Kona Coast Farmers Markets: Sun, Coffee, and Aloha

The sunny Kona side is famous for its world-class coffee and beautiful beaches, and its markets reflect this bright, welcoming energy.

Kailua Village Farmers Market (Kona Farmers Market)

📅 When & Where:

Wednesday - Sunday, 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Corner of Aliʻi Drive & Hualalai Road, Kailua-Kona

The Vibe: This is the most visible and accessible market in Kona, located right on the main drag across from the ocean. It's lively and bustling, with a strong focus on tourists. The atmosphere is a mix of fresh produce stands and a large number of vendors selling crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs. While some reviews note it can feel small with about a dozen regular vendors, its convenience is undeniable.

Best For: This is your one-stop shop for souvenir hunting. You can find everything from aloha shirts and carved tiki statues to shell necklaces and other trinkets. It's also a great spot to grab a fresh pineapple or papaya to snack on while enjoying the ocean view.

My Insider Tip: This is the perfect place to pick up gifts for everyone back home. My advice is to engage with the vendors and don't hesitate to ask for a sample of fruit before you buy. I have one secret to share: find the candy vendor tucked away at the back—their macadamia nut brittle is addictive and they often give free cookies with a purchase! Be aware that the parking lot, which used to be free, is now a paid lot, so plan accordingly.

Keauhou Farmers Market

📅 When & Where:

Saturday, 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Keauhou Shopping Center

The Vibe: This market feels like a genuine community gathering. You'll hear live Hawaiian music drifting through the air as local chefs and residents who truly care about their food shop alongside you. The motto here is "Know your Farmer. Know Your Food," and that authentic, trustworthy spirit is palpable.

Best For: This is the gold standard for 100% Big Island-grown and produced goods on the Kona side. It's the best place to buy Kona coffee directly from the farmers who grew it, along with local meats, fresh eggs, dragon fruit, organic greens, artisan breads, and local honey.

My Insider Tip: This is my go-to for quality and authenticity in West Hawaiʻi. Because it's managed by the Kona County Farm Bureau, you can shop with complete confidence that you are supporting local agriculture. You must get there early. The most sought-after items, especially the organic produce and specialty fruits, sell out quickly. It's an experience that truly lives up to its promise.

Hoʻoulu Community Farmers Market

📅 When & Where:

Wednesday & Friday, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

On the lawn at the Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa in Keauhou

The Vibe: This market is an experience in serenity and beauty. Set on the manicured front lawn of a lovely resort, it has an upscale, relaxed, and scenic feel. The focus here is less on bulk produce and more on high-quality, locally made arts, crafts, and value-added products like jams and estate coffees. Live music, often from talented local musicians like "The Uncles" or "Bosco the Amazing One-Man-Band," adds to the peaceful mood.

Best For: Finding truly unique, high-end gifts that are 100% made on the Big Island. It's perfect for discovering a special piece of jewelry, a fine art print, or gourmet food products in a calm, uncrowded setting.

My Insider Tip: I absolutely love the cultural tradition here. They open and close each market with the sounding of the Pū, the conch shell, which invokes a sense of goodness and respect. It sets such a beautiful tone for the whole experience. This is where I go when I'm looking for a truly special, thoughtfully made gift.

Pure Kona Green Market

📅 When & Where:

Sunday, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Amy B.H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden, Captain Cook

The Vibe: This market is deeply rooted in sustainability and community, with an earthy, laid-back atmosphere. The setting within a botanical garden makes it incredibly special and peaceful. It feels less like a commercial venture and more like a gathering of people who share a love for the land.

Best For: Shopping for sustainably and ethically produced food and crafts. It's a wonderful place to enjoy a meal, listen to live music, and support vendors who are committed to natural practices.

My Insider Tip: The location is a huge part of the appeal. It's a market that encourages you to slow down. I recommend planning to stay for a while. Grab some food, find a spot to listen to the music, and then take a walk through the beautiful gardens. It's a market experience that truly connects you to the ʻāina.