Paotere Fish Market
Makassar's vibrant heart for fresh seafood, offering direct catches, lively auctions, and delicious grilled meals.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Freshest catch, best prices
Paotere Fish Market
Best Time
Freshest catch, best prices
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Makassar's vibrant heart for fresh seafood, offering direct catches, lively auctions, and delicious grilled meals.
"The best and largest seafood market in Makassar, be early as choice products sell out fast."
🎯 Arrive Before Sunrise
Be there early for the best selection! Fresh catches arrive daily.
🗣️ Speak Indonesian
Essential for bargaining and interacting with traders.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Seafood Auction Hall
Main Market Area
Witness the vibrant energy of the fish auction and buy seafood straight from the boats. A true taste of local life.
Freshly Grilled Seafood
Outside the Market
Have your market purchases expertly grilled on the spot for an unforgettable, delicious meal.
Diverse Seafood Selection
Throughout the Market
Explore a vast array of fish, shrimp, octopus, and squid. A paradise for seafood lovers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Arrive Early for the Freshest Catch
Master the Art of the Bargain
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Before Sunrise
Be there early for the best selection! Fresh catches arrive daily.
🗣️ Speak Indonesian
Essential for bargaining and interacting with traders.
💰 Be Ready to Bargain
Negotiate prices; it's expected and part of the experience.
🍽️ Grill Your Catch
Many stalls outside the market grill your fresh seafood.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Before Sunrise
Be there early for the best selection! Fresh catches arrive daily.
🗣️ Speak Indonesian
Essential for bargaining and interacting with traders.
💰 Be Ready to Bargain
Negotiate prices; it's expected and part of the experience.
🍽️ Grill Your Catch
Many stalls outside the market grill your fresh seafood.
🛍️ Bring Your Own Bags
Large plastic bags are useful for carrying your purchases.
👃 Brace for the Smell
It's a working fish market; the strong smell is part of the atmosphere.
🔒 Watch Your Valuables
Be aware of your surroundings and keep belongings secure.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Paotere Fish Market for its incredibly fresh seafood and unbeatable prices, especially when you master the art of bargaining. The option to have your catch grilled on-site is a major highlight, offering a delicious and authentic local dining experience. However, be prepared for the strong market smells and potential crowds, and always keep an eye on your belongings.
"If you want to buy fresh fishes, so many types of fishes, with the best price in town you should go here"
Indah Lestari
"This is most recommended fish-market/fish-auction-hall for seafood-lover. You can buy your fresh fish that are taken right out of the fishing-boat docked near the market. This is the right place to test out your skill on negotiation and making a deal. The fish-trader allow you to bargain the price of the fish. The art of the deal takes place within the hall."
Kumara Tungga Dewa
"The best and largest seafood market in Makassar
Be early as choice products sell out fast.
Be ready to bargain
You must speak Indonesian there
Try to take your fish in front of the market to have it grilled there if you want to eat it right away"
Jean-Christophe Blachere
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Paotere Fish Market is located in the northern part of Makassar. You can reach it by taxi, ride-sharing apps like Gojek or Grab, or by local public transport (angkot). It's advisable to use a navigation app for the most direct route.
Yes, there is parking available, though it can get quite busy, especially during peak hours. Be prepared for a small fee for parking.
For an authentic local experience, consider taking an 'angkot' (public minivan). It's a budget-friendly option and a great way to see more of the city, though it might take longer.
While it's a working market, it's generally accessible. Just be mindful of the busy environment and the strong smells.
Absolutely! Ride-sharing apps like Gojek and Grab are widely used in Makassar and are a convenient way to get to and from the market.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to enter the Paotere Fish Market. It's a public market, so you can wander freely.
The market is most active very early in the morning, typically from around 5 AM. It starts to wind down by late morning.
Weekdays tend to be slightly less crowded than weekends, but the freshest catch is available daily. If you prefer fewer people, aim for a weekday morning.
While it's always busy, the absolute peak is very early morning. If you dislike extreme crowds, perhaps visit a bit later, but you'll miss the initial auction buzz.
The market is significantly less active in the afternoon. For the best experience and selection, it's crucial to visit in the early morning.
🎫 🎣 Onsite Experience
You'll find an incredible variety, including many types of fish, fresh shrimp, octopus, and squid. It's a seafood lover's dream!
The smell is strong and characteristic of a busy fish market. It's best to just accept it as part of the authentic experience.
Absolutely! Bargaining is expected and a key part of the shopping experience here. Don't be afraid to negotiate.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes as the ground can be wet and slippery. Light, breathable clothing is also recommended due to the humidity.
The seafood is generally very fresh as it's brought in daily. However, always use your judgment and ensure it looks and smells fresh.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes! Many vendors outside the market offer to grill your fresh catch right there for a delicious meal.
While there aren't formal restaurants inside the market itself, the stalls outside that grill seafood function as casual dining spots.
Having it grilled is highly recommended. The smoky flavor complements the freshness of the seafood perfectly.
Prices vary depending on the type and amount of seafood, but it's generally very affordable. Bargaining might also apply to the grilling service.
The focus is heavily on seafood. You might find some basic drinks or snacks, but it's primarily a place to buy and eat fresh fish.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed. However, always be respectful and ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals.
Capture the bustling activity of the auction, the vibrant colors of the seafood, the fishermen at work, and the grilling process.
Early morning offers the best light and the most dynamic action. The golden hour light can be beautiful, but the market is less active then.
Be mindful of people's space, especially during busy transactions. Avoid using flash directly in people's faces.
Yes, the harbor area with the docked fishing boats is also a great spot for photography, showcasing the source of the market's bounty.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring extra bags for any purchases and consider a stroller or carrier for younger children if navigating the crowded, potentially slippery walkways. Keep a close eye on children due to the crowds and ensure they don't wander off. The experience can be educational and exciting, offering a glimpse into the real life of Makassar.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save on transport, consider using local 'angkot' (public minivans) to reach the market, which is a very inexpensive way to travel around Makassar. Remember to bring your own reusable bags to avoid paying for them and to carry your haul comfortably. The market itself is free to enter, making it a fantastic low-cost activity.
🍜 Foodies & Culinary Adventurers
The real culinary adventure begins at the grilling stalls outside the market. Choose your catch, negotiate a price for grilling, and savor the smoky, fresh flavors. This is the ultimate 'farm-to-table' (or rather, 'boat-to-grill') experience. Don't be afraid to ask vendors for recommendations or try something new – it's all part of the gastronomic journey.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heartbeat of Makassar's Seafood Trade
Navigating the market requires a bit of preparation. Arriving early is crucial to witness the peak activity and secure the best deals. Be prepared for a sensory experience – the sights, sounds, and smells are intense but authentic. Bargaining is an integral part of the process, so brush up on your Indonesian phrases or be ready to use gestures to negotiate prices. It's a friendly, albeit sometimes boisterous, exchange that adds to the market's charm.
Beyond the buying, the market offers a unique culinary opportunity. Many vendors outside the main hall specialize in grilling the seafood you've just purchased. For a small fee, they'll expertly cook your fish, shrimp, or squid, allowing you to enjoy a fresh, delicious meal right there. This 'catch-and-cook' experience is a highlight for many visitors, offering an unparalleled taste of local flavors.
Navigating the Market: Tips for a Smooth Visit
Communication is key. While some traders might understand basic English, knowing a few Indonesian phrases for bargaining and greetings will greatly enhance your interaction. Phrases like 'Berapa harganya?' (How much is it?) and 'Bisa kurang?' (Can it be cheaper?) are very useful. Bring your own sturdy bags for carrying your purchases, as plastic bags can sometimes be flimsy or unavailable.
Be mindful of your belongings. Like any busy market, pickpocketing can be a concern, so keep your valuables secure. Finally, embrace the atmosphere! The strong smell is part of the authentic experience, and the lively interactions are what make Paotere so memorable. Don't be afraid to explore, ask questions, and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit