As the seasons change and the weather warms, there’s no better time to explore the vibrant, colorful world of tropical fruits on the Big Island of Hawaii. The island’s fertile volcanic soil, combined with its diverse microclimates, creates the perfect environment for a rich variety of tropical fruits to thrive. And where better to experience these delicious fruits than at the bustling farmer’s markets scattered across the island?
In Hawaii, fruits are at their best when they are in season, bursting with flavor and loaded with nutrients. Now is the ideal time to immerse yourself in the rich offerings of Big Island’s farmer’s markets, where fresh, locally grown tropical fruits are in abundance. From sweet, succulent mangoes to the exotic lychee, these markets offer a taste of Hawaii’s agricultural bounty. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the most popular tropical fruits found on the island and explore some of the best farmer’s markets where you can find them.
The Best of Hawaiian Tropical Fruits
Hawaii’s tropical climate allows for an incredible variety of fruits to grow, many of which are unique to the islands or have become synonymous with Hawaiian culture. Here’s a look at some of the most popular tropical fruits you’ll find at Big Island’s farmer’s markets.
Mangoes (Manakō)
Mangoes are one of Hawaii’s most beloved fruits, celebrated for their juicy sweetness and vibrant color. The mango season typically runs from May to October, with peak harvest in the summer months. Mangoes are versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways – freshly sliced, blended into smoothies, or even grilled for a smoky-sweet treat. At the markets, you’ll find many different varieties, each with its unique flavor profile.
Pineapples (Hala Kahiki)
Though originally from South America, pineapples have become a symbol of Hawaiian agriculture. The sweet and tangy flavor of a ripe Hawaiian pineapple is unmatched, making it a must-try when visiting the islands. The best time to enjoy pineapples is during the warmer months, from March to July. Farmers often sell them whole, but you can also find freshly cut slices, perfect for snacking as you stroll through the market.
If you are visiting Hawaii in the summer or early fall, try white pineapples, which are in season during this time. They have green skin and off-white flesh and are sweet and delicious when ripe.
Papayas (Mīkana)
Papayas are another staple in Hawaii, available year-round but especially plentiful from spring to summer. Their soft, orange flesh is sweet with a hint of muskiness, and they are often enjoyed sliced with a squeeze of lime. Papayas are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients like vitamin C and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to your diet.
Try strawberry papayas that are softer and sweeter than the rainbow ones.
Papaya seeds are also edible, full of nutrients, and even have medicinal properties, such as helping with digestion. They taste slightly peppery and can be added to salad dressings and smoothies.
Bananas (Maiʻa)
Hawaii grows several varieties of bananas, from the common Cavendish to the smaller, sweeter Apple Bananas. These bananas are available throughout the year, with peak seasons varying by variety. At the markets, you’ll find bunches of bananas at various stages of ripeness, perfect for immediate consumption or for making desserts like banana bread or smoothies.
Lychee
Lychee, with its rough red skin and sweet, fragrant flesh, is a true tropical delicacy. The lychee season is relatively short, typically from May to July, making it a prized find at farmer’s markets. Fresh lychees are incredibly refreshing, and their unique flavor makes them a favorite for both locals and visitors alike.
Rambutan
Similar to lychee, rambutan is another exotic fruit found in Hawaii, particularly from July to October. Its hairy, spiky shell covers its juicy, translucent fruit, which is sweet and slightly tart. Rambutan is often sold in bunches at farmer’s markets and is a fun, tasty treat to try.
Dragon Fruit (Pitaya)
Dragon fruit, with its striking pink skin and speckled flesh, is as visually stunning as it is delicious. The flesh can be white or magenta, dotted with tiny black seeds, and has a mild, sweet flavor. Dragon fruit is usually in season from June to October, and it’s often sold whole at the markets, ready to be sliced open and enjoyed.
Avocado (ʻŌhelo kai)
Hawaiian avocados are much larger and creamier than the typical Hass variety found on the mainland. They are often available from fall through spring, with different varieties ripening at different times. Avocados are highly versatile, perfect for spreading on toast, adding to salads, or making delicious guacamole.
Try butter avocados, which are especially popular in Hawaii. They are large, pear-shaped fruits with a small pit and super-creamy flesh.
Passion Fruit (Lilikoi)
Passion fruit, known locally as lilikoi, is a small, round fruit with a tough outer rind and a juicy, seed-filled interior. The fruit can be yellow or purple and has a tart, tangy flavor that is often used in drinks, desserts, and sauces. Lilikoi is typically in season from June to December, making it a popular find at farmer’s markets during these months.
The best way to enjoy lilikoi is to use their sour-sweet juice in smoothies, cocktails, desserts, and beverages. It is very high in Vitamins C and A and other nutrients. To extract the juice, cut the fruit in half, scrape out the seeds, flesh, and juice into a strainer, and let the juice drain, stirring the mixture often.
Like papaya seeds, lilikoi seeds are edible and nutrient-dense, especially in antioxidants, potassium, and magnesium. You can add some of them to smoothies and salad dressings.
Breadfruit (ʻUlu)
Breadfruit is a traditional Polynesian staple, with a starchy texture similar to potatoes. It can be baked, boiled, or fried, and is often used in savory dishes. Breadfruit is usually in season from July to December, and you can find it at farmer’s markets ready to be taken home and cooked.
Waimea Farmer’s Markets
Waimea, located in the heart of Big Island’s ranch country, is home to some of the best farmer’s markets on the island. The cool climate and rich soil of Waimea provide ideal conditions for growing a wide range of fruits, vegetables, and other agricultural products. Here are some of the top markets to visit in Waimea.
Waimea Town Market
The Waimea Town Market is one of the most popular farmer’s markets on the Big Island, attracting both locals and visitors alike. Held every Saturday morning at Parker School, this market features a wide variety of fresh produce, including many of the tropical fruits mentioned earlier. In addition to fruits, you’ll find locally made jams, jellies, and baked goods, as well as handmade crafts and gifts. The market has a friendly, community-oriented atmosphere, making it a great place to spend a Saturday morning.
Waimea Midweek Farmers Market
Another fantastic market in Waimea is the Waimea Midweek Farmers Market, which takes place every Wednesday morning. This market is known for its focus on locally grown, organic produce, and you’ll find an impressive selection of tropical fruits here. The vendors are often the farmers themselves, so you can chat with them about their growing practices and get tips on how to enjoy the fruits at their best. The market also features live music and food stalls, making it a lively and enjoyable place to visit.
Waikoloa Farmer’s Markets
Waikoloa, located on the sunny Kohala Coast, is another great destination for fresh tropical fruits. The Waikoloa Farmer’s Market is smaller but offers a great selection of produce and other local products.
Waikoloa Community Market
Held every first Saturday of the month from 8 am to noon, the Waikoloa Community Market is a small but vibrant market located in the new Waikoloa Plaza Shopping Center in Waikoloa Village. Here, you’ll find a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, plants, crafts, gifts, bread, and other locally made products. The vendors are friendly and knowledgeable, often offering samples and suggestions.
King Shops Farmers Market
The King Shops Farmers Market is located in the Waikoloa Beach Resort, making it a convenient stop for visitors staying in the area. This market is known for its high-quality produce and unique local products.
The Kings’ Shops Farmers Market is held every Wednesday from 9 am to 2:30 pm at the Kings’ Shops in Waikoloa Beach Resort. This market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, including tropical fruits, vegetables, and herbs. You’ll also find a selection of handmade crafts, jewelry, and other local products. The market is a great place to pick up fresh fruit for a beach picnic or enjoy at your vacation rental home. The location within the resort makes it easy to combine a visit to the market with some shopping or dining at one of the nearby restaurants.
Hawi Farmers Market
Hawi, located in North Kohala, is a charming small town with a rich history and a strong sense of community. The Hawi Farmers Market is a beloved local market that offers a great selection of fresh produce and other local products.
The Hawi Farmers Market is held every Saturday morning in the heart of Hawi. Although this market is smaller than some others on the island, it has a unique charm and a strong focus on locally grown and produced goods. Here, you’ll find a variety of tropical fruits, including lychees, mangoes, and bananas, as well as fresh vegetables, baked goods, and handmade crafts. The market has a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, making it a great place to spend a Saturday morning.
Tips for Enjoying Big Island’s Farmer’s Markets
To make the most of your visit to Big Island’s farmer’s markets, here are a few tips:
Arrive Early: The best selection of fruits and other products is usually available early in the morning, so plan to arrive when the market opens.
Bring Cash: While some vendors may accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to bring cash, especially small bills.
Bring Your Own Bags: Help reduce plastic waste by bringing your own reusable shopping bags. Not only is this environmentally friendly, but it also makes it easier to carry your fresh produce.
Talk to the Farmers: Don’t hesitate to talk to the vendors. They are often the farmers who grow the produce and can provide valuable insights into how the fruits were grown, when they were harvested, and the best ways to enjoy them.
Try Something New: Farmer’s markets are the perfect place to step out of your comfort zone and try a fruit you’ve never had before. Whether it’s a unique variety of mango or an exotic fruit like rambutan, be adventurous with your selections.
Sample Before You Buy: Many vendors offer samples of their produce, so take advantage of this opportunity to taste the fruits before purchasing. This is especially helpful if you’re unfamiliar with certain varieties or want to compare flavors.
Check for Additional Market Days: Some markets, like the Waimea Town Market, have additional market days or special events, especially during peak seasons. Check local listings or ask vendors if there are other days to visit.
Making the Most of Your Tropical Fruit Haul
After a successful day at the farmer’s markets, you’ll likely find yourself with an abundance of tropical fruits. Here are some ideas for enjoying your haul:
Fresh and Simple
The best way to enjoy tropical fruits is often the simplest. Many fruits like mangoes, lychees, and pineapples are perfectly delicious on their own. Slice them up and enjoy them fresh, perhaps with a squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of chili powder for a little extra kick.
Smoothies and Juices
Tropical fruits make fantastic smoothies and juices. Blend a combination of mango, pineapple, and banana for a refreshing tropical smoothie, or juice some fresh lilikoi for a tangy, vitamin-rich drink. You can also freeze chunks of fruit to use in smoothies later.
Salsas and Salads
Incorporate your tropical fruits into salsas and salads for a burst of flavor. A mango or pineapple salsa is the perfect topping for grilled fish or chicken, and a tropical fruit salad with papaya, banana, and dragon fruit makes for a refreshing side dish.
Preserves and Jams
If you find yourself with more fruit than you can eat fresh, consider making preserves or jams. Mango chutney, pineapple preserves, or lilikoi butter are all delicious ways to enjoy tropical fruits long after the season is over. These also make wonderful gifts to take back home.
Exploring Big Island’s Fruit Farms
If you’re truly passionate about tropical fruits, consider taking your experience a step further by visiting some of the Big Island’s fruit farms. Many farms offer tours where you can learn about the growing process, taste fruits fresh from the tree, and even purchase fruit directly from the source.
Hawaiian Vanilla Company
Located in Pa’auilo, the Hawaiian Vanilla Company offers a unique farm tour where you can learn about vanilla cultivation, enjoy a vanilla-themed lunch, and sample various vanilla products. While vanilla isn’t a fruit, the farm also grows other tropical crops, making it a fascinating stop for any food enthusiast.
OK Farms
Located near Hilo, OK Farms is known for its macadamia nuts, coffee, and tropical fruits. The farm offers tours where you can see the orchards, taste fresh fruit, and learn about sustainable farming practices. The lush setting and variety of produce make this a must-visit for anyone interested in Hawaii’s agriculture.
Kona Coffee Living History Farm
While primarily focused on coffee, the Kona Coffee Living History Farm in Captain Cook also features a variety of tropical fruits. The farm provides a glimpse into the life of Japanese immigrants who worked the coffee plantations in the early 20th century, and you can enjoy fresh fruits and coffee as you explore the grounds.
The Joy of Seasonal Eating
One of the most rewarding aspects of shopping at Big Island’s farmer’s markets is the connection it fosters with the seasons. By eating fruits when they are in season, you’re not only enjoying them at their peak flavor and nutrition but also supporting local farmers and sustainable agriculture. Each visit to the market offers something new, whether it’s the first mangoes of the season or the last of the lychees before they disappear for another year.
Final Thoughts
The Big Island of Hawaii is a paradise for tropical fruit lovers. With its rich volcanic soil, diverse climates, and strong agricultural tradition, the island produces some of the most delicious and unique fruits in the world. Whether you’re visiting the bustling markets of Waimea, exploring the quaint market in Hawi, or stopping by the King Shops in Waikoloa, you’re sure to find an array of vibrant, flavorful fruits that capture the essence of Hawaii.
So, as the season’s fruits come into their prime, there’s no better time to explore Big Island’s farmer’s markets. Grab your reusable bags, head out early, and savor the tastes of Hawaii’s tropical bounty. Whether you’re enjoying a juicy slice of mango, discovering the sweet-tart delight of a fresh lilikoi, or indulging in a creamy avocado, the experience of eating fresh, local, in-season fruits is one that will stay with you long after your visit to the island. Happy exploring, and happy eating!