Big Island Farmers' Markets
Island Diversity: From wet tropical Hilo to sunny Kona and cool Waimea highlands
Written by a Local Market Expert
Kalani MillerThe Big Island's Diversity
The Big Island is, well, big. Its sheer size and incredible range of microclimates—from the wet, tropical Hilo side to the dry, sunny Kona coast and the cool, misty highlands of Waimea—create the most diverse market scene in all of Hawaiʻi.
A market in one region can feel like it's on a different island from another, each reflecting the unique character of its ʻāina and people.
| Market Name | Location | Day(s) | Hours | Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hilo Farmers Market | Hilo (East) | Daily (Big: Wed/Sat) | 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM | Massive & Diverse |
| Makuʻu Farmers Market | Puna (East) | Sunday | 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM | Cultural Event |
| Waimea Town Market | Waimea (Upcountry) | Saturday | 7:30 AM - 12:00 PM | Paniolo Country |
| Keauhou Farmers Market | Keauhou (Kona) | Saturday | 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM | Local Produce Only |
East Side Wonders (Hilo & Puna)
The lush, rain-fed East side of the island is an agricultural powerhouse, and its markets are legendary.
Hilo Farmers Market
The Vibe: This is the undisputed "granddaddy" of Big Island markets. Located in the heart of historic downtown Hilo, it is a massive, vibrant, and sprawling spectacle. On its "big market days" (Wednesday and Saturday), over 200 vendors set up, creating an experience that is a must-see for any visitor to the island.
What to Buy: Literally everything. This is where you'll find the most incredible variety of exotic tropical fruits, many of which you've never seen before. A staggering 95% of all Hawaiian papayas are grown on this side of the island. The market is also famous for its huge selection of flowers, especially orchids and anthuriums, fresh-caught seafood like ahi and ʻopihi, and an amazing array of specialty food items.
Insider Tips: While the market is open seven days a week, the big, can't-miss days are Wednesday and Saturday. It was one of the first markets in the country to accept EBT cards electronically. There is an indoor food court with free Wi-Fi, outdoor picnic tables, and a music corral for live entertainment.
Makuʻu Farmers Market (Puna)
The Vibe: If Hilo is the classic market, Makuʻu is the giant Sunday party. Spread across 5 acres in the Puna district, this market is a massive cultural event with over 150 vendors, fantastic live music, and a friendly, eclectic, and diverse community feel.
What to Buy: Makuʻu is a one-stop shop for a "fruit tour" of the Big Island's most unique produce, including rare varieties like "white" pineapples and "ice cream" bananas. The hot food section is a global culinary adventure, with everything from Mexican burritos to French crepes and Thai curries.
Insider Tips: The market is only open on Sundays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. It's located right off Highway 130 between Keaʻau and Pāhoa. The entire market area is paved with gravel, so wear sturdy, comfortable shoes. Many people make it their first stop before exploring the Puna coast or Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.
🌤️ Big Island Zones
- East Side: Wet & Tropical
- West Side: Dry & Sunny
- Upcountry: Cool & Misty
- Volcanic: Unique Soil
📅 Prime Market Days
Most markets open
Makuʻu & Pure Kona
Big Hilo market day
West Side & Upcountry Hubs (Kona & Waimea)
The sunny Kona coast and the cool, green highlands of Waimea offer markets with a completely different character, focused on coffee, ranching, and artisanal goods.
Waimea Town Market (at Parker School)
The Vibe: Set in the heart of paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) country, this Saturday morning market has a special charm. Held on the beautiful campus of Parker School, it features stunning views of Mauna Kea, live music, and a friendly, dog-friendly atmosphere where the community comes together.
What to Buy: This market prides itself on offering products that are, with very few exceptions, grown or made on the Big Island. You'll find high-quality produce from the fertile Waimea soil, delicious prepared foods for breakfast or lunch, and a wonderful selection of unique artisan wares.
Insider Tips: Yes, you can bring your friendly, leashed dog! Parking is available on the school grounds and nearby streets. While some vendors accept credit cards, it's best to bring cash. EBT is not currently accepted.
Keauhou Farmers Market
The Vibe: For the purist. This market, held on Saturdays at the Keauhou Shopping Center, has a strict policy: only Hawaiʻi Island agricultural products are sold here. There are no crafts or resellers, just a direct connection to the farmers of Kona.
What to Buy: This is one of the best places to buy authentic, 100% Kona coffee directly from the growers. You'll also find an abundance of macadamia nuts, local honey, organic greens, fresh eggs, and delicious baked goods made with island ingredients.
Insider Tips: Because of its strict focus, this market is a fantastic place to "talk story" with the farmers and learn about what it takes to grow food in Kona's volcanic soil.
Pure Kona Green Market
The Vibe: This market offers one of the most beautiful settings on the island. Held on Sundays in the lush Amy B. H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden in Captain Cook, it's a wonderful blend of a farmers' and artists' market.
What to Buy: A great mix of fresh produce, 100% Kona coffee, and a wide array of art and handcrafted items from South Kona artists. It's an excellent spot to grab some delicious hot food, find a shady spot in the garden, and enjoy the live music.
Big Island Diversity: The Big Island's markets showcase the incredible diversity of Hawaii's largest island. From the tropical abundance of Hilo to the coffee farms of Kona and the paniolo culture of Waimea, each market tells a unique story of the land and its people. This diversity makes the Big Island a true agricultural treasure trove.