A guide to the best farmers market in San Diego

Pretty much every neighborhood in San Diego hosts a farmers market, so we have compiled a guide to help you find the best farmers market in San Diego Any given day of the week you can scout out a farmers market in San Diego county, which isn’t surprising given that the area is home to over 6,500 farms. San Diego county has the highest number of small farms in the nation, and it’s among the top producers of avocados, honey, lemons, strawberries and more.

The endless sunshine and temperate climate allow for yearlong production, which gives us a bounty of farmers markets to visit every week.

Each market sets up stalls for regional farmers and local artisans to sell their fresh produce and handmade goods, but each market has its own vibe and selection of vendors. From upscale markets frequented by tourists and artsy markets overrun by college students to small, community-centered markets and Latinx and Vietnamese markets, San Diego’s diverse open-air farmers markets have something to offer everyone.

Furry friends are mostly permitted, though be sure to double check before going. Though Monday and Friday markets are temporarily closed, all other days of the week have many options for you to do your weekly errands and try new local food and drink. The County Agricultural Commissioner has certified all of the farmers markets listed below, ensuring quality products and fair prices.

Tuesday

Coronado, 2:30-6 p.m.

A day on the island overrun by veterans, idyllic houses and beaches and quaint shops is a must on any San Diego bucket list. Head over the bridge or take the ferry on a Tuesday to enjoy the farmers market at the Coronado Ferry Landing. Though small, it’s one of the longest running farmers markets in San Diego county, and the stalls have delicious fresh berries and cheese. Don’t skimp on the flowers, either. Take home a bouquet to brighten your space.

Pacific Beach, 2-7 p.m.

Drive over to Bayard and stroll in between Garnet and Grand to find fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, meats, cheeses, breads, flowers, sauces and spreads, along with ready-to-eat dining options and handmade items. The wide street allows for plenty of people to explore the stalls without overcrowding. Be sure to satiate your sweet tooth with conchas – seashell-shaped Mexican pastries from Hija Del Maize. The colorful corn-based sweet bread will please your Instagram story and your stomach. If you can’t make it on Tuesday, PB also has a market on Saturday.

Wednesday

Ocean Beach, 4-8 p.m.

Located on Newport between Cable and Bacon, Ocean Beach Farmers Market reflects the community-focused feel of the neighborhood. The one-way market has plenty of to-go food available, including ISLANDLIFEFOODS, a mobile food service run by a Hawaiian couple. Try the poke nachos for a gustatory adventure. Get your food to-go and check out the skatepark and the dog park near the beach.

Thursday

North Park, 3-7:30 p.m.

Home to Verbatim Books, the Observatory and Communal Coffee, it’s no wonder people call North Park the hipster neighborhood of San Diego. The farmers market definitely lives up to that reputation, with a heavy emphasis on local artists and small businesses. From Kombucha Cares and Motherland Roasters to Hidalgo Flowers and Bonjour Patisserie, North Park Farmers Market has a wide variety of fresh produce, flowers, to-go meals and more.

Saturday

Little Italy, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Arguably the most touristy farmers market in San Diego county, Little Italy Mercato stretches along Date Street with a view of the bay in between the buildings. Try any of the dips from Bitchin’ Sauce combined with freshly baked pita chips. Though the food undoubtedly draws many visitors, the vintage clothing and ample artisan vendors with handcrafted beach-themed merchandise have a special attraction for non-Californian tourists.

Sunday

Hillcrest, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Opened in 1997, Normal Street’s Hillcrest Farmers Market easily rivals Little Italy Mercato. The good news is that you can go to one on Saturday and the other on Sunday. Don’t bring your furry friend unless they’re a service animal. The Hillcrest Farmers Market bustles with over 175 vendors that sell vast amounts of locally grown produce, gifts, handcrafted items, flowers and clothing. Thousands of people (sometimes upward of 10,000) frequent the market each week. The vast majority of vendors offer organic, pesticide-free produce. The international cuisine scene draws a diverse crowd, and local musicians entertain the shoppers.

La Jolla, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Be prepared to spend a check at La Jolla Open Aire Market. Only the wealthiest live in the jewel of SoCal. Unlike other markets, however, all proceeds benefit La Jolla Elementary (LJES), a public school. The proceeds fund school improvements and programs such as art, music, library, technology and additional classroom teachers to reduce class sizes. The market began in 1998 with only 14 farmers and one artisan, and it now has over 120 vendors.

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