Kona, HI Cruise Port Guide
Welcome to historic Kona, situated on the sunny western coast of Hawaii's Big Island.
Major cruise lines such as Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Holland America Line regularly anchor off this vibrant shore.
Passengers love Kona for its rich Hawaiian history, world-famous Kona coffee, pristine snorkeling waters, and easy access to ocean adventures.
In This Guide
- Shore Excursions & Tours
- Key Kona Port Information
- • Top Attractions & Excursions
- • Nearby Cities & Attractions
- • Port Location
- • Local Currency
- • Safety Considerations
- • Weather & Climate
- • Getting Around
- • Shopping
- Visiting Kona Cruise Deals
- Upcoming Cruises to Kona Cruise Deals
- Ships in Port Schedule
- Other Cruise Ports in HI
- Monthly Pricing
Shore Excursions & Tours
Hawaii Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Beaches & Hilo Highlights Day Tour
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
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!
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Right at the tender drop-off, visitors can step directly into Hawaiian royal history at Huliheʻi Palace, located just a short walk away.
Ocean enthusiasts can head south to Kahaluʻu Beach Park, one of the best locations for snorkeling with sea turtles in shallow waters.
For a deep cultural experience, the ancient sanctuary of Pu'uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park lies about 45 minutes south of the port.
Last updated on September 2, 2026
Nearby Cities & Attractions
A popular trip for cruise guests is visiting lush Kealakekua Bay, located roughly 12 miles south (a 30-minute drive), famous for the Captain Cook Monument and vibrant marine life.
Travelers also venture up into the cool slopes of Holualoa, just 15 minutes away, to visit authentic local estates on a Kona Coffee Farm Tour.
Last updated on September 2, 2026
Port Location
Cruise ships anchor off the coast in Kailua Bay, requiring passengers to take a short 10-to-15-minute tender ride to Kailua Pier.
The pier drops passengers right in the heart of downtown Kailua-Kona along Ali'i Drive.
This walkable historic corridor is lined with restaurants, shops, oceanfront bars, and historical sites, eliminating the need for shuttle transportation unless traveling further out.
Last updated on September 2, 2026
Local Currency
As part of the state of Hawaii, the official currency used in Kona is the United States Dollar (USD).
Major credit cards are universally accepted across shops, restaurants, and tour providers throughout the area.
ATMs are easily accessible along Ali'i Drive and in nearby shopping centers, making currency exchange unnecessary for most travelers.
Last updated on September 2, 2026
Safety Considerations
Kona is generally considered a very safe destination for independent cruise travelers exploring on foot along Ali'i Drive.
Standard tourist precautions apply, such as securing personal belongings and staying aware of your surroundings.
When entering the ocean, be mindful of strong currents, sharp coral reefs, and always observe posted surf warnings and lifeguard instructions.
Last updated on September 2, 2026
Weather & Climate
Kona boasts a tropical climate with warm, sunshine-filled days year-round, typically seeing temperatures between 75°F and 85°F (24°C to 29°C).
The Kona coast is remarkably dry compared to the eastern side of the Big Island, though brief afternoon showers can occur near the mountains.
Cruise visitors should pack lightweight clothing, swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes.
Last updated on September 2, 2026
Getting Around
Once ashore at Kailua Pier, downtown attractions are easily reached on foot along Ali'i Drive.
For traveling to beaches or coffee farms further out, taxis, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, and local rental cars are readily available near the pier.
The Hele-On Bus provides island-wide public transit, while organized shore excursions offer convenient transport to top spots.
Last updated on September 2, 2026
Shopping
Shopping in Kona centers around Ali'i Drive, where open-air markets and boutiques offer local crafts, Hawaiian shirts, and fine jewelry.
The Kona Farmers Market is a favorite stop for fresh tropical fruits, macadamia nuts, and locally made souvenirs.
Be sure to pick up 100% pure Kona coffee from local vendors or nearby plantations; prices in stores are fixed and duty-free options are limited.
Last updated on September 2, 2026
Visiting Kona Cruise Deals
Upcoming Cruises to Kona Cruise Deals
Ships in Port Schedule
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Other Cruise Ports in HI
Monthly Pricing - Cruises visiting Kona
Overall cruises that visit Kona are moderately expensive compared to other itineraries. Cruises visiting Kona during the the peak season of summer are significantly more expensive than the low months of winter and fall. The illustration below shows the monthly average cost per day for cruises visiting Kona.