Oʻahu Farmers' Markets
The Gathering Place: Over 40 weekly markets from urban Honolulu to the country North Shore
Written by a Local Market Expert
Kalani MillerThe Gathering Place Markets
Oʻahu is called "The Gathering Place," and nowhere is that more true than at its farmers' markets. The scene here is as diverse as the island itself, ranging from the electric, urban energy of Honolulu's biggest foodie events to the laid-back, country vibe of the North Shore.
With over 40 markets happening weekly, it can be overwhelming to know where to go. To help you find the perfect market for your mood and schedule, I've broken them down by their "vibe."
| Market Name | Location | Day(s) | Hours | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KCC Farmers' Market | Diamond Head | Saturday | 7:30 AM - 11:00 AM | Foodie Destination |
| Kakaʻako Farmers' Market | Kakaʻako | Saturday | 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM | Foodie Destination |
| Kailua Town Farmers' Market | Kailua | Sunday | 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM | Foodie Destination |
| Haleʻiwa Farmers' Market | Haleʻiwa | Thursday | 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM | North Shore Gem |
| Pearlridge Farmers' Market | Aiea | Saturday | 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM | Community Hub |
The Foodie Destinations (For a Full Morning Out)
These are the big ones—the markets that are destinations in themselves. They're perfect for a weekend morning when you want to browse, eat, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Kapiʻolani Community College (KCC) Farmers' Market
The Vibe: This is Oʻahu's most famous market, and for good reason. It's a true "carnival of locally-grown goods" that feels like a weekly festival. Located in the parking lot of KCC with a stunning view of Diamond Head, it's a bustling hub for both tourists and locals every Saturday morning.
What to Buy: The variety is staggering. Fill your pantry with local produce, Hawaiian coffee, raw honey, tropical fruit jams, and locally made chocolate. The real draw is the prepared food—people line up for The Pig & The Lady's legendary Phở French Dip sandwich, fresh-grilled Big Island Abalone, and lemonade in a mason jar from Waimanalo Country Farms.
Insider Tips: This market is a major stop for tour buses, so it gets very crowded. Go right when they open at 7:30 AM for the best selection. Parking is free in Lot C, but it fills up fast. While many vendors now take cards, some are still cash-only.
Kakaʻako Farmers' Market
The Vibe: If KCC is the classic, Kakaʻako is its hip, urban cousin. Set against the backdrop of trendy Kakaʻako's street art and new condos, this is Honolulu's largest market with over 140 top-notch vendors.
What to Buy: This market showcases high-quality local producers. Look for the freshest poi on the island, beautiful pastries from Baker Dudes, fresh-bottled milk from MC Milk Market, and hand-crafted gifts and clothing.
Kailua Town Farmers' Market (Sunday)
The Vibe: Over on the beautiful Windward side, this Sunday market is a "beloved Kailua tradition." It has a more relaxed, community-oriented feel than the big Honolulu markets, making it a charming way to spend a Sunday morning before hitting the beach.
What to Buy: This market has a wonderful balance of produce and prepared foods. Look for vendors like Forage Hawaii, which sells sustainable, locally raised meats, alongside stalls overflowing with fresh tropical fruit.
🗺️ Market Types
- Foodie Destinations
- Community Hubs
- Local's Quick Stops (POM)
- North Shore Gems
⭐ Must-Visit Markets
Saturday 7:30 AM - Most famous
Saturday 8:00 AM - Largest
Thursday 2:00 PM - North Shore
💡 Insider Tips
- Arrive early for best selection
- Bring cash in small bills
- Popular items sell out fast
- Free parking varies by location
The Local's Quick Stops (For Groceries & Authenticity)
These markets are less about the "scene" and more about the substance. They are where Oʻahu residents go for affordable, fresh, and often unique produce.
The People's Open Markets (POM) Network
The Vibe: The People's Open Markets are a true local institution and a hidden gem for visitors seeking an authentic experience. Founded in 1973 by the City & County of Honolulu, the POMs are designed to provide affordable, healthy food directly to communities.
Key Rule: You cannot start shopping until you hear the sound of an air horn. Vendors are not allowed to sell or reserve items beforehand. The atmosphere is about getting good food at great prices, often significantly lower than supermarkets.
You'll find ethnic fruits and vegetables here that are rare elsewhere, reflecting the diverse fabric of our neighborhoods. Bring small bills and your own bags. EBT/SNAP is accepted at all locations.
Mānoa Valley District Park POM
When: Monday 6:45 AM - 7:45 AM
Quick morning stop in the heart of Manoa Valley, popular with university students and residents.
Kailua District Park POM
When: Thursday 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Perfect for Windward side residents and beach-goers looking for fresh produce.
Kapolei Community Park POM
When: Sunday 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM
Serves the growing West Oahu community with affordable fresh produce.
23 Total POM Sites
POMs operate across Oahu, bringing affordable fresh food directly to neighborhoods island-wide.
Community & Evening Markets
Honolulu Farmers' Market (Wednesday at Blaisdell Center)
The Vibe: This is the perfect mid-week market for anyone living or working in the urban core. Held on Wednesday evenings at the Neal S. Blaisdell Center, it has more of a "food market" feel.
What to Buy: Excellent place to grab dinner and groceries for the rest of the week. Look for hydroponic produce grown right in Kakaʻako, freshly baked bread, local honey, and delicious poi mochi from Mochi Aulelei.
Pearlridge Farmers' Market (Saturday)
The Vibe: Located in Aiea, this is one of the island's best-kept secrets. It's consistently growing with over 40 vendors but never feels unmanageably crowded. Family-friendly atmosphere with live Hawaiian music and even a beer garden.
What to Buy: Great mix of fruits and vegetables, organic meats, local cheeses from Naked Cow Dairy, and trendy food vendors like Wow Waffles and deep-fried spam musubi topped with fresh poke.