Where to Find Key Limes in Honolulu

Key limes (Citrus × aurantiifolia) aren’t grown commercially in Hawai‘i, so they’re a specialty item. Your best bets are upscale grocers and farmers’ markets that import them from Mexico or Florida.

Stores Worth Checking

• Whole Foods Market (Kahala, Kailua) – usually stocks them year-round in the specialty citrus section.
• Down to Earth Natural Foods (multiple O‘ahu locations) – organic produce focus; call ahead.
• Foodland Farms Ala Moana – premium grocery with a strong tropical-fruit program.

Farmers’ Markets (Seasonal & Hit-or-Miss)

• Kaka‘ako Farmers’ Market (Saturday mornings, Ward Village)
• Kapi‘olani Community College Farmers’ Market (Saturday mornings)

Vendors occasionally bring in small boxes; arrive early and ask.

Pro Tip

Befriend a bartender or pastry chef at a restaurant known for Key lime pie (e.g., Pieology, Highway Inn). They often know which distributor delivers the freshest fruit and may sell you a few from their case.

Substitute?

Persian (Tahiti) limes are ubiquitous and work in most recipes; add a splash of lime zest + a drop of orange flower water to approximate the floral aroma of true Key limes.