Kauai's Farmers' Markets

Kauai's Farmers' Markets

If you want to rub elbows with the locals and purchase fresh produce and flowers at very reasonable prices, head for Sunshine Markets (808/241-6303. www.kauai.gov), also known as Kauai's farmers' markets. These busy markets are held weekly, usually in the afternoon, at locations all around the island. They're good fun, and they support small, neighborhood farmers. Arrive a little early, bring dollar bills to speed up transactions and plastic shopping bags to carry your produce, and be prepared for some pushy shoppers. Farmers are usually happy to educate visitors about unfamiliar fruits and veggies, especially when the crowd thins.

North Shore Sunshine Markets.[. Waipa, mauka of Rte. 560 north of Hanalei after mile marker 3. Tues. 2 PM. Kilauea Neighborhood Center, on Keneke St. in Kilauea. Thurs. 4:30 PM. Hanalei Community Center. Sat. 9:30 AM.

East Side Sunshine Markets.[. Vidinha Stadium, Lihue, 1/2 mi south of airport on Rte. 51. Fri. 3 PM. Wailua Homesteads Park, Wailua, turn mauka on Kuamoo Rd., drive 2 1/2 mi, turn right on Rte. 581/Olohena Rd., drive 1/2 mi. Tues. 3 PM. Kapaa, turn mauka on Rte. 581/Olohena Rd for 1 block. Wed. 3 PM.

South Shore Sunshine Markets.[. Ballpark, Koloa, north of intersection of Koloa Road and Rte. 520. Mon. noon