Over the past few years, Hawaii’s once humble farmers markets have developed into destinations unto themselves. They are now places to “talk story” with neighbors, to discover an up-and-coming chef, and to purchase unique, artisan-made products.
And of course, the farmers markets still have a bountiful array of locally grown vegetables and exotic tropical fruits like longan, lilikoi and cherimoya.
A few words of advice: Go to a farmers market on an empty stomach. Hawaii’s markets are practically open-air restaurants where you can enjoy a breakfast burrito, a hearty plate lunch or take home a prepared meal for later.
Bring an umbrella, as markets are rain or shine, and a bit of cash. Many vendors take credit cards but not all. So grab a shopping tote and get ready to enjoy the best farmers markets in Hawaii.
Oahu
Established in 2003, the Kapiolani Community College Farmers’ Market is the granddaddy of them all and sparked the trend for these markets. But it’s gotten so popular and large, many locals now avoid it. Instead, try the following.
Kailua Farmers’ Market
When: Thursdays, 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
On the island’s east side, this evening market is a great place to roll into after a day at the beach. There’s a good mix of ingredients — like vinegar made from pineapples or freshly caught fish — as well as yummy food to eat on site. Sliders made from local beef? Yes, please. Kailua also has a farmers market on Sundays.
Honolulu Farmers’ Market
When: Wednesdays, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
This market is in downtown Honolulu at the Neal S. Blaisdell Center and has a ton of free parking. The Pig & Lady, recently named one of the best Vietnamese restaurants in America, got its start serving up delicious dishes like Clay Pot Pork and can still be found at this market.
In addition to the Vietnamese street food, sample sweet potato tarts or gluten-free, vegan brownies made using locally grown breadfruit, called ‘ulu in the Hawaiian language.
Maui
Upcountry Farmers Market
When: Saturdays 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Located on the scenic slopes of Haleakala, the Upcountry Farmers Market boasts amazing people-watching, with an enticing blend of in-the-know tourists and locals in search of fresh veggies, eggs, fish and fruit.
International flavors like Indian samosas, Korean kimchi and spicy Thai dishes are on offer, and the market has a decidedly healthy slant, with vendors selling fresh miso, raw-nut cheeses and organic kombucha.
Kauai
Kauai Community Market
When: Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Held on the campus of Kauai Community College near Lihue, Kauai Community Market sells fresh, seasonal produce with an educational slant — you’ll find agricultural displays, demonstrations and garden tours, all encouraging growing and cooking local ingredients.
Look for coffee grown right there on the north shore of Kauai and beauty products like shampoo crafted using goat’s milk.
Hanalei Farmers’ Market
When: Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. to noon
Verdant, quaint Hanalei, on Kauai’s north shore, is worth a visit for any reason, but the farmers market just provides a great excuse. Enjoy live music, food vendors and a variety of locally made products, like sunrise shell necklaces or noni lotion. Insider’s tip: When lychee are in season (summer months), buy a bag to make your own lychee martinis later that day. Cheers!
Hawaii Island
Hilo Farmers Market
When: Big Market Days are Wednesdays and Saturdays, 6 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Hilo Farmers Market, on Hawaii Island’s east side in downtown Hilo, is open daily with a small number of vendors. But for maximum effect, go on the Big Market Days, when more than 200 vendors are present. Pick up perfect papayas or locally made clothing and jewelry.
Hawaii Island is known for its tropical flowers, and vendors here would be happy to chat with you about orchids or anthurium. Or sip a tonic made with locally grown turmeric while you browse souvenirs such as Hawaiian lauhala bangles, made from woven pandanus leaf.
Waimea Town Market
When: Saturdays, 7:30 a.m. to noon
In north Hawaii Island, Waimea is cowboy country and significantly cooler in temperature. There are actually three markets on Saturdays in this historic town, and the 40 vendors at the Waimea Town Market offer farm-to-fork wares, such as an irresistible honey caramel macadamia nut tart. The tropical jams and local raw honey for sale would make great gifts to stash in your suitcase.
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