Kauai is a picture-perfect tropical destination. Known as the Garden Isle, it’s filled with lush beauty and gorgeous natural scenery that will make you feel like you’ve entered a movie set. Along with its beauty, this Hawaiian island has a rich local history and culture. A huge part of that culture is Kauai’s fishing history!
Stop by and get your seafood as fresh as possible at a Kauai fish market. You can try all sorts of fish and get in touch with the island’s fishermen!
There’s nothing better than delicious fresh seafood. If you want to experience authentic Hawaiian flavors and support local businesses, skipping the grocery store and heading to a fish market is the way to go. Here’s everything you need to know about Kauai’s best fish markets and what makes them stand out.
Let’s explore the top fish markets in Kauai now!
What is a Fish Market?
Before we start, you may be wondering—what exactly is a fish market? It’s a fair question if you haven’t encountered one before. In short, fish markets are exactly what they sound like.
Think of your local farmers market, and you’ll have a pretty good idea of a fish market. Local fishermen bring fresh catches to these markets so the public can buy them!
Why Visit a Fish Market?
Unmatched Freshness & Quality
You simply can’t get fresher seafood than this! The fish sold at Kauai fish markets are often caught the same day you buy them. Unlike supermarket seafood that may have been frozen and shipped far away, local markets offer fish straight from the ocean (and maybe even glistening still from the morning’s catch!).
Support Local Fishermen & Businesses
It’s important to support the local community when you’re on vacation, especially when visiting Hawaii. When you purchase seafood from a Kaui fish market, you’re directly supporting the island’s fishing community and small businesses. This helps sustain the local economy and ensures that traditional fishing practices continue for future generations.
Plus, these fishermen offer valuable insights—how often do you get to talk to the people who caught your food? Many fishers selling at these markets have spent their lives on the water, making them a wealth of knowledge about Kauai’s marine life and fishing traditions. They’ll have insider tips and tricks on cooking your food, and some stands sell poke bowls or other prepared fish, so you don’t have to go to all the work in your Kauai vacation rental. You’ll walk away with not just fresh fish but also a deeper appreciation for Kauai’s fishing culture!
Branch Out with Seafood Options
Try a new kind of fish on your trip! There are several kinds of fish native to Kauai, and some are unique to Hawaiian waters. Depending on the season, you might find ahi (yellowfin tuna), ono (wahoo), mahi-mahi, opakapaka (pink snapper), and even more. It’s not every day you get to try such diverse varieties of fish!
Koloa Fish Market
Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Koloa Fish Market is definitely the most popular fish market on Kauai. Their poke is famous island-wide and includes delicious options like wasabi ahi poke, tako poke, kimchee tako poke, spicy shrimp poke, and so much more. You can also buy fresh fish here too, of course, and prepare it yourself. Either way, we guarantee you won’t be disappointed with the quality of fish here!
Kilauea Fish Market
Hours: Monday-Saturday, 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Kilauea Fish Market has been proudly serving Kauai since 2004—over two decades now! This fish market is actually best known for its prepared seafood dishes, so it’s the perfect stop if you’re craving fresh seafood but don’t want to cook it yourself. After all, it’s vacation; let someone else do the cooking for once!
Dolphin Fish Market
Hours: Open Daily 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Want to cook dinner with the very best fish on Kauai? At Dolphin Fish Market, you are guaranteed to receive the finest cuts around, not to mention to-go specialties like Teriyaki Shrimp, Beef Stix, sushi rolls and fresh sashimi, poke salad, ceviche, and so much more. If you want to skip the food preparation yourself but still enjoy fresh-caught Hawaiian fish, dine in at the Dolphin Restaurant.
Kauai VR’s Top Tips for Buying Local at a Kauai Fish Market:
Know What’s in Season
Certain fish are more abundant at different times of the year. To find the freshest options, ask the market staff what’s currently in season.
Ask for Recommendations
Not sure what to buy? Luckily, you have the best resources in Kauai right here. The staff at fish markets can suggest the best fish for grilling, raw dishes, or even local cooking methods if you want to try something new.
Best Times to Visit
This depends on what you want! For the freshest selection, visit in the morning when new deliveries arrive. If you’re looking for poke or prepared foods, lunchtime is usually the best time to stop by.
Book Your Stay in Kauai Directly with Kauai Vacation Rentals!
Kauai is the perfect place for your next vacation, especially if you’re craving fresh seafood! Find only the best catches here at our local fish markets.
When it comes to booking your stay, look no further than Kauai Vacation Rentals. Our expert local team is here to make sure your vacation is everything you dreamed of and more.
Whether you’re looking to stay on the north shore, are looking for a rental with a scenic walk to the ocean, or can't wait to relax in a hot tub, Kauai Vacation Rentals has you covered with rentals all over the island and a vast array of amenities to choose from. You can even stay in a gorgeous oceanfront property during your time here.
So what are you waiting for? It’s time to set out on your trip to Kauai. Browse our available vacation rentals today and book your dream Kauai vacation directly with Kauai Vacation Rentals!