Kauaʻi Farmers' Markets
The Garden Isle's Bounty: From Hanalei's scenic markets to Sunshine Markets
Written by a Local Market Expert
Kalani MillerThe Garden Isle's Bounty
They call Kauaʻi the "Garden Isle" for a reason, and its farmers' markets are the most direct way to experience that incredible, verdant abundance. From the taro fields of Hanalei on the lush North Shore to the sunny South Shore's culinary hotspots, Kauaʻi's markets are a direct line to the ʻāina.
It's important to know that not all markets are created equal; some are vibrant hubs with crafts and music, while others are strictly for produce.
| Market Name | Location | Day(s) | Hours | Offerings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hanalei Farmers' Market | Hanalei (North) | Saturday | 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM | Produce & Crafts |
| Waipa Farmers Market | Hanalei (North) | Tuesday | 3:00 PM - Dusk | Produce & Local Goods |
| Kauaʻi Community Market | Līhuʻe (Central) | Saturday | 9:30 AM - 1:00 PM | Foodie Hub |
| Kauaʻi Culinary Market | Kōloa/Poʻipū (South) | Wednesday | 3:30 PM - 6:00 PM | Gourmet Foods |
| Kapaʻa Sunshine Market | Kapaʻa (East) | Wednesday | 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM | Produce Only |
The North Shore Stars
The North Shore of Kauaʻi is legendary for its beauty, and its markets are no exception. Set against dramatic green mountains, these are some of the most scenic places to shop in all of Hawaiʻi.
Hanalei Farmers' Market (Saturday)
The Vibe: This is arguably Kauaʻi's most popular and picturesque market. Held every Saturday morning on a huge grassy lawn at the Hale Halawai ʻOhana O Hanalei, the market is surrounded by the majestic, waterfall-streaked mountains of Hanalei. With over 50 stalls and live Hawaiian music, it's a vibrant, must-do community event.
What to Buy: The market is thoughtfully divided into two sections: about 25 farmers on one side, many using organic methods, and food artisans and craftspeople on the other. You can find an incredible array of tropical fruit, especially in the summer, as well as unique prepared foods like starfruit hot sauce, sourdough bread, and even cheesecake sold in a canning jar.
Insider Tips: This market is very popular, so get there early for the best selection of produce and to find a parking spot. One of the best features is the lovely picnic area behind the market, where you can enjoy your market finds with what might be the best picnic view of your life.
Waipa Farmers Market (Tuesday)
The Vibe: Just down the road from Hanalei, the Waipa Foundation hosts this beautiful Tuesday afternoon market. It's nestled in a lush, historic ahupuaʻa (a traditional land division stretching from the mountains to the sea), giving it a deeply authentic and serene feel.
What to Buy: This market offers a fantastic selection of locally made goods, including gourmet goat and feta cheese, chocolate-covered frozen bananas, organic produce, and handmade crafts and clothing.
Insider Tips: The Waipa Foundation is a non-profit cultural organization, so shopping here directly supports their mission to preserve Hawaiian culture and manage the local resources.
🌺 North Shore Magic
- Scenic mountain backdrops
- Live Hawaiian music
- Organic farming focus
- Cultural authenticity
📅 Weekly Schedule
Waipa Market 3 PM
Kapaʻa & Culinary Markets
Hanalei & Community Markets
The Community & Culinary Hubs
These larger markets are central gathering places, offering a wide variety of both fresh produce and delicious prepared foods.
Kauaʻi Community Market (at KCC, Saturday)
The Vibe: This is the big one for central Kauaʻi. Held on the Kauaʻi Community College campus in Līhuʻe, this large, well-organized market features over 100 vendors. It's a true gathering place, with a mission to support local agriculture through educational food demos and even tours of the KCC organic garden.
What to Buy: You can find almost anything here. There's a huge variety of locally grown produce, some of it grown by the college's own sustainable farming students. There are also fantastic value-added products like local coffee, honey, and goat cheese, plus a wide selection of hot foods for breakfast and lunch.
Insider Tips: The collaboration with the Kauaʻi County Farm Bureau ensures a high standard of "Kauaʻi Grown" products, connecting you with farmers from all over the island, from Hanalei to Kekaha.
Kauaʻi Culinary Market (at The Shops at Kukuiʻula, Wednesday)
The Vibe: This is Kauaʻi's most upscale market experience. Held in the beautiful, open-air Shops at Kukuiʻula on the sunny South Shore, vendors are spread out along the mall's manicured paths. It feels more like a chic, gourmet street fair than a rustic market.
What to Buy: The focus here is on gourmet and artisanal products. This is the place to find local honey, specialty coffee, gourmet salt blends, fresh kim chee, tropical pies, jams, and beautiful tropical flowers.
Insider Tips: This is a great place to enjoy a mid-week pau hana (after work) drink and pupus (appetizers) from the surrounding restaurants while you browse the market stalls.
The "Sunshine Markets" (Produce-Focused)
Important Distinction: It's crucial to understand Kauaʻi's "Sunshine Markets." A visitor expecting a craft fair or hot lunch at one of these will be disappointed, but if you know what they are, they're fantastic.
These County-run markets are all about one thing: fresh, affordable, locally grown produce. They have a unique local custom where a whistle or horn blows to signal the start of the market, and things can sell out quickly!
Kapaʻa Sunshine Market
When: Wednesday 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Fresh produce only, great local prices
Kōloa Sunshine Market
When: Monday 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
South Shore produce market
Hanapepe Sunshine Market
When: Thursday (times vary)
West side local produce
Garden Isle Experience: Kauaʻi's markets reflect the island's incredible natural abundance and strong community spirit. Whether you're shopping at a scenic North Shore market surrounded by dramatic mountains or browsing gourmet goods on the sunny South Shore, you're connecting directly with the island's agricultural heritage and supporting local families.