Best Farmers Markets on the Big Island of Hawaii: Fresh Finds and Local Favorites

When I travel to the Big Island of Hawaii, I always check out local farmers markets. These markets offer fresh fruits, handmade goods, and a true taste of island life.

I love visiting the best farmers markets on the Big Island to discover local flavors and meet friendly people. Whether I want unique snacks or just want to stroll and look around, these spots are full of simple joys.

Maku’u Farmer’s Market

When I stopped by Maku’u Farmer’s Market, I found all kinds of fresh local fruits and vegetables. The vibe felt welcoming, and people happily shared stories about what they grew or made.

I explored booths with handmade crafts, tasty foods, and unique art. I tried snacks made right there by local vendors and talked with a farmer about growing taro.

This market offers more than shopping. I saw signs for Hawaiian cultural workshops, a big community center, and volunteer opportunities.

Each visit feels different, sometimes with live music or a new event happening. The market brings the neighborhood together and celebrates Hawaiian culture.

Rating: 4.7 (982 reviews)
Location: 15-2131 Keaau-Pahoa Rd, Pāhoa, HI 96778
Contact: (808) 896-5537
Website: Visit Website

Hilo Farmer’s Market

When I visited Hilo Farmer’s Market, I saw so many colorful fruits and vegetables, it was almost hard to choose. Local farmers sold everything from fresh mangoes and papayas to sweet corn and organic spinach.

Some stalls offered unique items like rambutan and white pineapple, which I rarely see anywhere else. The market had a friendly vibe, and both shoppers and vendors seemed happy to be there.

I found beautiful tropical flowers and picked up a few orchids to bring home. Tables displayed handcrafted jewelry, woodworks, and other unique crafts that made nice gifts.

I tasted coconut pastries and Peruvian tamales. The fresh fruit popsicles were perfect for the warm weather.

A few vendors sold local seafood like dried fish and fish sausage, which made my visit even more interesting. The list of vendors and products always changes, so every visit feels new.

It’s easy to spend an hour or two just looking around and talking with the people who grow or make what they’re selling.

Rating: 4.4 (5277 reviews)
Location: Corner of Kamehameha Avenue and, Mamo St, Hilo, HI 96720
Contact: (808) 933-1000
Website: Visit Website

Keauhou Farmer’s Market

I stopped by Keauhou Farmer’s Market on a Saturday morning and heard live music as I arrived. The market sits outdoors at the Keauhou Shopping Center, so it’s easy to find and there’s plenty of parking.

Almost everything here comes from the Big Island. I found fresh fruits and vegetables straight from local farms, Kona coffee, macadamia nuts, honey, and handmade breads and jams.

The variety surprised me. Besides produce, there were flowers and even local meats and eggs.

I enjoyed talking with the farmers and makers. They gladly explained how they grow and make their food.

Events like free lei making make it fun for all ages. Supporting local families and learning about where my food comes from felt good.

Rating: 4.6 (243 reviews)
Location: 78-6831 Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Website: Visit Website

Kamuela Farmers Market

When I walked through the Kamuela Farmers Market on a sunny Saturday morning, I heard live local music and smelled fresh baked goods. The whole place buzzed with vendors offering coffee, handmade soaps, and locally grown fruits and vegetables.

I stopped at a booth full of colorful produce, and the farmer happily talked about growing everything right here on the Big Island. Other stalls sold fresh bread, mochi, jams, and cookies.

HOJAH’S Taiwanese Food drew a lot of attention, and I tried some of their tasty dishes. Mermaid Crystal Creations caught my eye with bright crystals and unique handmade jewelry.

The Paniolo Heritage Museum, just steps away, was open with free admission. I learned a little about Hawaiian cowboy traditions.

Families brought dogs on leashes and relaxed at picnic tables while enjoying the food. Parking was easy, and everyone felt welcome.

Rating: 4.7 (187 reviews)
Location: 67-139 Pukalani Rd, Kamuela, HI 96743
Contact: (808) 746-4736
Website: Visit Website

Hāmākua Harvest Farmers Market

I visited Hāmākua Harvest Farmers Market on a sunny Sunday morning. The fresh air and open space made it easy to walk around and enjoy the stalls.

Many friendly vendors talked about their fruits, vegetables, and homemade snacks. I tried some fresh tropical fruit I hadn’t tasted before, and the flavor surprised me.

There were baked goods, fresh honey, and food trucks selling breakfast and lunch. Live music in the background made everything feel relaxed.

Parking was easy, and there were places to sit and take a break. I saw families, locals, and visitors all enjoying the market together.

Rating: 4.7 (207 reviews)
Location: 44-2600 Mamalahoa Hwy, Kamuela, HI 96743
Website: Visit Website

Pure Kona Green Market

I visited the Pure Kona Green Market on a sunny Sunday morning, and the energy felt bright and welcoming. The market takes place at the Amy B. Greenwell Botanical Gardens, which gives it a relaxed outdoor feel with plenty of green space.

Local farmers and crafters ran many booths. I found fresh fruits, vegetables, homemade bread, and handmade soaps.

The vendors enjoyed talking about their products, and I could tell they cared about their work and the local community. Walking around, I saw people chatting, listening to music, and tasting different foods.

The small size of the market made it easy to explore all the stalls without feeling rushed. This market is only open on Sundays from 9 AM to 2 PM, so I planned my visit to make sure I didn’t miss out.

I appreciated the focus on local and sustainable goods, which made shopping here feel meaningful.

Rating: 4.7 (527 reviews)
Location: Visitor Center, 82-6160 Mamalahoa Hwy, Captain Cook, HI 96704
Website: Visit Website

Waimea Town Market at Parker School

I stopped by Waimea Town Market last Saturday, and right away I saw a lively scene. Local families and visitors enjoyed live music and the relaxed atmosphere.

Over 50 vendors offered farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh flowers, and handmade crafts. I picked up local macadamia nuts and sampled freshly brewed Big Island coffee.

I enjoyed chatting with the farmers and artisans about their work. Shaded picnic tables let me sit and enjoy a tasty breakfast with a beautiful view of Mauna Kea.

Parking was easy, and the area felt welcoming and simple to get around. I found homemade treats and artisan gifts, like soaps and chocolates.

The market had a friendly small-town feel, and I left with a bag full of delicious food and unique gifts.

Rating: 4.7 (292 reviews)
Location: 65-1224 Lindsey Rd, Kamuela, HI 96743
Website: Visit Website)

Waimea Midweek Farmers Market

When I arrived at Waimea Midweek Farmers Market, fresh scents of local produce and bread greeted me.

The historic Pukalani Stables created a special setting for the market.

I enjoyed the open space and fresh air.

It was easy to find a quiet spot to walk around and relax.

Vendors sold fruits, vegetables, eggs, cheese, and meat.

I appreciated the strong focus on locally grown food.

Artisans displayed local foods and handmade art, including hand-printed t-shirts inspired by Hawaii’s culture.

The market welcomed everyone, offering programs for EBT/SNAP and seniors.

Shopping felt easy, and I could even order online for curbside pickup if I wanted to skip the crowd.

The location between Parker Ranch Center and Ace Hardware made it convenient.

Friendly vendors answered my questions and helped me find what I needed.

I tasted fresh Kona coffee and bought a loaf of bread from the bakery.

Rating: 4.7 (346 reviews)
Location: Paniolo Heritage Center at Pukalani Stables, Kamuela, HI 96743
Contact: (808) 987-3513
Website: Visit Website

Big Island Mkt Ho’oulu Community Farmers Market & Artisans Fair

I visited Big Island Mkt Ho’oulu Community Farmers Market & Artisans Fair and enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere.

A beautiful lawn and plenty of shaded spots made it easy to sit and relax while exploring the stalls.

I talked with local farmers and artists, who were very welcoming.

Live music played during my visit.

Families and friends gathered around tables, enjoying food and bands like Bosco the Amazing One-Man-Band, The Uncles, and Kristin Lagasse.

The music added energy to the market, but it never felt too crowded or loud.

The market offered fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious foods.

I bought local artwork and a snack to enjoy with the music.

Locals and visitors mingled, creating a true community event.

Rating: 4.6 (298 reviews)
Location: 78-128 Ehukai St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 443-8281
Website: Visit Website

Kinoole Farmers Market

I arrived at Kinoole Farmers Market early on a Saturday morning and immediately noticed the lively atmosphere.

Vendors filled the market with only locally grown produce and food, so everything looked fresh.

Tables overflowed with fruits, vegetables, flowers, and snacks.

At the “Sweet Paradise” booth, I found homemade granola, shortbreads, and cake pops.

The lilikoi lemonade was cold and perfectly balanced between sweet and tart.

At Cyrus’s farm stand, I bought crunchy Korean cucumbers and sweet potatoes.

Specialty items included Chi Gong demonstrations at 9 AM.

I could enter a drawing for local products by signing up at the info tent.

Vendors gladly answered questions about their farms.

I spotted unique plants and flowers like Red Leilani Anthuriums and Dwarf Tomato starts.

I tried the new vendor’s fresh pineapple and considered the Big Island taro chips.

The variety at this market helped me discover something new every visit.

Rating: 4.4 (56 reviews)
Location: 1990 Kinoole St, Hilo, HI 96720
Website: Visit Website

What Makes Big Island Farmers Markets Unique?

When I visit Big Island’s farmers markets, I always notice the freshness of the produce and the strong sense of community.

Vendors offer foods and crafts that you can’t find in big stores.

Locally Grown Produce and Tropical Fruits

I like to buy fruits such as mangoes, papayas, pineapple, and lychee from Big Island stands.

Farmers grow these fruits nearby, so they taste sweet and fresh.

Many stands carry types of bananas and avocados that you won’t see on the mainland.

Markets also have fresh greens, root vegetables, and locally grown coffee.

Farmers pick these items right before market day to keep them fresh.

I often sample foods before buying, which helps me find new favorites.

Some farmers explain how they grow their food, using organic or hydroponic methods.

Big Island markets focus on quality and feature foods from family-run farms.

You can also find Hawaii-made products, honey, and jams.

Here’s what I often see on the tables:

Cultural Experiences and Community Spirit

Visiting a Big Island market feels like an event, not just a shopping trip.

People play live Hawaiian music, and food demos show how to prepare local dishes.

Sometimes, dancers perform hula under shady trees, especially at the Hawi Farmers’ Market.

Vendors sell more than produce.

Many offer handmade crafts, art, and jewelry made from island materials.

I often find woven baskets, wood carvings, and flower leis.

The markets bring together families and friends, making it easy to meet locals and learn about Hawaiian traditions.

Kids often help their parents at the stalls.

Small workshops teach visitors about farming or sustainability.

People make real connections and enjoy celebrating the food and culture of the island.

If you want to feel the true spirit of Hawaii, the Big Island’s farmers markets are a great place to start.

Tips for Enjoying Your Visit to Big Island Markets

I get the most out of each farmers market trip by planning ahead.

Knowing how my visit helps local families and businesses makes the experience more meaningful.

A little preparation makes exploring the Big Island’s markets more fun.

Best Times to Visit

I always try to arrive early for the best selection of fruits, vegetables, and flowers.

Most markets like the Hilo Farmers Market are open every day, but the largest crowds show up mid-morning.

Vendors bring their freshest goods first thing, so shopping early gives me more choices and fewer people.

If I want special deals or leftovers, I visit near closing.

Sometimes farmers offer discounts so they don’t have to take unsold produce home.

Some items might sell out, especially favorites like local papayas, honey, and specialty breads.

I always bring small bills because many stalls only accept cash.

Weekdays can be quieter and more relaxed if I want to take my time browsing.

Supporting Local Vendors

I know that buying from local stands helps farmers, artists, and small business owners feed their families. It also keeps traditions alive.

At many markets, I see not only produce but handmade crafts, baked goods, and fresh flowers. Local people grow or make all these items right on the island.

When I talk to the vendors, I get a chance to learn how they make their products. Sometimes, they even share tips for cooking or storing what I buy.

I bring my own reusable bags to cut down on waste. This also makes it easier to carry what I find.

I avoid haggling because fair prices help these vendors stay in business. If I like something, I tell others or share their information online to help them grow.

A friendly attitude and appreciation help build a welcoming atmosphere for everyone.