Welcome to Kona, a sun-drenched paradise on the western coast of Hawaii's Big Island, where historic charm meets pristine natural beauty. Regularly visited by premier cruise lines like Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Holland America Line, this destination offers passengers an authentic slice of Hawaiian culture. From its world-renowned coffee plantations to its crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, Kona serves as a stunning gateway to adventure and relaxation alike.
A top highlight is visiting Kealakekua Bay, a spectacular marine life conservation district famous for snorkeling and historical significance, located about 30 minutes south of the pier. History enthusiasts will love exploring Hulihee Palace, a former vacation residence for Hawaiian royalty that sits right along the main waterfront and is only a brief 5-minute walk from the tender pier. For a glimpse into ancient Hawaiian engineering and wildlife, Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park is just a 10-minute drive north, offering coastal trails where you can often spot sea turtles resting on the beach.
Last updated on June 12, 2026
Just a 15-minute drive up the slopes of Hualalai lies the charming art community of Holualoa, nestled in the heart of Kona's coffee belt and famous for its local galleries and lush coffee farms. Another highly recommended destination is the sacred Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, also known as the City of Refuge, located approximately 22 miles south of the port. Visitors can also head south to Kahaluu Beach Park, a famous snorkeling spot located just 5 miles away, easily reachable in under 15 minutes.
Last updated on June 12, 2026
The cruise port in Kona is a tender port, meaning cruise ships anchor offshore in the deep bay, and passengers are shuttled to the Kailua Pier via tender boats. The pier is located directly in the heart of historic Kailua-Kona, meaning you step off the tender and immediately find yourself downtown. Because of this prime central location, no shuttles are necessary to reach the main strip of shops, restaurants, and historical landmarks. The pier area itself is highly pedestrian-friendly and surrounded by local tour operators, cafes, and sandy shorelines.
Last updated on June 12, 2026
As Kona is part of the United States, the local currency is the US Dollar (USD). International visitors will find that credit cards are widely accepted at virtually all restaurants, shops, and tour operators, while mobile payment options are also common. ATMs are easily accessible at local banks and convenience stores within walking distance of the Kailua Pier.
Last updated on June 12, 2026
Kona is widely considered a highly safe destination for cruise passengers to explore independently on foot or by rental car. The main tourist areas along Alii Drive are well-lit and welcoming, though standard precautions against petty theft, like not leaving valuables unattended on the beach, should always be practiced. When participating in water activities, always pay attention to ocean conditions, warning flags, and lifeguard instructions, as strong currents can sometimes occur unexpectedly.
Last updated on June 12, 2026
Kona is famous for its warm, sunny, and consistent tropical climate, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from the mid-70s to high 80s Fahrenheit year-round. Unlike the windward side of the island, the Kona coast receives very little rainfall, though afternoon cloud cover and brief showers can occur on the slopes. Visitors should pack lightweight, breathable clothing, plenty of reef-safe sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes for exploring the volcanic terrain.
Last updated on June 12, 2026
Upon landing at Kailua Pier, passengers can easily explore the downtown area on foot, but other options are available for traveling further. Ridesharing services operate in the area, alongside traditional local taxis parked near the pier. For an affordable public option, the Hele-On Bus offers island-wide transit, while the open-air Kona Trolley regularly runs along Alii Drive, connecting visitors to popular beaches and shopping centers for a small fee.
Last updated on June 12, 2026
Shopping in Kona is a delightful experience focused on local craftsmanship, agricultural products, and Hawaiian souvenirs. The primary shopping stretch is along Alii Drive, featuring vibrant open-air markets like the Kona Farmers Market, where you can find fresh tropical fruits, local crafts, and Kona coffee. World-famous 100% Kona coffee, macadamia nuts, and beautiful wood carvings made from native Koa wood are highly sought-after specialties. While prices are generally fixed, small vendors at the local markets may occasionally offer slight discounts on multiple purchases.
Last updated on June 12, 2026
Experience the Big Island on this Native Hawaiian guided tour designed to show you exactly what visitors truly want to see. As a family-operated business, we take pride in our work and offer super clean luxury vans to ensure your comfort. Our goal is to provide you with the absolute best island memories through our friendly attitude and local expertise.
This private Stand Up Paddle Boarding tour guides you along one of Maui's most scenic coastlines featuring views of volcanoes and neighboring islands. You will paddle through crystal-clear waters past underwater caves, rugged lava cliffs, and green sea turtles. Beginners receive an introductory lesson in the calm waters of Makena Bay, ensuring most guests are paddling within 30 minutes. Whether you are a novice or an expert, this peaceful excursion offers an unforgettable perspective of the island’s diverse reefs.
Beat the crowds on this ultimate first-day tour of Oahu, designed to let you experience the island before the traffic and tour buses arrive. Starting with a breathtaking sunrise on the Windward coast, you will circle the island to visit sacred sites, dramatic cliffs, and peaceful beaches. The day concludes with chances to spot turtles or watch surfers tackle monster waves at the Banzai Pipeline.
Experience Maui’s number-one ranked outdoor activity on this award-winning private air tour, as seen on HGTV. Your group of up to five will enjoy a private metal cabin with non-tinted panoramic windows for crystal-clear aerial views. Fly freely over the entire coastline and enjoy a powerful shift in perspective on this spectacular, once-in-a-lifetime journey.
This unique Maui experience is famously known for exceptional guides who provide a full VIP treatment without lines or overbearing crowds. We playfully call this "Adventure Therapy," offering support as you challenge yourself with activities like waterfall jumping and sampling exotic tropical fruits. Our goal is to educate, entertain, and deliver the absolute time of your life through distinct attention to detail.
Snorkel from the shore of Maui’s oldest and most vibrant reef to see green sea turtles, beautiful coral, and colorful fish. A Marine Biologist leads this personalized, small-group tour of eight people or less to ensure an easy and educational experience. All gear is provided along with a snorkel lesson, allowing you to learn about biology and conservation while experiencing marine life firsthand.
Perfecting the experience since 2010, this family-owned business invites you aboard the No Ka Oi, a unique hybrid boat combining performance with comfort. The ocean-loving crew hosts a smaller group of guests, allowing them to be attentive and helpful whether you are on the boat or in the water. We are passionate about sea life and dedicated to showing you how amazing the underwater world is.
Learn to surf away from the crowds of Waikiki at a local break designed to help you catch the most waves possible. This unique lesson is limited to just two students to maximize the quality of the experience and your wave count. Videos and pictures captured on provided GoPro cameras are included at no additional cost so you can keep your memories.
This 45 to 60-minute beach photoshoot experience includes posing guidance, editing, and the necessary State of Hawaii Beach Photo Permit. Please note that while the experience is covered, the digital gallery of approximately 100 to 300 edited photos is a separate purchase not included in the initial booking fee. To ensure you look your best, we recommend booking early in your trip to avoid sunburns and wearing bold colors rather than white.
Designed specifically for certified divers, this excursion takes you to lovely dive sites in the Wailea and Makena areas of South Maui. After a safety briefing, you will explore underwater highlights including turtles, rays, sharks, eels, and tropical fish. Pictures of your adventure are included, and a second dive at a different site may be added for an additional fee.
Experience O'ahu on this 99.9% customizable personal tour that lets you explore the island exactly at your own pace. You can visit iconic landmarks and majestic beaches with breathtaking views ranging from Diamond Head to the North Shore. This flexible itinerary allows you to choose anywhere in between to create your perfect island day.
Immerse yourself in the shady orchards of a working cacao farm to discover how chocolate transforms from fresh fruit on a tropical tree. You will see firsthand how the fruits are harvested and cultivated before enjoying a tasting of diverse flavors and aromas. This experience highlights chocolate that is both grown and crafted right here in Hawaii.
Designed specifically for a youthful and energetic crowd aged 18 to 35, this shuttle explores the beautiful landscapes of O'ahu's famous North Shore. You will visit iconic spots like the Banzai Pipeline, Waimea Bay, and the Dole Pineapple Plantation, with options to swim or snorkel at Shark's Cove. The day can be as active as you like, ranging from lazing on pristine beaches to braving the notorious 25-foot rock jump at Waimea.
Enjoy a stress-free, private Circle Island tour for up to 14 guests that is completely tailored to your family's preferences. Over approximately eight hours, you can explore remote beaches, savor local foods, and encounter turtles at your own pace. Simply reach out after booking to customize your itinerary and let us handle the planning so you don’t miss the best of the island.
Guaranteed to help you catch a wave, this authentic Hawaii surf experience creates the best possible learning environment through one-on-one teaching. Safety is our number one priority, as evidenced by our DLNR Surf Instructor Permit and full CPR, First Aid, and Lifeguard certifications. We are passionate about providing a safe and successful lesson for every student.
Embark on an exhilarating electric bike tour from Waikiki to the enchanting Manoa Falls, where you will hike through verdant rainforest trails. Your guide will lead you to the majestic waterfall, a filming location for Jurassic Park and Lost, and include photos of your journey. Please note that participants should feel comfortable with light city riding to reach the valley before locking up the bikes for the hike.
Transform into a mermaid for a once-in-a-lifetime swimming lesson along Maui’s most scenic coastline. A professional instructor provides a private, one-on-one lesson in the shallow waters of Makena Bay, complete with a tail and monofin of your choice. This unique experience includes tips on technique and a free underwater digital photo package to capture your magical transformation.
Discover the most in-depth cacao farm experience in Hawai‘i on this 3.5-hour guided tour at Honoli‘i Orchards. Led by an industry expert, you will walk the orchards to learn every stage of production, from harvest to fermentation, concluding with a seminar on chocolate history. The tour finishes with an extensive tasting of over 10 single-origin bars, including award-winning chocolate grown right on the farm.
This intimate whale-watching experience features a newly remodeled boat with 360-degree views and a guarantee of whale sightings. Our captains and crew, who are Lahaina Fire survivors, bring over 25 years of experience and use an onboard hydrophone to let you hear the whales underwater. The small group setting ensures plenty of elbow room and allows for all your questions to be answered by our knowledgeable team.
See a new side of the island on this full one-hour private flight that takes you completely around the coastline. You will witness famous landmarks, valleys, and waterfalls from a unique perspective with the option to fly with the doors off. Each flight accommodates two to three seats, guaranteeing an unforgettable experience that reveals the island's beauty beyond your wildest dreams.
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Prices are around equal throughout the year. Overall cruises to Kona are extremely inexpensive compared to other destinations. The diagram below shows the monthly average cost per day for cruises to Kona.
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