The seriousness with which Santa Monicans regard farm-fresh produce is evident in the number of markets it hosts: four separate markets on three different days.

The reasons that Santa Monica farmers markets continue to garner acclaim as the best in Southern California, and arguably on the entire West Coast, are clear to anyone who has walked the stalls on any given market day. Piles, crates and baskets of beautiful produce line the streets and booths: cabbages, onions, celery, purple "kiss of burgundy" artichokes, white asparagus, avocados of every persuasion, leeks, carrots so fresh they're still speckled with dirt, herbs in bunches, pots or ready-made "herb garden" basket arrangements, buckets of fragrant sweetpea blossoms, fuzzy green almonds and luscious vine-ripened tomatoes in a variety of shapes.

If that's not enough sensory input, add the foot traffic–mingling, sampling, vying for space at an already crowded stall, sharing favorite recipes and cooking tips–and you have the glorious cacophony that is pure Santa Monica. Santa Monica's world-renowned chefs will be among those throngs, especially early in the morning at the Wednesday market. Regulars include Josiah Citrin, owner-chef of Mélisse; Michael's owner and California cuisine pioneer Michael McCarty; Hans Röckenwagner of Röckenwagner on Main Street; and Josie Le Balch of namesake Josie Restaurant on Pico.

The markets also offer fresh cut flowers, live music, exhibitions by chefs, samples, breads, cheeses, delicious food and more. The Sunday market even offers pony rides and face painting. Third Street features markets on Wednesday and Saturday, and Main Street’s market is held on Sunday.

Farmers' Markets info line: 310-458-8712

Downtown at Arizona Avenue between 2nd & 3rd Streets
• Wednesday: 9 am–2 pm
• Saturday: 8:30 am–1 pm
(closed 12/31)

Virginia Park at Pico & Cloverfield
• Saturday: 8 am–1 pm
(closed 12/31)

Main Street at Ocean Park Boulevard
• Sunday: 9:30 am–1 pm
(closed 12/25 & 1/1)