If you’re looking for a treasure hunt experience with a local vibe, then Clear Lake Flea Market Inc. in 16080 Davis Ave, Clearlake, California 95422 is a spot I highly recommend. As someone who regularly visits, I can attest to the charm of this market. The variety of goods, the welcoming community, and the thrill of discovering unique items all make it special. Whether you’re after antiques, collectibles, fresh produce, or handmade crafts, this flea market offers something for everyone.Spend your weekend exploring the Riverdale Swapmeet Inc. or enjoy local deals at the Williams Flea Market
Core Market Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 16080 Davis Ave, Clearlake, CA 95422 |
| Phone | (707) 995-7070 |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Parking | Free on-site |
| Operating Days | Friday through Sunday |
Market Hours Throughout the Week
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | Closed |
| Thursday | Closed |
| Friday | 9 AM–4 PM |
| Saturday | 9 AM–4 PM |
| Sunday | 9 AM–4 PM |
Roots in Lake County Community
Clear Lake Flea Market Inc. has served the Clearlake community for years as a gathering place where locals buy, sell, and trade goods. The market emerged from the area’s need for an affordable shopping venue where residents could find everything from household necessities to unique collectibles. Lake County’s rural character and distance from major urban centers made the flea market an important resource for the community.
Evolution as a Weekend Destination
What started as a modest weekend gathering has grown into a regional attraction drawing visitors from surrounding counties. The market’s reputation for diverse merchandise, fair prices, and friendly atmosphere has expanded beyond Clearlake, attracting treasure hunters from Ukiah, Lakeport, and even the North Bay Area. The three-day weekend operation allows both vendors and shoppers flexibility while creating a consistent destination for weekend shopping.
Role in Supporting Local Commerce
The flea market plays a vital economic role in Lake County by providing income opportunities for vendors and affordable shopping options for residents. In an area with limited retail options, the market fills an important niche by offering variety that might otherwise require driving to larger cities. It supports small-scale entrepreneurs, collectors who monetize their finds, and families supplementing income through weekend vending.
Accessing the Market and Parking Facilities
Parking at Clear Lake Flea Market Inc. is convenient and free, which really makes a difference when you’re planning to spend several hours browsing. The lot is spacious enough to handle the Saturday crowds, and I’ve never had trouble finding a spot, even during peak hours. The parking area is unpaved but well-maintained, with clear entrance and exit patterns that prevent congestion.
Public Transit Connections
If you prefer public transit, Clearlake Transit offers Route 16, which stops close to Davis Avenue, making the market easily accessible without a car. The transit system serves Lake County residents and provides an affordable alternative to driving. Bus schedules coordinate reasonably well with market hours, though service frequency is limited compared to urban transit systems.
No-Cost Entry for All Visitors
Entry to the market is free for visitors, which is a big plus for budget-conscious shoppers. The location is easy to find, and the atmosphere is casual yet lively, making it perfect for family outings or solo adventures. This free admission policy ensures the market remains accessible to all community members regardless of economic circumstances.
Vendor Registration and Booth Information
For vendors, tickets, and booth spaces require advance registration; these details and pricing are clearly listed on the official website, and the process is straightforward. Vendors typically pay a reasonable booth fee, depending on their stall size and location. Interested sellers can find an easy-to-use application form on the market’s official site, making it accessible for both hobbyists and serious business owners.
Marissa’s Handmade Crafts: Artisan Excellence
Some local favorites have become staples at the market. Marissa’s Handmade Crafts is known for beautifully detailed jewelry and home décor, adding a unique flair to the market’s offerings. Marissa creates each piece by hand using quality materials and traditional crafting techniques. Her jewelry incorporates natural stones, beads, wire work, and metalsmithing, while her home décor items include wall hangings, decorative accents, and seasonal pieces.
Custom Orders and Personal Touch
Marissa’s willingness to create custom pieces based on customer preferences sets her apart. She listens to what customers envision and translates their ideas into wearable art or decorative objects. This personalized service, combined with reasonable pricing, has built her a loyal customer base that returns to see her new creations each week.
Joe’s Vintage Electronics: Tech Nostalgia
Joe’s Vintage Electronics sells everything from retro radios to collectible gadgets, attracting tech enthusiasts. His booth resembles a museum of consumer electronics history, with items spanning from the 1950s through the 1990s. Vintage tube radios, transistor sets, early calculators, cassette players, and classic video game systems fill his display tables.
Knowledge and Restoration Services
Joe’s expertise extends beyond simply selling vintage electronics. He often restores items to working condition and can discuss the technical specifications, historical context, and cultural significance of different devices. Tech collectors and nostalgia enthusiasts appreciate his knowledge and the opportunity to acquire functioning vintage electronics rather than non-working display pieces.
Green Valley Organic Farmstand: Fresh and Healthy
Green Valley Organic Farmstand brings fresh, organic produce, which I always look forward to for healthy snacks while shopping. This vendor sources directly from organic farms in Lake County and surrounding regions, ensuring produce freshness and supporting local agriculture. Their selection varies seasonally, reflecting what’s currently being harvested.
Seasonal Availability and Quality
Spring and summer bring abundant berries, stone fruits, tomatoes, and leafy greens. Fall features apples, pears, root vegetables, and squashes. Winter offers citrus fruits, hardy greens, and storage crops. The vendor maintains high quality standards, carefully selecting produce for ripeness and condition. Prices are competitive with grocery stores while offering superior freshness.
Lakeview Antiques: Vintage Discoveries
A treasure trove for vintage lovers seeking unique décor and rare finds, Lakeview Antiques specializes in items from the early to mid-20th century. Their inventory includes furniture, glassware, ceramics, artwork, advertising memorabilia, and collectibles. The dealer has an eye for quality pieces with character and history.
Diverse Inventory and Fair Pricing
The constantly rotating inventory means each visit offers new discoveries. Prices reflect fair market value based on condition, rarity, and demand. The dealer is knowledgeable about antiques and can provide information about items’ origins, approximate age, and historical context. Serious collectors and casual decorators alike find items that fit their interests and budgets.
Fresh Finds Produce Stall: Agricultural Bounty
Offers a stellar variety of fruits and vegetables sourced from local farms. This produce vendor focuses on freshness and seasonal availability, working with multiple Lake County farms to provide diverse selections. Their produce goes from farm to market quickly, ensuring optimal taste and nutritional value.
Handcrafted Treasures Display
Showcases one-of-a-kind handmade jewelry and decorative art pieces. This collective space features work from multiple artisans who create original items using various techniques. The jewelry ranges from delicate to bold, incorporating different materials and styles. Decorative art includes paintings, sculptures, functional pottery, and mixed media pieces.
Vendor Cost Structure and Application
| Vendor Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Booth Fees | Reasonable, based on size and location |
| Application Process | Online form available on official website |
| Vendor Types | Hobbyists to professional businesses welcome |
| Requirements | Advance registration required |
Lodging Near Clear Lake
| Hotel | Style | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Best Western Plus Clear Lake Hotel | Modern chain hotel | Comfortable rooms, minutes from market |
| Harbor Hotel | Lakeside boutique | Cozy accommodations, scenic lake views |
| Clear Lake Cottages | Vacation rentals | Quaint, quiet, convenient location |
Maximizing Your First Visit
Strategic Arrival Time
Arrive early to get the best selection, especially for antiques or fresh produce. The market opens at 9 AM on Friday through Sunday, and serious shoppers often arrive right at opening. The first hour offers the fullest inventory before popular items sell. Vendors are fresh and energetic early in the day, often more willing to discuss items and negotiate.
Payment Considerations
Bring cash, as not all vendors accept cards. While some vendors have adopted mobile payment apps and card readers, many still operate cash-only. Having bills in various denominations facilitates smooth transactions and makes bargaining easier when appropriate. ATM availability in Clearlake is limited, so come prepared.
Comfortable Exploration
Wear comfortable shoes; you’ll be walking quite a bit. The market covers a substantial area with vendors spread across multiple sections. Comfortable, supportive footwear prevents fatigue during several hours of browsing. The terrain is mostly level but may include uneven surfaces.
Building Vendor Connections
Don’t hesitate to chat with vendors; they often have fascinating stories and may offer deals to genuinely interested buyers. Vendors appreciate customers who show genuine interest in their merchandise. These conversations provide context about items’ origins and history while creating personal connections that enhance the shopping experience.
Sustainable Shopping Habits
Keep a reusable bag or tote handy for carrying your finds sustainably. Bringing your own bag reduces waste and provides a practical way to transport multiple purchases. A sturdy bag with comfortable handles or shoulder straps is ideal for carrying items as you continue browsing.
The Community Connection Factor
For me, Clear Lake Flea Market Inc. is more than just a place to shop; it’s a community hub where you connect with makers, collectors, and neighbors. This market captures the essence of Clearlake’s friendly small-town charm, making each visit memorable. From discovering a vintage vinyl to chatting with local artisans, you’re guaranteed an authentic experience that no big-box store can offer.
Supporting Small Business Growth
Plus, supporting local vendors here means helping small businesses thrive, which always feels rewarding. Every purchase directly benefits individuals and families who depend on market income. This economic support strengthens the local community and helps preserve the entrepreneurial opportunities that markets provide. For more markets nearby, visit the California Flea Markets.
Visual Documentation Opportunities
Colorful Craft Displays
There are several spots I make sure to photograph every time I go. The colorful handmade crafts stall by Marissa is a favorite with its vibrant display that looks great on camera. The artistic arrangements, bright colors, and handcrafted quality create visually appealing compositions perfect for social media or personal documentation.
Retro Technology Aesthetics
The vintage electronics booth with its quirky assortment of retro tech also makes for some nostalgic snaps. The collection of analog devices, vintage packaging, and period advertising creates a museum-like display that appeals to photography enthusiasts. These images capture a tangible connection to technological history.
Natural Setting and Atmosphere
Outside, the backdrop of Clear Lake with market attendees browsing adds a lively scene perfect for capturing the community atmosphere. Early morning light combined with colorful stalls offers excellent natural lighting for photos. The combination of natural landscape, market activity, and human interaction creates dynamic photographic subjects.
Understanding Lake County Context
Lake County is a rural region in Northern California known for Clear Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake entirely within California. The county’s economy traditionally relied on agriculture, tourism, and natural resource industries. The area offers natural beauty but faces economic challenges common to rural regions, including limited employment opportunities and retail options.
Clear Lake as a Regional Asset
Clear Lake itself is a major attraction, drawing visitors for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation. The flea market benefits from tourism traffic while serving local residents. Combining a market visit with lake activities creates a full day of entertainment and makes the drive worthwhile for visitors from outside the immediate area.
Seasonal Weather Patterns
Lake County experiences Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer market visits can be quite warm, with temperatures often exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Spring and fall offer ideal conditions with comfortable temperatures. Winter markets occur during the rainy season, so checking weather forecasts is advisable.
Extended Regional Shopping
Spend your weekend exploring the Riverdale Swapmeet Inc. or enjoy local deals at the Williams Flea Market. For more markets nearby, visit the California Flea Markets website to discover additional shopping destinations throughout Northern California.
Building a Regular Shopping Routine
Regular visitors develop routines and relationships that enhance the market experience. Knowing which vendors carry items matching your interests allows focused shopping. Vendors recognize regular customers and may notify them of special finds or upcoming inventory. This familiarity transforms shopping from anonymous transactions into social interactions.
Contributing to Market Success
The market’s continued success depends on community support. Choosing to shop at the flea market rather than chain stores keeps the market viable. Telling friends about positive experiences and sharing on social media helps attract new visitors. Respecting vendors, following market rules, and maintaining a positive attitude contributes to the welcoming atmosphere.
Quick Visitor Questions
Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: No, entry to the market is free for all visitors.
Q: Is parking available?
A: Yes, ample free on-site parking is provided.
Q: Can I use public transportation?
A: Yes, Clearlake Transit Route 16 provides service near Davis Avenue.
Q: What days is the market open?
A: Friday through Sunday, 9 AM to 4 PM.
Q: Do vendors accept credit cards?
A: Some do, but cash is preferred by many vendors.
Q: Can I bring my pet?
A: Check with market management regarding current pet policies.
Wrapping Up Your Market Experience
Visiting Clear Lake Flea Market Inc in 16080 Davis Ave, Clearlake, California 95422 offers a genuine and enjoyable way to explore local culture while hunting for unique treasures. From my personal experiences, each visit feels like an adventure filled with discovery and community connection.
I encourage you to visit during your next Lake County trip or make the market itself the destination for a weekend excursion. Bring cash, wear comfortable shoes, arrive early, and prepare for an authentic flea market experience that showcases the best of small-town Northern California hospitality and commerce. Whether you’re seeking specific collectibles, fresh produce, handmade crafts, or simply an enjoyable way to spend a weekend morning, Clear Lake Flea Market Inc. delivers a memorable shopping experience rooted in community values.
