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Kailua-Kona › Kailua-Kona › Ali'i Gardens Marketplace
Ali'i Gardens MarketplaceB-Worth Trying
75-6129 Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
· Restaurant, Art gallery, Business center
· 4.4/5 Google (924 reviews)
Relaxed outdoor market with local vendors, good coffee and tacos, free parking; some stalls close early and quality varies by vendor.
Why it gets a B- for overall quality
Ali'i Gardens Marketplace delivers a relaxed, casual marketplace experience with standout highlights: strong food quality from select vendors (particularly tacos and shave ice), friendly, attentive vendors, and an appealing free-parking courtyard setting with island charm. However, inconsistent vendor hours and quality variation across stalls prevents a higher grade—this is a worthwhile casual stop between beach activities, not a destination dining experience.
Restaurant Summary
An open-air market on Alii Drive, this spot feels relaxed and breezy with shaded picnic tables, local art, and the rare perk of free parking. Reviewers describe friendly vendors offering samples and an easygoing vibe: "We grabbed coffee, browsed, then sat outside to snack." Expect a mix of stalls, and note that some close earlier than you might think. Food here skews casual and comforting: fish tacos that many call the best of their trip, excellent shave ice, and specialty coffee drinks. It is more marketplace than restaurant, so quality can vary by stall, but when you hit the right vendor, it is a delightful quick bite between beach stops and souvenir hunting. Families do well: kids gravitate to shave ice and tacos, fruit stands are fun, and the courtyard seating is forgiving for little ones. There is no unified kids menu since it is a market, but options are simple and familiar enough for most families.
At a Glance
- Free on-site parking along a busy coastal strip
- Strong picks include fish tacos, shave ice, and specialty coffee
- Many stalls close early or may not open on weekdays
- Vendor quality varies; a few reports of rude service or undelivered orders
- Relaxed courtyard seating ideal for a casual stop
What Sets It Apart
- free_parking_near_alii_drive
- outdoor_courtyard_seating
- local_art_and_food_vendors
What People Love
- Easy free parking near Alii Drive
- Laid-back island vibe
- Standout tacos and shave ice
- Friendly vendors with samples
- One-stop mix of food and gifts
Points of Concern
- Some stalls closed despite posted hours; mid-afternoon visits can feel sparse
- Isolated rude interactions noted at specific shops
- One report of paid photo not delivered after months
- Fly nuisance reported at courtyard seating in warm weather
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$20-$32 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Start with coffee, grab tacos if Shaka Tacoz is open, and finish with shave ice; check stall hours posted at each vendor
Perfect For
- Post-beach snack run
- Souvenir browsing with a coffee
- Casual family outing
- Quick, affordable lunch outdoors
Location Insights
Area: Touristy coastal strip drawing visitors and locals; relaxed beach-town vibe with souvenir and snack stops.
Safety: Generally safe, busy by day; well-trafficked with on-site parking and open-air visibility.
Nearby: Near Alii Drive shops and beaches; serves as a stop for souvenirs, coffee, shave ice, and quick bites.
Kailua-KonaThe dining scene in Kailua-Kona is casual and diverse, featuring a mix of local Hawaiian cuisine, seafood, and international flavors. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, with many outdoor and market-style dining options reflecting the island lifestyle.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
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