It doesn’t get much better than cruising a local farmers market, enjoying freshly squeezed juice from farm-grown produce, and scouting unique items to buy from a local business owner. If that sounds like an ideal way to spend a morning or afternoon on Maui, you’ll be happy to know there’s no shortage of farmers markets on the island. In fact, there are a handful of farmers markets in South Maui alone to choose from!
No Maui farmers market will disappoint, but they do provide different experiences. Check out my guide to the best markets in South Maui below to discover the shopping environment best suited to you!
Farmer’s Market Maui
Located right by Sugar Beach, this market was one of Maui’s first! What started as a produce stand on the side of the road eventually grew into the quaint and authentic market found today in North Kihei.
True to its humble beginnings, the market specializes in fresh island produce and locally baked goods. The best part is that it’s open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 7am-4pm.
Farmer’s Market Maui is a family-run business, and the Aloha Spirit is its most remarkable quality. To read more about the market’s origin story and get up-to-date information about hours and events, visit their website.
South Maui Gardens
The Thursday farmers + artisan market at the South Maui Gardens in Kihei takes the cake for the most scenic of Maui’s many markets. Tucked amid rows of tropical foliage in the plant nursery at the back of the property, the booths at the South Maui Gardens market serve as a true oasis from Kihei’s perpetual sun. You’ll find more than 25 local “makers and growers” on the grounds every Thursday from 9am-1pm offering produce, baked goods, original artwork, surf ponchos, jewelry, swimwear, stationery, and much more.
This market is perfect if you’re looking to spend a laidback morning in the shade of countless palm trees, sipping on coffee while browsing local goods and enjoying island flora. Checking out each vendor will keep you busy for a while, but the zen inspired gardens are a must-see in and of themselves. Between the booths, keiki corner, and nearby food truck court, you’ll find food, crafts, and socializing options suited for everyone.
To check out the gardens and Thursday farmers market, visit their site here.
Wailea Village Sunset Market
For a curated and posh farmers market experience, you have to visit the Wailea Village Sunset Market! Held on the first Thursday of the month from 4-7pm, this event offers a mix of live music, local cuisine, and handcrafted products.
The Sunset Market is an experiential market, so while you could pick up a handful of fresh produce and leave immediately after, I recommend staying awhile to eat, socialize, and enjoy browsing the various booths and nearby shops.
For updates on the Sunset Market, visit their Instagram.
Wailea Village also hosts a more traditional farmers market every Tuesday from 8-11am. While you’ll find a little bit of everything on the scene, this weekly market is known for its variety of local food businesses.
Follow this market on their Instagram, and visit the Wailea Village website for information on all markets and events.
Kukui Mall Market
Quickly growing to be one of South Maui’s largest farmers markets, the Kukui Mall Market (officially named the Ko Mahi’ai Makeke) fits the mold for the classic “white tents in a parking lot” concept you might be used to on the mainland. Visiting the Kukui Mall Market feels like stepping into a community fair. You’ll find a wide selection of vendors here with fresh produce, clothing, crafts, jewelry, and other items unique to Maui on display.
Start your Saturday with a vegan donut from Maui Ono Donuts, then take a lap (or two!) to scope out all the island essentials on offer. This spot is open from 8am-12pm, and you can visit their website for updates.
The Maui LifestyleOne of the great pleasures of visiting or living on Maui is enjoying what the ʻāina has to offer. Farmers markets are an incredible way to enjoy fresh farm-to-market goods and support local artisans. As an added bonus, visiting a Maui farmers market is the best way to ensure you’re going home with an authentic souvenir to remember your stay. Don’t forget to take the time to talk story with the people you meet along the way—it’s a great way to gain perspective on what it’s really like to live on Maui!