Why the Farmers Market Circuit Is Worth Your Weekend
OC's farmers market scene is quietly one of the best in Southern California. Eleven OC Farm Bureau–operated markets run year-round, consistently voted Best of OC by Orange County Register readers. Whether you want heirloom tomatoes from Central Valley farms, Bolivian meat pies, or just a Saturday morning ritual that doesn't involve a mall — there's a market for that. The regulars' rule: show up within the first hour. The best stuff moves fast.
1. Irvine Farmers Market at Mariners Church
Saturday 8 AM–12 PM | 5001 Newport Coast Dr, Irvine
One of the larger markets in the county, with 100+ vendors spread across multiple lots. You'll find Central Valley produce, a wide range of ethnic ingredients, and standout prepared foods — the Bolivian meat pies, Belgian fries, and fresh guacamole have loyal followings. The community consensus: get here at 8 AM if you want first pick of the eggs. Lively, energetic, and genuinely worth the early alarm.
2. Laguna Beach Farmers Market
Saturday 8 AM–12 PM | 521 Forest Ave (parking lot across from Lumberyard), Laguna Beach
Forty-plus vendors in a beach town setting with wildflower bouquets, cold-pressed juices, small-batch honey, local cheese, and standout empanadas. Locals treat it as a community ritual — coffee in hand, dog in tow. Vendors come from as far as Tulare and San Diego specifically for this market. One reviewer called it a "wonderland of culinary delights." Hard to argue.
3. Newport Beach Certified Farmers Market
Sunday 9 AM–1 PM | 70 Newport Pier, Newport Beach
Waterfront market right next to the pier with fresh produce, organic tropical fruit, cold-pressed juice, flowers, and local artisan goods. Free visitor scavenger hunt and a weekly raffle make it unusually fun. Community verdict: the tomatoes are exceptional. The pier backdrop is just a bonus.
4. San Clemente Farmers Market
Sunday 9 AM–1 PM | 200 Block of Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente
Year-round, reliable, and exactly what a South OC beach town farmers market should be. Locally grown produce, farm-fresh flowers, honey, bread, and prepared foods on one of SoCal's most approachable main streets. Best paired with a walk through the village afterward.
5. Fullerton Farmers Market (Downtown)
Thursday 4:30–8:30 PM | 125 E Wilshire Ave, Fullerton
Long-established as one of the earliest farmers markets in Orange County, and the Downtown evening market has evolved into a full community event. Live music at 6:30 PM, an outdoor beer garden, on-site activities (pony rides, face painting, bounce house), and the usual spread of farm-fresh produce, eggs, bread, and honey. A great mid-week option that actually feels like a night out.
6. The District Farmers Market — Tustin
Sunday 9 AM–1 PM | 2411 Park Ave, Tustin
Nearly two dozen vendors with a strong organic and artisanal focus — seasonal mushrooms, specialty vegetables, live music. If you're in the central OC corridor, this is your weekend default. The Old Town Tustin market (Wednesdays 9 AM–1 PM) and the monthly Sunset Market (third Thursday, May–Sept) add two more options for Tustin locals.
7. Dana Point Certified Farmers Market
Saturday 9 AM–1 PM | La Plaza Park (PCH & Golden Lantern), Dana Point
Seasonal produce, handmade crafts, baked goods, fresh seafood, and farm-raised meats in a scenic, walkable park setting. A Wednesday option at Dana Point Harbor adds flexibility. Two market days in a harbor town is a good problem to have.
8. Huntington Beach Surf City Nights
Tuesday 4:30–8:30 PM | Downtown Main Street (between PCH and Orange Ave), Huntington Beach
More street fair than traditional market, but don't count it out. Live entertainment, local vendors, and fresh produce right on HB's iconic downtown strip. The combination of location, timing, and vibe has made it a community institution. Great way to break up a weeknight.
9. Anaheim Farmers Market
Thursday 11 AM–3 PM | 435 W Center Street Promenade, Anaheim
Certified local growers with organic seasonal fruits and vegetables, artisan bread, pot pies, roasted peanuts, and a solid craft section. Accepts EBT and participates in Market Match — one of the most accessible markets in North OC. Two-hour free parking validation on-site.
10. Irvine Certified Farmers Market (Stonegate)
Sunday 10 AM–2 PM | 100 Honors (Stonegate area), Irvine
Smaller and more neighborhood-focused than the Mariners Church market, with some produce picked that very morning from nearby Great Park farms. The 10 AM start is more forgiving than most markets — and for South Irvine residents, it's the obvious Sunday choice.
Ethan Hauptli is a California-licensed REALTOR® (CA DRE #02191280) at Real Broker (CA DRE #02022092). This article is editorial content published by Venture: Orange County and is not a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any specific property. Information is general and does not constitute real estate, legal, financial, or tax advice. Consult a qualified professional before making decisions.
More from Orange County
Discover what else is happening across the region
Inside Old Towne Orange: The Neighborhood That Feels Like a Time Capsule
The largest National Register historic district in California, and the only OC neighborhood built for walking. A block-by-block guide.
The Orange Coffee Field Guide: Eight Shops Worth Your Drive in 2026
From nitro taps to in-house roasters, the 92866 has a coffee scene that doesn't need to borrow credibility from anywhere.
The Coast Has Changed
Short-term rental rules have changed the math of coastal ownership in OC. Here's what that means for investors and buyers.
Moving to South OC From LA: Where to Start Looking
A practical guide for LA expats: cost comparison, commutes, lifestyle tradeoffs, and which South OC city fits your life.
More from Orange County
Discover what else is happening across the region