Farmers Markets

A quintessential Hawaiian experience is to visit—some say brave—the farmers’ markets, which are held one day each week in various parts of the island (locals call them sunshine markets). When the flag goes down to signal the opening, all bets are off and the rush is on to be the first to grab that perfect pineapple or papaya. Sharp elbows and a lot of stamina are quite helpful. Don’t be late; prime picks are gone within half an hour.

These are the best markets and their day and start time of business:

• South Shore: Koloa Farmers’ Market in Koloa on Mondays at noon; Kapaa Town Park on Wednesdays at 3pm; Kauai Culinary Market in Kolao on Wednesdays at 4pm
• North Shore: Waipa Farmers’ Market (about a quarter mile past Hanalei) on Tuesdays at 2pm; Hanelei Saturday Market at 10am
• West Shore: Hanapepe Farmers’ Market in Hanapepe Park on Thursdays at 3pm