Food, Coffee & Drink

A Visitor’s Guide to the Hilo Farmers Market on Hawaiʻi Island

The Hilo Farmers Market is a riot of color, sound, and flavor, and a must-do on the east side of Hawaiʻi Island. Here’s our complete guide to making the most of your visit.

June 4, 2026 • 9 min read • by Big Island Tours Editorial

A visit to Hilo isn't complete without a stop at the Hilo Farmers Market. This bustling open-air market, located at the corner of Mamo Street and Kamehameha Avenue, is the vibrant heart of downtown Hilo and a true sensory experience. More than just a place to buy produce, it’s a cultural gathering spot where you'll find an astonishing variety of tropical fruits, fragrant flowers, local crafts, and ono (delicious) prepared foods, all reflecting the rich agricultural and cultural tapestry of Hawaiʻi Island's east side.

Whether you're a first-time visitor curious about exotic produce or a seasoned traveler looking for authentic local flavor, this guide will help you navigate the market like a pro. We'll cover the best days to visit, what to look for, and practical tips to ensure you have a memorable experience.

When to Go: Big Market Days vs. Everyday

The Hilo Farmers Market is open seven days a week, but not all days are created equal. The energy and selection peak on Wednesdays and Saturdays, which are the main “Big Market” days. On these two days, the number of vendors swells from a few dozen to over 200, filling the covered market and spilling into the surrounding area with tents full of crafts, clothing, and art.

Wednesdays & Saturdays (6:00 AM – 4:00 PM): These are the days to go for the full experience. You'll find the widest selection of produce, the most prepared food options, and the largest number of craft vendors. The market is busiest from about 9:00 AM to noon. Arrive early for the best selection and to beat the biggest crowds.
Other Days (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Sunday, 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM): The market is still open but is a much quieter, smaller affair. A core group of about 30-50 vendors, primarily selling produce, is usually present. If you just need to grab a few papayas or some bananas and prefer a calmer atmosphere, these days are perfect.

These hours are the long-standing tradition, but it's always wise to check the official Hilo Farmers Market website for any special holiday hours or changes.

Navigating the Market Layout

The market can feel a bit sprawling, especially on a big day. It's helpful to think of it in two main zones:

The Covered Market (Main Building): This is the permanent structure at the corner. It's the epicenter of the market's produce section. Here you'll find rows and rows of farmers selling everything from common bananas and avocados to exotic rambutans and soursop. The stalls are tightly packed, so take your time weaving through the aisles.
The Craft & Food Tents: Surrounding the main building, especially along Mamo Street and in the adjacent lot, you'll find a sea of tents. This is where you'll discover a wide variety of non-produce items. This area is dominated by local artists, craftspeople, and food vendors selling plate lunches, baked goods, and other ready-to-eat treats.

What to Buy: A Taste of Hilo

The sheer variety can be overwhelming. Here’s a breakdown of what to look for in different categories. Don't be afraid to ask vendors for a sample or advice on how to prepare something unfamiliar!

Fresh Produce

This is the star of the show. Much of the produce is grown on the Hāmākua Coast or in Puna, regions known for their fertile volcanic soil. While selection is seasonal, you're almost always guaranteed to find something new and exciting.

Tropical Fruits: Look for apple bananas (smaller, sweeter, and tangier than standard bananas), sunrise-colored papayas, sweet white pineapple, and passionfruit (lilikoi). Depending on the season, you might find rambutan, longan, lychee, mangosteen, or soursop (cherimoya).
Staples: You'll see ʻulu (breadfruit), kalo (taro) in its raw form, sweet potatoes, avocados of all shapes and sizes, and various greens.
Flowers: The floral displays are breathtaking. Buy an armful of ginger, heliconia, or anthuriums, or pick up a stunning, ready-made protea or orchid arrangement for a fraction of what you'd pay elsewhere.

Prepared Foods & Snacks

Come hungry! The market is a fantastic, affordable lunch spot.

Plate Lunches: Several vendors sell classic Hawaiian plate lunches, often with kalua pork, laulau, or teriyaki chicken, served with two scoops of rice and macaroni salad.
Baked Goods: Look for vendors selling freshly baked mochi in various flavors, butter mochi, and other local treats.
Drinks: Quench your thirst with fresh-pressed sugarcane juice (often mixed with ginger or lilikoi) or a young coconut hacked open on the spot.

Local Crafts & Souvenirs

On Wednesdays and Saturdays, the craft section offers a chance to find unique, locally made gifts and souvenirs that are far more meaningful than anything from a gift shop.

Woodwork: Look for beautiful bowls, utensils, and art made from local woods like koa and mango.
Jewelry & Art: You'll find everything from shell and seed necklaces to fine jewelry and original paintings by local artists.
Textiles: Hand-dyed pareau (sarongs), printed t-shirts with unique local designs, and woven lauhala items are common.

Be a discerning shopper. While most vendors are genuine local artisans, you may also find some imported goods mixed in. Look for vendors who are actively creating their craft at their booth or are happy to talk about their process.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

A little planning goes a long way in making your market trip smooth and enjoyable.

Bring Cash: While more vendors are starting to accept credit cards (especially for higher-priced crafts), cash is still king, particularly with the farmers. Small bills are greatly appreciated. There are ATMs nearby, but they often have lines.
Parking: This is the biggest challenge. Street parking is free but limited and fills up fast. Arrive before 9 AM for your best chance. Several paid parking lots are available right behind the market and across the street; paying a few dollars is often worth the convenience and peace of mind.
Arrive Early, or Late: For the best selection of produce and flowers, and to avoid the thickest crowds, get there between 7:00 and 9:00 AM. For potential end-of-day bargains on produce, try arriving in the last hour before closing (around 2:00-3:00 PM), but be aware that many vendors may already be packed up.
Bring Your Own Bag: Do as the locals do and bring your own reusable shopping bags to carry your haul.
Pace Yourself: Take a lap first to survey the scene before you start buying. The market is a place to stroll and savor, not to rush.

Beyond the Market: Exploring Downtown Hilo

Don't let your Hilo adventure end at the market. After you've had your fill of fruit and food, take some time to explore the rest of historic downtown Hilo. The bayfront, with its lovely parks and view of Hilo Bay, is just across the street. The surrounding blocks are filled with charming, century-old buildings housing unique boutiques, art galleries, and bookstores. It's the perfect way to round out a morning spent experiencing the best of local Hilo culture. And for more ideas on what to do across the island, be sure to check out the travel guides at https://highendhawaii.com.

Related Articles:

A Food Lover’s Guide to the Big Island: /blog/big-island-food-guide
Exploring Historic Hilo Town: /blog/things-to-do-in-hilo
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park: A Complete Guide: /blog/hawaii-volcanoes-national-park-guide

Frequently asked questions

When are the best days to visit the Hilo Farmers Market?

The best days are Wednesdays and Saturdays. On these 'big market' days, over 200 vendors are present, offering the widest selection of produce, prepared foods, and local crafts. The market is open seven days a week, but much smaller on other days.

Do I need to bring cash to the Hilo Farmers Market?

Yes, it is highly recommended to bring cash. While some craft vendors may accept credit cards, most farmers and food vendors operate on a cash-only basis. Small bills are especially useful.

Where is the best place to park for the market?

Free street parking is available but fills up very quickly. The most convenient option is to use one of the paid parking lots located directly behind the market or across the street. Paying a few dollars for a spot can save you a lot of time and frustration.

What is the best time of day to go to the market?

For the best selection and to avoid the largest crowds, plan to arrive between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM. The market is busiest from 9:00 AM to noon. If you are looking for potential bargains on produce, you can try visiting in the last hour before closing.

Can I get lunch at the Hilo Farmers Market?

Absolutely! The market is an excellent place for lunch. You'll find a variety of vendors selling Hawaiian plate lunches, bentos, baked goods like mochi, and fresh-pressed juices. It's a great way to sample local flavors affordably.

Is the Hilo Farmers Market open when it rains?

Yes, the market is open rain or shine. The main produce section is under a permanent roof, and many other vendors are under tents. Hilo is known for its frequent rain showers, so the market is well-prepared.

Are the crafts and souvenirs at the market locally made?

A large portion of the crafts are made by local artisans from Hawaiʻi Island. You can find beautiful woodwork, jewelry, and art. However, it's always good to be a discerning shopper and ask vendors about their products to ensure you are buying authentic, locally-made goods.