If you want to experience authentic Hawaiian culture—not the tourist version—there's no better place than Uncle Robert's Wednesday Night Market in Kalapana. It's a weekly celebration of Puna spirit: live music, traditional awa (kava), local food, and a community that welcomes visitors with genuine aloha.
Quick Facts
- When: Every Wednesday, 4pm-10pm
- Where: Kalapana, Puna District
- From Island Goodes: 45 minutes via Highway 130
- Admission: $10 (cash only)
- Parking: Free, arrive early for best spots
What to Expect
Uncle Robert's isn't just a market—it's a party. The centerpiece is the awa bar, where you can try the traditional Polynesian drink made from kava root. It's relaxing, earthy, and completely legal. Sitting at the awa bar, you'll meet locals, hear stories, and feel the genuine warmth of Hawaiian hospitality.
The Kalapana Awa Band provides live music every week, playing Hawaiian and reggae-influenced tunes that keep the atmosphere mellow and happy. Bring a blanket or low chair to sit on the grass and soak it all in.
The Food
Multiple food vendors offer everything from Hawaiian plate lunches to Thai food, tacos, fresh fruit smoothies, and desserts. Quality is consistently good—these are local cooks who take pride in their food. Cash only at most vendors.
Must-Try at Uncle Robert's:
- Shell of awa (kava) at the bar—start with one!
- Fresh coconut water from whole coconuts
- Kalua pork plate lunch
- Lilikoi (passionfruit) anything
The Craft Fair
Local artisans sell handmade goods: jewelry made from local materials, tie-dye clothing, woodwork, art, and Hawaiian crafts. Prices are reasonable, and you're buying directly from the makers. It's the opposite of tourist-trap shopping.
Tips for Your Visit
- Bring cash - Most vendors and the awa bar are cash-only
- Arrive by 5pm - Best parking and less crowded early on
- Bring a blanket or low chair - Seating is on the grass
- Wear comfortable clothes - It's casual and laid-back
- Don't drive if you drink awa - It can affect coordination
- Respect the space - This is a community gathering, not just a tourist attraction
The Drive to Kalapana
The drive from Island Goodes takes about 45 minutes via Highway 130 through the Puna district. It's a scenic route through papaya farms and tropical forest. The road is well-maintained but winding in places—take your time.
You'll pass through Pahoa, a funky little town worth exploring if you have time before the market. The area around Kalapana was covered by lava flows from Kilauea in 1990, and again in 2018—you'll see the stark lava fields as you approach.
Saturday Market Alternative
If Wednesday doesn't work for your schedule, Uncle Robert's also hosts a Saturday morning market (8am-noon). It's smaller and more low-key—fresh produce, local food, crafts—but lacks the live music and awa bar atmosphere of Wednesday night.
Experience Puna from Island Goodes
Stay with us and explore the authentic side of the Big Island. Uncle Robert's is just one of many unique experiences within easy reach of your room.
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