What better way to get to know a destination other than sampling local foods and talking to local vendors. Luckily, Farmer’s markets are plentiful around Oahu, and with many different locations and times, you’ll have plenty of time to stop by one of these worth while excursions during your island vacation. Here are some of our favorites.
But wait, there’s more. We’re here to help demystify some of the unusual words you might see on menus like furikake, laulau and lilikoi — and explain which meat is being served and why. And possibly most importantly of all, provide the fun facts on the origins of local dishes.
Feature image: Hawaii Farm Bureau
Honolulu
KCC Farmer’s Market
4303 Diamond Head Rd, Honolulu
Saturday’s 7:30am to 11am
Kapiolani Community College Farmers’ Market one of the most popular weekly gatherings on the island. Getting into the market is free, but bring lots of cash, it’s still easier than credit cards. Start off your morning with Koko Crater Coffee Roasters to energize your walk around the almost 70 different local vendors.
Kaka’ako Farmers’ Market
919 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu
Saturday’s 7:30am to 11am
The journey to the Kaka’ako Farmers’ Market is well worth an early Saturday morning adventure. Taking up two full lots ( you’ll have to cross the street ) there is an abundance of local vendors with some favorites from hand pulled noodles, musubis, acai bowls, treats, Kava, and much more.
Honolulu Farmers’ Market
777 Ward Ave, Honolulu
Wednesday’s 4pm to 7pm
This evening market is a great stop for sunset take out. Stop by the centrally located Honolulu Farmers’ market to sample some local goodies and explore hand crafted gifts. Parking is free at the nearby Blaisdell Center.
Pearlridge Farmers’ Market
98-1005 Moanalua Rd, Honolulu
Saturday’s 8am to 12pm
Near the West side of Oahu, the Pearlridge farmer’s market is a must Saturday morning stop if you’re close by. With plenty of marking and a very easy to maneuver lay out, you’ll get a tour of some of the islands best local goods.
Mililani – Central Oahu
Mililani Farmer’s Market
95-1200 Meheula Pkwy, Miliani
Sunday’s 8am to 11am
Conveniently located on the way from the North Shore to town or visa versa, stop by the Mililani Farmers’ Market on a Sunday morning to grab some local treats and artisan goods.
North Shore
Haleiwa Farmers’ Market
59-864 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa
Sunday’s 8am to 11am
Located in Waimea Valley, the Haleiwa Farmers’ Market is a perfect stop before taking an exciting adventure through Waimea Valley or hitting the beach.
Windward Side
Kailua Farmers’ Market (Kailua Road)
609 Kailua Rd, Miliani
Thursday’s 4pm to 7pm
Enjoy this evening market on Oahu’s windward side. The Kailua Farmers’ Market on Kailua Road offers has the an array of local vendors, growers, and artisans to check out.
Kailua Farmers’ Market (Ulukahiki Street)
640 Ulukahiki St, Kailua
Sunday’s 8am to 12pm
Perfect for a lazy Sunday morning, the Kailua Farmers’ Market on Ulukahiki street offers local favorites from prepared food, produce, artisan goods and more.