What Months Are Pineapples in Season?
Pineapples are one of the most beloved tropical fruits, known for their sweet, tangy flavor and juicy texture. Whether eaten fresh, grilled, blended into smoothies, or used in desserts, pineapples add a burst of tropical goodness to any dish. But when is the best time to enjoy them at their peak?
In this article, we’ll explore:
The pineapple growing season
Factors affecting pineapple seasonality
How to choose the best pineapples
The benefits of eating pineapples in season
How to store and preserve pineapples
When Are Pineapples in Season?
Pineapples are tropical fruits that thrive in warm climates. Unlike many other fruits, pineapples do not have a single uniform season because they are grown in different regions worldwide. However, their peak seasons vary depending on the location.
1. Pineapple Season by Growing Region
Hawaii
Hawaii is one of the most famous pineapple producers, thanks to brands like Dole and Del Monte. In Hawaii, pineapples are typically harvested between March and July, with peak sweetness occurring in June and July.
Costa Rica
As one of the largest pineapple exporters, Costa Rica supplies pineapples year-round. However, the best quality fruits are usually available from December to April.
Philippines & Thailand
These Asian countries also produce pineapples throughout the year, but the primary harvest occurs from April to June.
Mexico
Mexican pineapples are most abundant from March to July, with a smaller secondary season in November and December.
Brazil
Brazilian pineapples are at their best from December to February, aligning with the Southern Hemisphere’s summer.
2. Do Pineapples Have an Off-Season?
Thanks to global farming and advanced agricultural techniques, pineapples are available in supermarkets year-round. However, their flavor, sweetness, and juiciness are best during their natural peak seasons.
Factors Affecting Pineapple Seasonality
Several factors influence when pineapples are in season:
1. Climate & Growing Conditions
Pineapples require warm temperatures (68–86°F or 20–30°C) and well-drained soil. They grow best in tropical and subtropical regions.
2. Variety of Pineapple
Different pineapple varieties have slightly different growing cycles:
Smooth Cayenne (common in Hawaii) – Peak season: March–July
MD2 (Golden Sweet) – Grown in Costa Rica, available year-round but sweetest in winter
Queen Pineapple – Smaller and sweeter, mostly from the Philippines and Australia
3. Harvesting Time
Pineapples take 18–24 months to mature from planting to harvest. Once harvested, the plant produces another fruit in about 12–15 months.
How to Choose a Ripe Pineapple
Even if pineapples are in season, picking the best one ensures maximum flavor. Here’s how:
1. Check the Color
A ripe pineapple should have a golden-yellow hue at the base, turning greener toward the top.
Avoid completely green or overly brown pineapples.
2. Smell the Base
A sweet, tropical fragrance at the bottom indicates ripeness.
No smell or a fermented odor means it’s underripe or overripe.
3. Squeeze Gently
A ripe pineapple should be firm but slightly soft.
Too hard = underripe; too mushy = overripe.
4. Look at the Leaves
Fresh, green leaves are a good sign.
If the inner leaves pull out easily, it’s likely ripe.
Benefits of Eating Pineapples in Season
1. Better Flavor & Sweetness
In-season pineapples are naturally sweeter and juicier.
2. Higher Nutritional Value
Fresh pineapples contain more:
Vitamin C (supports immunity)
Bromelain (aids digestion & reduces inflammation)
Manganese (supports bone health)
3. Lower Cost
When pineapples are in peak season, they are more abundant and often cheaper.
How to Store & Preserve Pineapples
1. Whole Pineapples
Store at room temperature for 1–2 days to enhance sweetness.
Refrigerate for up to 4–5 days once ripe.
2. Cut Pineapples
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
Freeze pineapple chunks for smoothies or desserts (lasts up to 6 months).
3. Canning & Drying
Canned pineapple retains sweetness for long-term use.
Dried pineapple makes a great snack.
Conclusion: Enjoy Pineapples at Their Best!
Pineapples are delicious year-round, but their peak seasons vary by region:
Hawaii: March–July
Costa Rica: December–April
Philippines/Thailand: April–June
Mexico: March–July & November–December
Brazil: December–February
For the sweetest, juiciest pineapples, buy them in season and use the ripeness tips above. Whether eaten fresh, grilled, or blended, pineapples bring tropical flavor to any meal!!
