Local Fruits and Fresh Fish

Question

More food questions! Any recommendations for a fruit stand / farmers market after landing at KOA? It will be a Tuesday, but we will go subsequent days as well.

Also, our rental has gas grill and we’d love to get some fresh fish for dinner on our first night. I read there was a harbor near the Mauna Kea with a fish market?

Thanks again!

Answer

Aloha! Landing at Kona International Airport (KOA) gives you great access to local farmers markets and fresh fish markets, perfect for grabbing tropical fruits and a fresh dinner for your rental grill. Here’s a detailed guide for your first night and subsequent days.

Fruit Stands and Farmers Markets Near KOA

Even on a Tuesday, there are a few options nearby where you can pick up fresh local fruits such as papaya, pineapple, mango, lychee, rambutan, and bananas.

Kona Farmers Market (Ali’i Drive, Kailua-Kona) — Open daily from morning until early evening, this market has a great selection of fresh local fruits, baked goods, and locally made products. Tuesdays are quieter, which can be a bonus if you want to avoid crowds.
Kona Country Farms Fruit Stand (Captain Cook area) — Just a short drive south of KOA, offers a variety of tropical fruits and fresh produce. They often have ready-to-eat options and smoothies.
Makapala Market (Kailua-Kona, along Highway 11) — Small roadside stand with fresh-picked fruits and local treats, great for a quick stop after landing.
Sunday Hilo Farmers Market — Only relevant if you’re heading east later in the week; known for an exceptional variety of tropical fruits, flowers, and homemade snacks.

Fresh Fish for Grilling

For a family dinner on your first night, getting fresh fish from a harbor or local fish market is highly recommended. Around the Mauna Kea area, there are a few options:

Kailua-Kona Harbor Fish Market / Kona Boat Basin — Located in Kailua-Kona, just a short drive from KOA. Early morning is best to get the freshest catch, including ono, mahi-mahi, ahi tuna, and opah. Many vendors will clean and fillet the fish for you.
Captain Cook Fish Market — Small local market offering fresh fish caught that day. Call ahead if you want a specific type of fish.
Big Island Fresh Fish & Farmers Market — Some roadside stands sell fish caught locally, but the Harbor is your best bet for guaranteed freshness.

Tips for Your First Night Dinner

Arrive early if you want the best selection of fish at the harbor (around 7–9 AM is ideal), but most markets have some stock through the afternoon.
Ask the vendor to fillet and prepare the fish for grilling; some may even offer marinades or advice for cooking.
Pick up some local fruits at the same stop for dessert — papaya, mango, or pineapple slices are perfect after a grilled fish dinner.
Don’t forget to check the local fish availability, as it changes daily based on the catch.

In summary, your best options for fresh fruit after landing are the Kona Farmers Market or local roadside stands, and for fresh fish, Kailua-Kona Harbor and Captain Cook Fish Market are reliable choices. You’ll have a delicious first night grilling local fish and enjoying tropical fruits in your rental home!