What Are the Best Farmers Markets on Hawaii’s Big Island?

For a classic Big Island farmers market experience, a visit to the Hilo Farmers Market is a must. It’s one of the most well known markets in the entire state. Located in the heart of Hilo town, this market has over 200 vendors on its busiest days.

Hilo Farmers Market Days and Hours

Want to visit? You can find the Hilo Farmers Market open daily from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, making it easy to work a visit into your travel plans. But if you’re really looking to experience the market at its most vibrant, plan to visit on either Wednesday or Saturday. That’s when the full array of vendors come out.

What to Expect at the Hilo Farmers Market

Whether you’re in search of exotic fruits, fresh vegetables, delicious baked goods, beautiful flowers, one-of-a-kind crafts, or even just a taste of the local culture, you’ll find something to tempt you at the Hilo Farmers Market. Keep an eye out for island favorites like apple bananas, rambutan, mangosteen, dragon fruit, and passion fruit.

This market also has live music, making it an ideal place to relax and soak up the ambiance. Immerse yourself in the unique island culture as you enjoy the rhythms and melodies of Hawaiian music.

Located on the west side of the Big Island in the heart of Kailua-Kona, The Kona Farmers Market is another favorite for both visitors and residents. You’ll find this bustling market packed with vendors offering a little something for everyone.

What to Expect at the Kona Farmers Market

In the mood for some local treats? Sample Kona coffee, fresh honey, and beautiful, colorful tropical flowers. In addition to local produce, you’ll find vendors offering handcrafted jewelry, art, clothing, and more.

So whether you’re on the hunt for a special souvenir or just browsing for a sweet treat, you’ll want to check this spot out. This market is a feast for the senses, showcasing the best of the Big Island’s agricultural offerings.

Looking for something a bit smaller and less crowded, but with a similarly eclectic variety of vendors? The Keauhou Farmers Market is smaller, making for a more intimate experience than Hilo’s.

But while the atmosphere might be more low-key, they’re certainly not short on charm or tempting treats.

When and Where to Visit

If you’d like to visit, it’s open every Saturday between 8 AM and noon at the Keauhou Shopping Center. Located at 78-6831 Alii Drive in Kailua-Kona, it’s easy to get to from many areas of the Island.

Held every Wednesday, The Waimea Midweek Farmers’ Market is nestled on the grounds of the historic Parker Ranch. In addition to amazing shopping, it offers spectacular views.

What Can I Buy at Waimea Midweek Farmers’ Market

You’ll find a robust selection of locally grown produce, including fruits, vegetables, honey, coffee, and plants. You’ll even find prepared foods like jams and baked goods.

This market offers a unique opportunity to connect with the land and its farmers. Learn about the history of Parker Ranch while browsing the stalls for the freshest island produce.

Ever been to a farmers market inside a traditional Hawaiian Awa Bar? Probably not, unless you’re already very familiar with Hawaiian culture. In Pahoa, however, this isn’t a surprising occurrence.

You see, it’s the home of Uncle Roberts Awa Club and Farmers Market. This ain’t your typical shopping experience. We’re talkin’ fresh produce alongside handcrafted jewelry and the chance to enjoy a taste of ‘Awa, a traditional Polynesian drink.

What Makes it So Cool?

Two words – Unique Offerings. Where else can you explore local arts, crafts, and fresh, local goods alongside one of the island’s oldest and most important traditions?

Uncle Roberts Market Days and Hours

Ready to experience one of the best farmers’ markets on the Big Island firsthand? Well, here’s the thing; it depends on what interests you most.

• Want the “Uncle Robert’s Farmers Market” experience? You better be up early because this shindig runs from 8:00 AM to noon every Saturday, and folks line up for their share of island goodies.
• More of a night owl? Not a morning person? You’re in luck. Uncle Roberts has you covered. Every Wednesday, from 5 PM to 9 PM, the Wednesday Night Market comes alive, featuring the freshest produce, handmade gifts, and island crafts alongside that famous ‘Awa.
• If ‘Awa itself is your thing (no judgment, it’s pretty magical stuff.), then keep those Wednesday evenings wide open. This unique bar and shopping experience runs strong from 10:00 AM till closing.

Once you’ve stocked up on goodies, think about diving deeper into the island’s agricultural wonders. A perfect place to do just that is the Hamakua Harvest farmers’ market. Here you can grab tasty, locally-sourced lunch fixin’s and chat with the passionate folks behind the farm-to-table goodness.

Did you know you can even pre order online and then swing by to grab your stuff, hassle-free, at the designated pickup spot, Puna Hongwanji Mission, nestled in Keaau?

Or maybe you want the real deal – fresh from the source? The Big Island has that too. Consider a trip to a local farm like Kekela Farms. This working farm is an education. It’s where you can see exactly where your food comes from and the love and care that goes into every delicious fruit, veggie, or herb.

Before heading out, here are a few simple things to keep in mind that can make your farmer’s market experience even better.

1. Go Early: Farmers’ markets, like most good things in life, tend to draw early birds. Plus, the selection of fresh goodies and handcrafted treasures is always better early on, before things start selling out.
2. Cash is King: While some vendors, especially at larger markets might accept cards, not all do, so be sure to bring along some green to snag those one-of-a-kind deals.
3. Don’t be shy – ask questions: Farmers love talking about their goods, their farming methods, and anything else related to the products they produce. They often have great recipe suggestions as well.
4. Respect the land, the vendors, and the products: Don’t touch or handle anything unless you plan to purchase it.
5. Bring your appetite: The Big Island farmers markets have amazing “grab and go” eats. From savory dishes to refreshingly tropical smoothies, they are the perfect snack or lunch.