Farm exists to cultivate healthy soil, curious minds, and strong community through regenerative agriculture, hands-on education, and programs that connect people of all ages to food and the land. We believe God has entrusted this land to our care, and we are committed to stewarding it responsibly while equipping families with practical skills, environmental awareness, and a deep sense of belonging.
Our family includes April and Rich, first-generation farmers who stepped out in faith to pursue a new path, along with their adult sons Jonathan and Stephen. Jonathan and his wife Jenna are raising their two young children, Harper and Daniel, on the farm — often seen running through the farm stand, greeting visitors, and proudly giving their own “tours.” This farm is truly multi-generational, and that legacy matters deeply to us.
Our journey into farming began humbly. When we first planted a garden, we purchased boysenberry, raspberry, and blueberry plants and placed them side by side — only to later discover they each required different growing conditions. We failed in that first attempt, but what mattered most was that we started.
Not long after, Rich’s brother was diagnosed with Stage IV stomach cancer. Walking through that season changed us. We began to question our fast-paced lifestyle and the way we had been fueling our bodies. As a competitive sports family constantly on the go, we ate out frequently and rarely paused to consider the long-term impact of our food choices. That experience ignited a deep desire to understand nutrition, soil health, and the connection between the land and our well-being.
A change had to be made. Rich left his career to attend farm school, and together we enrolled in permaculture design courses. Our home became our first training ground as we experimented, learned, and rebuilt our understanding of food from the soil up. During this time, we traveled to farms across California and Oregon, studying under experienced farmers, asking questions, and observing what worked — and what did not — as we searched for the model of regenerative farming that aligned with our values.
What began as a personal shift has become a lifelong calling: to grow food with integrity, steward the land faithfully, and share health and knowledge with the community we love.
what we offer
As a community farm, our mission goes beyond growing food. We are cultivating connection — between families and farmers, children and the land, and neighbors who value sustainable agriculture and locally grown produce. We are grateful to steward this land and honored to share its abundance with you.
community Farm Stand
Our on-site farm stand features seasonal fruits and vegetables grown exclusively here at Sand n’ Straw Community Farm in Vista, CA. Everything is harvested fresh and offered at peak season for the best flavor and nutrition. In addition to our farm-grown produce, you’ll find fresh sourdough bread and thoughtfully selected goods from other small, local producers in North County San Diego — supporting a stronger, more connected local food community.
CSA farm box Program
Our CSA program offers weekly shares of naturally grown produce, allowing families to enjoy fresh, local food while directly supporting regenerative and organic farming practices. CSA members experience a deeper connection to the farm and the rhythms of the growing season.
Young Pioneers Farm School
Young Pioneers Farm School provides hands-on agricultural education for children, fostering responsibility, confidence, and respect for the land. Through gardening, outdoor learning, and stewardship-based activities, students develop a lasting appreciation for food, nature, and community.
Gardening and Fruit Tree Classes
We offer gardening classes and fruit tree workshops designed for home growers in Vista and surrounding areas. These classes focus on practical, regenerative techniques that promote healthy soil, resilient plants, and long-term success in home gardens and orchards.
Farm Tours
Our guided farm tours invite visitors to experience the farm firsthand. Guests learn about our regenerative growing practices, land stewardship philosophy, and the systems we use to grow food in harmony with nature.
Home Garden and Orchard Consulting
We provide personalized home garden and orchard consulting services to help families grow their own food successfully. Using the same methods we practice on our farm, we assist with garden planning, orchard design, soil health, and long-term maintenance.