Maunakea Marketplace, Honolulu - a group of people standing on the side of a road
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Maunakea Marketplace Honolulu

4.1
·1k reviews·Honolulu, United States

A bustling marketplace in Honolulu's Chinatown offering fresh produce, unique souvenirs, and a diverse array of delicious local food options.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, best selection

CrowdLow
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Maunakea Marketplace, Honolulu - a group of people standing on the side of a road

Maunakea Marketplace Honolulu

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, best selection

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A bustling marketplace in Honolulu's Chinatown offering fresh produce, unique souvenirs, and a diverse array of delicious local food options.

4.1
(1k reviews)

"This vibrant, colorful, friendly Chinatown marketplace is a wonderful place to wander through for additional shopping."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Bargain Hunter's Paradise

Don't be afraid to negotiate prices, especially for souvenirs and clothing.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the stalls.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Fresh Seafood Delights

Fresh Seafood Delights

Blue Seafood Company

Discover incredibly fresh fish, cooked to order. From snapper to flounder, it's a true taste of the ocean.

Instagram
Authentic Chinese BBQ

Authentic Chinese BBQ

Various vendors

Savor succulent roasted duck and other Chinese BBQ favorites. Perfect for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Instagram
Tropical Fruit Paradise

Tropical Fruit Paradise

Lee Fruits stall

Indulge in a colorful array of fresh tropical fruits, from mangoes to lychees. A refreshing and delicious treat.

Instagram
Local Dim Sum & Boba

Local Dim Sum & Boba

Dim Sum Village

Enjoy classic dim sum like manapuas and dumplings, paired with refreshing boba tea. A perfect snack stop.

Instagram

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Bustle of Chinatown

Maunakea Marketplace is a vibrant hub in Honolulu's Chinatown. Expect a lively atmosphere with diverse vendors. Arrive early to snag the best deals and freshest produce, especially if you're looking for specific items like seafood or meats. Reddit

Navigating the Marketplace

This marketplace is a compact cluster of shops, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring. Keep an eye out for hidden gems and be prepared for a sensory experience with various sights, sounds, and smells. Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, best selection
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend lunch
Why
Lively atmosphere, food options
Crowd
Medium
When
Before Lunar New Year
Why
Festive spirit, unique finds
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

ADD this to your Hawaii itinerary ☀️🌺 📍Aloha Stadium Swap Meet, Oahu Hawaii Wednesdays & Saturdays: 8am-3pm Sundays 6:30am - 3pm #alohastadium #swapmeet #oahu #hawaii #honolulu #fleamarket #souvenirs #hawaiishirt #aloha
@shanicechristina
39.7K likes • 481.7K views

🎯 Bargain Hunter's Paradise

Don't be afraid to negotiate prices, especially for souvenirs and clothing. TikTok

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the stalls. Instagram

Come with me to Hawaii / O’ahu’s 📍Aloha stadium swap meet 🥰🌞🥭 Open on wed, sat and sun from 8AM - 3 PM ✨ & is not even everything but we had to run other errands ✨ #alohastadium #oahu #hawaii #honolulu #swapmeet #hawaiilife #hawaiivlog #swapmeet #fleamarket #blindboxes #pokemoncards #thrifttok #hawaiifood
@klaxtniel
24.9K likes • 266K views
Strolling around the Maunakea Marketplace I’m Chinatown Honolulu. Perfect place to grab some fresh tropical fruits. #chinatown #honolulu #maunakea #marketplace #foodie #foodstagram #yum #delicious #foodporn #instafood #nomnom #foodgasm #foodphotography #foodblogger #foodieadventure #weekendadventure #Travel #Wanderlust #Adventure #Explore #TravelPhotography #TravelGoals #Vacation #TravelInspiratio...
eatsbychanimal
4 likes • 167 views

💰 Cash is King (Mostly)

While some vendors take cards, having cash can speed up transactions. Instagram

💧 Stay Hydrated

It can get hot, so grab an iced coconut or fresh fruit juice. TikTok

Check out @blueseafoodcompany BLUE SEAFOOD COMPANY for FRESH FISH TO TABLE! 🐟🐠🎣 @blueseafoodcompany @blueseafoodcompany ❤️🐟We got New Zealand Red Snapper and Korean Nabeta! 📍Chinatown (Inside Maunakea Marketplace) @mkmchinatown 1120 Maunakea St ste 168, Honolulu, HI 96817 #farmtotable #localfish #supportlocal #fish #catchoftheday #fishtotable #steamedfish #friedfish #restaurants #wheretoeat #...
missjessica808
2.1K likes • 59.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Bargain Hunter's Paradise

Don't be afraid to negotiate prices, especially for souvenirs and clothing. TikTok

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the stalls. Instagram

💰 Cash is King (Mostly)

While some vendors take cards, having cash can speed up transactions. Instagram

💧 Stay Hydrated

It can get hot, so grab an iced coconut or fresh fruit juice. TikTok

🧐 Explore Hidden Stalls

Venture beyond the main food court for unique finds and local favorites. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.1
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Maunakea Marketplace offers a vibrant and authentic Chinatown experience, praised for its diverse food options, especially fresh seafood and Chinese BBQ, and a wide array of affordable souvenirs. While some visitors note the need for more restrooms and better security for homeless individuals, the lively atmosphere and friendly vendors make it a worthwhile stop for shopping and dining.

"Good shopping experience there. There are vendors I am particularly loyal to for their good attitudes, service, and price. I recommend Lee fruits stall that is hidden in between the ships near the street and the food court."

Tien Tran

"It was a good stop. However they need more restrooms and security to keep the homeless under control. Food was good, lots of lunchtime options with little to no wait."

Randy H

"Only food court in Chinatown. Local recommended the roast duck. Egg noodle made in nearby shop. Fruits, veges and fish just like in the other buildings."

Owen

What People Like

Fresh seafood and BBQ
Affordable souvenirs
Vibrant atmosphere

What People Dislike

Limited restrooms
Homeless presence

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Maunakea Marketplace is located in the heart of Chinatown, Honolulu. You can reach it by car, bus, or even walk from downtown areas. The Waikiki Trolley's Red Line has a stop nearby at #9 Chinatown (Downtown, Hawaii Theatre). Instagram

Yes, there is parking available. The Chinatown Municipal Parking lot is located at 1-35 N Beretania St, which is close to the marketplace. Instagram

Absolutely! The Honolulu public bus system serves Chinatown extensively. The Waikiki Trolley Red Line also stops conveniently close by. Instagram

Many visitors enjoy walking through Chinatown from the marketplace to discover other shops and eateries. The area is quite walkable, but be aware of your surroundings. Instagram

Several bus routes stop in the vicinity of Chinatown and Maunakea Marketplace. It's best to check TheBus website or app for the most current routes and schedules based on your starting location.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Maunakea Marketplace is a public open-air market and does not require an entrance ticket. You can freely wander through the stalls. Instagram

The marketplace generally operates during daytime hours, with most vendors open from morning until late afternoon. Specific hours can vary by vendor, but it's a popular spot for lunch. TikTok

There are no admission fees for any section of Maunakea Marketplace itself. Individual vendors will have their own pricing for goods and food. Instagram

It's advisable to check ahead for holiday hours, as some vendors may have reduced hours or be closed. However, it's a popular spot during festive periods like Lunar New Year. [^Review]

The marketplace is generally open during daylight hours. It's best to visit during typical business hours to ensure most vendors are open and active. TikTok

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs

You can find a wide variety of souvenirs, including aloha shirts, island-style accessories, handcrafted items, jewelry, and unique trinkets. TikTokInstagram

Yes, there are several vendors selling clothing, from casual t-shirts to more traditional island wear. Instagram

Absolutely! Maunakea Marketplace is known for its fresh fruits, vegetables, and other local produce, similar to other buildings in Chinatown. [^Review]

Many visitors recommend exploring beyond the main areas to find hidden gems, like specific fruit stalls or local butcher shops. Reddit [^Review]

Bargaining is often possible, especially for non-food items like souvenirs and clothing. It's part of the shopping experience in many open-air markets. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You'll find an array of delicious food, including fresh seafood cooked to order, authentic Chinese BBQ (especially roast duck), tropical fruit smoothies, dim sum, and Laotian fast food. InstagramReddit+2

Blue Seafood Company is highly recommended for incredibly fresh fish, cooked right there for you. They offer various types of fish prepared in different styles. Instagram+3

Yes, the roast duck is a local favorite and highly recommended for its flavor and tenderness. You can get it by the plate or as a half/whole duck. Instagram [^Review]

While many options are meat and seafood-focused, you can find fresh fruit stalls and potentially some vegetable-based dishes at various food vendors. Instagram

Food prices are generally reasonable, with options ranging from affordable snacks like smoothies and dim sum to more substantial meals like seafood plates and BBQ duck. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, the vibrant colors of the produce, the bustling market scenes, and the diverse food offerings make it a visually interesting place for photography. Instagram

Focus on the colorful tropical fruits, the fresh seafood displays, the steaming dim sum, and the lively interactions between vendors and customers. Instagram+1

Generally, casual photography for personal use is accepted. However, it's always polite to ask vendors before taking close-up photos of them or their products. Instagram

Morning hours can offer softer light and fewer crowds, making it easier to capture clear shots. However, the midday bustle also provides a dynamic atmosphere. TikTok

Yes, food photography is very popular here! Capture the delicious dishes before you dig in to share your culinary discoveries. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Maunakea Marketplace can be an exciting outing for families. The vibrant colors of the tropical fruits and the variety of goods on display can capture children's attention. Consider trying some fun snacks like mango boba smoothies or dim sum which are often kid-approved. Instagram While there aren't specific play areas, the lively atmosphere and the chance to see different foods and items can be an engaging experience. Remember to keep a close eye on children in crowded areas and ensure everyone stays hydrated, especially during warmer parts of the day. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Maunakea Marketplace is an excellent destination for budget-conscious travelers. You can find affordable souvenirs, clothing, and most importantly, delicious and reasonably priced local food. TikTokInstagram Instead of expensive restaurant meals, opt for a plate of fresh seafood, a portion of roast duck, or a refreshing fruit smoothie. Instagram+1 Bargaining for prices on non-food items can also help stretch your budget further. TikTok It's a fantastic way to experience local culture and cuisine without breaking the bank.

🍜 Food Enthusiasts

For food lovers, Maunakea Marketplace is a must-visit. Dive into the fresh seafood offerings at Blue Seafood Company, Instagram savor the renowned Chinese BBQ duck, Instagram and explore authentic dim sum and Laotian fast food. InstagramReddit The abundance of tropical fruits and freshly made smoothies provides perfect refreshment. Instagram This is your chance to taste the diverse culinary landscape of Honolulu's Chinatown, with many vendors offering authentic, home-style cooking. Don't be afraid to try new things and ask vendors for recommendations!

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Culinary Adventure in Chinatown

Maunakea Marketplace is a food lover's paradise, offering a diverse range of authentic flavors. Blue Seafood Company is a standout, serving incredibly fresh fish cooked to your liking, from steamed snapper to local flounder. Instagram+2 For those craving Chinese flavors, the roasted BBQ duck is a must-try, praised for its juicy meat and rich au jus. Instagram Don't miss out on classic dim sum items like manapuas and shrimp dumplings from vendors like Dim Sum Village, often paired with refreshing boba teas. Instagram

Beyond these highlights, the marketplace is a treasure trove of local tastes. You can find Laotian fast food options, Reddit and a vibrant selection of tropical fruits like mangoes and lychees, perfect for a refreshing snack. Instagram Many visitors recommend exploring the various stalls to discover unique local delicacies and support small businesses. Remember to bring cash, as some vendors may prefer it, and be prepared for a bustling, authentic culinary experience. TikTok

Shopping for Treasures and Local Goods

Maunakea Marketplace is more than just a food destination; it's a vibrant shopping hub where you can find a wide array of goods. From aloha shirts and island-style accessories to unique handcrafted souvenirs and jewelry, there's something for everyone looking to take a piece of Hawaii home. TikTok The marketplace is a compact cluster of Mom and Pop Chinese businesses, creating a unique atmosphere where you can discover everything from clothing to local medicines and Chinatown goodies. [^Review]

Visitors often highlight the opportunity to find fresh produce, including a colorful variety of fruits and vegetables, similar to what you'd find in other Chinatown buildings. [^Review] For those seeking specific items, there are even local butcher shops within the marketplace that sell meats like pork belly. Reddit While exploring, don't hesitate to engage with vendors and perhaps even bargain for prices, especially on non-food items, as it's a common practice in such markets. TikTok Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as you'll want to explore every nook and cranny of this lively market. Instagram

Navigating Chinatown's Vibrant Heart

Maunakea Marketplace is nestled within the bustling and historic Chinatown district of Honolulu. This area is known for its lively atmosphere, diverse community, and a rich tapestry of shops and eateries. Instagram [^Review] The marketplace itself is a tightly compressed collection of small businesses, creating a unique, almost 'small world' feel within the larger Chinatown complex. [^Review] It's a place where local residents still shop for daily necessities, contributing to its authentic charm. [^Review]

Getting to and around Chinatown is relatively easy. The Waikiki Trolley's Red Line offers a convenient stop at #9 Chinatown, making it accessible for tourists. Instagram For those driving, the Chinatown Municipal Parking lot on N Beretania Street is a good option. Instagram When exploring, be mindful of your surroundings, as Chinatown can be a busy urban environment. However, the vibrant energy, the mix of traditional and modern elements, and the sheer variety of goods and foods make it a captivating experience for any visitor. [^Review]

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