From a romantic dinner cruise San Diego to visiting iconic attractions like the San Diego Zoo, you’ll have an incredible vacation when you visit this sunny So-Cal city. While you’re here, enjoying the bounty of fresh produce is one of the best ways to live like a native. These are our picks for the best local markets to visit in San Diego.
Why Is It Important To Visit Local Spots While On Vacation
When you explore a new city, you can experience more of its culture and character when you frequent local spots. Researching the go-to restaurants, shops, attractions and markets for people who actually live in San Diego helps ensure you’ll skip the tourist traps and have an unforgettable vacation experience.
Where To Find Local Markets In San Diego
First up on our list is the Little Italy Mercato Farmer’s Market. It stretches for blocks, rain or shine, with two weekly locations:
- West Date Street from India to State Street, Wednesdays 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
West Date Street from west of Kettner Boulevard to Union Street, Saturdays 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
If you make the trip, you’ll find goodies like certified organic greens, olive oil, avocados, mushrooms and much more. Grocery vendors offer wares like baked goods, kombucha, yogurt and cold-pressed juice.
Liberty Public Market is the city’s first daily open-air market, located at historic Liberty Station in Point Loma at the corner of Sims and Historic Decatur Road behind Stone Brewing. This is your destination if you’re the type of traveler who made a reservation at the best restaurant in Old Town San Diego six months ago. Liberty has everything: BBQ, ramen, empanadas, tacos, tiny donuts, coffee, Thai food and countless other choices. While you’re there, don’t forget to browse for records, soaps and handmade items.
Hillcrest Farmers Market, the oldest and largest farmers market in the city, is held every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Normal Street. It features more than 175 vendors, so make a list ahead of time to make a list of tables to visit. Popular picks include avocado toast, masala, crepes, smoothies, flowers and impossibly fresh fish.
The Ocean Beach Certified Farmers Market has been a neighborhood institution for decades. Stop by the 4900 block of Newport Avenue every Wednesday night for global cuisine options, artisan products, certified organic produce, packaged foods and more from over 100 different booths. You’ll see why locals never miss this weekly market, which celebrated its 30th anniversary this year.
Tuna Harbor Dockside Market is a can’t-miss stop for anyone who loves seafood. The market focuses on fresh, sustainable local catches, which you can purchase directly from the local fishers who set up shop at 598 Harbor Lane on Sundays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
With the city’s incredible weather, you’ll find San Diego special events and outdoor markets no matter what time of year you plan your trip. Most markets take place rain or shine, though you’ll rarely see a cloud in the sky.
