Kona

Kona Port Guide

Kona, HI Cruise Port Guide

Welcome to Kailua-Kona, a sun-drenched haven on the western coast of the Big Island of Hawaii. Major cruise lines like Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line, and Celebrity Cruises frequently drop anchor off this iconic tropical coast.

Known for its rich Hawaiian history, crystal-clear coastal waters, and world-famous coffee plantations, Kona offers passengers a quintessential Hawaiian experience.

Whether you choose to snorkel alongside marine life or explore ancient historic sites right by the pier, this vibrant port town is a highlight of any Hawaiian cruise itinerary.


Shore Excursions & Tours

Hawaii Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Beaches & Hilo Highlights Day Tour

Image
5.0 (358)

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.

Private Stand Up Paddle Boarding Tour in Turtle Town, Maui

Image
5.0 (292)

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.

Maui Circle Island-PRIVATE-Air Tour for 2-5: Waterfalls & Lava!

Image
5.0 (220)

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.

Voted #1 on Maui. VIP, Private Road to Hana backstage pass tour

Image
5.0 (203)

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.

Marine Biologist Guided Snorkel Tour from Shore at Turtle Town

Image
5.0 (177)

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.

5 Hour Molokini Snorkel & Turtle Tour in Maui

Image
5.0 (176)

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.

Surf Lesson Without the Crowds Including GoPRO Videos

Image
5.0 (162)

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.

A Maui Beach Photoshoot in Wailea

Image
5.0 (152)

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.

South Maui Shore Dive

Image
5.0 (147)

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.

Kamananui Cacao Orchard Tour

Image
5.0 (130)

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.

PRIVATE TOUR-Ultimate Circle Island Tour of Oahu

Image
5.0 (129)

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.

Private 1-on-1 Surf Lesson with Videos and Photos

Image
5.0 (104)

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.

Electric Bike Ride & Manoa Falls Hike Tour

Image
5.0 (101)

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.

Mermaid Ocean Swimming Lesson in Maui

Image
5.0 (98)

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.

Craft Chocolate Tasting and Farm Experience on the Big Island

Image
5.0 (94)

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.

2 Hour Prime Time Maui Whale Watching

Image
5.0 (94)

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.

Private 60 Minutes Helicopter Tour in Honolulu

Image
5.0 (92)

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.

Key Kona Port Information

Top Attractions & Excursions

Located right where the tenders land, Huliheʻe Palace offers a fascinating look into Hawaiian royalty, taking only a few minutes to walk to from the pier.

Just across the street stands Mokuaikaua Church, Hawaii's oldest Christian church built in the 1820s.

For water lovers, a short drive south leads to Kealakekua Bay, a marine sanctuary famous for world-class snorkeling tours near the Captain Cook Monument.

Coffee enthusiasts can take a short ride into the Kona Coffee Belt to tour working plantations like Greenwell Farms.

Last updated on August 12, 2026

Nearby Cities & Attractions

About 22 miles south of the tender pier, visitors can explore Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, an ancient Hawaiian place of refuge steeped in sacred culture.

Nature enthusiasts often venture to Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park, situated just 4 miles north of the port, featuring coastal trails and Hawaiian sea turtles.

For those willing to travel further, full-day excursions often travel roughly two hours to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the east side of the island.

Last updated on August 12, 2026

Port Location

The cruise ship anchors in Kailua Bay, and tenders bring passengers directly to Kailua Pier in downtown Kailua-Kona.

The tender pier drops you off immediately on Alii Drive, the main oceanfront street lined with vibrant shops, open-air restaurants, and historic landmarks.

Because the landing is directly downtown, no shuttle is required to reach the main shopping and dining strip.

Basic amenities including restrooms, tour operator kiosks, and shaded waiting areas are available at the pier itself.

Last updated on August 12, 2026

Local Currency

The local currency is the United States Dollar (USD). US dollars are used exclusively across all businesses, markets, and tour operations.

Major credit and debit cards are widely accepted throughout shops, restaurants, and tour providers in town.

ATMs are easily accessible along Alii Drive and inside nearby convenience stores and bank branches.

Exchanging foreign currency is best handled onboard your cruise ship or at local bank branches downtown.

Last updated on August 12, 2026

Safety Considerations

Kona is considered an exceptionally safe and welcoming destination for cruise travelers exploring independently.

Standard travel safety precautions apply: keep track of personal belongings on busy beaches and do not leave valuables unattended.

When swimming or snorkeling, pay attention to ocean conditions, current advisories, and sudden shore breaks.

Sun protection and staying hydrated are essential due to strong tropical ultraviolet rays throughout the day.

Last updated on August 12, 2026

Weather & Climate

Kona benefits from a warm tropical climate with stable weather year-round and relatively low rainfall compared to the island's eastern side.

Average daytime temperatures range comfortably between 80°F and 85°F (27°C to 29°C) with pleasant ocean breezes.

Cruise passengers should pack lightweight clothing, swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, a sun hat, and comfortable walking shoes.

While hurricane season runs from June through November, severe tropical storms directly impacting Kona are rare.

Last updated on August 12, 2026

Getting Around

Since downtown is immediately adjacent to the tender pier, exploring the central historic district is best done on foot.

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate near Kailua Pier for short trips to nearby beaches or coffee farms.

The Hele-On Bus public transit system offers island-wide bus services, though schedules can be infrequent for tight cruise schedules.

Many shore excursions include round-trip transport, or passengers can book moped rentals and guided van tours right near the pier.

Last updated on August 12, 2026

Shopping

Shopping in Kona centers around Alii Drive, featuring open-air markets, resort boutiques, and local artisan galleries.

The Kona Farmers Market is a popular spot to purchase fresh tropical fruit, macadamia nuts, and handmade crafts.

World-famous 100% Kona Coffee beans and Hawaiian ukulele are top souvenir purchases to take back onboard.

Prices in retail stores are fixed, and duty-free shopping is generally limited to airport facilities rather than the port area.

Last updated on August 12, 2026

Visiting Kona Cruise Deals

LOWEST PRICE EVER
16 Night Vancouver to Honolulu cruise
September 1, 2026
16 Night Alaska & Vancouver Cruise
CruiseScore™ (4.03/5)
Norwegian Spirit
S M L XL
Vancouver Ketchikan Juneau Icy Strait Point Sitka Maui Kauai Kona Hilo Honolulu
$1,160
$73 per day
Inside
LOWEST PRICE EVER
35 Night Sydney to Sydney cruise
September 2, 2026
Crown Princess
S M L XL
Sydney Brisbane Suva Apia Honolulu Kauai Maui Hilo Kona Papeete Moorea Auckland Sydney
$3,499
$100 per day
Inside
12 Night Vancouver to Honolulu cruise
September 29, 2026
12 Night Hawaii Cruise
CruiseScore™ (4.03/5)
Royal Caribbean Anthem of the Seas
S M L XL
Vancouver Seattle Kona Honolulu Honolulu
$1,075
$90 per day
Inside
LOWEST PRICE EVER
9 Night Vancouver to Honolulu cruise
September 20, 2026
9 Night Hawaii Cruise
CruiseScore™ (4.24/5)
Celebrity Solstice
S M L XL
Vancouver Hilo Kona Honolulu
$1,037
$115 per day
Outside
LOWEST PRICE EVER
7 Night Honolulu to Honolulu cruise
August 22, 2026
7 Night Hawaii Inter-Island Cruise
CruiseScore™ (3.94/5)
Norwegian Pride of America
S M L XL
Honolulu Maui Hilo Kona Kauai Honolulu
$710
$101 per day
Inside

Upcoming Cruises to Kona Cruise Deals

LOWEST PRICE EVER
7 Night Honolulu to Honolulu cruise
August 29, 2026
7 Night Hawaii Inter-Island Cruise
CruiseScore™ (3.94/5)
Norwegian Pride of America
S M L XL
Honolulu Maui Hilo Kona Kauai Honolulu
$710
$101 per day
Inside
LOWEST PRICE EVER
7 Night Honolulu to Honolulu cruise
August 22, 2026
7 Night Hawaii Inter-Island Cruise
CruiseScore™ (3.94/5)
Norwegian Pride of America
S M L XL
Honolulu Maui Hilo Kona Kauai Honolulu
$710
$101 per day
Inside
LOWEST PRICE EVER
7 Night Honolulu to Honolulu cruise
August 15, 2026
7 Night Hawaii Inter-Island Cruise
CruiseScore™ (3.94/5)
Norwegian Pride of America
S M L XL
Honolulu Maui Hilo Kona Kauai Honolulu
$654
$93 per day
Inside
16 Night Honolulu to Vancouver cruise
August 16, 2026
16 Night Alaska Cruise
CruiseScore™ (4.03/5)
Norwegian Spirit
S M L XL
Honolulu Honolulu Kona Kauai Maui Icy Strait Point Skagway Sitka Ketchikan Vancouver
$1,469
$92 per day
Inside
LOWEST PRICE EVER
35 Night Auckland to Auckland cruise
August 29, 2026
Crown Princess
S M L XL
Auckland Sydney Brisbane Suva Apia Honolulu Kauai Maui Hilo Kona Papeete Moorea Auckland
$4,280
$122 per day
Inside

Ships in Port Schedule

Map of Kona port area
Kona port location
Norwegian ship
Norwegian ship In port

Showing 2 ships in the area

No ships scheduled in port today.

Other Cruise Ports in HI

Monthly Pricing - Cruises visiting Kona

On average cruises that visit Kona are moderately expensive compared to other itineraries. See the diagram below for the average cost per day by month. Cruises visiting Kona during the the peak season of summer are significantly more expensive than the low months of winter and fall.

Jan
$181
Feb
$202
Mar
$242
Apr
$218
May
$282
Jun
$298
Jul
$350
Aug
$295
Sep
$198
Oct
$229
Nov
$187
Dec
$280

Get Weekly Cruise Deals

Weekly emails with the best deals, fully customized for you. No spam ever.